If you have a wealthy family member you’re close to, or valuable pieces you’d like to liquidate, you’ll quickly find that managing an estate sale can be overwhelming. Looking through antique engagement rings, cookware, tables, and other pieces will bring back memories and make the process of reducing your estate that much harder.
Hire a Neutral Party
Dealing with the passing of a loved one can be deeply personal. That struggle gets mixed up with estate sales, making vintage engagement rings or favorite pendants very sentimental pieces. Having a neutral party in place to help you look at the value of pieces and decide what is worth keeping is helpful.
According to Cynthia Findlay Antiques, an appraiser or attorney can help fill this role. You can also work directly with companies like Sotheby’s or Cynthia Findlay itself. Hiring a neutral person to help manage the estate gives you the chance to keep what you want and see your estate for what it is, rather than attaching sentimentality to everything. Another way to look at is finding out which pieces have the most value to you.
Family and Friends
Close family and friends should have the opportunity to take what they want as well. Generally, if you plan to do this it’s best to do it before the public has the opportunity to see the estate. A professional can also help you designate items to gift to certain family members, either by your loved ones wishes or by your preference.
Alternatives
If you have a brilliant piece that you can’t find a personal use for and don’t wish to sell, consider re-using the materials. You can have custom jewellery from Toronto made in the style of your choosing, and begin your own family keepsake.