The first question I want to ask: Why are you doing yourself a disservice and not exploring PDX Estate Marketplace on the first weekend of every month? Maybe you don't realize everything they have to offer and the benefits of it all under one roof. They combine several of their client's estates and transform it all into an amazing shopping experience. I have perused many estate sales over the years and their business takes it to the next level!! The variety is vast and there is so much more than antiques and big ticket items. There is something for everybody!
Before I get to the nitty gritty, I want to commend their whole crew on all the hard work they put into each sale! They are very professional, fun, helpful, efficient, and facilitate a positive vibe!! They provide an amazing service to their clients and want to do the best for them. I always have a great time in interactions with them and other shoppers! Those with issues about pricing, parking, and long lines; allow me to remind you of what you can encounter at in home estate sales. The following are several things I appreciate and I challenge anyone to find each of these at in home sales.
-Parking: sometimes it is more challenging to find parking in neighborhoods as compared to here and there typically isn't a staff to assist. You are also able to pick up items in a designated area in back of the building. They also help with loading and offer an option for delivery service.
-Pricing: I have not encountered any estate sale company that will give you prices of items before, during, and towards the end of the sale!! They go live on social media to showcase the sale and answer specific questions. Typically, you have to go to a sale and find out for yourself. This isn't commonplace and it is extremely helpful to many! They do an amazing job of pricing every item and you aren't left guessing. Sunday's are half off of items $100 and under!
Are there high dollar items? Absolutely, as there are at many sales. Several factors go into pricing and they have much expertise. I probably wouldn't buy a $500 painting, but this doesn't mean it isn't worth it and is a bargain. I've gotten many wonderful deals and have paid less for small items than I would have at the Dollar Tree. In the first picture, I paid $50 for all those items and I estimated retail price at more than double this. Don't count out the littles and everyday items!
-Lines & Time: I save so much time by going here than potentially 8 to 10 separate sales. I can wait in line longer at homes because of the small size and waiting for shoppers to leave. I typically arrive here at 7:40am and the line is already around the building. I will be in the doors once it opens by 8:03, as it moves pretty quickly. There is no guesswork when it comes to the sale dates, as they are set for the year. The check out line may seem long at times, but it moves quickly. They also have a great system for holding items, so you don't have to carry around everything.
-Cleanliness & Organization: I believe most of the items are cleaned, as I have yet to find dusty or dirty items. I haven't experienced any smoke or food smells. I am impressed and appreciate the organization and presentation! They do a stellar job with staging and categorizing! I prefer not to dig for items and can easily find what I am interested in. They also have a changing area to try on any clothes, as shown in the third pic. This isn't always an option at other sales.
If you are still with me, I highly recommend attending a sale. If the above doesn't tickle your fancy, then I guess it isn't for you as you can't please everybody. If you feel I steered you wrong or right and you would like to converse; then you know where to find me the first weekend of the month...lol. Keep up the spectacular job, everyone!!