There comes a point in many people’s lives, when they are forced to "clean house" or liquidate. If they are moving to a new location, it may be cheaper and simpler to sell their household goods than it is to pay the cost of shipping. In some cases you look around one day and find that you have collected too much stuff over the years – WAY TOO MUCH!

There are various ways to liquidate – estate sales, auctions, garage sales, consignments, and dealers. Which one best fits your situation? In order to answer that question, knowing the advantages and disadvantages of each and evaluating your situation is crucial.

The quickest and simplest way to liquidate an estate is not necessarily the most cost effective. 

If time is not a worry and you require more money, but also want ease and convenience, then an auction may be your best choice. Your merchandise is picked up, taken to auction, sold and you receive a check.

If you want fast response and the right money, then choose an estate liquidation company for an on-site "Tag Sale". An estate liquidation company will net approximately the same amount as an auctioneer and has similar commissions. You will need to remove items not for sale. The liquidation company will do the rest. The time involved is about two weeks from initial contact.

However, there are several differences between a liquidator and an auction. The liquidator will display your merchandise to its best advantage within the house, usually taking about a week to complete this. The auctioneer will hold a viewing, then items will be brought forth for visibility and bidding. The liquidator deals with individuals – the auctioneer tries to involve the entire crowd in bidding. The liquidation sale is usually a 2 or 3 day affair, with prices set the first day and negotiable on the last day. Everything is negotiable in an auction from start to finish because the crowd controls the prices. That’s what an auction is.

If your house is on the market in addition to needing possessions liquidated then an on-site sale increases its exposure dramatically. Just think, all the liquidation sale attendees seeing and talking about your home for sale. If you have a liquidation sale, the liquidators have arranged the house to its best advantage.