Courtesy of Julie Hall

How to Find a Liquidator:

Check your phone book under Estate Liquidators, Appraisers, Auctions, or Antiques.

Check online using your favorite search tool. Search for "Your City" and the words: Estate Liquidator. Any professional liquidator is going to have a website these days.

Go online to www.ASELonline.com for nationwide assistance.

Call an estate planning lawyer in your city and ask the secretary or assistant for a referral.

Questions to ask a prospective liquidator:

• How long have you been in business?
• Can you provide professional references for sales you have conducted?
• How do you charge, by flat fee or commission?
• What must I do to prepare for you to begin?
• Can I remain on-site while I prepare?
• Are there any additional fees?
• Do you charge extra to clean up prior to the sale, as well as post-sale?
• How many days will it take you to set up for the sale?
• Do you price every item?
• How do you keep track of what items sell for?
• How many days do you hold the sale?
• Can the family be present? (generally, not a good idea)
• How do you handle discounts or negotiations?
• May I see a copy of your contract?
• How much do you charge to clean out the estate, leaving it empty?
• Do you ever buy from your sales or pre-sell to dealers?