FAQ's: Frequently Asked Questions / Terms of Service
There are a lot of things to consider when deciding to have an estate or contents sale, or even when shopping at one! Here are some of the more commonly asked questions, however, if you don't see the answer you're looking for, pick up the phone or send us an email, we would love to help!
1) Clients Looking To Hire Us For A Contents/ Estate Sale
How does a contents sale work?
In a nutshell, a contents sale is a 2 or 3-day affair hosted in your home, open to the public to come and buy your items. We are currently now offering online sales as well. We will facilitate the online sales portion and pick-up days. We need 1-2 weeks lead time so that we can appraise, price, take photos, and advertise prior to the sale itself. Afterward, we will clean up by either donating or disposing of unsold items, leaving your house completely empty. This is a win-win, all-in-one solution for anyone needing to downsize in the most efficient way possible!
When is the ideal time to have a contents sale?
Ideally, a contents sale will take place on a weekend, either 2 or 3 days depending on what your sale warrants. Also, it is preferable you are not living in the home and the only things left in the house are those that are for sale, so as not to interfere with your personal belongings. In the case of the homeowners moving, it will take place after you have moved out prior to the house closing.
What is the fee structure I.e commission for a contents sale?
Every situation is unique and therefore there is no standard commission rate. That being said our commission is in the 35-50% range, depending on the quantity and quality of items. Commission will be determined after the first or second consultation upon viewing the contents.
How do you price my belongings?
After our many years in the business and doing contents sales week after week, we know how to price most items. We will price every individual object and merchandise accordingly, including: hanging up all clothes, securing and tagging all jewelry, pulling everything out of the cupboards and closets, ensuring each piece has been assessed and priced prior to selling. Pieces or collections of particular concern can be appraised separately and discussed prior to the sale, in some cases minimums can be determined for a limited number of items.
What happens to unsold items?
Leftover items can go to a number of places, ideally always the donation route so that nothing ends up in a landfill, though some things may have to be disposed of. The client is always invited to keep any unsold items, or we can assist in moving anything to storage or putting it in consignment on your behalf. There are separate fees involved in this process, not included in sales commission.
2) Buyers / Shoppers
I’m a first-time buyer/customer at one of your sales, how do I pay?
Great question! Our in-person sales are cash (and now e-transfer) accepted forms of payment. Online sales will accept credit/debit cards and e-transfers.
What do I do if I’ve changed my mind about my purchase?
While we understand some times people may change their mind, we are in the secondary market and all sales are final. We do not have a storefront and are always operating out of different locations, once you’ve purchased your find, all sales are final and all items are sold as is.
I bought something at one of your online sales, how do I pick up?
Great question! All pertinent address and date / time information will be readily accessible in our initial email, as well as through our confirmation email. But sometimes details are missed, if you’re ever unsure please always email our customer service: info@legrotte.ca. We will aim to help in any way possible and respond within 24-48 hours. You are also advised to call directly at: 416-509-9689.
—> IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT PICK UPS: Pick ups for your purchases, especially online purchases, are the sole responsibility and sole liability of the buyer. We do not assume any personal injury risk when you are picking up your purchase or if you should need assistance doing so. We are working within our clients strict timelines and often have to have the houses we are selling out of emptied prior to the properties legal closing date. Which means, we cannot store or move your items and if you do not pick up your purchase by the final pick up date your purchase will be disposed of and your money will not be returned. If you ever have any questions about pick ups or timelines please call us immediately ahead of time to make arrangements and we will do our best to accommodate if you cannot make it during the dedicated pick up and business hours.
Thank you and we hope to see you at one of our upcoming sales!