How Much Do Estate Sale Companies Charge in Minnesota? (Fees & Commissions Explained)
One of the first questions homeowners ask when considering an estate sale is how much estate sale companies charge. If you’re planning an estate sale in Minnesota, understanding the typical pricing structure can help you move forward with confidence — without surprises.
Many families choose to hire professional estate sale companies for the efficiency, convenience, and emotional relief they provide during what can be a stressful time.
If you’re still early in the process, it can also be helpful to understand how estate sales work in Minneapolis before diving into fees.
This guide explains how estate sale pricing works, what affects commission rates, and what Minnesota homeowners should realistically expect.
Introduction to Estate Sales
An estate sale is a specialized event designed to help families sell the majority of a home’s contents, often after a loved one has passed away or when downsizing becomes necessary. Once sentimental items have been divided among family members, many belongings—such as furniture, kitchenware, and décor—remain in the house. Leaving these items behind isn’t an option, so an estate sale becomes a practical solution for clearing the property and moving forward with the estate process.
Professional estate sale companies, like Blue Moon Estate Sales, offer full service estate sales that handle every detail on behalf of the family. From organizing and pricing items to marketing and managing the event, these companies ensure the sale runs smoothly and efficiently. By entrusting the process to professionals, families can focus on what matters most while experts handle the logistics of selling the estate’s belongings.
How Do Estate Sale Companies Charge?
Most estate sale companies in Minnesota operate on a commission-based pricing model. Instead of charging upfront fees, the company earns a percentage of the total sales generated during the estate sale.
This structure benefits homeowners because:
There are typically no upfront costs
The company is incentivized to maximize sale value
Payment happens only after items are sold
Many estate sale companies charge no upfront fees or out-of-pocket expenses to clients.
Commission-based pricing is the industry standard and is designed to align everyone’s interests. The terms of the arrangement are outlined before work begins in a contract. Transparency in pricing is important; contracts should detail all costs and what's included in the fees.
What Is the Typical Estate Sale Commission in Minnesota?
Estate sale commissions in Minnesota usually fall within a percentage range, rather than a flat fee. The exact percentage depends on the scope of work involved and the specifics of the estate. The average estate sale company's commission typically ranges from 35% to 50% of total sales, with standard estates falling within the 35% to 45% range. Commissions and fees for estate sales generally fall within this range, and the average commission percentage is around 35% to 40%.
Factors that influence commission rates include:
Size of the home
Volume and quality of items
Preparation time required
Staffing needs during sale days
When determining an estate sale company's commission, it's important to consider how the company sets prices for items. Professional companies use market research and pricing strategies to ensure items are valued appropriately, which helps maximize returns for the estate.
Reputable companies explain their pricing clearly during an initial walkthrough and outline all terms before any work begins.
Are There Any Upfront Fees?
In most cases, no.
Professional estate sale companies generally:
Offer free consultations
Do not require deposits
Do not charge hourly preparation fees
This approach allows homeowners to move forward without financial risk before the sale takes place.
However, some estate sale companies may require a minimum gross revenue before agreeing to manage smaller sales, especially if the estate is modest or low in value.
What Factors Affect Estate Sale Pricing?
Every estate sale is different. Several key variables influence how pricing and commissions are structured. Estate sale companies determine their commission rates by assessing the number and especially the value of items, as these are the main determinants of the proceeds from any given estate sale. Both families and companies must decide on the best approach based on these factors.
Size and Layout of the Estate
Larger homes or properties with multiple levels require more preparation, staffing, and coordination. Larger estates or those requiring extensive organization can lead to higher labor costs and commissions. However, larger estates often benefit from a lower commission rate, while smaller estates typically cost more due to the different fee structures estate sale companies use based on estate size.
Volume and Type of Items
Estates with a wide variety of sale items and personal belongings — such as furniture, collectibles, or tools — often require additional research and staging. The scope of service, such as 'white glove' handling of sale items and personal belongings, can affect how much estate sale companies charge, with premium services generally costing more than basic 'as-is' sales. Estates with a diverse range of sale items and personal belongings may need more extensive services, which can increase the overall fee.
Timeline and Urgency
Sales that must be completed quickly due to real estate deadlines or life transitions may require adjusted logistics. These urgent sales can feel overwhelming for families, and may require more effort from the estate sale company. If the sale requires more effort than usual or if the value of the contents is below average, a higher commission rate will apply.
Location and Buyer Demand
Sales held in high-demand areas like Minneapolis can benefit from stronger buyer traffic, which affects overall strategy but not the fundamental commission model.
Types of Estate Sales in Minnesota
Minnesota offers several types of estate sales to meet different needs. Full-service estate sales are the most comprehensive, with professional estate sale companies managing everything from pricing and setup to marketing and buyer engagement. Downsizing sales are ideal for those looking to reduce their possessions without liquidating an entire estate, while estate auctions can be used for high-value items or unique collections.
Some sale companies, such as Estate Sales Minnesota and Miller Estate Solutions, provide both in-person and online estate sale services, expanding the reach to more buyers. Online estate sales have become increasingly popular, allowing buyers to browse and purchase items remotely. Unlike a typical garage sale, an estate sale often includes a wide range of items—furniture, antiques, collectibles, art, and household goods—making it a more significant event for both sellers and buyers. Professional estate sale companies use targeted marketing strategies to attract serious buyers and maximize the value of the estate.
What Services Are Included in an Estate Sale Fee?
Most estate sale commissions cover the full scope of services needed to run a successful sale, including:
Sorting and organizing household contents
Research-based pricing
Professional staging
Marketing and promotion
Sale-day management and staffing
Payment processing and reconciliation
The team will display items attractively, attach price tags, and conduct the sale professionally. The business handles all aspects of marketing and advertising, with advertising costs typically ranging from $100 to $500. Professional help is provided for pricing, staging, and listing items, and the company manages all pay and payment transactions, including credit card processing fees (2.9% to 5%). Estate sale companies often charge additional fees for cleaning, hauling, and other ancillary services.
Some companies also assist with donation coordination or post-sale planning, depending on homeowner needs.
Average Proceeds from Estate Sales in Minnesota
The average estate sale in Minnesota brings in approximately $18,000, according to EstateSales.net. After accounting for fees and the estate sale company’s commission, sellers typically receive just under $12,000 from the average estate sale. Most sale companies charge a commission rate between 35% and 50% of total sales, depending on the complexity of the sale and the estimated value of the items involved.
For higher-value estates, some companies may offer a lower commission rate, helping clients retain more of the proceeds. On average, estate sale companies earn about 40% of the total sales, leaving clients with around 60% of the final amount. Understanding these averages can help families set realistic expectations and plan accordingly when considering an estate sale in Minnesota.
Is Hiring an Estate Sale Company Worth the Cost?
For many homeowners, hiring a professional is well worth it.
Managing your own estate sale can involve weeks of preparation, emotional decision-making, and coordination with buyers, making the process challenging and time-consuming. In contrast, when you hire an experienced estate sale company, you benefit from their expertise in pricing, marketing, and handling the sale, which is often in your best interest to ensure a smooth and successful outcome. Professional estate sale companies are focused on maximizing profit for the client by attracting the right buyers and managing the bidding process efficiently.
Organizations like AARP note that downsizing and estate transitions can be overwhelming, particularly later in life (downsizing later in life).
A professional estate sale consolidates this process into one organized event, saving time and reducing stress.
Estate Sales and Legal or Financial Considerations
Estate sales often occur alongside broader estate or inheritance planning. Creating an estate plan for your own estate, including wills and inventories, can help ensure assets are distributed according to your wishes and facilitate the estate sale process. Homeowners may want to review estate and inheritance considerations through trusted sources like the IRS (estate and gift taxes).
When selecting a company, it’s also wise to work with professionals who operate transparently and ethically. The Minnesota Attorney General’s Office provides guidance on consumer protection resources in Minnesota that can help homeowners understand their rights.
Finding a Reputable Estate Sale Company
Choosing the right estate sale company is a key factor in ensuring a successful estate sale. Start by conducting your own research—compare companies based on their experience, range of services, and fee structures. Reading online reviews and seeking referrals from friends, family, or trusted professionals can provide valuable insights into a company’s reputation.
A reputable estate sale company, such as Blue Moon Estate Sales, will offer a free consultation to explain the estate sale process and answer any questions you may have. Look for companies that are transparent about their commission rates and fees, with no hidden costs. Ultimately, consider the overall value and support the company provides, not just the commission rate. The right partner will guide your family through the process with professionalism and care, ensuring the best possible outcome for your estate.
How Do You Get an Accurate Estate Sale Estimate?
The most reliable way to understand pricing is through an estate sale consultation with a local company. During this visit, you can expect:
A walkthrough of the property
Discussion of goals and timelines
A clear explanation of commission structure
Answers tailored to your situation
During the consultation, the company will determine the value of your estate and the appropriate commission rate based on their assessment.
If you’re exploring estate sale services in Minnesota, a consultation provides clarity without obligation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Estate Sale Pricing
Do estate sale companies take a percentage of sales?
Yes. Most companies earn a commission based on the total amount sold during the estate sale.
When do homeowners receive payment?
Payment is typically issued after the sale concludes and totals are finalized. Sellers usually receive pay from the estate sale company within 7 to 10 business days after the sale.
Are cleanout or donation services included?
This varies by company. Some include coordination services, while others offer them as optional next steps. After the sale, remaining items or unsold items can be listed for sale online, sent to consignment stores, donated, or disposed of, and many estate sale companies provide these services to help manage leftover inventory.
Can estate sale commission rates be negotiated?
In some cases, pricing flexibility may exist depending on the size and scope of the estate, but rates generally reflect the work involved.
Is pricing different in larger cities?
Market conditions in metro areas like Minneapolis may influence strategy and buyer traffic, but commission-based pricing remains consistent across Minnesota.
Planning an Estate Sale in Minnesota?
Understanding estate sale pricing is an important step, but choosing the right company matters just as much.
At Heimer House Estate Sales, we focus on transparency, professionalism, and respectful handling of every estate. If you’re ready to explore your options, we’re happy to help.
👉 Request an estate sale consultation
👉 Explore our estate sales in Minneapolis
👉 Browse our estate sale planning resources
Next Steps After Choosing an Estate Sale Company
Once you’ve selected an estate sale company, the next steps focus on preparing for a smooth and successful sale. The company will help inventory and appraise your items, ensuring valuables are accurately priced. They’ll also set up displays that showcase belongings attractively, creating a welcoming environment for buyers.
Professional estate sale companies handle all aspects of marketing to draw in serious buyers, manage the event on sale days, and provide attentive customer service throughout. After the sale, you’ll receive a detailed report of the proceeds and a clear breakdown of the distribution of funds. Open communication with your estate sale company is essential—by staying informed and involved, you can help ensure the process runs efficiently and minimizes the emotional toll on your family. With professional support, you can maximize the value of your estate and move forward with confidence.
