Creating a Cozy Home, One Estate Sale at a Time
Estate sale shoppers are a passionate and dedicated bunch.
Give me the choice between spending $100 at the mall or $100 at an estate sale, and the estate sale will win every single time. Distance? Doesn’t matter. Weather? Bring it on. Two weeks ago, I stood outside in the cold and snow, waiting for one sale to open. I left empty-handed that day, but that’s okay—it’s all part of the adventure.
The highlight of that snowy wait wasn’t the sale itself but meeting a fellow treasure hunter who had just returned from a trip to Africa. Now that’s dedication—or maybe passion. For me, estate sales aren’t about accumulation. I’m not on a mission to hoard or flip items. I go to see what speaks to me—or shouts, *“Buy me!”* Every piece I bring home has a purpose.
Finding Purpose in the Hunt
Let me be clear—there’s nothing wrong with shopping at the mall or online. My home has pieces from those places, too. But there’s something magical about uncovering treasures with history, items that add character to the story of our home.
And no, I’m not curating a collection to pass down to my kids (unless they want them). Let’s face it: when I’m gone, no one will fight over a 60-year collection of gnomes. Trust me—there’s a reason estate sale liquidators are in business!
Practical Finds with a Story
I’m not always hunting for the unique or whimsical. Some of my best scores have been practical: a smart TV, computer monitors, and dishes that replaced items well past their prime. My favorite “practical” find? A vintage yellow Le Creuset pot. It’s been waiting patiently for a lazy Sunday stew, though finding time to hang at home all day feels like a dream.
Treasures with Heart
Every now and then, a piece speaks to my heart. Take the life-size Shrek I found—most people wouldn’t give him a second glance. But Shrek was the movie my husband and I saw on our first date. Last July, we celebrated 20 years of marriage, and Shrek now has a place of honor in our home. He doesn’t match the décor, but he matches the memories.
Then there’s the Harley Davidson phone displayed on a guest room shelf. It doesn’t work, but it adds a dash of charm that makes me smile every time I walk by.
Standout Finds: Blue Pumpkin & Fendi Handbag
Some treasures are simply unforgettable. Standout finds from recent sales include a striking blue pumpkin and a Fendi handbag. I’m not someone who typically gravitates toward designer bags, but when one lands in front of me at an estate sale for an unbelievable price, how could I resist?
Today’s Finds: Tiffany Glass and More*
This morning’s visit to Dick Russell Liquidators brought even more treasures into my life. A Tiffany glass baseball paperweight joined my collection, along with some necklaces that were waiting for me. I’m a firm believer in serendipity—if a piece is meant for me, it’ll be there.
Haven’t Been to an Estate Sale? Here Are Some Tips!
Thinking about checking out your first estate sale? Give it a try! Like everything else, there are good ones and not-so-great ones, but every experience is part of the adventure. Here are some quick tips to get you started:
Do Your Homework: Check the liquidator's website or social media page to preview what will be available. Research any items you’re interested in using Google Images to avoid overpaying for something that might have a lower market value.
Timing Matters: The final day of an estate sale often comes with significant markdowns, so patience can pay off. As I mentioned earlier, I believe in a little serendipity—if a piece is meant to be mine, it’ll still be there waiting.
Bring the Muscle: Shopping for furniture or heavy items? Estate sale staff typically don’t move items for you, so make sure you have help or are prepared to manage transportation on your own.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be ready to dive into the world of estate sales and discover treasures waiting for a new home!
Creating a Cozy Home
Every new piece finds its place, whether functional or decorative. My older dining table, replaced by a mid-century walnut beauty, is now a dedicated puzzle table. Over time, these treasures have transformed our house into a cozy home filled with personality—and we didn’t have to break the bank to make it happen.
Like planting trees or watching a garden grow, building a home with meaning takes years. And I love every step of the process.
What’s Your Treasure?
Now, dear reader, it’s your turn: What’s the most meaningful item you’ve discovered—not a family heirloom, but something from an estate sale, garage sale, or marketplace? Are you driven by finding a bargain, uncovering stories, or curating your space? Share your treasure stories in the comments—I’d love to hear them!