What Actually Sells at Estate Sales? 7 Surprising Items Buyers Love

When people think of estate sales, they often imagine antique furniture, fine china, and vintage collectibles. While those do sell, the real surprise is what else attracts serious buyers—and often sells fast.

Here are 7 items you might not expect to move quickly at an estate sale (but absolutely do):

1. Everyday Kitchenware

Think mixing bowls, utensils, Pyrex, and cast iron pans. Buyers love a well-stocked kitchen, especially if items are clean and priced to move.

2. Tools and Garage Items

Hand tools, power tools, gardening supplies—even half-used paint! DIYers and resellers often line up for access to a well-stocked garage.

3. Cleaning Supplies

It might sound strange, but unopened or lightly used cleaning products, brooms, and mops get scooped up quickly. It’s a practical score for bargain hunters.

4. Linens and Towels

Vintage or modern, clean linens, towels, and bedding sell well. Mid-century patterns or unique textures can be especially desirable to collectors and decorators.

5. Board Games and Puzzles

Even opened games sell if pieces are accounted for. Nostalgic or out-of-print games are especially popular with families and collectors.

6. Office Supplies

Printer paper, envelopes, filing cabinets, and even working printers often disappear early in a sale. In a remote-working world, these basics are always in demand.

7. Clothing and Accessories

If organized neatly and priced fairly, gently used clothing—especially vintage or designer pieces—can be a hidden gem for fashion lovers and eBay resellers alike.

Pro Tip from Copper Key:

If you’re unsure what’s worth including in your sale, we’ll help sort, stage, and price your items to ensure nothing of value is overlooked. You’d be surprised what ends up being someone else’s treasure.