If there’s one thing we’ve learned working in the estate sale business, it’s that you never know what you’re going to find behind a closed door, tucked away in a closet, or hiding in the back of a basement. From unusual collectibles to things that make you do a double take, estate sales can come with a few surprises. And since it’s Halloween week, we thought it would be the perfect time to share some of the spookiest things we’ve encountered while working in this business.
Grab your flashlight, because things are about to get a little creepy!
1. Ventriloquist Dolls That Seem to Follow You with Their Eyes
You know the ones. Porcelain faces, glass eyes, and expressions that somehow seem a little too realistic. Finding a collection of ventriloquist dolls staring back at you from a shelf can be enough to make anyone walk a little faster down the hallway! We came across SIX of them this summer (and we can’t prove it, but we think they moved at night).
2. Portraits That Give You the Heebie-Jeebies
Old family portraits can be beautiful pieces of history, but every once in a while, you come across one that feels like it belongs in a haunted mansion. Add an ornate gold frame, bubbled glass, and a slightly mysterious expression, and suddenly you’re wondering if the eyes really are following you.
3. Injured and Deceased Animals
Deceased mice under trashcans and birds stuck inside of lights - we’ve run into it all. While we’re always happy to see our client’s pets and the occasional deer or wildlife, these other animal encounters can be a bit scary.
Some of the team rescuing a trapped bird.
4. Customers Changing Price Stickers
Perhaps this should’ve been number 1. The scariest of all. Dishonest customers removing price stickers from valuables and collectibles and changing them for lower price stickers. They thought we wouldn’t notice. SPINE CHILLING!!!!!!!!!!!!!
5. Flickering Lights / Hearing Noises
“Amy is that you in the attic??” No…. Amy is outside…. “Well who is in the attic?!” Yep. Being alone in houses, while hearing footsteps and closing doors. It happens. Then add on the lights flickering like a Demogorgon is near (insert grimace face here)!
The Real Treat? You Never Know What You'll Find!
As much as we love a good spooky story, the truth is that the unexpected is part of what makes estate sales so exciting. Every home has its own story, and every sale brings something new to discover. Happy Halloween from our team to you! 🎃