Which option is right for your estate?

In-Person Estate Sale vs. Online Auction

Both options have their place — but for most families, online auctions deliver thousands more in returns. Here's how the two compare side-by-side.

In-Person Estate Sale
Online Auction
Exposure
Limited to local buyers who can attend in person
Thousands of bidders nationwide through HiBid — a powerful national platform
Potential Profit
Lower offers due to limited competition and impulse buying
Competitive bidding drives higher prices and maximum profit
Sale Duration
Typically 3 days: Friday, Saturday, Sunday
Items visible up to 7 days in advance with bidding open for a full week
Traffic at Property
High foot traffic with strangers in your home
Low traffic — buyers pick up items on a scheduled date
Convenience
Buyers must take time out of their weekend to attend
Accessible 24/7 from any device — bidders can participate from anywhere
Security
Increased risk with many people in the home
Safer, more controlled process with scheduled pickups only
Buyer Audience
Local buyers only
National audience = more competition and higher offers
$0+
Average extra revenue
Online auctions consistently deliver thousands more for estate executors and their families compared to traditional in-person sales.
Not sure which is right for your estate? We'll help you decide.