She Didn't Want To Sell- Saving MEMORIES At An Estate Sale

Estate Sales - Good, bad, or a way to save memories? You be the judge. Another estate sale, another adventure! Be sure to like & subscribe so you don't miss out!
Follow me on Instagram @paperandmoose
Shop on Etsy www.etsy.com/s...
#estatesale #bekind #vintagestyle

[@DannyoffireAwaken]

Keeping something out of love is much better than keeping something out of obligation. If the family doesn't want it, it's better that it goes to someone who will love it.

[@mandypink7878]

When you buy from an estate sale, you are buying items that were owned by someone who has probably passed. When you buy from an estate sale, you are helping a family possibly pay for funeral or memorial or other expenses left by the loved one. When you buy from an estate sale, you are possibly saving tons of items from going to a landfill. When you buy from an estate sale to resell, you are connecting a person with an item they will treasure. These things cannot possibly be a bad thing and I would challenge the naysayers to rethink their stance.

[@roseannethompson2643]

Very well said. Having had to get rid of my parents’ things, I know it’s difficult, but there’s just not room to keep all their stuff when you have your own stuff.

[@katherinekaufman9856]

One thing that has drawn me to your channel, time after time, has been the thoughtful way you handle and view other people's treasure and trash. You can go through my things any time!

[@arejnyl]

katherine kaufman I was just thinking the same. Could use her in going through my ancestors hundred years’ of stuff including a 98-year-old mansion!

[@shellytarbet3677]

Good Morning P&M have a great day! I would much rather when I die have someone finding treasures they can resale to someone who loves them then to have them thrown out. It gives things a second life and they can go on to create more memories in someone elses home or collections. The hair pieces kind of look like they would be part of a dance costume. I have a few of those knocking around in my basement too lol.

[@lindajorgensen2580]

Shelly Agree 100%

[@PaperandMoose]

Well stated Shelly!

[@patgrant3741]

There is nothing wrong with shopping estate sales. The families are left with all the items of a deceased family member. Not everyone has the same interests, nor the space to hold those items. If any thing, the family's are offering those valuables or sentimental items with others with similar interests. Those items will then be treasured and live on.

[@ohsusanna8042]

Pat Grant Well said. Most times if there is family that’s interested, they’ve already sorted through and taken what they wanted. I think we also have to remember that on occasion, a senior who must now move into an assisted living facility is in need of funds. The proceeds from the estate sale can often go towards that too.

[@rickeydonald4756]

Pat Grant I wish people would read your comment. I am 66 and have so much inventory and collections left over from 40 years in the business. If my family gets left with a mess, then it is totally my fault. When you are dead, I doubt very seriously you’ll be worried about the junk you left behind. Have at it!

[@kristirudolph7504]

I agree... I was left with so much stuff and haven't gotten threw it all yet, and I hate letting it go but it has over run my house lol.

[@lorihanlon2525]

I have only attended one estate sale where the homeowner was present. That can be awkward and I feel if they are going to be present they should have gone through all of their belongings and made the decision of what is being sold. Or family has decided on what they are keeping. I would much prefer any remaining items be available to those shopping and it going to a home where it will be loved or resold to someone who will enjoy the item or even donated to resellers. I find it tragic that decent items end up in a the trash/dumpster!

[@arejnyl]

Agree, or just left to mold and rot like the many abandoned mansions and cottages that abandoned world explorers video. So tragic.

[@cjpenning]

"Out of sight, out of mind" is really true. A family could tell you "sell it all, I don't care", but the minute individual items are shown in front of them they have regrets in parting with them. You can't blame them. I'd be the same way. But the companies running these sales should definitely go through everything before the public is invited in.

[@saraleecoleman4427]

Families usually go through everything before a company is brought in. My friend does estate sales here in Seattle, and the family goes through stuff first.

[@rickeydonald4756]

Rene, I hope one day your kindness will be rewarded by a nice lady like the one you helped. It will be! Start leaving a business card with items you look for. You never know.

[@deborahbaker2387]

What a great idea!! Leaving a business card makes perfect sense!

[@jacquelinehealy1797]

You always do the right thing Renee. You're an old soul in modern times.

[@janekinzig3847]

You are such a kind person! I know how you feel when you are dealing with a persons belongings. I worked at a storage facility for 5 years and had the task of cleaning abandoned rooms.Often people had passed away so I felt a responsibility to be respectful as I tenderly went and cleared and cleaned what was left of someone’s life.

[@richardhill3580]

2nd thought Renee... to your point or question about whether estate Sales are good or bad.. SOME are obviously Good. As you say in your videos.. sometimes the items you are supposed to have find you... otherwise you were not meant to have them in the first place For SOME reason you were supposed to be at that Estate Sale. What are the 'odds' like someone else would have gone and even had the same interest in those personal books and wanted them and so would have asked to purchase them and brought attention to them. No one would have known they were down there and likely be put out with the trash when the sale was over.. That woman's memories of her Husband (and of her school years with the shirts ) would have disappeared forever. SHE was supposed to have them... and you helped her make that happen. "THAT made it a GREAT Estate Sale"!

[@RnR-Rebel]

Hiya Renee, I’m in agreement with you 100% about estate sales as I’ve been going to them since a little kid in the 60s w/ my aunt! She’d go to wealthy peoples sales, get bargains on true antiques (even back then) & filled their gorgeous home w/ them after my uncle refinished them beautifully! What makes me upset about this estate sale is it seems the woman either wasn’t completely filled in or didn’t understand that *everything* in the house would be for sale. Poor woman! It made me so happy to see you helping her find memories she didn’t want sold. I would’ve done exactly the same, would never want to take someone’s memories away no matter what. May that kindness come back to you tenfold! Have a lovely weekend! Jet 🧡🎸🎶⚡️

[@RnR-Rebel]

PS I forgot, my fave estate sale find was our Art Deco bedroom set for $250 paid full asking price as it was in pristine condition & more than fairly priced; “women’s” low dresser w/ big mirror, “men’s” tall dresser, headboard & footboard, plus a beautiful vanity w/ a tall mirror in the centre! We’re the 2nd owners & have had it since 1991!

[@sarahlickey9012]

The poor woman! You were so kind to her and it was nice that she shared family history with you.

[@lindawhitaker4314]

I appreciate your thoughtfulness. You didn’t say whether it was family or professionals doing the sale but it sounds as if she was not given a chance to go through and look for memory items. So thank you for helping her. And estate sales are necessary. Better other people cherish the memories than the inside of a dumpster!

[@patriciabarnhart1886]

From experience I believe that some semblance of order should be made when at all possible out of respect for the deceased, etc. prior to the sale. On another note, when my husband’s great grandmother’s treasures were sold back in the 80’s it saddened me to have to compete against the antique dealers at the auction when grandma would have wanted us to have them. There were those who when knowing it was a family member would stop bidding, for which we were grateful. You are precious, Renee, in your respect for this woman❤️

[@ohsusanna8042]

When I’m at an estate sale, or I’m at the Salvation Army thrift store and can tell that someone has just cleared out Grandma’s Depression glass collection and donated it all without a second thought, or I find a children’s book with a handwritten note inscribed, ‘From Great Aunt Helen to Dear Little Bertie, Christmas 1912’, I have 2 very consistent thoughts that come over me every single time. 1st: I know this was important to you (original owner) at some point in your life for some reason unbeknownst to me. And 2nd: I will bring this into my home to give it a 2nd life and love it and care for it with respect and appreciation. Rene, what you said is so true. It would all end-up in a dumpster bin because the family doesn’t want it or doesn’t appreciate it. Whether you are buying for yourself or to re-sell, it means that object will have a new home and be part of someone’s life who actually wants it and perhaps has a particular respect, knowledge, and fondness for what might otherwise be seen as ‘old’ and ‘junk’. Rene, I think it’s rare what you experienced that the owner is actually there during the sale; what’s more is the unfortunate fact that she didn’t seem to understand that people would be looking at everything all over the house. Either it hadn’t been explained properly to her, or she hadn’t understood clearly. That made me sad. But, on the bright side, Rene, your digging and heartfelt respect for the owner left her with items that held fond memories and meaning. Well Done! I loved this video and appreciate you posing the question to us.

[@melissaschurman7630]

Thank you for helping her you're an ethical person

[@garyneumiiller4808]

The devil playing the harp would look nice displayed at Valentines too,

[@simsjef]

As I get older, I look at items I have treasured and enjoyed over the years in the end as just stuff and I can’t take it with me. If those memorable items are sold or given away they still have a chance to live on and if my extended family doesn’t want them, getting rid of them while I live is the best thing to do so my love ones do not have the hassle of having to deal with my stuff after I die. Im so OK with estate sales and what you do. Keep it up.

[@loricreed]

When my Mamma Skeet died we all picked one item each to keep and then round robin for anything we wanted. I got a footstool I used to sit on while she did my nails and a cedar chest. The rest of her items were rummaged for others to get use out of. All us kids split the photos up. It was a nice relaxing celebration and sharing memories.

[@gretchenarrant8334]

Lori. Your family did as should be. That's wonderful. I have a younger brother who was greedy and we have not spoken since my daughter bought my mom's house and he threw the keys at my daughter. He's greedy and will reap his reward one day. He really started showing his true greedy side when our father passed in 2014. I have forgiven him in my heart but he is dead to me . He has chosen to not be in contact which is fine with me. I cared for our mother until her death and have no regrets. I'm sure he has many regrets. His choice.

[@pickncraft4000]

the little devil will be cute for valentine's day too. Yes on estate sales we had one after my mom passed and it was a blessing to our family. None of us had room for all the stuff she had, we didn't have the time to clean it all up and we were able to take what we wanted prior to the sale so we all got our memory that we wanted.

[@PaperandMoose]

Glad that the estate sale went well for you!

[@hitchheike2]

Hi Renee the smurf tshirt ..says smurf meeting and tschuess means bye bye ...the perri book is about a red squirrel. The writer is felix salten he is the writer of bambi ..In this book bambi is making an appearance ...keep up the great work. I love your kindness to others. The lady will be forever grateful to you

[@nataliepastor1497]

I would have done exactly as you did with that women and her memories however, I think estate sales always prevent wonderful things from winding up in dumps. Anytime you can reuse, recycle, etc. you are doing a service to humankind.

[@Scottyyy777]

I wish it was true, but I have been to a couple where rare and valuable treasures have been tossed into the trash, like vintage rock and roll and metal buttons, art pieces that are one of a kind, rare books, ect. People will toss things without caring at all about the items, and try to sell you cheap junk from china thinking it's what people are looking for instead.

[@funkoholic1952]

@@Scottyyy777 A lot of sales hire a company to hold the sale. I've never seen a family member at any of those. Also, the extra stuff goes to a store that the woman who owns the estate sale company.Lots of it gets donated to the Goodwill also.

[@Scottyyy777]

@@funkoholic1952 I been to multiple places that hold estate sales, as well as family run ones, sometimes living estate sales. It happens often even at the company run ones, and sometimes a family member is present, it all depends on contract handling for the company and the clients. Also the sale that the woman who runs the estate sale company is buying out is marking things up too high so she can get them for nothing later in a buyout of the leftovers, and make a bunch of money off the items but not give what they are worth to the family by marking them up too high for buyers at the sale. Goodwill will trash items it gets often if they don't think it will sell, and literally in the trash bags to go out or have gone out I found these items, it's crazy.

[@funkoholic1952]

@@Scottyyy777 Totally Crazy. Our lady here who runs the estate sales, does half off everything on the last day which is usually Saturday. I don't bother with the first day. I have been to a few sales with family members, but not many. It's uncomfortable.

[@Scottyyy777]

@@funkoholic1952 I been to the beginning, middle, and the end of estate sales, stuff has been in the trash at many locations, or to hauled away. It's worth going at the beginning of a estate sale to look for super rare items dirt cheap, many people don't know what is there and take photos to look up later then come next day, usually 25% off day, or it might be there the last day or the very end of a sale at a fill a bag for $5, where it may end up sold to a end buyer/estate sale company, donated, or everything left will be trashed.

[@deborahbaker2387]

Renee, my favorite find from this video was your experience of meeting, talking, and helping the owner. She needed help and, so, you were in the right place at the right time. It was beautiful to witness! Thanks for sharing!

[@snappiestfish]

I totally agree with your comments! There is SO much stuff in people's homes and in thrifts that wherever and whenever items can be rescued and given a new life to be loved again (and kept out of landfills) is a win-win!

[@arlenem.8504]

What a wonderful video! I have been a dealer for almost 20 years and I am embarrassed at some of the behavior I witness at estate sales. Your reverence for peoples' belongings is sadly becoming rare so it is that much more appreciated. I wish the homeowner had better understood what was going to occur during the sale. Whether she misunderstood or the sales manager didn't fully explain the process to her we will never know but the whole situation was sad. I swear I am going to start that Swedish death cleaning deal. My parents were hoarders (clean but SO MUCH STUFF) and I would never want to put my kids through that. Thank you for being such a good person. Oh....and "dangly bits"...I almost fell off my chair!

[@maryward613]

Wow, you really helped me! I have the only grandchildren in my family, hence I've inherited most of the family treasures. Now that my kids are older a lot of it they don't care much for, like great aunts mid century green chair! The silver, china, photos, items from Sweden & Germany are keepers too. Downsizing is just the worst! So glad I don't have a basement! Your so sweet, thanks. The cat figurines, you didn't get them? I collect cats, like so many of us ladies do!

[@ohsusanna8042]

Mary Ward When we had to put my Dad in a nursing home because of Dementia, my sisters and I decided to declutter for my Mom. We all decided (my Mom included) it would be better for my mother to actually give each of us what she wanted us to have while she could still make the decisions herself. It lightened her load both literally and mentally. Because my Mom was able to tell us the stories behind the objects (stories that none of us had ever been told before), I believe we accepted them with a deeper appreciation. Out of all the 6 sisters, I ended up with the most because I’m the antique fanatic! I have taken it upon myself to be the storyteller to all the grandkids and great nieces and nephews. Not a one used to express any interest in any of this ‘old stuff’, but since I started telling them the history and stories, their views have changed. Perhaps you’ve already done so, but if not, I encourage you to tell the stories of the people and places related to the objects and maybe their connection to them will grow stronger and make them want to pass on these objects to the next generations in your family.😌

[@maryward613]

@@ohsusanna8042 Thank you for your advice. After I posted that message I called my daughter and she said just what you advised! She wants me to give her what I think she should have and she wants to know the history of each item. She's coming next weekend to help pack it up! What a great group this is! ☺️ My father died from dementia also. I took care of him for 6 years, it was very hard.

[@janicepronsolino2905]

Renee, you were very kind. I have been buying at Estate sales for years. It is very hard when family is in attendance. We had to do my Mother’s house 2 yrs ago. I was the executor of the Estate, so I let my brothers and their children have what they wanted before the sale and it was hard to see her possessions sold, but I liked knowing someone would enjoy them. I was able to donate tons to a local fire relief organization here in Northern California also, otherwise so much would have gone to the landfill.

[@PaperandMoose]

Donating what remains is a great option, versus renting a dumpster and tossing. I'm sure that those that will be aided by the fire relief organization will be appreciative.

[@anitahaviland3036]

This is not just an act of purchasing for resale, it is a blessing to the family to have the house emptied out and to gain money needed to pay off the person's debts and last expenses.

[@Nonayabizness360]

My grandfather died and was estranged from my father, my grandmother had died years ago from cancer and his new wife threw everything away including my grandmother's wedding photos and now my father has dementia. I go to estate sales hoping someone found them in the trash and that I may find them to bring them home some day. We also rescue photos, love letters ( I'll share a love story we found in letters over 10 years next time ) that children are throwing away. We also bought a victorian memorial photo of a child who died at the age of 9 in 1901 and sold him to a woman who is a geneologist and he's hanging on her wall so she can continue to love and appreciate him long after his family is gone 😍

[@carriematthews7991]

Thank you for being so kind and understanding with this lady. I am sure it will come back to you many times over. Blessings 🐶🐾🐾

[@michelledekker7654]

I would never be ashamed about buying people's things at an estate sale. That's the way they themselves or the family choose to get rid of what they don't want! You are building the best vintage holiday collection. You need to film when you decorate for some of them. I love your collection.

[@karennorris6135]

My husband died 5 yrs ago. What you did in kindly helping her was wonderful! Kudos. No matter how long ago he passed a widow sometimes is not able to do what she would usually do! I had 3 months to move. I would have loved for someone to help me decide what to keep as I sold it lock stock and barrel!

[@sharonnowlin2297]

I feel exactly the same way that you do about estate sales. The way that you helped the older lady find the shirts and gave her back the books that had belonged to her husband. Even the books that you really wanted you did not hesitate to try and hold on to them, because they were treasured items of hers. That tells it all, shows what a caring and such a nice person that you are!!! I think that is why so many of your watchers love you and your videos! As to the Felix Salten book, Perri that you saved. The complete title is Perri - The Youth of a Squirrel (1939). Felix Salten was born (Sigmund Saltzman) in Pest, Austria - Hungry. At 4 weeks his family moved to Vienna, Austria. Felix Salten was also the author of Bambi, Renni about a German Shepherd Dog (1940), the Hound of Florence (1930) which the Disney Film, The Shaggy Dog was based on. I think The Shaggy Dog was a 1959 Disney Film and it was about an OES (Old English Sheepdog). Thank You for Sharing this wonderful video and your feelings about estate sales.

[@rosemarysimpson3976]

She wanted the books soo bad that she browsed E-Bay, then determined an extremely high price! So she would have easily got rid of those supposed memories!

[@tamaraerickson6428]

When my friend's mother and father died he and his brother had an estate sale, but they pulled out the items they wanted to keep. He also gave me many items that belonged to his mother including a vintage charm bracelet that has a silhouette charm of his brother on it. His brother didn't want it. I was a bit stunned at what they sold and got rid of, but he also has a box of antique photos he does not want because he said he doesn't know who anyone is. It depends on the family I think. I love how you were helping her find things that were precious to her. When I find something that is a treasure to me, I give it a new life and at least someone is appreciating it again. That being said, my poor child when he has to deal with all my crap years down the road. ;)

[@sandym8594]

I like to think of estate sales as a way to redistribute items to where they are needed or wanted. Yes, as a reseller, I do profit from the sale, but so does the the family and the estate sale company (and eBay, PayPal, the USPS, packing supplies companies... you get the idea). It’s a whole lot better for the economy than having it all hauled to the trash. And I live in a fairly poor rural area and have chatted with people at sales who tell me that this is how they buy the clothing, appliances, etc that they need. At most sales I’ve been to, people are respectful. Things can get to be a mess but it’s hard to deal with the volume of items in some of these houses without things getting messy. I’m glad you were able to help that nice lady find some of her treasures. It sounds like maybe she either thought they were gone or didn’t know they existed. It’s like you went straight to the things with the most memories for her. You’re a good person. And you’re great at finding fun vintage tees!

[@potpurrie_farm]

Hello Renee, we have an estate sale company and part of our contract is we do not let family members attend the estate sale for that very reason, we give them up until the time we start staging and if I find personal items I will ask the the owner if they are wanted or needed if not they go in the sale, this is a very emotional time for people I agree, the Olympic books that you brought up should have never been looked up on eBay in front of a customer! Unfortunately someone did not do their homework and go through the home thoroughly to make sure none of those Family Treasures were out to be sold.

[@PaperandMoose]

I've only been to a handful of sales where a family member is in attendance, but none to the extent of where the estate sale planner was calling the woman over to look at items before customers could purchase. I genuinely felt bad for the home owner, as I'm not sure if she was quite ready to part with things yet... but, I don't know her situation, so I can't speak on it. Estate sale companies have a big task to sort and stage sales, plus tend to the emotions of the seller!

[@marcialedbetter438]

Had an estate sale for my MIL belongings a few years ago. Kids and grandkids had already been through, but there was so much left. Most family didn't show up to help on day of sale because they thought it was sad. I suggested they think about all the joy the items brought to the buyers. Grandma would have been thrilled to share her stuff. Estate sales allow you to spread the memories.

[@PaperandMoose]

Agreed!

[@OriginalNethead]

Some stuff I buy for resale, some for gifting and some goes straight into my hoard. Most estate sales here are run by companies, so you're not dealing with a homeowner. I've bought old photos and papers too. The family just plain didn't want them any more. I sold the collection in two lots; the wedding gown photos were found on line by a family member doing genealogical research who wouldn't have been able to get at them otherwise. They'd have been in the trash. (and it was a KILLER 1930s lace gown. Wish they'd still had the dress too!) I then sold him the photo negatives and letters cheaply, to make sure they went where they were supposed to be. I kept them out of the trash and was paid about minimum wage for the effort. The other person was over the moon. So yes, buy the papers and photos.

[@Bear4196]

Although I am not a reseller, I find it difficult to go through people's belongings at estate sales, but I find solace in knowing that the children (or relatives, or whomever is left to take care of the material possessions) of the deceased just cannot keep everything. They take what gives them the best memories, and then I can take good care of what I buy, and my children can do the same when I am gone. It's just nature's cycle. Some people find possessions to be more sentimental, while others just find the memories to be sufficient. EDIT---I think you did very well with the little devil. I saw one in an antique place the other day for $45. Very collectible.

[@stressfreepaperchase3215]

1:05 that shirt is everything. 😊👍 This was such a beautiful video, so much humanity.

[@jamesross382]

Hi Renee Enjoyed your vid and must say that you are very kind to have helped that elderly lady look thru the clothes totes. Thought that was such a nice gesture.Keep up the good work

[@barbsnyder3579]

Renee I have never seen anyone be more respectful of other peoples things. I would hope that most people understand estate sales and be respectful as you are. You are saving a lot of things that may go to landfills. Great video. 😊

[@treasurerescue8885]

So nice of you to help her with her things. I have to admit, the first time I went to an estate sale I was sad. The more I thought it about though is that we the resellers, are there to rescue the items and get them in the hands of those that will love and treasure them as much as the original owners. There is a buyer out there for everything and it feels good to find a special piece for someone who will love it. :)

[@angelrays7]

On point! Thank you Renee for doing your part to saving for history and to work wirth the wife. Bless her heart! You are a good person and I know I don’t have to tell you that! Proßt! One more point...Historically auctions and estate sales have been around for many many years, often to pay of debt or to help the family move on with a some funds or to help with funeral costs. Also known as the 4 D’s (Death, Divorce, Downsizing or Debt) Some families need these... for extra cash. I think as sad it is knowing my items when I part could be tossed horrify me. I want them to be loved and live on to be cherished or repurposed, that’s if I don’t downsize myself someday here soon. ❤️ Kudos Renee!

[@natalie8212]

I've been garbage picking where the people didn't know what was amungst the stuff they were throwing out. I found a bunch of pictures of children. It turned out the family was throwing away pretty much everything after their son had passed. They had no idea those pictures were in the pile. The father was in tears thanking me for putting them aside. I was happy to have found them for him. I'm exactly with you Renee, these things would be discarded and rotting in a dump if someone didn't come along and find them a new home. I feel like it's carrying on the legacy of the owner by finding the beauty in the things they had loved during their life and giving them a new life to be treasured for many more years to come.

[@bonniedilorenzo3535]

I agree with you. The story behind the estate sale can be as varied as the stars however the chance to love an object as the original owner had is a gift.

[@gretchenarrant8334]

I think you have a good attitude about estate sales you did a very kind and generous think by helping the owner. My mom passed in March and my daughter and I had a couple sales. We absolutely couldn't keep everything, although I have many boxed and bags to go thru. My brother did rent a container and was just pitching till I made him stop. I couldnt just throw my parent's lives in the trash like he could. He took many things from my parents while they were living. Took what he wanted after my mom passed and left me with the rest to clean up. There is still much to do at the house. My daughter bought the house and we will go through more and sell when weather permits. It is not a pleasant thing to have to get rid of your parent's estate!! When those in the family took all they wanted while the parents were living and want to be of no help, a lot of things must be sold. You are right that it is good to let others enjoy some of their beauty. This has not and is not an easy thing for me to do. My parents lives mattered to me and I just can't throw them in the trash. That's my feeling.

[@barbfrank917]

Thank you Renee, you have such a sweet caring heart. I was like you when I was younger, I loved going through estate/rummage sales. Now that I'm older I had 3 garage sales and moved into a duplex, I didn't want my kids having to worry about cleaning up my treasures, my treasures, not theirs. Listening to you talk about that lady, made me wonder, did grandma live there anymore, she came back for the sale and saw all her things.

[@saraleecoleman4427]

The families usually go through stuff before the estate sale, and some families are not interested or have the time to go through everything. Estate sales have been around for a long time! Just a higher end garage sale in many cases.

[@marieleppala4804]

If I were deceased, and looking down from above I would be joyful to see someone happy to find some of my treasures. Even resellers are selling to people who would enjoy these treasures themselves.

[@jennilang721]

Ok, first -YOU'RE BLUE EYES ARE POPPING OFF THE CHARTS, IN THIS VID!!!👀😮💖 GORGEOUS!!! Secondly, God bless that woman. It can be a fine line to dance w, re: knowing what's important enough to keep, and knowing what you don't need anymore, and it's not always an easy dance. You were very kind and gentle w her, so good on you. 👍💖👍(I'm still pissed off at my dh for throwing away my report card from my senior year, because it had some valuable lessons on it that I wanted to show to my wombcubs. :/ BUT I'M NOT BITTER, OR ANYTHING, ABOUT IT!!!😄😄😄)

[@sylviajones4907]

I noticed that the blue in her shirt really did bring those baby blues out!

[@donnaraebenz3664]

You handled this subject well. 💕👍🏻🙏💕

[@cindylouwhosthriftedtreasu5341]

Speaking from personal experience it is much more comforting for the family knowing that the items we chose to sell would eventually wind up in a new home to be appreciated. Not going to the landfill! Thank you for doing this video Renee!

[@lindaroberts7961]

So many people have no interest in cherished items that their elders have and just would throw them out. I think it’s great that at a sale, someone will who really likes the items will buy them and enjoy them. Thanks for the video.

[@lucyroberts2800]

I think you and taco stacks are kind people I like how you go about things . I have watched people for a while and you see their true colours come through there’s a few people I continue to watch you two ,do it on a dime , breakfast and a couple of others . It just comes through how you treat people I do believe you treat others how you would want to be treated . Keep up the good the work x

[@sarahanderson8371]

Estate sales are fine. The family cannot take all of it. Believe it or not but people coming to the sales and but are really helping out the family. Good video.

[@PaperandMoose]

I agree! Other viewers of some of my older estate sale videos brought up quite different views on this type of sale, so I thought I would put the question out for others.

[@cyndiduncan7795]

That is sad that she didn't really get a chance to go through her things. It can be overwhelming. As I've mentioned before, I am in the middle of closing an estate myself. I am grateful that we are going to have a sale. I can stop hoarding things now because I know that someone else who will want it, whether to keep themselves or to sell on to another who will, will be able to buy it. There is so much stuff that without a sale, it would wind up with me or my sister, in the landfill, or donated - from where it may have ended up in a landfill anyway. This is Cyndi from Mimi's Treasure Cottage.

[@kristymcnett5746]

Love your videos. Love the back stories. Keep it up! Please!♡☆♡☆♡☆

[@PaperandMoose]

Thank you Kristy!

[@heyjude4842]

I had to sell everything from my aunt and uncles estate. I just had a 3 day tag sale at my house, which was my husbands garage. Until someone has to do this, they shouldn’t have opinion.

[@carolstanley7338]

I had an estate sale that was 6 days long. I was relocating and downsizing big time...from 4200 sq. ft to a 400 sq. Ft. Park model. Unfortunately, many estate sales are because of a death, but not are. You are so kind to help this lady. I moved from Alabama to Arizona. By the way, I do not miss all the stuff I had acquired during 55 years of marriage...and now I am still “weeding out.”

[@lisabruce1732]

We had an estate sale three years ago after my father in law passed away. The siblings and grandchildren went in and took anything they could use or was of sentimental value to them. Then my husband and I stripped the home of all photos, slides, personal papers etc. we couldn’t possibly keep all the furniture and dishes and those kind of things. As it is, we now have a storage unit filled with their items that he just couldn’t part with. It was so very hard for him to decide what to let go and what to keep. Hopefully everything that was sold got put to good use and maybe even treasured. I think estate sales are good way to keep things out of the trash and the landfill. It’s a win - win. A very nice video. You showed the owner such kindness.

[@juliehender7466]

Me personally, I would feel like I’m intriguing. I would still go, but like you, I would be very respectful of the owner’s feelings. So sad, knowing that one day, I could be that lady 😢😢

[@hfsaid]

That light blue dangly thing looked really good when you held it up to your hair! With a clip it would go well with one of your vintage dresses at a garden party. The larger one might look better on a hat. I confess - it's 19 years since my mother died & I'm still dealing with the things she left. (You would be getting lots more of them if postage wasnt so expensive.) I have been tempted to set up a table at our annual end-of-summer street fair & sell things, but I'm not comfortable with the idea. If we had pros doing estate sales here it would have greatly helped.

[@pathardin7580]

I’ve worked for a lady who does estate sales. Everything is cleaned, organized, and priced. The family stays involved, notified of valuable items found, and all personal effects are put aside for them to go through. They are great sales. Of course, being in Florida, we don’t have basements to serve as catch-all’s. As for the photos, I believe the latest generation probably isn’t familiar with who the people are. Every so often my sister and I would drag out the albums and go through them with our mom so we could remember who The relatives were. We did the same when our mom was in the nursing home only she couldn’t remember most of them so we would tell her and it would jog her memory and sometime we would get a good story to go with it. Patsy in Florida

[@paulanull8731]

What this estate sale and others I have attended has taught me is to pick a reputable company. A friend recently had one for a family member and the deal was sell everything and anything left was the company's to dispose of. The furniture (collectable and antique ) was priced so high no one would buy them. Other things were put in difficult places to find and see items. It ended up with the company retaining most of the valuable things for free. If they had just checked with other companies to see what the other companies did...well they didn't. And these people showed up at their door following the funeral and offered their "services". Research these sales companies and pick ones that are reputable plus do call each and every recommendation plus ask for more than given but ask for more so you get real customers not relatives only. They had picked over the items they wanted but a couple things were sold regardless of not for sale tags. So research, research and go thru the house carefully. Then offer younger family and extend family members an opportunity to pick before the sale too. You would be surprised at the items that mean a lot to these people would have been sold with love. You did a good thing and a good deed brings its own reward and blessing down the road.

[@cyndiduncan7795]

I'm dealing with this now myself. You have given sage advice.

[@GerryPicker]

Agreed, not all estate sellers are equal...a lot of variation.

[@cyndiduncan7795]

If it was the estate sale company that looked up your item on ebay before letting you buy it, then boo on them. They should have priced those books and done their research before the sale. That would have frustrated me. I would have happily returned cherished memories to the owner, though, two different situations. I'm glad she had you to help.

[@sindasoileau4599]

I agree with you totally.I am in my early 70's and have a house full of things I have truly enjoyed collecting.I have 2 sons that have no use for my belongs and would love to know someone came along and collect my things and love them as much as I have.So yes sell my my treasures instead of tossing them out.

[@lovemyferals]

So glad you were there to help her save some things that were important to her and are part of that family's history. I dont think most estate sales are sad occasions, they are a chance for items to live on elsewhere and you are getting decent money for the items unlike auctions where things mostly go very cheap. Also, for me, having your family items being auctioned off feels more like crass commercialism than does an estate sale. My favorite item was the pigeon book that you had to leave behind. That was amazing!! Seeing the 1936 Olympic book reminded me of my mom's experience of it. She was born in Berlin in 1929 (moved to the States in 1953 to better her life) and by 1936 my grandmother was a widow so she worked at whatever she could find and for the Olympics, she ran a hot dog stand near the Tiergarten. My mom and her sister would go there every day, hide below the booth counter and eat the free hot dog their mom would give them. Since she was only 6 (her birthday was in late December) her memory of the Olympics is that hot dog stand and how crowded the city was. Last of all, your book within the book is indeed Romeo & Juliet in Italian. Giulietta is pronounced "Ju-lee-et-ta", just like in English. Very much enjoyed your video today! tfs!🐦

[@SheriElmont]

It is overwhelming for a family to be left with a houseful of stuff. Like you said, family dynamics, people's different styles etc all play a part. I have always been sad about finding family photos, but a friend who runs estate sales said that often everyone already has copies.

[@lynmm03]

You are spot on regarding estate sales...it will end up in the trash if not sold. My Best Friends father passed away and I helped her with the task of cleaning out the house, she lives 3 hrs away and siblings are in another state...I was shocked at how unattached they were to things, of course they kept pics but really that is all they wanted, they wanted the rest to be sold or thrown out..I encouraged them to have the estate sale and in the end they were happy they did. Like you said...you never know what circumstance is behind the sale.

[@GerryPicker]

I ❤❤estate sales....not for all the potential profits, but totally for the treasures. I feel good that I'm recycling their family's treasures. So much history! I would feel very awkward if the spouse was present or loved one at the sale 😱 Thanks for sharing ❤

[@christinatravis6686]

In my opinion from what I seen and heard . I believe some of these people who gives theses estate sales don't tell the elderly or the family what a state sales are and they also don't give family nor the home owners to go through their own private stuff ( as at appeared to have happened here ) I believe this woman was taken advantage of by the estate sellers. Thank god for you to take the time to help this woman . No good deed go unpunished .

[@pattiwhite9575]

I am sure it was not intentional of the companies part. The item had been in her house a very long time. She hadn't looked for them in a very long time. Usually the companies do not like the owner to be there during the sale for that exact reason. There are told to remove anything they are going to keep OR lock it up in one room so there will be no confusion during sale. I've seen it a million times. The owners too old to care for there stuff and home and try and take thing back during the sale. It makes everyone feel bad. And some people get real mad.

[@mwatkins8280]

I love estate sales and go to many. I also have been at the other end of it, shutting down a family member's household. Not all items can be kept by the family. Some people keep what they can, some don't have room to store/display/keep, some aren't interested, some prefer to hold onto the family memories vs. the physical, some need to sell to pay for expenses, etc. There are many reasons and justifications. I understand it. However, I still love estate sales because I believe in recycling and keeping items out of landfills, giving usable or enjoyable items a new home, reselling if that's your intent, etc. Renee, I love watching all your videos! Stay safe, be well, enjoy.

[@lezliesummers4192]

I am a only child 66 years old. Going through my parents home of 58 years. My children don't want much. I have grandparents and great grandparents bibles about 7 of them and 4 sets of dinner china. 3 sets of silver ware not real silver. A basement full a house and garage . Then there is items i seen all my life. Very overwhelmed don't know where to start. Renee i listen to what you said about estate sale which i am going to do. I'd rather see some else haven instead od a dumpster. We have moved in with our daughter and family. My parent's home built in 1900 . It helped me to listen to you. Keep up your work and adventures. Glad to see you and taco teaming up together

[@brendagabel5995]

Estate sales are essential to keep all those things out of the landfills. We have enough trash on this planet. Reuse and repurpose is my motto. I know when my dad died it was very important to him that his belongings went to people who would use his items. I made sure everything was donated or sold to people who would and could use them.

[@grahamhardy1358]

I love your passion Renee and the fact you actually feel a connection with the articles you have

[@catherinethompson2525]

I ran an estate sale once the family always gets first Pick of goods and it is a away for family to make money And help rid of what they don't want to keep or store It is what it is they are very necessart, I used to work for a guy Who ran estate sales, it's the thieves that drive you crazy!!! The buyers are collectors and resellers name of the game 👍😊

[@juliegraham8133]

The texture, colour and grain of the wood behind you is beautiful. Your eyes are amazing today!🏡🏡🙂🦌😀

[@jillpfenning7631]

Dangly bits...that sounded wrong. Too funny!

[@missysanders83]

Just want to say...❤ the shirt!!!!! Also, I don't think resellers should be ashamed of buying items at estate sales. Maybe if the family found more value in the items that their loved ones had the items would not be sold in the first place. And better a reseller find a loving home for the items than them end up in the landfill because the family didn't care enough to have them for whatever reason.

[@booklover6963]

You were so kind to the lady and you are a lovely person. I think estate sales can be sad but necessary. I should have had one now 14 years later I still getting rid of stuff as I get older I have no one to leave my things too. I am trying to clean out my house and move into an apartment. It is hard but that is life.

[@standyourtruth.juneb.8069]

Renee, this was such a good video. Gives you a different perspective on estate sales. How wonderful she had you. Thank you for being so kind to this woman

[@PaperandMoose]

I was glad to have helped her find the photo album and save some of her memories. It was a pleasure hearing her story and I think she enjoyed remembering her husband as well.

[@thriftingthe3rivers656]

If we dont go to these estate sales to rummage through the stuff to resale it would all just end up in the garbage. They have the sales to get rid of the stuff. That's where we come in. I go to them every weekend.

[@GerryPicker]

Estate sales rock! I find the most fascinating treasures 💎💎

[@sarahlickey9012]

Estate sales are sad but it proves you can't take it with you. As resellers, we are saving their nice things to sell to someone else who will continue to appreciate an item. Otherwise most ends up thrown in a box to go to a resale store anyway and they profit from it.

[@anncece7767]

I bought a flocked tree with ornaments at an estate sale too. It's all I use at Christmas anymore. I love it's simplicity/

[@maureenb.8517]

I agree with everything you said about estate sales. One other consideration is that you are saving items that otherwise would end up in a landfill.

[@scottaubin8491]

That's like getting mad at the hearse driver for getting paid

[@sarahmiddleton4728]

You are so DEAR. Your kindness and your realness. You really listened to the distressed family member, you were not condescending or impatient or rude in any way; You really helped her. Makes me WEEPY! Estate sales where I live are pretty cutthroat, I had another reseller grab a chair out of my arms before, and that kind of soured me on going, or at least on going alone! I think more competition here makes people go a little crazy, it does not bring out the best in people (Seattle, WA) When I see you, I see the best.

[@PaperandMoose]

Thank you Sarah! Sales in my area can be like that as well (rummage sales for that matter too). I figure if someone wants/needs an item so badly that they have to push their way past me up a staircase or run through a hall, then so be it. How are estate sales in Seattle? Is there a mixture of old/new items?

[@sarahmiddleton4728]

Good philosophy!. Sales here can be good; by "GOOD" I mean, OLD, neat stuff! Seattle boomed during WW2, then busted in the 70s.. There are neighborhoods with 1880s homes, being torn down for new apartment bldgs.

[@lawannarobinson9900]

I love your viewpoints and attitude toward going to an estate sale. You appear from the previous videos I have seen to be a humble and very appreciative person. Some estate sales have to happen also for those who are bankrupt, downsizing, moving to another place and so much more. Blessings to you and keep well during this trying period.

[@PaperandMoose]

Thank you Lawanna and thanks for watching. Agree with you, we just never know the full reason why someone holds an estate sale. I enjoy being able to go into someone's home and see what they have collected over the years and have the ability to be able to purchase something so that either I can enjoy it or someone else can.

[@cathyhelmuth823]

I love the shirt you are wearing. We have gone in to listed estate sales where families were leaving the US. Therefore, they were having the sale. I am always amazed at photos and personal items being sold. My husband has a hard time going to an estate sale with us. He feels like it is invading the owner’s privacy. I told him we are trying to keep their story alive by cherishing their items!

[@PaperandMoose]

I understand where people do think it's an invasion of privacy, but essentially you are being "invited" into the home. A somewhat less invasive method would be to have an auction house come in & move everything to their building for an auction. Same items, just a different venue that takes out all of the personal emotions of holding the sale in the home.

[@dianne.douglas8322]

I go to lots of Estate Sales. Yes you go through the house, drawers, attic, basement, closets, etc. Most of the time the families have already taken what they wanted. I like to think they would be happy to know someone new would again treasure something they had once owned. You might be saving it from the dump too! That would be a shame :(

[@cindyneel328]

Because you have a good heart going to the estate sales and saving items and understanding their stories I think it's great that you save all you can and treasure the items. I didn't see you flocked tree but I'm sure that would be my favorite.

[@PaperandMoose]

I didn't show the tree... that was put away right when I got home due to its' size. I've never come across one ever before, so it was an interesting find!

[@leahconklin4358]

I agree with you. I have been to estate sales where there wasn't any family to take the treasured items. I have also been where the surviving person needed to empty the house for moving purposes or needed the money for of their remaining years. It is sad but if someone else can get joy for the items why not?Also there is always going to be haters that disagree with everything. Happy picking to you!!

[@jhankri]

You're a good soul to have such respect for that lady. Unfortunately sometimes the younger generation make all the arrangements and it all happens so fast that someone like that lovely lady is left behind in the process and that can be so traumatizing for seniors. I have encountered estate sale companies who blatantly rip off families for profit and that is horrible for the families and seniors whose lives are shrinking literally. Estate sales are sometimes necessary but should be done with sensitivity. I've always felt myself a steward to perserving and loving someone elses treasured item and think often about the previous owner and wonder about their life. Money should never be the first objective. Your thoughts on this are spot on. Good on you Renee.

[@rikspector]

Renee, I see videos all the time of abandoned homes where everything is left to rot away. Very few people have the money or means to save their families treasures, but through estate sales and compassionate people like you, many things can find new homes for generations to come. The reality is eventual every one and everything become only memories, but sometimes, especially through pictures and paper products, our lives transcend the present and live on to be shared with the future. Isn't that better than ending in the dump? Cheers, Rik Spector

[@PaperandMoose]

I've seen those videos as well. Urban explorers urge to not take any items, only take pictures. A part of me feels sad about that though, because some places (such as abandoned schools/hospitals) still have papers and in those papers holds a history that will be forgotten as the earth takes over the abandoned... but perhaps, that is fitting for some places...

[@tammyroyal9269]

I have always felt estate sales are sad just for the reason that usually someone has passed. I'm glad that their treasures are becoming treasures to someone else. It does not end up at the dump. I have no problem with resellers going because not everyone can get to these sales & yet they have a chance to get something cool.

[@daverice4755]

My first ever estate sale was a friend who took his own life. I went because there were things I wanted that meant something to he and I and it was awkward. I then went to another sale and reselling was born. Myself and my kids are very respectful that this is someones home and belongings and are very aware that family, friends, neighbors may be present and to be mindful of that. There is nothing to be ashamed about. This stuff is being sold for whatever the reason, they want money for it and I'm there to give them that money. If they didnt want my money they would throw it away or donate it. I feel they would approve knowing this stuff they are getting rid of is being sold to someone who in turn will resell it for a profit to help their two college attending kids our whatever our reason is for reselling. I'm not the least bit ashamed of what I do yet I am very respect while I or my kids are in the house with me.

[@PaperandMoose]

Glad that you were able to purchase items from your friend's estate... they are now in good hands.

[@kabbystevens5167]

Never want my family to have to deal with this...I did a konmari method of finding Joy In my possessions. Then my mom and dad joined in for their home. Truly a life changing event!!!!

[@bmoritzdesign3862]

I organize estate sales and I find that families would normally just have the house emptied but it allows for that person to live on. Not all estate sales are of the deceased, some have gone to assistant living which then the sales help with those expenses. I find the customer base to be all walks of life with all sorts of goals- some resell and some look for items for their own collection or home. Btw- you were wonderful with her. I typically don’t allow family members to attend. Whoever organized this was not responsible enough in detailing an estate sale for this home owner. You were great