10 Estate Sale Finds That Are Worth Way More Than You Think

Saturday mornings are made for estate sale hunting. And while there's some skill involved in the browsing process, part of the thrill of the chase at an estate sale is the unpredictability of the items you'll find. It never hurts to go in with a list of items you need, but when something unexpected catches your eye, it can be hard to know whether it's a good deal. We talked to Bob Lang from Blue Moon Estate Sales to get his best tips on what to keep an eye out for.

Lang says the prep work can start before you even hit the line by browsing the event’s online preview (if available) and seeking out details like start and end times, payment methods, and the top categories of showcased items. When the sale day arrives, set your alarm for the best finds. “Estate sales can be quite competitive, so getting there early will secure your place in line and increase your chances of grabbing sought-after items,” Lang says.

Once you’re in, the real fun begins. If there's something you had your eye on in the event's preview, head there first—but then keep an open mind about possible valuable or collectable items you might find. To help you prep for your next outing, Lang is sharing the items you should never pass up at an estate sale. 

1. Vinyl Records

You don’t have to be a music aficionado to appreciate this find. “Vinyl records provide a great chance to share the music and artists that defined your youth with your children and grandchildren,” Lang says. “From the smooth rhythms of classic rock and the irresistible grooves of Motown to the enduring sounds of jazz legends, vinyl records offer a fresh way to appreciate music across generations.”

2. Jewelry

Jewelry offerings will often vary greatly at estate sales. You might find more recent pieces as well as discover timeless jewelry from past eras, Lang explains. “Whether you're searching for engagement rings, anniversary gifts, birthday bracelets, or a treat for yourself, estate sales can be a goldmine for all tastes and styles,” he says. “Even costume jewelry can sometimes be worth more than diamonds or pearls.” Pieces from highly sought-after makers and rare vintage pieces tend to come with the highest price tags.

3. Vintage Toys

“Over the years, toys have evolved, becoming more advanced, complex, and electronic,” Lang says. “Yet, many of us still feel nostalgic for the simpler days of our childhood.” Hunting down vintage toys can rekindle those memories of bygone eras. Plus, many of the items we’re nostalgic for are now collectibles that will appreciate in value since they are no longer in production, he says.

4. Artwork

Lang urges estate sale shoppers not to be intimidated by purchasing art on the hunt—no art degrees or big budgets required here. “Estate sales offer a fantastic opportunity to grow your personal collection and uncover unique hidden treasures,” he says. Plus, it’s a great way to add personality to your home and make it truly unique.

5. Vintage Dishware

"Antique barware can fetch a pretty penny from mixologists, interior decorators, and home bartenders,” Lang says. Look out for Pyrex patterns like 'Lucky in Love' or 'Pink Daisy,' as well as china sets, depression glass, and Delftware ceramics, he advises.

6. Kitchen Gadgets and Appliances

There are plenty of deals to be had at estate sales, especially if you’re shopping for kitchen appliances. Stand mixers, toaster ovens, fridges, and microwaves are all items worth keeping your eye out for. “Every home has a kitchen, and just about every estate sale has kitchen goods to offer,” Lang says.

7. Books

If you’re focused on adding to your personal library, estate sales are a great place to start. “With over 155 million books in circulation worldwide, that's a vast number of stories to explore, adventures to embark on, and words to absorb,” Lang says. “Whether you're new to reading or already have a well-stocked bookshelf, discovering a rare or vintage book can be an incredibly thrilling experience.”

8. Throwback Advertising and Photos

“From original travel posters to vintage soda crates, advertisements can transport us back in time,” Lang says. “Porcelain, enamel, and hand-painted signs are especially sought after.” Photographs can provide a historical lens, particularly when they feature prominent figures like artists, entertainers, authors, and even presidents. Even everyday photos can have appeal. Lang suggests looking out for items that depict cities and architecture, vintage trains and automobiles, and everyday photography from years past that features trending hairstyles and fashions.  

9. Ephemera

Items such as magazines, ticket stubs, land deeds, lobby cards, promotional items, and more weren’t meant to last for years, but that’s their appeal, Lang explains. For that reason, these treasures that have survived years, decades, and sometimes even centuries, are particularly collectible.

10. Equipment and Supplies

While it might seem unexpected, estate sales are a great place to stock up on electrical supplies and equipment, such as saws, tool sets, teaching items, and craft materials, Lang says. Upcycling these materials can save you money and might even spark your creativity for a new project.