Estate Sales: The 1% Secret to Luxury Living on a Budget
People often ask me, “Leslie, where do you find such high-quality, luxurious furniture and antiques?”
The answer is always the same: estate sales.
But not just any estate sales—those of the Southern California elite. While the idea of shopping at an estate sale might conjure up images of dusty old trinkets, when you’re buying from the 1%, you’re stepping into a treasure trove of handcrafted, designer items at unbeatable prices. Imagine paying $700 for a full leather furniture set instead of $7,000. This is the untapped world of affordable luxury.
Estate Sales Are the 1% Version of Yard Sales
Yes, even the super-rich hold what is essentially a “yard sale”—only they call them estate sales. I’ve shopped at homes where an entire team is dedicated to pricing, organizing, and presenting the finest goods from their estates.
These sales are about more than just decluttering; they’re about liquidating assets, from custom furniture to high-end antiques, at prices you wouldn’t believe. The next time you hear about an estate sale in a luxury neighborhood, don’t hesitate to attend.
My Find of a Lifetime: Shopping a Liquor Heiress’ Estate
One of my most memorable experiences was the estate sale of a liquor heiress who had passed away. To start, her mansion was filled with Lalique crystal, Tiffany lamps, and hundreds of unopened bottles of imported perfume. Each room was like walking through a high-end boutique.
The furniture was hand-crafted and shipped in containers from all over the world. Statues, one-of-a-kind works of art, and the finest luxury pieces were available at a fraction of their original cost. I furnished entire rooms with timeless pieces that embody both elegance and history. The best part? It didn’t break the bank.
The Hidden Wealth Behind These Estate Sales
What’s wild to me is that everything you see in these homes—whether it’s the antiques or luxury furniture—is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to their fortune.
The material goods are merely the “leftovers” of a much larger wealth portfolio, mostly held in investments, companies, and assets. This is why they can afford to let go of such high-quality items at rock-bottom prices—it’s not where their real wealth lies. And lucky for us, their need to liquidate these goods becomes our gain.
Furnishing My Home with Luxury at Rock Bottom Prices
Over the years, I’ve furnished much of my home through these sales. From vintage pieces to contemporary designer finds, my home exudes luxury and refinement without the hefty price tag. I firmly believe that true luxury doesn’t have to come with a sky-high price. You simply have to know where to look and be willing to invest the time to find the best deals.
Educate Yourself: How to Spot True Value
To truly capitalize on estate sales, you need to know what you’re looking at.
I’ve spent years studying antiques, their origins, and their value. I even have a library of books on the subject. It’s become a hobby of mine—combining my love for history, sociology, and craftsmanship with my passion for interior design.
Shopping these sales is like walking through a museum, each item telling a unique story about wealth, art, and society.
Where to Find These Estate Sales (No Connections Needed)
Here’s the great news—you don’t need a network of high-society friends to access these estate sales. Anyone can shop them!
Simply check Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or online estate sale listing sites. Once you arrive, bring your negotiating skills.
You’ll often find that you can haggle on prices, especially if you’re buying in bulk. Delivery options are often negotiable too, making these shopping experiences even more convenient.
The Final Payoff: Value Beyond Price
Though I often spend between $250 and $1,000 at these sales, the value I receive far outweighs the cost. My home is filled with extraordinary items—each with a history, a story, and a sense of true craftsmanship—that would have otherwise been out of reach if bought new.
And that’s the secret to estate sales: luxury doesn’t have to be exclusive.
Also, who doesn't love telling stories about where and from who you purchased your treasures? I know I do!
Unlock the Good Life with Leslie Juvin-Acker: Emotional Intelligence Expert, Author, and Celebrity Life Coach
Leslie Juvin-Acker is a renowned emotional intelligence expert, celebrated author, and life coach to top executives and celebrities. With years of experience helping people transform their lives, Leslie specializes in guiding individuals to tap into their true potential and achieve emotional freedom. Her books and videos provide practical tools to unlock emotional intelligence and create a balanced, fulfilling life.
By reading Leslie's insightful books or watching her empowering videos, you can begin your journey to the "Good Life." Leslie also offers life-changing speaking engagements, where she inspires audiences to break free from limiting beliefs and cultivate a life of joy, success, and personal empowerment.
Whether you're a leader, entrepreneur, or simply looking to improve your emotional well-being, Leslie’s wisdom is your guide to living a richer, more authentic life.
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