FAQs
Buying at Auction
How do I know what your upcoming sales are?
We publish all of our auctions and estate sales on our website here, and you can also follow Magnusson Art Group on Live Auctioneers to keep up to date on any upcoming auctions.
How can I participate in an auction?
You can access all of our auctions on Live Auctioneers. Sales culminate in live online bidding, however are open to advanced bidding for several weeks in lead up to the auction closing. We cannot accept phone bids or bid on your behalf. Sale closing dates and times are posted on Live Auctioneers from the time the catalogue goes live. We recommend signing up for our newsletter which notifies clients of upcoming auctions and includes reminders about sale closing. Sale registrants will also receive automated reminder emails about the timing of an auction’s closing.
How do I register to bid in an auction?
Registration can be completed online through Live Auctioneers.
Can I preview items before the auction?
Yes, we offer preview days where you can inspect items in person before the auction. Details about preview times are available on our website.
What are the buyer's premium and payment terms?
A buyer's premium is an additional fee added to the final hammer price of an item. This fee ranges, depending on the sale, from 20–25%. Payment options typically include credit card, wire transfer, cash, or cashier’s check. Full payment details will be provided upon registration. Payments are automatically charged to the credit card on file with Live Auctioneers 72 hours following the auction close. Alternative payment methods must be arranged within 48 hours of auction close and before property may be picked up.
How do I know if I won an item?
Winning bidders will be notified via email from Live Auctioneers after the auction concludes.
Shipping & Logistics
Do you offer shipping services?
We provide in-house shipping for our Quarterly Coin Auctions. Shipping payment and instructions are provided following the close of the auction.
We do not provide shipping for any of our General auctions, however we can happily refer you to one of our trusted shippers in the area:
Ship Morristown
Jonathan Gaettlich
(973) 658-8008
infoshipmorristown@gmail.com
UPS Store, Morristown, NJ
(908) 255-5318
store1748@theupsstore.com
The Mail Box Store
(973) 500-2424
themailboxstorenj@gmail.com
The Packengers
Paul Grima
516-884-5249
hellonyc@thepackengers.com
The Shipping Grounds
Joe Kuryla
973-625-7774
theshippinggrounds@gmail.com
Can I pick up my items after the auction?
Yes, items can be picked up from our auction house by appointment. Please contact us to schedule a pickup time from Monday to Friday from 9am–4pm.
Selling at Auction
What types of items do you sell at auction?
We specialize in fine art, antiques, collectibles, coins, home furnishings, fashion, jewelry, watches and decorative items.
How do I consign items for auction?
To consign your items, please contact us via phone, email or by form submission to schedule an appointment. Our specialists will evaluate your items and guide you through the consignment process.
Email: info@themagnussongroup.com
Phone: (973) 425-1550
What is the process for selling my items at auction?
After an initial evaluation, we will agree on the terms of sale, logistics for pickup and auction dates. Your items will be cataloged, photographed, and marketed for the auction. A time is scheduled for pickup - If a moving company is needed, those details are a part of the contract terms and scheduled accordingly.
How are items valued for auction?
Our team of experts assesses each item based on market trends, historical data, and condition. We provide a fair market value and auction estimate for each piece
How long does it take to sell my items?
The timeline varies depending on the auction schedule and the nature of the items. Consignment contracts are a one year contract, extendable by both client and Magnusson Art Group and often we need that time to place items in an appropriate auction.
When will I receive payment for my items?
Payment is usually issued 30 days after the auction closes, once all buyers payments have cleared.
Estate Sales
What is an estate sale?
An estate sale is a sale conducted in the home to liquidate a significant portion or the entirety of the contents of a home. This often occurs when downsizing, moving, or after the passing of a loved one.
How do you handle estate sale preparations?
We manage all aspects of the estate sale, including sorting, organizing, pricing, and displaying items. We also handle advertising and marketing to ensure maximum exposure.
What types of items are typically sold at estate sales?
Estate sales often include a wide range of items such as furniture, fine art, antiques, collectibles, jewelry, household goods, and more.
How are items priced for an estate sale?
Our experienced staff price items based on current market values, condition, and demand. We aim to achieve the best possible prices for our clients.
What are your fees for conducting an estate sale?
Our fees are based on a percentage of the total sales generated from the estate sale. Additional services, such as cleanouts or special marketing will incur additional fees.
How do you market your estate sales?
We promote estate sales through our website, email newsletters, social media, and local advertising. We also utilize online estate sale platforms to reach a broader audience.
How long does the estate sale process take?
The timeline varies depending on the size of the estate and the scope of work required. The average project takes approximately four weeks from start to finish. We begin with a site visit that includes extensive photography and project assessment, followed by contracting. Once we are onsite, our preparation takes two to three weeks, inclusive of a 2 week marketing period with the sale typically conducted on a Friday and Saturday.
What happens to unsold items after the estate sale?
Unless otherwise agreed upon, unsold items remain in the possession of the client to be sold, donated or otherwise disposed of.
Can I attend the estate sale in person?
Yes, our estate sales are open to the public. We provide detailed information about sale dates, times, and locations on our website, through our marketing channels and on EstateSales.net.
Due to the popularity of attending Estate Sales during the first morning, entry numbers are required. Attendees will be able to complete a form submission at 12pm EST the day before the sale to receive an entry number.
Do you offer cleanout services after the estate sale?
Yes, we offer comprehensive cleanout services at an additional cost to ensure the property is left in a sale-ready condition. This service can be customized to meet your specific needs.
How do I start the process of setting up an estate sale?
Simply contact us to schedule a consultation. We’ll assess your needs, discuss the scope of the sale, and outline the next steps to get started.
What are the benefits of using Magnusson Art Group for an estate sale?
We provide professional, full-service estate sales with a focus on maximizing value and minimizing stress for our clients. Our experience, expertise, and extensive marketing efforts ensure a successful sale. We have a sterling reputation in the northern New Jersey area.
Appraisals Services
What types of items do you appraise?
We appraise a wide range of items, including fine art, antiques, jewelry, furniture, collectibles, and decorative objects. Our team is experienced in assessing both individual items and entire collections.
What is the purpose of an appraisal?
Appraisals are conducted for various purposes, including insurance, estate planning, tax documentation, divorce settlements, and determining market value for sale.
How do you determine the value of an item?
Our appraisers evaluate items based on factors such as market trends, condition, provenance, and comparable sales. We use our extensive knowledge and research tools to provide accurate and fair valuations.
What qualifications do your appraisers have?
Our appraisers are accredited and have extensive experience in their respective fields. They are recognized by leading appraisal organizations and adhere to the highest standards of professional practice.
How do I schedule an appraisal?
To schedule an appraisal, please contact us by phone or email. We can arrange for an in-person appraisal at your location, in our office, or via virtual consultation.
What does an appraisal report include?
An appraisal report includes a detailed description of each item, the method of valuation, and the appraiser's final estimate of value. It is a formal document that can be used for legal, financial, or insurance purposes.
How long does it take to receive an appraisal report?
The timeline varies depending on the complexity and number of items being appraised. Typically, you can expect to receive the report within four to six weeks after the appraisal.
What are the fees for appraisal services?
Our fees are based on the scope of the appraisal and the time required to complete it. We provide a detailed estimate of costs before starting the appraisal process.
Do you offer appraisals for entire estates?
Yes, we offer comprehensive estate appraisal services. We can appraise all items within an estate, providing a complete valuation for probate, sale, or division among heirs.
Are your appraisals accepted by insurance companies and legal entities?
Yes, our appraisals are widely accepted by insurance companies, courts, and other legal entities. Our reports comply with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP).
Can I get an appraisal for a single item?
Absolutely. Whether you have a single item or a large collection, we are happy to provide a professional appraisal tailored to your needs.