Sellers Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you are settling an estate, downsizing, liquidating a business, or selling real estate, this Sellers FAQ explains what to expect when working with Grindstaff’s Auction Marketing Group LLC. Our goal is to make the process clear, efficient, and as stress-free as possible.

How do I get started selling with Grindstaff’s?

Begin by completing our Sell Your Assets form. Once we receive your information, our team will review your goals, the type of assets involved, and the timeline you are working with. We will then contact you to discuss the best auction method for your situation.

Do you handle real estate and personal property?

Yes. We conduct auctions for:

• Residential real estate
• Land, farms, and rural properties
• Commercial real estate
• Estate contents and household goods
• Business assets and equipment
• Vehicles, tools, tractors, and specialty items

How do seller contracts work?

After we discuss the project and agree to move forward, you will receive the seller agreement electronically through DocuSign. This allows you to review and sign securely from any device. The agreement outlines responsibilities, commission, timelines, and any property-specific details.

What does Grindstaff’s take care of during the auction process?

We provide full-service auction management, including:

• Cataloging and professional photography
• Staging items for clear presentation
• Marketing and advertising across multiple platforms
• Creating the online catalog and managing bidder activity
• Running the auction and handling buyer communications
• Coordinating pickup, load-out, and payment processing

For real estate, we also handle showing coordination, signage placement, open houses, and contract execution.

How long does the auction process take?

Most personal property auctions take 2–4 weeks from contract signing to auction close. Real estate auctions typically take 4–6 weeks, depending on marketing strategy, showing schedules, and required disclosures.

How do you market my auction?

We promote your auction using a combination of targeted digital marketing, syndication, and platform visibility. Our marketing includes:

• Targeted online advertising on Facebook, Instagram, and Google
• Email marketing to our active bidder database
• Listing on AuctionZip and GoToAuction
• Exposure on our main website and bidding platform
• MLS listing for real estate, which syndicates to Realtor.com, Zillow, Trulia, Homes.com, IDX agent websites, and other major real estate platforms
• Customized real estate marketing including professional photography, signage, open house promotion, and detailed listing descriptions

Do I need to clean or organize everything before the auction?

No — but it helps. We recommend removing anything you plan to keep and leaving the rest for our team. We will sort, stage, and catalog items so buyers can clearly understand what is being offered.

For estates or large properties, we can provide guidance on what to keep, what to donate, and what should remain for auction.

What happens to unsold items?

Most items sell in competitive online bidding, but if something does not sell, we will discuss options such as donation, disposal, or re-auctioning. For real estate, the Seller always retains final approval where applicable.

How are payments handled?

Buyers pay Grindstaff’s Auction Marketing Group LLC directly. We collect all proceeds, deduct commission and expenses as outlined in your seller agreement, and remit payment to you along with a final settlement statement.

When do sellers get paid?

For personal property auctions, sellers are typically paid within 10–14 business days after buyer pickup is complete. For real estate auctions, sellers are paid at closing through the settlement agency.

How does pickup work?

We coordinate buyer pickup, schedule appointments when needed, verify payments, and supervise load-out to protect your property. You do not need to be present unless you prefer to be.

Do you auction items on location or remove them?

Most auctions are conducted on-site so items can be photographed and picked up where they naturally exist. For select cases (business closures, relocations, equipment), items may be moved to another location.

Can I set a reserve price?

Yes, reserves are allowed on many types of items and on real estate, subject to agreement between the seller and auctioneer. Reserve details are discussed during the consultation process and documented in your seller agreement.

What if I need an auction done quickly?

We frequently assist families and businesses with tight timelines. In many cases we can begin cataloging within a few days of signing the seller agreement and launch the auction shortly thereafter. Tell us your deadline and we will provide the best options available.

Who handles the contract for real estate buyers?

All real estate purchase agreements are executed via DocuSign immediately after the auction. We coordinate the contract, deposit instructions, and communication with the settlement company.

Who handles buyer questions?

We do. Our team manages all inquiries during the marketing and bidding period so sellers can focus on their transition rather than fielding phone calls.

What should I do now?

If you are ready to discuss selling an estate, home, business assets, or equipment, complete our Sell Your Assets form and a member of our team will contact you to begin the process.