When it’s time to downsize, the house is only part of the job. The bigger challenge for many families is figuring out what to do with a lifetime of belongings. I talk with Jason Smith of Blue Moon Estate Sales of San Mateo and San Jose about how estate sales really work.
Jason got into the business after he and his brothers spent two to three months helping their mother move from a four-acre property to a smaller home. That experience showed him how valuable a professional estate sale team can be.
His team typically plans a sale three to four weeks ahead, though some can be ready in as little as a week. They stage the home, price most items, and market the sale through estate sale websites and social media. Even everyday household goods matter, because a wide variety of items draws more shoppers, who may then discover something more valuable.
Security is part of the plan, too. Jewelry stays close to staff, while medications, legal papers, and family photos are kept in a closed-off safe zone. Families are encouraged to look for valuables first, but the staging process often turns up things they missed, from class rings to blank checks tucked in coat pockets.
Prices usually come down as the sale goes on. Anything left over may go to another sale, an online auction, donation, or a hauling service. Those leftovers can add up, since even getting rid of a single couch can cost $100 to $200.
Jason’s best advice is to call an estate sale company early. Sorting and tossing things on your own before a consultation can remove items that would have sold and create extra work.
Getting the belongings handled well can make the whole move easier, and it helps get the home ready to sell.
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From the Bay Area Wayback Machine
The Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Arena Opens (November 9, 1966)
The Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Arena opened its doors with a hockey game between the California Seals and the San Diego Gulls. Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, the modern, glass-walled arena quickly became one of the Bay Area’s busiest venues. The Golden State Warriors called it home from 1971 to 2019, and the arena hosted countless memorable games and concerts over the decades. Later known as Oracle Arena, it remains a beloved landmark for generations of East Bay sports and music fans.
This Week in Silicon Valley
Google Data Center Could Be Approved Before San Jose Sets Standards
A large Google project in Alviso could be approved before San Jose finalizes its new standards for data centers. Plans for the site on Disk Drive call for up to three research and development facilities covering nearly 483,000 square feet, along with an onsite substation, generator yards, and cooling stations. The project would need 250 megawatts of power, enough for about 250,000 households.
The city describes it as a “large-energy use project,” while the California Public Utilities Commission classifies it as a data center. The project could go before a Planning Director’s Hearing as early as December, and anything approved before the city’s standards are finalized would be exempt from them. The City Council is expected to vote on those standards in December. They would require strict emissions limits for backup generators, annual water and energy reporting, and an independent audit every five years.
Separately, the CPUC is set to consider an agreement on November 19 for Google to advance $150 million for grid upgrades, which would be repaid over 15 years through ratepayers. Some community advocates have raised concerns about the pace of approvals, while Councilmember David Cohen said he expects any approved project to meet the city’s standards.
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See the Live Sales Data →Free Adult Mental Health First Aid Certification for Los Gatos Residents
Date: Wednesday, November 11 and Thursday, November 12
Time: 9:00 am – 12:30 pm
Location: Los Gatos Masonic Center, 131 East Main Street, Los Gatos
Learn how to be there for someone when it matters most. Much like CPR prepares you to help in a physical emergency, this free training helps you recognize the signs of a mental health or substance-use challenge, start a caring conversation, and guide someone toward the support they need. It’s a meaningful way to help build a stronger, more connected Los Gatos.
Honoring Our Veterans
Date: Wednesday, November 11
Time: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Location: Veterans Community Plaza, Main and State Streets, Los Altos
Join neighbors in downtown Los Altos for a heartfelt Veterans Day celebration with music, speakers, and refreshments as the community salutes those who served. Bring along canned food or warm clothing to donate, and help give back to local veterans in need.
The Smithereens
Date: Thursday, November 12
Time: 7:30 pm
Location: Montalvo Arts Center, 15400 Montalvo Road, Saratoga
Turn up the power pop for a night of rock classics in the beautiful hills of Saratoga. The Smithereens bring favorites like “A Girl Like You” and “Blood and Roses” to Montalvo’s intimate Carriage House, with the catchy hooks and driving guitars that have kept fans singing along for decades.
Harvest Festival Original Art & Craft Show
Date: Friday, November 13 through Sunday, November 15
Time: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Friday and Sunday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Saturday
Location: Santa Clara County Fairgrounds, 344 Tully Road, San Jose
Get a head start on your holiday shopping at this beloved tradition, now celebrating more than 50 years. Wander aisle after aisle of handmade treasures from talented artisans, from jewelry and blown glass to woodwork, photography, and specialty foods, all while enjoying live music and a festive atmosphere.
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Senior Friendly Homes in Silicon Valley South
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