At Stefek’s Auctioneers and Appraisers, we’ve always believed our work goes far beyond valuing and selling items. Each object carries with it a unique story, a memory, and a piece of someone’s life. We’re in the business of building connections, honoring memories, and creating lasting relationships, one sale at a time. A couple of weeks ago, I was shuffling through my mail: bills, junk mail, magazines, and then…a handwritten note.   It was from a woman who had come to my most recent estate sale. This was one of the biggest sales of my career — it took weeks to set up and the sale itself spanned two weekends. There were thousands of items to organize, price, and ultimately sell. It was a challenging undertaking for my team and me, to say the least.   But it was also rewarding: this customer had taken the time to write this note

When facing the often overwhelming task of clearing out an estate, it’s common to feel a mix of emotions—nostalgia, stress, and even uncertainty about where to begin. Whether you’re managing the estate of a loved one who has passed away, downsizing, or preparing a property for sale, the process can be daunting. That’s where a professional clean out service, like the one offered by Stefek’s Auctioneers and Appraisers, becomes invaluable. My passion for this business and my training as an auctioneer and appraiser mean that, even when I’m hired for a simple clean out, I’m on the lookout for items of significant value. Many of our clients come to us so overwhelmed, they need an advocate, as well as a professional. Early on in my career, a client called me to take a look at her home to determine whether an estate sale or a clean out would be best

USPAP Compliant Appraisal: Integrity and Accuracy in Art Valuation “I’ll just do my own research…” “Let’s just use eBay…” “I’m just going to go to the antique store down the street…” I’ve heard sentiments like these over and over again in my career, and I always have the same response: “It’s just not that simple.” There is so much more that goes into discovering an item’s true value. After two decades as an appraiser, I understand that appraisal is both an art and a science. As a member of the International Society of Appraisers, I am a Certified Appraiser of Personal Property with the ISA (CAPP). This means my team and I are trained in the highest standards for integrity, accuracy, and professionalism as set forth by the Appraisal Standards Board. I’ve got hundreds of stories that show the importance this has in an appraisal. But let’s just start with

An Insider’s Look at Stefek’s Auction Services The world of fine art auctions is as fascinating as it is complex. From the gavel falling on a multi-million dollar masterpiece to the intricate strategies of displaying art, every step involves meticulous planning and execution. In this blog, we provide an inside look at our process of how we bring art to the marketplace. The Initial Stages The journey of an art piece through auction house services begins long before it ever reaches the auction block. Acquisition is the first step, which can come from private collectors, estate sales, or even directly from artists. Once a piece is sourced, it undergoes a thorough evaluation process where art experts assess the artwork based on its provenance, condition, market demand, and historical significance. “Our goal is to ensure that each piece we bring in is thoroughly vetted and accurately represented. This meticulous process builds

Navigating Estate Tax: The Impact on Fine Art Collections With some informed decisions and strategic planning, your passion for art will last beyond your lifetime–without the undue stress of estate tax implications. The impact of estate tax on fine art collections is a critical consideration for collectors and heirs. At Stefek’s Auctioneers and Appraisers we understand that managing these details effectively can preserve the value of an art collection and ensure a smooth transition during estate planning. Let’s explore how estate tax can affect your fine art collections and some strategies to mitigate its impact. Understanding Estate Tax Estate tax is a tax levied on the transfer of the deceased’s estate, including fine art collections, before distribution to the heirs. The tax rate and exemption limits can vary significantly depending on federal and state laws, which often update and change their tax frameworks. As of now, estate taxes can be

Discovering Treasures: Stefek’s Beginner’s Guide to Auctions At Stefek’s Auctioneers and Appraisers, we understand that diving into the auction market can be nerve-inducing for beginners. We’re here to demystify the auction process and make it accessible and enjoyable for newcomers. “At Stefek’s, beginners benefit from detailed catalog descriptions and clear condition reports, which provide a solid understanding of each item before bidding,” states Lori Stefek. Our knowledgeable staff is also readily available to answer questions and offer guidance on everything from the history of the pieces to bidding strategies. Additionally, we will soon host pre-auction events and seminars specifically designed to educate new collectors about the intricacies of collecting and the auction process. That’s why we’ve put together this beginner’s guide to help you navigate the intricacies of auctions, ensuring you have a fulfilling and enjoyable experience. Step 1: Educate Yourself The first step in any collector’s journey is education.

Lori Stefek’s Tips for Buying Fine Art at Auction At Stefek’s Auctioneers and Appraisers, we take pride in our exceptional service and expertise in fine art auctions. We curate an impressive selection of artworks, ensuring that each piece we offer meets high standards of quality. We provide a platform for collectors to discover and acquire unique pieces, enhancing their collections with one-of-a-kind finds. Our commitment to excellence makes each auction not just an event but an experience. We invite art enthusiasts and collectors to join us at our upcoming auctions to witness the artistry and history each piece brings. What to Look for at a Fine Art Auction Whether you’re a seasoned art collector or someone considering your first purchase, understanding the various factors that affect the art market can significantly enhance your experience at a fine art auction. Below, we explore the key elements that influence the secondary fine

From seasoned collectors to first-time buyers and sellers, navigating estate auctions in Michigan can be simultaneously exciting and daunting. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ins and outs, offering tips for both buyers and sellers. Whether you’re looking to expand your collection or find a new home for family heirlooms, understanding how to prepare, participate, and succeed in these auctions is key. Estate Auctions 101 Estate auctions in Michigan are public sales where property from the estate of a deceased person is sold to the highest bidder. These auctions are commonly used to liquidate assets quickly and efficiently, turning personal belongings such as furniture, art, antiques, and even real estate, into cash. For buyers, they offer a unique opportunity to acquire rare items at potentially lower prices. For sellers, these auctions provide a swift means to dispose of an estate’s contents that might otherwise be overwhelming to manage.