Many thanks to Lori Stefek and her team, who did an amazing job some years back when my mother's place needed to be emptied, and who are still doing the same amazing work as shown by their same treatment of my place this summer. Everything was completed and left immaculate in a matter of hours. They also sold what could be sold to dealers so that I received a partial refund on the job. What they do is priceless--when you yourself are having a hard time sorting through your possessions, whether that's because you can't let them go easily or are hung up trying to judge their value, Stefek's will take the burden off your hands and have it done including trash disposal and cleaning, all within hours. The emotional relief is absolutely worth their fee. I highly recommend Stefek's. read more

Trusted her to sell thousands of dollars worth of paintings and photos that my mom had collected for many years. We ended up with $700 from the sale. We got more from the auction, but only 2 pictures were in the auction. They say that they donate what doesn't sell in the estate sale. I'm guessing there is a Goodwill store with art worth thousands, because we never saw any of them in the auction. read more

Hired through the advise of my attorney. My job was never finished-but Lori got her money. Never having had to deal with an estate sale, I looked to her as the person I could trust to get things taken care of. I'm wiser now. It's November and I'm still waiting for a return call back from when I contacted her in July...Guess that tells me everything I need to know about Stefak's. I would not and never will suggest this company to anyone...I hired a different appraiser. Be careful when choosing and get EVERYTHING in writing.... read more

What a bunch of idiots. Customer service is clueless and obnoxious.

Writing this review on Stefek Estate Sales. I'm appalled as I went to an estate sale today and overheard the two women running it making racist remarks about a family who purchased some things. It was embarrassing as one women frantically questioned if the "colored people" moving their items into their vehicle paid for them. Talk about a big yikes. What an uncomfortable experience just as a third party witness. I will not be shopping their estate sales any longer. read more

Not an ethical or professional business. After purchasing a notable historic home in GP Lori allowed people to access private areas of the home and historic items were stolen. Lori knew this happened and never did she apologize or even attempt to make it right. Additionally we attempted to purchase some historic items from the estate. We made solid offers on items that were undersold to local dealers for less than we offered. Library Items we did purchase from the sale were also stolen. Our home was not respected. A large piano was purchased from the sale and Lori allowed the movers to remove mature hedges without permission and they died. We had broken bluestone from big trucks on our walkways. I would never recommend this company. Light fixtures were removed from the walls and sold. Luckily our realtors were able to resolve and locate those fixtures. Grosse pointe is a small community and I know several other people, some elderly that have been taken by Lori. The yelp reviews speak for themselves. People can't make this stuff up! read more

I found out that the employees at estate sales can purchase items while customers are there purchasing items so now my beef is with the rudeness. She should have taken her things out to the car or set them off to the side. Also, I witnessed a different staff member at the same estate sale telling someone to hurray up and pick out the items they want because she's trying to "get out of here". The sale didn't even end for another 1/2 hour. Just not a good experience overall. read more

My Mother recently passed, leaving behind a mix of Antique and Mid Century Modern Furniture, Art work, Fine Silver and antiques, etc. Living in California made it all the harder to to close out a modestly large estate especially with limited time. I did my research and narrowed it down to 3 Auction/Estate Co's. One never responded, one acted like they were the oldest around and would get around to me... the 3rd was Stefek's. The were appropriately aggressive in following up and providing me the background information I needed. Their rates too were fair and competitive. They also were capable in providing clean out and cleaning services making additional trips from Los Angeles unnecessary. Their lead appraiser was on time to do the basic Estate "Market Value" appraisal. While conservative in assessing values, the manner in which she we went form room to room , drawer to drawer, and closet to closet was methodical, professional , thorough and all "business". In listening to her dictate her description of each and every item, I knew in 5 minutes I was dealing with someone very knowledgeable and professional. The following Estate Report was detailed and delivered on time. We hired them to pick up the items to be auctioned (Association rules forbade an on-site one or Sale), together with allowing their Team to also pick up those items more appropriate for the Salvation Army ( which Stefek's delivered for us too) and had their cleanup crew go in to clean the Apartment so we could deliver the Townhouse in as good a State as possible. Their Delivery and cleanup charges were reasonable, fair and competitive. The landlord was impressed and we are getting 100% of our security deposit returned. At all time, their crews were on time and on schedule. The Auction itself through the Live Auctioneers system was impressive to watch, returning a total in excess of what had been estimated. While I still await the final reconciliation, so far my records track theirs perfectly and everything seems to be accounted for. Their professionalism, punctuality and exactness is rare these days. I am truly happy I chose them ( I do not have unrealistic expectations as to values, and where I thought some items might be more valuable, my further research proved I was wrong). While everyone may have different expectations and standards as to values and the more important overall service to be be provided, I am an optimistic realist. Stefek's provided exactly what I needed and I am very happy I chose them. That is not to say they are 100% perfect, and no one is. Some times their response time to my emails is not as immediate and I might like. There, I may be unrealistic in my expectations, and that one issue is hardly a deal killer ! I will post again once the final reconciliation is received. But at this point, I am very happy with them and happy to be a reference at any time. Given what they do, Estate Sales involving items that can be worth a lot money. There must be a level of trust assumed from the beginning. In that regard too, I found them to be honest and forthright. I hope your experience is/was as good as mine. read more

We used Stefek's to for the clean out of a relative's home after they passed away They did an amazing job at a very affordable fee. The clean out was done in one day. Items inside the home that we did not wish to keep but were able to be sold were sold by Stefek's and the funds given to us without any deduction for a commission. The remaining items were given to a reputable charity and we were provided with an itemized list with values attached for a tax deduction. I will be recommending them to friends and clients in the future. read more

We chose to use Stefek's mainly for their moving cleanout service, and to also auction some items for us. We met with Lori a few weeks in advance (after having met with a couple of her competitors) and decided that she had the most experience and expertise for our situation. We're very glad with our decision! Lori and her crew showed up on time, and did exactly as promised in a professional, efficient manner. The movers got everything out of the house, including some large & heavy furniture, without any damage to either the items or the house. The cleaning exceeded our expectations. It was more than "broom clean", and made us feel quite comfortable with the condition it's been left in for the new owners. We'd use Stefek's again if we have a need, and will certainly recommend Lori and her company to others. read more

I'm writing this review as a customer to one of Stefek's estate sales. I saw a painting I liked photographed in a collection of contents of an estate sale Stefek Auctions was running and that was advertised on estatesales.net. I wanted it bad enough that I came to the estate sale eight hours before it started to ensure I would be the first one in the door to grab it. When the doors opened, I shot down to where I knew the painting was but it was gone. An empty wall. I talked to Lori at the sale and asked where it was. "A family member must've taken it" I was told. I gave her my number and asked her to please ask the family if they had it and would they be interested in selling it to me. I called back twice that day, once the next day and three other times that next month. Lori never picked up her cell when I called and never responded to the messages I left. I had a suspicion I would see the painting listed as an item up for bid on Stefek's next auction and a week or two later. Boy, was I right! There it was, listed on her auction website! So now I called her office twice that week, spoke to a gentleman there who said he would talk to her personally and have her call me back. But a week later-nothing. When I FINALLY got a hold of her she very plainly said that after she did more research, she saw that the painting was worth more than she thought and that she is now offering it to the highest bidder on her next auction. So I get it, her obligation is to the family of the estate sale. But when I never received a call from her and she was obviously avoiding me, I'm left with the feeling of being swindled. read more

I have never previously posted a negative Yelp review, but the horrific customer service I received warrants these comments. IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING PURCHASING AN AUCTION ITEM FROM STEFEK'S, I STRONGLY RECOMMEND THAT YOU RECONSIDER! I purchased a very delicate piece of glass at a significant cost from one of Stefek's auctions. I then used Stefek's recommended shipper to mail the piece to me. Unfortunately, the item was packaged in an unprofessional manner and arrived broken and in several pieces. I called Stefek's, not to ask for my money back, but to discuss my options. In fact, not once did I ask Stefek's for a refund. Rather, I simply wanted them to contact the shipping company that they recommended and to which they send a lot of business and urge the shipping company to make me whole. However, as soon as the woman who answers the phones learned that the item I purchased broke, all communication ceased and Lori Stefek apparently refused to return my calls, let alone speak with me to discuss how I should proceed. Apparently, a return call is simply too much to ask. However, when it came time to collecting payment from me, I had no trouble getting someone on the phone. Bottom line is that there are a number of reputable auction houses out there who take the time to treat their customers with care and respect. I strongly urge you to use one of them and avoid Stefek's. read more

Nothing but a nightmare! Lie, cheat and steal. I know. I was there during the sale. My mom had a lot of stuff and many items were collectible. She lets her employees stock pile items only to be sold to them on the last day of the sale at 1/2 off. Caught them in the act myself. She has her regular customers who have a heads up before anyone enters the house. Really doesn't know her stuff as well as you think. We had to some of the ground work ourselves on many items. On the last day of the sale, her employees were "cleaning up" and I found items, including food from our refrigerator and pantry (which were off limits) throw out on the side of the house. So no, do not go there with them. Terrible experience. read more

Enormous gaps in what was the selling price and asking price-Items not even accounted for-Precious antiques without regard for value. Bargain basement prices. Items given away with no record or account of sale. Polite group but did not have grasp on value of merchandise nor seemed to be concerned. read more

This auction house house is a GEM with absolutely outstanding customer service from providing pictures before the auction, live bidding, payment and help with shipping. Some of the "big boys" (Skinner, Rago, Morphys) could all learn from the team at Stefek's. A special shoutout to Catherine who was so very patient!! Doesn't get any better and I buy at least 40 different auctions yearly. read more

I, too, am less than enthralled with Stefeks. I purchased a dinnerware set at one of their estate sales Sat., Oct. 8. Several of her employees were packing it up when I went to move my car to the driveway in order to load it my purchases. An employee carried two cartons out to my car. When I unpacked and washed the items over the weekend, I noted the luncheon plates were missing and e-mailed Stefeks about it on Mon. On Tues. I heard back from an employee that she would refer this to be handled. No one has contacted me. I sent a second e-mail and have heard nothing. read more

Lori Stefek helped clean out a house during estate settlement and did a wonderful job. She is trustworthy and extremely knowledgable. She made a difficult job much more managable emotionally for the family. I recommend her often. read more

Fantastic job by Lori Stefek's full service estate liquidators. The end result was a completely empty and clean condo ready for a buyer. The contents were either sold, auctioned or donated with complete inventories. It was fast and painless. This was not a do it yourself project and Lori's team was fast and complete. Highly recommended! read more

Amazing work by the team! Thanks from Novi - you made it easy for us! I would absolutely recommend all the services provided! This helped us downsize and move our parents in the most efficient way possible! read more

We used Stefek's recently to do a house sale for us when we moved. Lori and her team did a great job! What didn't sell was donated and when they left the house was clean and ready to be turned over to the new owners. Highly recommend! read more

I contacted them to do an estate sale and clean out. The owner when she was at he home was incredibly rude and talked down to me like I am an idiot. She was on her cellphone at least 75% of the time she was there. Her entire sales pitch was about maximizing her income with no thought I might have a brain as well. I can totally see why some other reviewers had a bad experience. I am so glad I went with someone else who did a fantastic and honest job. read more

Lori Stefek is a thief and a crook - i bought a baseball signed by "JOE DIMAGGIO" through LIVEAUCTIONEERS.COM that was later examined by PSA/DNA and deemed a forgery by them. when i reported this to stefek, her reply was too bad. she accused me of buying the ball to resell it, completely ignoring the fact that it was a forgery. typical behavior of a psychopath in that one creates a diversion to obstruct the problem. she refused to refund my money back even though i returned the forged baseball to her. fortunately, my credit card company refunded me the money. trust her? no way in hell - she is a thief of the worst kind - avoid doing business with her read more

I have been to several other estate sales and never experienced this type of dismissive attitude at check out. Rudeness and poor customer service. read more

I have never written a review but after working with Lori Stefek here I go! BEWARE, BEWARE, BEWARE. Lori cuts rock bottom deals with her "followers", brings in her team of "scrappers"and cuts deals with them too. She justifies this because of course she is a liquidator. Don't believe it for a minute! Her inventory work is sloppy and she keeps no inventory or receipts of items under $30.00. How convenient!!??!? Oh there is more, much more. All I can recommend is that you do your do diligence and talk to other estate/auctioneer companies before you hire Stefek. read more

Lori Stefek was exceptional to work with. She handled my mother's estate from appraisals to auctioning art work, Persian rugs and antiques. Lori took care of selling items that would were not auction appropriate, removed items for donation and discarded the rest. Her team then cleaned the house and removed all remaining materials. I highly recommend Lori and her team for handling all aspects of antique appraisals, auctions or estate sales. read more

I deal with auction companies on a regular basis and honestly have never encountered such poor customer service. I was late arranging shipment of a $30 minuscule pair of earrings that I paid for following one of their auctions. Stefeks charged me $45 in storage fees, at which point I said just keep the earrings, I'll forfeit them. My thinking was that the item was paid for, the consignor gets paid, the auctioneer gets earrings plus premium plus commission and I'm out 30 bucks, no big deal. But they slapped me with a non-payment dispute on my LiveAuctioneers account, despite that I expressly forfeited the item to them in writing. Yes I'm at fault for delaying my pick up of the item, but I was willing to let them keep the item and call it a day. It didn't occur to me at that point that I owed them any further money. It's not like I left a painting or a dresser there that was taking up space. This was a tiny pair of earrings for goodness sakes. Ultimately after many silly and accusatory emails back and forth they agreed to reduce the "storage fees" to $22.50 which I paid so that they would remove the dispute from my LiveAuctioneers account. In my 5 plus years purchasing from various auction companies this has never happened. I have had excellent experiences with most of the auctions I deal with. This was a very bad one for me. read more

Stefak's did a clean-out of my mom's house in Grosse Pointe. I would not recommend using their company. The itemizations she provided were woefully lacking in detail. She sold items for virtually nothing, donated a handful of things, and then threw away the rest?? I have no idea. She would have needed a dumpster to dispose of remaining contents of the home, yet she said she was able to put it in garbage bags and have it hauled away for $75. I didn't believe any of it. My mom had some lovely things in her home I just couldn't take with me. There were vintage toys, paintings, etc. My guess is most of it went into Stefak's store and was sold later. She made a handsome profit, no doubt. I felt completely deceived by how the whole thing was handled and would suggest you look around or, at the very least, be present at the clean out to watch what she's keeping for herself under the guise of "disposal." read more

Stefek's service was a huge help for me to process and empty my uncle's house from 1000 miles away. We really needed a clean out service after we had been through and pulled all the items that were of value to us. Lori met with me at the one chance I had while I was in town, and gave me a very competitive quote to remove everything from the house and sell what she could. We probably could have made more if we handled it ourselves but that was not possible. They were quick and thorough in the process and made it possible to get a three bedroom house, basement and garage, with 40 years of clutter on the market within days. read more

We have attended numerous estate sales with stefek's, sales are always organized and well displayed. Staff are always friendly and helpful even offering to help carry items to our truck.We have a great time looking for treasures at their sales. read more

Bottom -line up front: The clean-out service provided by Stefek's was what was needed and a good value. I was a little concerned when I called Lori because these reviews are all over the map. At the interview, she told me some hard truths that I needed to hear, not what I wanted to hear. I was satisfied and hired her for the clean out service. Lori and her crew showed up on time and were pleasant and professional. They cleaned out the house, garage, and basement in just a few hours, including breaking down and removing a kitchen island that was too big to go through the doors, and pulling a full-size stand up freezer and a sleeper sofa out of the basement. The only thing that keeps this from being a five star review is that one wood floor and the wooden basement stairs sustained some damage, but other than that the house was clean and ready for realtor photos. In a couple of weeks we got a check for the items Lori was able to sell, with an itemized list of those things. In addition, we got an itemized list of what was donated to the Salvation Army to take off of our taxes. read more

We had a couple of pieces that we were wanting to sell and stumbled across Stefek's through Google and thought we would give it a try. We had never sold anything through an auction. We found Lori and her team to be knowledgable, efficient and always available to answer any questions we had. Their commissions and fees were very competitive and in our opinion fair. This was a long distance transaction but Stefek's made it so simple. We had both our pieces sell for more than we had expected and received our check promptly. The experience was so positive that we are getting ready to send Lori another piece for her January 2015 auction and we have complete trust that she will go above and beyond our expectations. read more

As not only a frequent shopper at Stefek's estate sales, I have used Lori and her company twice as a estate sale client....at my parent's home, and a few years later at my in-law's home. In both instances, Lori was very professional and ran a really great sale. At my parent's home, I had someone from Stefek's come over and help give me an idea of prices on items and to identify things that may do better at auction, than at a sale. This was very helpful as we divided a lot of the items between siblings. I was completely amazed in both cases how everything was handled. From the sale preparation, the actual sale, the donation of some items, the disposal of others....and to top it off, both house were cleaned top to bottom for the new owners. To have someone take care of this for us was a godsend...and not to mention, we received a nice check for the sale of all the items none of us wanted. I highly recommend Lori and Stefek's for their professionalism, their knowledge, the friendliness of their employees, trustworthiness, and mostly, the absolute ease it provided for all of us with already so much to handle. read more

Buyer beware! Stefek's Estate Sales set up in my neighbors home. My husband and I went to the sale .....only because we knew our neighbors very well. They do not smoke. We purchased two dressers, my husband didn't smell the dressers before he purchased them. Stefek sales brought in furniture and stuff from other sales and sold them in my neighbors sale. When the guys brought the furniture to our home they left rather quickly. I opened the drawers to clean the dressers and found rubber gloves..ewe..., unopened mail addressed to a woman living in Birmingham, a perfume bottle leaking, dirty socks and other trash. The perfume was used to mask the smoke smell from years of smoking. obviously, Stefek sales snuck the stinky furniture into the sale of a very nice home. Just because you go to an estate sale, don't assume that the furniture belonged to the person living in said home. If I could give minus 5 stars as a review - thats what I would do. very dishonest company. This was a 250.00 mistake I won't ever make again. Do not trust these people. Lori Stefek would not address my questions. read more