I've never been to a true estate sale. Auctions are more common in this area. Those can be a real zoo. I found myself last Saturday at one, and nearly left before it started, looking at all the accumulated stuff of one couple. It took two auction companies, working simultaneously, all day to complete the auction. There was a reason, though, that I was there. So I waited.
The entire experience has reminded me to downsize before I am forced to.