Business Details
22 Years
experience
Trusted Auction Services in East Windsor, CT
Golden Gavel Auctions was founded in 2004 by Tara Norbut and David Thompson, seasoned professionals with decades of combined experience in antiques and collectibles. Our team includes USPAP-certified appraisers and auctioneers who bring expertise in valuing and selling diverse items, from vintage treasures to modern collectibles. We operate a 18,000-square-foot facility in East Windsor, Connecticut, hosting weekly auctions that attract thousands of buyers. Our services extend beyond auctions, offering full estate management, including appraisals, family disbursements, donations, and property clearance.As the official auction company for the State of Connecticut, we prioritize transparency, ethical standards, and customer satisfaction. Our membership in the National Auctioneer Association and Certified Appraiser Guild of America underscores our commitment to professionalism. Featured on HGTV's 'Cash in the Attic,' we combine tradition with innovation to deliver exceptional value to clients.
Services
Estate Auctions
Appraisals
Consignment Services
Donation Coordination
Property Clearance
Details
- Year established: 2004
Highlights and features
- We are the official auction company for the State of Connecticut.
- Licensed, bonded, and insured with USPAP-certified appraisers on staff.
- Host 70+ auctions annually, turning tens of thousands of items into cash for clients.
- Featured on HGTV's 'Cash in the Attic' for our expertise in estate sales.
- Offer four bidding options, including live, phone, and online auctions.
Associations and certifications
- National Auctioneer Association
- Certified Appraiser Guild of America
- Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP)
What people say
Competitive pricing
Efficient estate management
Expert appraisals
Weekly auction convenience
Professional team
Services
Estate Auctions
Golden Gavel Auctions hosts weekly estate auctions featuring antiques, furniture, collectibles, and household items. Our events attract thousands of buyers, ensuring competitive bidding and maximum returns for clients. With 70+ auctions annually, we provide efficient liquidation solutions for estates and downsizing needs.
Appraisals
Our USPAP-certified appraisers offer fair market and insurance value assessments for antiques and collectibles. Written reports detail itemized valuations based on decades of industry expertise. This service aids clients in understanding asset worth for sales, insurance, or estate planning purposes.
Property Clearance
We provide full property clearance, including broom-clean services, after auction sales. Our team handles packing, moving, and disposal of unsold items, leaving homes ready for realtors or buyers. This service simplifies the transition for estate executors and homeowners.
Donation Coordination
Unsellable items are donated to worthy causes through our network of nonprofit partners. We facilitate tax-deductible donations and manage logistics, ensuring clients contribute to community initiatives while focusing on valuable asset liquidation.
Consignment Services
Clients consign items for auction with secure storage in our climate-controlled facility. We handle marketing, bidding, and payment processing, offering an 18% buyer's premium with a 3% discount for cash/check payments. Sales terms ensure transparency and timely payouts.
People
Tara Norbut
Owner
Tara Norbut co-owns Golden Gavel Auctions with 20+ years in antiques. Her passion for vintage collectibles and estate management drives client-focused solutions. Tara ensures seamless auction processes and customer satisfaction.
David Thompson
Owner, Auctioneer, Appraiser
David Thompson brings 30+ years of antiques expertise to Golden Gavel. A USPAP-certified appraiser and auctioneer, he manages operations and client consultations. His leadership emphasizes ethical standards and maximizing client returns.
Ralph Labozzo
Auctioneer, Appraiser
Ralph Labozzo, a USPAP-certified appraiser, has 20+ years in auctions. With an MBA and Sotheby's Institute training, he specializes in American arts. Ralph ensures professional execution of auctions and appraisal services.
Questions
What types of items do you auction?
We auction antiques, furniture, collectibles, jewelry, tools, artwork, and household items weekly. Specialized sales include vintage toys, coins, and estate-specific collections.
How can I consign items for auction?
Contact us to schedule an appraisal. We evaluate items, handle logistics, and market them in our auctions. Consignment includes secure storage and transparent sales reporting.
Are your auctions open to the public?
Yes! Attend in-person auctions every Thursday at 7 PM or bid online, by phone, or absentee. Preview items from 2 PM before each auction.
Do you offer appraisals for insurance purposes?
Yes, our USPAP-certified appraisers provide detailed reports for insurance, estate planning, or sales preparation. Appraisals cover antiques, collectibles, and fine art.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, checks, and major credit/debit cards. A 3% discount applies for cash or pre-approved check payments.
Can I donate unsold items to charity?
Yes, we coordinate donations of unsold items to nonprofits. Clients receive tax deductions, and we handle pickup/drop-off logistics.
Reviews (6)
Faith Hart
Dec 27, 2021
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Like it here a lot. Owner is very nice. People buying here are very competitive. They can drive an item up for selfish reasons. There certainly is plenty for everyone and then some. Dealers let's share a little more
Good Ole Tom
Nov 14, 2021
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It was OK. I didn't see anything I wanted to bid on. Some people seemed to really like it though. Might have been better if I found something for me.
Amanda Moreau
Oct 24, 2021
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Told my grandfather that they would get my aunt's house ready for sale. Charged him $2500, there were still dog toys under the radiator along with a spoon you could see a mile away. The house still needs to be cleaned. They're not worth your time and money.
Victoria Gambill
Apr 05, 2021
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Y'all I'm so emotional right now. The Golden Gavel Jewelry Repair and Design did an amazing job fixing my ring today. It looks like a brand new ring. So many emotions going through me right now. This ring was given to me by my mother years ago. It had gotten stolen from my apt in 2006. We found it 12 years later at cashland of portsmouth. I was so happy to have found it. But then the diamond fell out and it's been sitting for two years. Well today I had an appt at 1230 to see if it could be fixed. Not only could he fix it. But it only costed me $60. I figured it would cost so much more. And he
N. P.
Jul 25, 2020
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The entire staff are excellent. Situation was almost an entire home clear out, consisting of both valuables (antiques) and junk. Staff gave a few options, in terms of how money would be handled. Staff at time of haul out were kind and beyond thorough. They got everything right - what stayed and what went. Also offered to return for remaining items later. Found a few sentimental items to ask me. Contract to leave home "broom ready" and it was far more than that. It was left in great shape, more than I expected. I interviewed three other services and know I definitely
Laura Nazlian
Jul 04, 2020
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Great place to find and sell. There are all kinds of great things there from music equipment to household to fun. Great staff! Love to poke around and shop there. Spears something new...
