Blue Moon Estate Sales: Redefining the Estate Liquidation Experience

Founded in 2009 by Ken and Debra Blue, Blue Moon Estate Sales has become a respected name in the estate sale industry. With its headquarters in Cary, North Carolina, the brand entered the franchising space in 2013.

The company specializes in managing estate liquidations and downsizing efforts, offering clients a seamless way to sell everything from common household items to rare collectibles. Its services are designed to ease the burden during life transitions, such as relocations or the passing of a loved one.

What sets Blue Moon Estate Sales apart is its commitment to professionalism in a typically unregulated market. By applying a standardized, customer-focused model, the franchise ensures that every sale reflects a high level of care, organization, and service quality.

Training

Blue Moon Estate Sales provides a multi-phase training program designed to prepare franchisees comprehensively for running their business. The training is structured and mandatory, covering essential aspects of operations and management.

1. Phase One Training
   This phase is conducted at the franchisee’s Approved Location or within their Protected Territory and spans 2 to 4 weeks. It involves administrative setup, community research, and eLearning to establish the foundational operations of the business.
2. Phase Two Training
   Conducted over approximately two weeks, this phase occurs at a designated company location or remotely. It includes in-depth industry-specific instruction, as well as franchise marketing and administrative training. Attendance is required for all owners and approved staff.
3. Phase Three Training
   Taking place after the business has opened, this 4-week phase includes about 20 hours of additional training. It is delivered through a mix of in-person sessions and virtual classes, emphasizing continued education in operations, marketing, and administration.
4. Periodic and Additional Training
   The franchisor may offer additional training sessions periodically, which can be either optional or mandatory. Franchisees must attend all mandatory sessions. Optional on-site assistance and training for new employees are available upon request, sometimes for an additional fee.

Territory Protection

Blue Moon Estate Sales provides franchisees with a "Protected Territory," typically defined by specific ZIP codes and encompassing a population of approximately 500,000 people.

During the agreement term, the franchisor agrees not to establish or franchise another Blue Moon location within this territory, provided the franchisee complies with all contractual obligations. This includes maintaining minimum performance standards and employing the required staff to retain these rights.

However, the territory protection is not absolute. Blue Moon retains the right to use alternative distribution methods—such as internet, catalog, and telemarketing sales—that may reach into a franchisee's territory.