Settling Estates: How Jennifer Davis Can Help as Your Auctioneer

Oct 29

Being named the executor of a loved one’s estate is both an honor and a heavy responsibility. Along with grieving, you’re faced with the overwhelming task of sorting through a lifetime of belongings, making tough decisions, and ensuring everything is handled according to the law. The good news? You don’t have to go through it alone. I’m Jennifer Davis, a Tennessee Realtor® and Auctioneer, and I specialize in helping families settle estates with professionalism, compassion, and efficiency.

Why Auctioneers Are More Than “Sales Day” Professionals

Many people think auctioneers only show up to sell items on auction day. In reality, the right auctioneer can be a trusted partner through the entire estate settlement process—from organizing belongings to preparing for court documentation and making sure assets are sold quickly and fairly.

Here’s how I help families navigate the process of settling an estate.

Step One: Find the Will & File with Probate

The first step is locating and filing the will with the local Probate Court. If no will exists (intestate), the state determines how assets are distributed.

While I’m not an attorney and cannot provide legal advice, I’ve worked with many families across Tennessee who are navigating probate. I can help you understand the process, keep paperwork organized, and connect you with trusted estate attorneys when legal guidance is needed.

Step Two: Inventory & Appraisals

Executors are required to create a complete inventory of the estate’s assets, often including values for household goods, vehicles, collectibles, and real estate.

This can be overwhelming, but it’s where an auctioneer adds tremendous value. I can:

Assist in cataloging and organizing property.
Offer market-based value insights.
Coordinate certified appraisers for unique or high-value items.

This ensures proper documentation for the court and accurate records for all beneficiaries.

Step Three: Review Titles & Deeds

Before real estate or vehicles can be sold, deeds and titles must be clear. Families sometimes uncover unexpected restrictions, liens, or even unknown heirs that need attention before the property can transfer.

As both a Realtor® and Auctioneer, I partner with title companies, closing attorneys, and surveyors to ensure clean transactions. This teamwork ensures that when the gavel falls, the property can legally and smoothly transfer to its new owner.

Step Four: Sell & Distribute Assets

Once everything is ready, sale day brings closure and clarity. Here’s what to expect:

A one-day auction event that sells assets efficiently and transparently.
A complete settlement report showing what sold and for how much.
Court-ready documentation that satisfies probate requirements.
Clear distribution of proceeds to heirs or beneficiaries.

Why Families Trust Jennifer Davis with Estate Auctions

Settling an estate isn’t just about selling property—it’s about helping families through one of life’s most difficult transitions. I work closely with:

Estate attorneys for probate filings and legal guidance.
Title companies to ensure clear property transfer.
Surveyors when property boundaries need to be confirmed.
Certified appraisers for antiques, jewelry, or specialized collections.
Financial advisors and CPAs to help beneficiaries plan next steps.

With the right professionals on your side, estate settlement becomes a smoother, more manageable process.

Let’s Talk About Your Family’s Needs

If you’ve been named executor or executrix of an estate in Tennessee, you don’t have to handle it alone. I bring years of experience in estate auctions, real estate, and personal property sales, plus a trusted network of attorneys, title companies, surveyors, and appraisers. Together, we can help you honor your loved one’s legacy while making sure the process is handled correctly from start to finish.

Jennifer Davis | Tennessee Realtor® & Auctioneer | Helping families settle estates with confidence