I've purchased three times from an estate sale and understand the delicacy of dealing with family. There isn't a place to be assertive about a pricing agreement. I do believe the intermediary support will go a long way, as made offers do not need to be made known unless the family agrees that any value offer should be presented. The intermediary can work as a filter and leave the family to process and grieve loss.
On my first occasion, I accepted an asking price and drove a 250-mile round trip to pick up.
On my second occasion, which was the same estate sale purchased from over the course of nearly a year. Two Intermediaries were involved: the individual supporting the family and others who were informed of the sale and receiving inquiries to pass on. My offers were accepted, and on two occasions I travelled a 900-mile round trip to bring home the items.
All three occasions gave me access to audio equipment I became very, very fond of.

