Frequently Asked Questions

Estate Settlement, Auctions, Real Estate & Appraisal Services in Wisconsin

Looking for an Auction Company, Estate Settlement Service, or Appraiser in Wisconsin?

For nearly 70 years, Jones Auction & Realty has helped families, businesses, attorneys, trustees, executors, and landowners successfully manage estate settlements, personal property auctions, real estate sales, appraisals, and business liquidations throughout Wisconsin.

Whether you're asking, "How do I settle an estate?" or "Should I sell my property at auction?" we're here to help.

Complete Estate Settlement Services

What is a Complete Estate Settlement Service?

A complete estate settlement service combines professional appraisals, personal property auctions, real estate marketing, and settlement coordination into one streamlined process.

At Jones Auction & Realty, we can manage:

Estate Appraisals
Personal Property Appraisals
Real Estate Appraisals
Online Estate Auctions
Farm Equipment Auctions
Consignment Services
Real Estate Auctions
Traditional Real Estate Listings
Settlement Reporting

One Call Can Handle the Entire Estate.

Instead of coordinating multiple companies, you work with one experienced team from appraisal to final closing.

What is the best way to settle an estate in Wisconsin?

Many families find that a combination of professional appraisals, personal property auctions, and real estate marketing provides the most efficient and transparent estate settlement process.

Our team helps identify valuable assets, market them to qualified buyers, and provide detailed settlement reports for executors, trustees, attorneys, and heirs.

Do you work with executors, trustees, and attorneys?

Yes.

We regularly assist:

Executors
Personal Representatives
Trustees
Probate Attorneys
Estate Planning Attorneys
Financial Advisors
Out-of-State Heirs

How long does an estate settlement take?

Most estate settlement projects are completed within 60 to 120 days depending on the size of the estate, auction preparation requirements, and real estate closing timeline.

Auction Services

Why should I sell through an online auction?

Online auctions expose your assets to thousands of potential buyers rather than a limited local audience.

Benefits include:

Competitive bidding
Defined timelines
Extensive marketing exposure
Transparent sales process
Market-driven pricing

What items bring the most money at auction?

Some of the strongest-performing categories include:

Firearms
Coins and Currency
Farm Toys
Advertising Memorabilia
Antiques
Farm Equipment
Vehicles
Tools
Collector Items
Specialty Collections

How much does an estate auction cost?

Auction commissions vary based on the size of the estate, asset types, and services required.

We provide a customized proposal outlining all commissions, marketing costs, labor, and settlement services before any agreement is signed.

Do I need to clean out the property before contacting you?

No.

Many valuable items are accidentally discarded or donated before an auction company has an opportunity to evaluate them.

We strongly recommend contacting us before removing any contents.

Online Auction Questions

How do online auctions work in Wisconsin?

Online auctions allow bidders to participate from anywhere using a smartphone, tablet, or computer.

Bidders compete in real time during the auction period, creating a competitive marketplace that often generates strong market value for sellers.

What is a soft close auction?

A soft close extends bidding when bids are placed near the end of the auction, preventing last-second bidding and creating a fair opportunity for all participants.

Real Estate Auction Services

Should I auction my house or list it traditionally?

The answer depends on your property, timeline, market conditions, and goals.

Because Jones Auction & Realty offers both auction marketing and traditional MLS listings, we can recommend the strategy that best fits your needs.

What are the advantages of a real estate auction?

Benefits include:

Competitive bidding
Defined sale timeline
Extensive advertising
Transparent process
Qualified buyers

Can the seller reject offers in a real estate auction?

Depending on the auction terms, sellers may reserve the right to accept, reject, or negotiate offers.

All auction terms are clearly disclosed prior to bidding.

What types of real estate do you sell?

We market:

Residential Homes
Farms
Agricultural Land
Recreational Property
Commercial Buildings
Vacant Land
Development Property
Investment Real Estate

Appraisal Services

Do you provide appraisal services in Wisconsin?

Yes.

We provide appraisal and valuation services for:

Residential Real Estate
Agricultural Properties
Estates
Farm Equipment
Personal Property
Collections

Why would I need an appraisal?

Appraisals are commonly used for:

Estate Settlement
Probate
Trust Administration
Financial Planning
Asset Valuation
Real Estate Sales
Property Transfers

Can you provide values before an auction?

Yes.

We can evaluate assets and discuss current market conditions to help determine the most effective sales strategy.

Areas We Serve

Jones Auction & Realty proudly serves clients throughout Wisconsin, including:

Watertown
Jefferson County
Dodge County
Dane County
Waukesha County
Columbia County
Rock County
Washington County
Southern Wisconsin

Looking for an Auction Company Near You?

Whether you need estate liquidation services, an estate appraisal, a real estate auctioneer, or assistance selling personal property, our team is ready to help.

Why Choose Jones Auction & Realty?

For nearly 70 years, Wisconsin families and businesses have trusted Jones Auction & Realty for professional auction, appraisal, and real estate services.

What Sets Us Apart?

✓ Nearly 70 Years of Experience

✓ Complete Estate Settlement Solutions

✓ Professional Appraisal Services

✓ Online Auction Expertise

✓ Real Estate Auction Specialists

✓ Licensed Real Estate Brokerage

✓ Large Established Bidder Database

✓ Full-Service Auction Management

✓ Personalized Customer Service

We Treat Your Assets Like They're Our Own.

Our mission is simple:

Maximize Exposure. Create Competition. Deliver Results.

Ready to Get Started?

Need Help Settling an Estate, Selling Real Estate, or Marketing a Collection?

Contact Jones Auction & Realty today for a confidential consultation.

�� (920) 261-6820

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Don't Wonder What Your Assets Are Worth—Find Out.

From Appraisal to Auction to Closing, Where Personalized Service IS our Business

Inventory For Sale

Auction Services

Specializing in Online and Benefit/Fundraising Auctions

• Real Estate
• Online Auction Specialists
• Agriculture Equipment and Farm Machinery
• Estates
• Restaurant and Commercial Businesses
• Antiques and Collectibles
• Inventory Liquidation
• Industrial
• Charity and Fundraising Events

What To Expect As A Seller

When selling assets by auction, a qualified, licensed and experienced auctioneer should be your number one choice.  

With over 65 years of auction industry and business experience, proven successful online results, experienced personnel, and utilizing the latest digital marketing and promotions, for simplicity and convenience Jones Auction & Realty Service will handle your entire auction process from start to finish. 

We specialize in selling all types of assets  for individuals, estates, agricultural related, benefits, business assets and real estate. Because of the benefits and success of online auctions, our business uses technology for most of our auctions. 

Owner and auctioneer, Stan Jones leadership, experience, and ethics are well known in the auctioneering profession and community. He is honored to serve on the State of Wisconsin Governor’s Licensing Board and is a member of both the Wisconsin Auctioneers Association and the National Auctioneers Association.

Real Estate

Appraisals

Agricultural, Residential, Commercial, Equipment, Personal Property and Estates

As a member of the Certified Appraisers Guild of America since 1999, Stan Jones has been extensively trained in all types of appraisal work. His knowledge and personal experience, makes Stan uniquely qualified in all areas of personal, farm, real estate, business and commercial appraisals as well as specifically trained to be an expert witness in courtroom proceedings.

Why Do I need an Appraisal?
Certified Personal Property Appraisals are Needed For:

• Real Estate value of the family farm, personal residence, business or agricultural assets
• Insurance Valuation before any type of disaster strikes
• Divorce
• Estates Settlements (Deceased)
• Estate Planning (Living)
• Donations (Certified for IRS tax records)
• Auto, Home, Business, or Industrial Values
• Business Liquidation
• Insurance Claims
• Bankruptcy

Certified Personal Property Appraisal are Utilized By:

Using technology with a completely computerized program that is nationally recognized and approved plus his extensive training, knowledge and experience from years of developing appraisals, Stan Jones’ services are sought out and used by:

• Bankers
• Attorneys
• Personal Representatives/Power of Attorney trustees
• Estate specialists
• Insurance companies
• Judges
• Individuals

Current Auctions

Our Team

Testimonials

Results

Can we help you find something?

Jones Auction and Realty Service

818 N Church St
Watertown, WI 53098

Office: (920) 261-6820
Fax: (920) 261-6830
Email: info@JonesAuctionService.com

Southern Wisconsin’s Trusted Experts in Auctions, Appraisals, and Real Estate Since 1956

Jones Auction & Realty helps families throughout southern Wisconsin professionally sell real estate, estate items, agricultural related, collectibles, business assets, antiques, vehicles, farm equipment and more through online auction services.

When selling assets by auction, a qualified, licensed and experienced auctioneer should be your number one choice.  

With almost 70 years of auction industry and business experience, proven successful online results, experienced personnel, and utilizing the latest digital marketing and promotions, for simplicity and convenience our team helps simplify the estate settlement process for families, executors, and attorneys from start to finish. 

Owner and auctioneer, Stan Jones leadership, experience, and ethics are well known in the auctioneering profession and community. He is honored to serve on the State of Wisconsin Governor’s Licensing Board and is a member of both the Wisconsin Auctioneers Association and the National Auctioneers Association.

Aug 11

BIDDING EXTENDED UNTIL AUGUST 11TH

2 Bed 2 Bath Ranch Beaver Point Rd

•   Jul 8 @ 12:00pm CDT (Start)
•   Aug 11 @ 2:00pm CDT (End)
•   Add to Calendar

•   N8798 Beaver Point Rd, Beaver Dam, WI 53926, US (map)

ONLINE BIDDING EXTENDED UNTIL Tuesday, August 11, 2026. Country living meets comfort and functionality with this well-maintained 2-bedroom, 2-bath ranch situated on 1.158± acres just south of Beaver Dam Lake. Built in 2002, this move-in-ready home offers an excellent combination of comfortable living space and outstanding garage and workshop amenities. The main level features a bright, open floor plan, a spacious four-season sunroom overlooking the backyard, and a kitchen complete with appliances. The finished lower level includes a large family room, office, and bonus room currently used as a bedroom, abundant storage, radiant in-floor heat, and access from both inside the home and directly through the attached garage. In addition to the attached 2-car garage, the property features a 24' x 36' detached garage/workshop with a gas furnace, lavatory, and utility sink. Both garages are set up for heat, making them ideal for year-round projects, hobbies, or storage. Additional features include natural gas forced-air heat, central air, a radon mitigation system, 200-amp electrical service, and a peaceful backyard bordering vacant land. Online Auction 7/8/26 – 8/4/26 @ 2:00 PM. Call 920-261-6820 for showings and more information. $1 is only a PLACEHOLDER. Starting bid is $150,000 with $25,000 bid increments to $300,000, then $10,000 increments thereafter. Read the Terms & Conditions of Sale and submit the Broker Registration Form and Verification of Funds available on our website under Documents. Terms and Conditions apply. An 8% buyer's fee will be added to the high bid to determine the total purchase price. Earnest money of $7,500 must accompany the Offer to Purchase. All bidders must register for the auction and submit a completed Verification of Funds form to our office prior to being approved to bid. Open Houses Scheduled: Wednesday July 22nd & and Wednesday July 29th from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm @ N8798 Beaver Point Rd., Beaver Dam, WI 

Aug 25

Quiet Country Living with Room to Live, Work & Enjoy!

N8839 E Friesland Rd

•   Jul 28 @ 12:00pm CDT (Start)
•   Aug 25 @ 2:00pm CDT (End)
•   Add to Calendar

•   N8839 E Friesland Rd, Randolph, WI 53956, US (map)

ONLINE REAL ESTATE AUCTION – Starting Bid: $125,000! Bidding closes Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 2:00 PM. Located on a quiet country road just north of Randolph and conveniently near Highways 33 and 73, this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath modular home, built in 2004, is situated on 1.130± acres in a peaceful rural setting. The home features a full basement with a partially finished area, a furnace and central air conditioning system approximately 3 years old, and a kitchen equipped with a stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave, and garbage disposal. The washer and dryer are also included. Enjoy the outdoors from the rear deck or gazebo with curtains, entertain in the spacious yard, or take advantage of the fenced area for your dog. Additional features include a detached 2-car garage with garage door opener, 3 garden sheds, window treatments, ceiling fans, fireplace accessories, mature landscaping, and Spectrum high-speed internet availability. This property offers a great opportunity to enjoy quiet country living with convenient access to nearby communities. Starting bid is $125,000 with $25,000 increments until $250,000, then $10,000 increments thereafter. Read the Terms & Conditions of Sale and submit the Broker Form and Verification of Funds found on our website under Documents.

Reduced Price: Now $375,000!

Columbus, WI - 38 acre Vacant Land For Sale

•   W11851 State Road 16/60, Elba, WI 53925, US (map)

For Sale! 38.66 acre buildable and perked vacant land with established driveway just outside the growing city of Columbus off of Hwy 16/60. This 38.66-acre parcel offers a rare mix of opportunity and seclusion. Convenient for commuters from Madison or Beaver Dam looking to escape the city life and enjoy all that the country has to offer. The southeast corner of the lot offers 6 acres of perk-tested, tillable high ground—ideal for building or horses. The remaining acreage is scenic wetland, a natural haven for wildlife, perfect for nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat or hunters looking for a secluded spot rich in wildlife. Approved driveway access is already in place, and the property sits within the Columbus School District. Acreage sells As Is, Where Is, No Exceptions.

Asking $649,000.00

Prime Commercial & Residential Opportunity – State Rd 16

•   W1951, W1953, W1957, and W1959 State Rd 16, Ixonia, WI 53036, US (map)

Asking $649,000 – Commercial building with licensed auto dealership and adjacent duplex on 4.16 acres. 3,600 sq ft shop with office, waiting area, and modern utilities. Duplex has 1–2 bedrooms per unit, garage, and storage shed. Dealership license is transferable. MLS #1931640. Call (920) 261-6820 or email info@jonesauctionservice.com.

Turn Key Restaurant Bar $449,900

N1016 County Rd L Watertown, WI 53098

•   N1016 County Rd L, Watertown, WI 53098, US (map)

Established Restaurant & Bar Opportunity – Turnkey Operation Available Due to Retirement After years of serving loyal customers and building a reputation for outstanding fish fries, prime rib specials, and hometown hospitality, this well-established restaurant and bar is now available due to retirement. Conveniently located just north of Watertown on County Road L, this turnkey property offers approximately 4,500 square feet of total space, including a welcoming 2,400-square-foot dining area with seating for approximately 76 guests. The bar area provides seating for an additional 20 patrons and features six tap lines, making it ideal for serving both local regulars and destination diners. The commercial kitchen is fully equipped and supported by a large walk-in cooler/freezer measuring approximately 88 inches wide by 171 inches deep, along with ample storage and prep areas designed to efficiently support restaurant operations. With more than 50 parking stalls, excellent visibility, and a size that's not too big and not too small, this property offers the perfect balance for owner-operators, experienced restaurateurs, or entrepreneurs looking to establish their own successful dining destination. The sale includes the building, approximately 3.345 acres of land, and the kitchen, bar, restaurant equipment, furnishings, and fixtures necessary to continue operations. Whether you're looking to continue the restaurant's successful tradition or bring your own vision to life, this is a rare opportunity to acquire a fully equipped restaurant property in a highly desirable location. Schedule your private tour today and discover why this could be the perfect home for your next business venture.