Schott Detection
"What's in your Yard?"
(This Viking needs a metal detector in his hand, to make my point.)
You are never going to know, unless you let someone to look.
Some things to consider are the age of the place (75, 100, 125 years+, the older the better), how much it was used back then, and how little it may be used since then.) Has there been significant landscaping in the last 50 years, (the less the better.) A typical yard has about a small handful of change in it, if it is old enough there may be a silver coin or two and a dozen odds and ends. It will take from a few hours to several days to do a yard depending on the size, amount of metal.
Since I have a significant equipment investment and will do all the work, there has to be something in it for me. So, why should you let me?
Curiosity - Maybe you just want to know if there is anything interesting to be found. Maybe you are selling the place, or it is going to be demolished and a new building built. I'll do the yard and show you everything that I find, I would expect to keep everything with the following exceptions:
If something was found that was really worth anything say over $100, I would certainly split that find with the land owner. I have yet to make any large finds. But it could happen.
If an item or coin catches your eye, just pay me enough to purchase a similar item or coin, and you can have the one found on your land.
If you want everything I find, then you would have to consider paying me by the hour. (Nobody has every done this, paying $50-$100 or more for a handful of dirty change never seemed like a fair deal to anyone.)
Keep sakes - Maybe something was lost by a grandparent or great grand parent. Maybe a pocket knife, key or a spoon, many of these items have no value to me, but may have some sentimental value to you. A very small finders fee may be in order here.
Specific Lost Items - If there is something that you've lost that you need me to find, please tell me up front so I can tune my equipment to find that kind of item. I'd hate to miss your engagement ring because I was looking for coins. A finders fee can be arranged based more on some percentage of the value of the item. I'd expect to keep the other items & coins found.