From Junk Removal to Estate Sales: Dealing with Personal Property After Death

It’s hard to think clearly when experiencing a loss but there are steps we can take to make things easier for those who are left behind. Managing a lifetime of memories and belongings can be challenging. And while there are professionals you can hire to assist you with the process, some families prefer to deal with this directly. No matter what works best for you, this article and video will help you through the process.

Inventory and Categorization: A Deeper Look

• Step 1: General Inventory

After categorizing each item, it’s important to set aside time to address each category methodically.

For items to be kept, designate a secure space where they can be safely stored until they can be properly distributed or used.

For items to be sold, consider hiring an appraiser for valuable assets and listing them on appropriate platforms or through estate sale services.

Donations should be packed and delivered to chosen charitable organizations, ensuring they are in good condition and useful.

Finally, arrange for a professional service to handle the disposal of items categorized as trash, ensuring the process is efficient and environmentally responsible.

Use your phone to take pictures and organize items digitally for easier management.

• Step 2: Secure Privacy

Ensure sensitive information such as social security numbers, bank accounts, and personal IDs are securely stored or destroyed.

• Step 3: Deciding What to Keep

Handling personal and emotionally significant items can often lead to disputes among family members. A method to consider is the sticker or sticky note approach, where participants use different colored stickers to indicate which items they wish to claim. WARNING: Open communication and willingness to compromise are essential during this phase.

• Step 4: Selling Valuable Items

Realistic Expectations: Understand the market value of items, which can vary significantly from sentimental value.

IMPORTANT – Consulting Professionals: For high-value items like artworks and antiques, consulting with appraisers, auction houses, or collectors is recommended.

Pro Tip – Staging for Estate Sales: A well-organized estate sale can attract more buyers and increase the overall sale value. Whether online or in-person, proper presentation of items is crucial. Staging helps highlight the value of the items and makes the sale more appealing to potential buyers.

• Step 5: Donating to Charity

Donations can provide tax benefits, so consulting with an accountant to understand the implications is advisable. Choose charities that align with personal values, and consider those that will use the items directly rather than reselling them.

• Step 6: Junk Removal and Cleaning

Not everything will find a second home. For items that are neither sellable nor donate-able, professional junk removal services can ensure that as much material as possible is recycled or properly disposed of.

Special Tip: Handling Hazardous Materials

For dangerous items like firearms, ammunition, and hazardous chemicals, professional disposal is crucial. Contact local law enforcement or qualified hazardous material disposal companies for guidance.

Final Words:

Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone—family support and professional guidance can make a significant difference.