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Sorting through your loved one's belongings.

 

This would have to be one of the hardest things to do.  To state the obvious, feelings of anger, love, frustration and overwhelming grief will rise to the top.

I've had it said to me that it's much easier to use an agency, like Time Made, to clear an estate property.  This is mainly because, although any agency should work within their client's emotional state and be totally empathetic to what they're experiencing, the reality is that an agency isn't emotionally attached to the "stuff".  This means a property can be cleared quickly and efficiently.

If you are going to work with someone to help you sort through an estate, it's a good idea to take the following things into consideration:

  • Firstly, make sure whoever is helping you knows that you have the final say on what is moved on, and what remains.
  • Ask to see references.  Does the agency/person come recommended?  Have they a recent criminal history check?  What experience or qualifications do they have?  These are all important questions to ask.
  • The older generation is extremely talented at squirrelling away and hiding valuables.  Make sure you check inside every wallet/purse/handbag before moving it on.  I've found valuables in estate properties:
    • behind picture frames,
    • inside curtain rods,
    • under beds,
    • inside tins in the garage.
  • Make sure all beneficiaries have their entitlements before disposing of any property. 
  • Consider how much you and your family realistically are able to keep, the value of any remaining property, and whether items can/should be donated.
  • If you are doing this yourself, please remember it doesn't all have to be done in one day.