It can be a time of great disorder, despair and overwhelming responsibility. But it can be made easier. Oft times individuals are caught off guard by a parents death and must then sort through years of belongings and sell the family home. The executor has the responsibility and liability for any financial and legal decisions associated with the sale of the home and its contents.
As an executor, seek help to clear out these lifetime accumulations and prepare the house for sale. Here are a few tips
1. Decide what's most important by utilizing the 80/20 rule. If you get hung up on the emotional whirlwind of keeping several items out of "sentimental value" then set them aside and aim your attention towards the 80% that no one cares about.
2. Be thorough. Look through everything very carefully before selling or discarding it so as not to inadvertently give away items of true value; i.e. money, insurance policies, stock certificates, cash, etc.
3. Sell or donate everything that family members decide that they do not want.
Following these tips can help make this experience a little easier. Good luck on your estate planning.
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