A parent passing away is a difficult time. It would be best if you had time to grieve and mourn the loss. At the same time, you may also find yourself needing to declutter the home your parent owned. The process can be daunting, but there are a few tips you can follow to make the process more manageable.
Set Ground Rules
Firstly, you will want to set ground rules while going through items. Of course, exceptions can be made, but it will be vital to stick to the ground rules as closely as possible. An excellent way to go through your parent’s belongings is by making piles of items you intend to keep, donate, sell, throw out, or memorialize.
Put Sentimental Items Aside
As you are decluttering, you will most likely come across sentimental items you cannot donate, sell, or throw out, but they are also not necessarily something you need. Never be ashamed of keeping these items. Whether you decide to keep these items for yourself or set them aside for other family members, it is okay to keep them. If there are sentimental items, but you know you cannot keep them, take a picture of them so you can always look back on them.
Sell or Donate Other Items
For the belongings you have no issue getting rid of, it is time to decide if you will sell or donate. If you want to sell specific items of value, such as jewelry like vintage bracelets, earrings, or your parent’s preowned engagement ring, a great way to do this is through estate auctions or yard sales. Nowadays, finding ways to sell your parent’s belongings online and in person is easy.
If you decide to donate, you will need to determine where to bring the items. There are many options, such as Goodwill, Salvation Army, and Habitat for Humanity.
After a parent’s death, going through their belongings and decluttering their home is a daunting task that you may want to avoid. But, unfortunately, it is something that must be done. But following these tips will make the process a bit easier.
