How to Discuss an Estate Sale with a Parent

There may come a time when your parents pass on and you’re left to go through all their stuff. While this is never easy, there are steps you can take to make the process as simple and efficient as possible.

For others, it’s time to discuss an estate sale with a parent. In other words, you need to explain to your parent(s) why it’s a good idea to schedule this type of event in the near future. Get this, 50% of estate sales are now associated with moving and downsizing, as opposed to “true estates.”

For example, you can touch on the many benefits of an estate sale, such as the ability to de-clutter before downsizing.

While you may realize the benefits, it will probably take some convincing before your parent agrees to this. In this case, here are three details you want to discuss:

·      The purpose of an estate sale. Don’t hesitate to share details on why you think an estate sale is a good idea. For instance, you may be suggesting this because your parent is moving into a smaller home. Or maybe you realize that he or she needs to de-clutter in order to open up more space in their current home.

·      The process itself. Many older individuals shy away from estate sales because they think it’s too much work. Fortunately, this isn’t the case. It’s your job to explain that an estate sale company can come in and do all the work, from start to finish.

·      The fact that your parent has choices. Don’t let your parent assume that an estate sale is an event in which all of their personal belongings are sold. Instead, explain that they get to decide what to keep and what to sell. This clarity can go a long way in helping them make the decision to move forward.

With these three details guiding you, it becomes much easier to discuss the idea of an estate sale with a parent.

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