Cleaning out a parent’s home is one of the most emotional parts of settling an estate. Every drawer holds memories, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed about where to start. After helping many Colorado families through this, here’s a practical, step-by-step approach that makes it more manageable.
Before removing anything, check with the estate’s attorney or Personal Representative. Some items may need to be inventoried or valued for the estate first.
1. Secure the home and important papers first
Change the locks, keep the heat on in winter and let the insurance company know the home is vacant. Then look for important documents: the will, trust papers, deeds, titles, bank and investment statements, insurance policies, tax returns and any safe deposit box keys. Keep them in one place.
2. Take photos before you start
Photograph every room before anything is moved. This helps document the home’s condition for a date-of-death valuation and creates a record for the family.
3. Let family choose meaningful items
Set a date for family members to walk through and choose keepsakes. Agree on a fair process ahead of time, such as taking turns, so no one feels rushed or left out. Put tape or labels on chosen items.
4. Sort into clear categories
- Keep: items family members are taking
- Sell: furniture, collectibles, jewelry, tools and vehicles
- Donate: usable household goods and clothing
- Shred: old financial papers with personal information
- Dispose: everything else
5. Get professional help when it makes sense
An estate sale company can handle pricing and selling contents, often for a percentage of sales. Junk removal services can clear what’s left. For valuable items like art or jewelry, consider a professional appraiser. For help with estate-related services, you can also visit Herzog Estate Services.
6. Don’t throw away the house’s paperwork
Keep warranties, manuals, receipts for improvements and records of repairs. These help with selling the home and can matter for taxes.
7. Decide what to do with the house
Once the home is emptied, you can decide whether to keep, rent or sell it. Read about your options for an inherited house. If the family wants to skip the cleanout entirely, you can also request an as-is cash offer.
Be kind to yourself
There’s no perfect timeline. Take breaks, share the work and ask for help. If you need guidance, call us at (720) 403-2940 or reach out here.