5 Ways to Clear a Home of its Contents

Decades of treasures, from china to knick-knacks and collectibles to furniture, adorn the walls and floors of the home you've lived in for the last 10, 20, 40, or 50+ years. When you're downsizing into a smaller home or apartment, there is simply not enough space to store it all. And, as hard it is to let these things go, you've realized these are only things. You've enjoyed them and now it is time to allow someone else to enjoy them, so that you can enjoy your new home with the pieces that mean the most to you. Now, you wonder, how do I get rid of all this stuff?! There is no easy answer to that question, as each person's situation is completely different, but here are a few standard options:

1. First, invite your family over to decide on items they may like to keep in the family. They will appreciate you did and the important detail is that you enjoy this time together. Keep in mind, the kids likely already have their own full house of contents, and they may not have the room for this stuff, or share style preferences. 
2. Once your children, nieces, nephews, and siblings decide, have a party and invite your friends and neighbors to choose to keep things that hold memories for them of your relationship and history together. Again, another fun way to reminisce and pass on the future of your things to the people you love.
3. Have a yard sale. Ugghh; I know; who wants to have a yard sale? You never do, but it sure is a great way to dispose of your unwants, while making a little bit of money in the process. Yard sales can also be conducted online via Facebook or Craigslist. Beware of potential dangers of online sales, like bringing dishonest strangers to your home. Meeting in a public place is always advised. If this isn't something you're familiar with, don't be afraid to ask for help from those closest to you. 
4. Have an estate sale. This is a good option for those who want to pass on the reins of the sales process to a professional. This person/company will organize and sort for the sale, price the items, hold the sale, and clean up after the sale, all while looking out for your best interests and wallet. Fees range, but many estate sales professionals have told me their cut on average is 50%. There is a chance that the fees you pay may go beyond the profit raised from the sale. This is something a professional will try to prevent, but a good one will advise you honestly from the beginning. 
5. Call a local charity, Salvation Army, Goodwill, or Lighthouse Ministries to schedule a donation pickup of the items you weren't able to sell. They will need to be in good condition- not torn, dirty, obviously used, or expired. Ask your church if they hold an annual or bi-annual bazaar, and if so, do they offer a pickup service?

Many of our seniors downsizing are selling their home and need it to be cleared during the process of packing and planning for their move. Some though, have the luxury of time and can "breeze" (or breathe) through this process. Either way, it can be a lengthy one and knowing where to go and what to do is the first step. I hope this gave you the jump start you needed.

If you are in the Polk County or Central Florida area, and you, a loved one, or a resident at your community needs some support during this huge transition in their lives, my team and I can provide it. 

Non-local readers, find a Senior Move Manager® at www.NASMM.org or a Professional Organizer at www.NAPO.net. 

Nicole Ramer
Professional Organizer and Senior Move Manager®
​321.624.1690