ESTATE CHECKLIST
Prepare one step at a time.
Use this checklist to gather information before an estate consultation, sale or cleanout. Print a copy to share with the people helping you.
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Set aside what your family is keeping
- Separate photographs, keepsakes and any belongings family members have chosen.
- Protect personal documents, identification, financial records and medications.
- Write down excluded items and clearly mark where they are being kept.
- Identify any ownership or family decisions that need to be resolved before work can begin.
Gather the property details
- Note the address, property city and who can provide access.
- Write down move dates, closing dates and other deadlines.
- List stairs, elevators, parking limits and building or association requirements.
- Identify storage areas, outbuildings and rooms that should be reviewed.
Describe the contents
- Make a general list of furniture, collections, tools and household belongings.
- Note large, fragile or unusual items that may need special handling.
- Keep maker’s information, receipts or provenance documents with the relevant items.
- Speak with the team before cleaning, discarding or donating potentially saleable contents.
Questions to ask before agreeing to work
- Which services and belongings are included in the scope?
- How are commissions, fees and other expenses calculated and paid?
- How will the sale be promoted and buyer collection managed?
- What happens to remaining contents and what will the property look like at completion?
- When will any sale accounting and payment be provided?
- Who approves changes and receives project updates?
LET’S TAKE THE FIRST STEP
You don’t have to figure
it all out alone.
Tell us about your home, your belongings and what comes next.