One day, you find yourself in a loved one’s home—a place full of mismatched mugs and memories of holiday dinners—and suddenly, you’re in charge of moving forward. It’s not just about putting the house on the market; it’s about balancing memories, paperwork, and emotions. I’ve helped several clients through this, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed.

Step 1: Take a Deep Breath
First, let yourself be human. Feel what you need to feel without trying to fix it all at once. Grief isn’t linear; it’s more like taking the scenic route home. So, breathe. Then, grab a notebook or an app, and make a gentle, flexible plan that lets you handle things at your own pace.

Step 2: Walk Through the House and Take Stock
Walk through with open eyes and a critical heart. This step is about transitioning from “home” to “property.” Note major repairs or issues—maybe the creaky step that never bothered Aunt Sally might matter to buyers. If you’re stuck, reach out to someone like me who’s seen it all.

Step 3: Consider an Estate Sale, but Manage Expectations
Estate sales can be bittersweet, but keep expectations realistic. From what many clients experience, proceeds often just cover the cleanout. Think of it as a way to lighten the load and let go, not a big payday.

Step 4: Sort Through Belongings Thoughtfully
Going through belongings can be the hardest part. Tackle it in stages—one room or box at a time. If family is involved, set ground rules. Pause to savor the moments, but remember: holding onto everything won’t heal the ache of letting go.

Step 5: Understand Legal and Financial Details
Legal stuff can feel like drowning in jargon, but you’re not alone. If the home is part of an estate, you may need an attorney to handle probate and other hurdles. It’s okay not to understand it all—lean on professionals to guide you.

Step 6: Partner with an Experienced Agent
Choose an agent who understands estate sales and knows it’s not just about transactions. We’ll figure out together what’s worth fixing or if selling as-is is best. Let the imperfections tell part of the home’s story.

Step 7: Embrace Imperfection
The home won’t be perfect, and that’s okay. It has layers of stories within its walls. Let go of the urge to make everything pristine—there’s beauty in its history, in the squeaky stairs and chipped paint.

Step 8: Take It One Step at a Time
Selling an estate property is like turning the page on a chapter you weren’t ready to close. It’s not about rushing or checking off a to-do list. Remember, you’re not closing the whole book—just starting a new part of the story.

At the end of the day, you’re not just selling a house. You’re letting the life and love of a home continue with a new family. And if you ever feel stuck, I’m just a call away, ready to help you take it one breath, one step, one page at a time.