Organizing An Estate: Step 1
Posted by Milissa Malloy on Fri, Aug 05, 2011 @ 10:44 AM
by Jennifer Harman, Owner of Harmanize Consulting
This post addresses initial things to consider when settling an estate. Check back next month for a more in-depth article on this topic.
When there has been a loss in the family, one of the hardest tasks is dealing with the possessions left behind. Many decisions must be made at a time when the family is already drained. Investing in the help of an organizer can be a lifesaver, allowing an unbiased but caring professional to guide the decision-making process and take care of tasks that can be overwhelming.
The first step is to analyze the situation:
- Who will be involved in settling the estate? Is there one executor who will handle everything or will tasks be divided?
- Determine the timeline. Is there a deadline to vacate a senior living apartment, a need to sell a house quickly, or is it feasible to take weeks or months to go through the estate in phases?
- Can all of the loved ones gather at the same time or do they need to use the phone and internet to come to agreement?
- Will anything need to be appraised?
- Do they want to auction, use craigslist or ebay, sell to a dealer, and/or donate undesired items?
- Is someone in the family able to make repairs that might be needed? If so, will they be compensated in some way?
Answering these questions gives the family a starting point to come up with a plan. A professional organizer can facilitate discussion, provide options and resources, and tackle the hands-on work, as well. NAPO, the National Association of Professional Organizers (www.napo.net) maintains a searchable database of active members nationwide, many of whom have experience with estates. Bringing in a professional can bring the clarity and energy needed for a complex job in a difficult time.
Check back next month for a more in-depth look at tackling an estate or let us know if there are any specific questions that you would like us to address.
About Harmanize Consulting:
Based in Williamsburg VA, Harmanize Consulting provides professional organizing & life management services. To find out more about their services contact Jennifer at 757-784-3807 or info@harmanizeconsulting.com.
