What do I do with the stuff

Eddie Van Buskirk • June 19, 2024

What do I do with ALL the stuff? A step-by-step guide on what to do with the stuff

Inheriting a property can be both a blessing and a daunting challenge. If you're feeling overwhelmed with the thought of what to do first, you're not alone. The amount of "stuff" left behind can be substantial, even if it's neatly organized. 


The task may seem impossible for those dealing with hoarding or an extraordinary accumulation of belongings. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this process with ease and confidence.

Step 1: Identify What to Keep

New ParagraphBegin by identifying heirlooms and keepsakes that the family wishes to retain. Ensure these items are removed and safeguarded from accidental disposal. Mark or set aside any larger items, such as furniture, that the family wants to keep but won't be sold. 


It's also wise to create an inventory list of these items for clarity and to avoid any future disputes among heirs.


Step 2: Evaluate the Value

Have professionals assess the remaining items to determine if an estate sale, auction, or estate buyout is viable. Estate sales can be lucrative, but they come with their own set of challenges. Estate sales can be lucrative, but they come with their own set of challenges. CLICK HERE to see if it’s a good fit. 


We often recommend estate buyouts as they include the removal of unwanted items, including trash. Selling items on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or eBay can yield higher returns but is time-consuming. Avoid garage sales—they rarely justify the effort. Additionally, consulting with multiple estate sale companies can give you a better understanding of the potential value of the items and the costs involved.


Step 3: Dispose of the Rest

After any sales, you’ll need to dispose of what's left. Some donation companies will pick up items, but scheduling can be a month-long process. If time is of the essence, consider hiring a junk removal service like 1-800-GOT-JUNK, though they can be expensive. Alternatively, renting a dumpster and handling the disposal yourself can be more cost-effective, albeit labor-intensive. 


It's also important to check local regulations and availability for dumpster rentals and junk removal services to ensure a smooth process.


*Important Tip* Avoid Premature Disposal

Families often rush to discard items, inadvertently throwing away valuable goods while keeping items with little to no value. Consult with a professional to differentiate between what's worth selling and what's best disposed of.


Once the belongings are handled, you can move on to preparing the house itself for sale or other purposes.


Navigating the process of managing an inherited property doesn't have to be overwhelming. By following these steps and utilizing professional services, you can maximize the value of the estate while minimizing stress and effort. At KC Legacy Properties, we're here to help you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and profitable transition. Give us a call today 816-307-7163. "Because your inheritance should be a blessing and not a burden"


By Eddie Van Buskirk January 10, 2025
Why Use Professional Services? Any financially savvy person might wonder why they should pay for a service when they could handle things themselves. It's true that you can look up contractors or take care of trash removal and cleaning on your own. However, the benefits of using a professional service often outweigh the costs. Let’s see if that scenario is true for you. The Right Tools for the Job Having the right tools can make any job significantly easier and faster. Imagine trying to chop down a tree with a hammer—it could take weeks. Using an axe might reduce the time to 30 minutes, and a well-sharpened axe could cut that down to just 15 minutes. Tackling an inherited property without the proper tools and expertise is like using a hammer on that tree. Plus, without experience, you risk unexpected problems, much like a tree falling in an unpredictable direction. Does that extra pain and struggle seem worth it for you right now? The Challenge of DIY An inherited property often arrives at an inconvenient time, adding to your already full plate. Managing it alone can quickly consume all your free time and energy, leading to stress and frustration. Benefits of Using Kansas City Legacy Properties Kansas City Legacy Properties offers a network of trusted vendors and contractors who work efficiently and effectively. We understand the best order for tasks and know how to save you money along the way. Most importantly, we handle everything while you focus on your other responsibilities. Financial Implications Holding onto a house without taking action can become a financial burden. Attempting to manage it yourself may seem cost-effective initially, but the prolonged process often results in higher holding costs. This frustration can lead to burnout and the temptation to accept a lowball offer from cash buyer companies looking to take advantage of your situation. Call to Action If you’re feeling overwhelmed and realize that handling it yourself isn’t feasible, contact us at (816) 307-7163 . Let us help turn your inherited property into a blessing rather than a burden.
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