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FOR THE LOVE OF STUFF WO R DS : KR I ST I B I XBY P H OTOGRA PHY : Co n sta nt i n os Pa n a g op ou l os o n u n s p l a s h .co m
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:: areawomanmagazine.com
WE LOVE STUFF. We cherish things handed down for generations, enjoy new things fresh out of the box and see a new use in the bones of something old. There can be times in life that the stuff we love becomes a burden either to ourselves or the people we love — who are more important than the stuff itself. Downsizing, combining households, relocating or a death in the family are situations that happen in everyone’s life. When those circumstances arise, we sometimes are faced with a house full of stuff that is overwhelming at best. Garage sales, estate sales or auctions are always options but can be time consuming and inconvenient, and rarely liquidate completely. For several years, I have been assisting people in dealing with the stuff that was loved but has become a burden. Taking a few simple steps before attempting a clean out can help make the whole process easier.
1. Make sure everyone involved is in the loop regarding the plans to liquidate the items. This is especially important after the death of a family member. If there is a will, be sure to follow any instructions included for disposal of property.
2. Give everyone an opportunity, when appropriate and possible, to claim items that may belong to them or to which they have an attachment. Make sure everyone’s clear about who is responsible for removing the items they’ve claimed and when.