For most who have decided to move into assisted living, downsizing from their current living space is necessary. Not only will much of the furniture not make the transition with the resident but there are many other items that may not be needed. For instance, assisted living facilities typically provide meals for their residents, meaning that all of the kitchen tools and small appliances will not be utilized in their new home. There is also the issue of space and storage. After many years of accumulating possessions, it simply may not be possible for those items to come along. An estate sale is an effective way to declutter and downsize, as well as to raise some money for the move.

However, anyone who has ever prepared for a garage sale knows that it can be a lot of work and result in stress and anxiety. This is especially true as a senior is faced with selling their personal possessions to a stranger – possessions that have memories and significance tied to them. Here are some practical and compassionate tips for executing a successful estate sale.

assisted living venice

Estate Sale Planning Made Easy

  1. Sort Through the Belongings: The necessary process of sorting through decades of accumulated possessions can be very emotional for a senior citizen. You can use this opportunity to gather some family members, as memories and stories often flow when looking through the home. Remember, your senior loved one may need your support through this process, both physically and emotionally. As a group, decide which items will be moving to the new residence. The remaining items will need to be donated, sold, or thrown away. Many items may also be given to family members as keepsakes or heirlooms.
  2. Display Sale Items Prominently: Estate sales are held within the residence, so reduce the clutter and remove items not for sale if possible. If not, clearly mark items for sale or not for sale. Leave items in the room they belong in whenever possible. Display items such a dish sets or linens creatively and attractively.
  3. Price Items Realistically: You’ll want to price items competitively to facilitate a successful estate sale. If you have antiques, collectibles, old books, or furniture – look them up online to understand the value of these items in the general marketplace. It is also best to understand the lowest price you will accept for any particular item. However, it may be tempting for your loved ones to attach unrealistic prices to their favorite possessions. Help out where you can to keep prices in line with reality.
  4. Be Ready to Make Change: Depending on the cost of your items, you may need a pile of singles or a lot of $20s. Either way, be sure that you have the denominations ready to facilitate quick sales. It is also helpful if someone in your family can accept Venmo, Paypal, CashApp, or Zelle for online transactions.
  5. Get the Word Out: Tell friends and neighbors that you will be holding a sale, and look into the online yard and estate sale directories to post your event. If your elderly loved one does not have social media accounts, enlist a family member to post the sale in the local marketplace and sale sites. On the day of the sale, post signs along nearby streets guiding people to the home. If your sale does not have the turnout you hoped for, try again the following week.

Moving to an assisted living facility after living independently can be an emotional and stressful time. Taking the time to downsize and sort through belongings can help to make the transition easier.

If you are looking for an assisted living or memory care center in the Venice area, we invite you to set up a tour at A Banyan Residence.