What do I do with the things nobody in the family wants?

Almost every estate ends with a large pile of things no one wants, and that is normal. The first step is separating what has resale value from what does not. An estate sale company or auction company can often sell furniture, tools, kitchenware, collectibles and decor that family members passed over, so ask before you donate or discard.

For what does not sell, charities and thrift stores accept clothing, household goods and furniture in good condition, and some will pick up larger items. Many towns have programs for electronics recycling, hazardous materials like paint and chemicals, and old medicines. Libraries, historical societies and schools sometimes want old books, photographs and local history items, so ask first.

The last step is usually a cleanout service or junk hauler for what is left. Some estate sale companies offer cleanout as part of their service. Keep receipts for any donations, since they may matter for the estate's taxes, which depend on your situation and state. Taking photos of keepsakes before letting them go can make the process easier.