What to Do With the Things Your Parents Leave Behind

Guidance for Families Navigating Life’s Next Chapter

Losing a parent is emotional enough. Sorting through what they leave behind can feel overwhelming.

Beyond the legal paperwork and property decisions, there’s the deeply personal question: What do I do with all of this?

Whether you’ve inherited a home, a collection of keepsakes, or an entire household full of furniture and memories, you’re not alone. Many families in Abilene and across The Big Country walk through this season every year.

This post is inspired by an article from Better Homes & Gardens titled “What to Do With the Stuff Your Parents Leave You” (BHG.com), and we’ve adapted it with practical guidance for families navigating real estate decisions locally.

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Start With Space — and Time

One of the biggest mistakes families make is rushing.

If possible, give yourself breathing room before making permanent decisions. Emotional attachment can cloud judgment — and sometimes what feels priceless in the moment becomes overwhelming months later.

If the home is involved, understanding your timeline matters:

• Is the property vacant?

• Is there a mortgage?

• Are multiple heirs involved?

• Is there a need to sell quickly?

Getting clarity on the real estate side can reduce stress while you sort through personal items.

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Sort in Phases, Not All at Once

Instead of tackling the entire house at once, break it into categories:

1. Keep – Items with deep sentimental or functional value

2. Share – Family members who may want specific pieces

3. Donate – Items that could benefit local organizations

4. Sell – Furniture, collectibles, or tools with resale value

5. Dispose – Items beyond repair or usefulness

In Abilene, many families choose to donate to local charities, churches, or nonprofits. That’s a meaningful way to honor your parents’ legacy while blessing someone else.

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Don’t Let Guilt Drive Decisions

This is important.

Keeping everything out of obligation can create long-term stress. Your parents likely wouldn’t want their belongings to become a burden.

Memories live in stories, traditions, and relationships — not just physical objects.

Consider:

• Photographing items before letting them go

• Keeping one meaningful piece instead of an entire collection

• Creating a shared digital album for family members

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When Real Estate Is Involved

Often, the biggest decision isn’t about the belongings — it’s about the home itself.

Common questions we hear from families:

• Should we sell as-is?

• Should we update it before listing?

• How do we price it fairly?

• What if siblings disagree?

• How do we handle the contents during the sale?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Every property and family situation is different.

What we’ve learned after decades of serving Abilene families is this:
Clear communication and realistic expectations make all the difference.

Sometimes the best decision is to simplify the property and sell it in its current condition. Other times, strategic updates create meaningful value. The key is understanding the market and making informed decisions — not emotional ones.

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Honoring Legacy While Moving Forward

Sorting through a parent’s belongings is more than a logistical task — it’s part of grieving and honoring a life well lived.

Take your time. Ask for help. Lean on family.

And when it comes to the property itself, get guidance from someone who understands both the emotional weight and the market realities.

If you’re navigating this season and just need clarity — not pressure — we’re here to help.

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Source

This article was inspired by Better Homes & Gardens, “What to Do With the Stuff Your Parents Leave You,” originally published on BHG.com.