You walk into your parents’ home and it hits you:
The knickknacks. The boxes. The Christmas decorations from 1983.
Every closet is full. Every shelf is layered.
Every inch holds memories, dust, and maybe a little chaos.
If you’re helping a loved one downsize, or selling a home after a parent has passed, dealing with the stuff can feel impossible. As a local real estate expert who’s helped many families through this exact process, I want to offer you a plan—and a little peace of mind. (What you’ll read in this blog post is a very abridged version. If you feel you need more details, feel free to scroll to the end to download my free guide that goes into great depth.)
Step 1: Take a Deep Breath (This Isn’t a One-Day Job)
You’re not just cleaning a house. You’re processing a life lived. Give yourself permission to feel overwhelmed—because holy crap, this is overwhelming.
Start with one goal: progress, not perfection. You don’t have to do it all in one weekend. (And you definitely don’t have to do it alone.)
Step 2: Sort with a Purpose—And a Plan
Here’s the simple four-pile system I give every client:
- Keep (items you or your loved ones want to hold on to)
- Donate (things in good condition others could use)
- Sell (antiques, collectibles, or furniture with value)
- Toss (damaged, expired, or unusable stuff)
Start in one room. Set a timer. Bring snacks. (Seriously.)
Step 3: Call in the Pros if You Need Backup
You do not have to go full “Marie Kondo” on a cluttered home solo. I have a trusted network of:
- Clean-out crews
- Estate sale managers
- Donation haulers
- Junk removal companies
Let me be your connector—I’ll send people who show up on time, handle things with care, and make your life easier.
Step 4: Decide: “As-Is” or Spruce It Up?
Depending on the home’s condition and your timeline, we’ll talk about two main paths:
Option 1: Sell As-Is
- No renovations
- No staging
- Ideal for overwhelmed families or tight budgets
- I can connect you with cash buyers or investors ready to go
Option 2: Prep the Home for Market
- Light repairs or cosmetic updates
- Decluttering + light staging
- List traditionally for top dollar
Either way, I’ll walk you through the numbers and help you make the best decision for your situation.
Step 5: List It With a Plan—and Compassion
Once we’ve cleared the clutter and chosen a path forward, I’ll handle everything from:
- Pricing and marketing strategy
- Professional photos (without piles of boxes in the background)
- Showing coordination (even if you’re not local)
- Managing offers and paperwork through closing
I’ve helped families in Stony Brook, Port Jefferson, Smithtown, Setauket, Dix Hills, and across Suffolk County sell homes filled with 40+ years of memories—and yes, stuff. (Biggest job to date was eleven 30-yard dumpsters full!)
You’re Not Failing. You’re Just Human.
This isn’t just a real estate transaction. This is a transition.
One filled with emotions, dust, memories, and maybe some vintage Tupperware.
If you’re ready to start—slowly, gently, and with support—I’m here.
📩 Reach out for a no-pressure consult. I’ll be your calm in the clutter.
📞 Or text/call me at 631-612-1616
P.S. Want a checklist to help get started? Download my free guide:
“The Guide to: Selling Your Loved One’s Home”
➡️ VIEW GUIDE
Shaughnessy Dusling
Licensed Associate Broker at Real Broker NY LLC
150 Motor Parkway St 401,
Hauppauge NY 11788
ShaughnessySells(at)gmail(dotted)com | 631.612.1616 cell