What are the steps for cleaning out an inherited property?

Step-by-step inherited property cleanout

Step 1: Secure the property

Within days of the death (or notification of inheritance):

• Change or rekey locks if needed
• Forward mail to the executor
• Maintain utilities (especially heating in Illinois winters — frozen pipes are a real risk)
• Notify the homeowner’s insurance of vacant status (rates change for vacant properties)
• Check on the property weekly during winter

Step 2: Notify heirs and probate attorney

If there’s a will, the named executor takes the lead. If not, an heir or family member usually petitions the court to be appointed administrator. The probate attorney files in Kane County or DuPage County Circuit Court (depending on the deceased’s residence).

Step 3: Document and photograph contents

Before any items are moved or removed:

• Photograph each room, including closets, basement, attic, garage
• Inventory significant items (furniture, appliances, electronics, valuables)
• Document what’s present so heirs and the attorney have a baseline

This protects against disputes later and supports any appraisal work.

Step 4: Arrange appraisal for valuables

For items likely worth more than $500–$1,000 each, hire an appraiser. Common categories:

• Jewelry, watches, gemstones
• Antiques, fine art, collectibles
• Coins, stamps, sports memorabilia
• Firearms
• Vintage musical instruments
• Sterling silver flatware

Aurora and Naperville have several licensed appraisers. The American Society of Appraisers maintains a directory.

Step 5: Estate sale (if applicable)

For estates with substantial salable contents, hire an estate sale company. They’ll appraise, price, and run a weekend sale. Commission typically 25–35% of gross proceeds. Family receives the rest. This step can take 1–3 months from initial contact to sale completion.

Step 6: Hire cleanout company

After family has taken sentimental items and any estate sale is complete, the remaining contents need to be cleared. This is where Junk Nurse comes in. Typical timeline: walkthrough within a few days of your call, written estimate within 24 hours, cleanout scheduled within a week. The work itself usually takes 1–2 days for typical 3-bedroom homes.

Step 7: Prepare property for listing or transfer

After the cleanout:

• Deep clean (carpet cleaning, kitchen and bath deep clean)
• Small repairs and touch-ups (paint, fixtures)
• Listing photos and listing
• Or, if keeping in family, transfer to new occupant

Working remotely

For out-of-state heirs, the entire process can be coordinated remotely:

• Walkthrough by video call
• Authorization via signed email or DocuSign
• Photos sent throughout the cleanout
• Payment by card or wire

For more, see Inherited Home Cleanout and Probate Estate Cleanout.