Estate Cleanout Checklist for Florida Families

Work an estate cleanout in one order: secure documents and valuables first, then family items, then donations, then resale, and only then haul-away — because anything discarded early cannot be recovered, and the haul is the only step that is easy to redo.

Families who reverse this order almost always lose something. We have found deeds taped behind dresser drawers and savings bonds inside cookbooks.

Before a single box moves, sweep the house for these.

Set a date and let each person tag what matters to them. A short, firm window prevents the house from sitting untouched for months — a real cost when there is a mortgage, insurance, and a Florida tax bill still running.

Furniture in good condition, housewares, clothing, tools, and building materials all have homes in Palm Beach and Broward County. Get a receipt — donated goods can be deductible for the estate.

Mattresses, cribs, and most electronics are generally refused. Do not load them expecting otherwise.

Estate sale companies are worth it when there is genuine antique, art, or collection value. For an ordinary Florida home of everyday furniture, the sale often costs more in time and commission than it returns.

What remains is a volume job. A full house clearance is typically a full load or more — around $595 per 16-cubic-yard load, quoted flat before we start, with heavy debris priced separately.

We handle these regularly for families working against a closing date, and we work room by room so nothing leaves without a nod. Text photos of the rooms to (561) 345-9808 for a flat quote, or call and we will walk it with you.