Question 1

What is a senior move manager and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A senior move manager specializes in helping older adults and their families plan and execute a move — from sorting and organizing possessions, to coordinating movers, to setting up the new home. They understand the emotional difficulty of leaving a longtime home and handle logistics that overwhelm most families. Members of NASMM (National Association of Senior Move Managers) are trained specifically for this work.

Question 2

How do estate sales work and what do companies typically charge?

Accepted Answer

An estate sale company takes a commission — typically 25–40% of gross sales — in exchange for pricing, staging, marketing, and running the sale. They handle everything including unsold items. Get 2–3 quotes and check reviews carefully. A reputable company will provide a written contract and a post-sale accounting of all proceeds.

Question 3

How do I clear out a parent's home full of decades of possessions?

Accepted Answer

Start early and sort into categories: keep, donate, sell, and discard. Senior move managers can do professional sorts. Estate sale companies handle sellable items. Junk removal services handle the rest. Many families underestimate how long this takes — a 3-bedroom house can take 4–8 weeks working weekends, or 1–2 weeks with professional help.

Question 4

When should we start downsizing a parent's home?

Accepted Answer

Ideally, start the conversation before a health crisis forces the issue. Earlier is almost always better — it gives your parent agency in deciding what happens to their possessions, reduces rushed decisions, and spreads the emotional weight over time. A senior care manager or social worker can help facilitate the conversation if your parent is resistant.

Question 5

What happens to items that don't sell at an estate sale?

Accepted Answer

Most estate sale companies will handle unsold items through charity donation, auction, or junk removal for a fee. Clarify this in your contract before signing. Some reputable estate sale companies have relationships with local nonprofits and thrift organizations who will pick up donations directly from the home.

Home & Downsizing in the Northwest Chicago Suburbs