Speaking of Antiquing – October 2014

Having had a background in Fundraising and Major Gifts, I quickly became acquainted with the process of Estate Planning. When meeting with donors, I’d inevitably discover a household full of treasured purchases, either bought by the residents or inherited. Oftentimes, parents would ask me how to plan ahead and who to call to be sure their children were not saddled with the responsibility of “getting rid of” their belongings. Since I had experience in the antique business, I had recommendations on whom to call. To this day, I have a list of estate sale businesses I refer customers to every day, as well.

Last year, a dear friend found herself in need of estate sale assistance and would not have anyone but me do the sale for her. I had to learn by full immersion…this led to the formation of a new part of my business—Sterling Creek Estate Services.

Personally speaking, there are a couple of things that differentiate me from some of the other people I will refer you to: I am small and only take small estates and handle them on-site. My small team helps me and I do specialize in estates of antiques. I will advise you of the right steps to take for YOU. And, In case your estate sale is more than I can handle, I will refer you to one of my trusted colleagues I feel is the right match for you.

Each estate is different and there are different emotions involved. Some estate sales are for a living person and some are not. Each has a common thread—every item being sold was once loved and should be honored during the sale.

If you’ve spent time contemplating the disposition of your estate, I’d advise you to start planning earlier, rather than later. One suggestion is to tag items, like the back of a piece of furniture, with the name of the person you’d like to inherit it, or create a simple list. If your kids don’t want something, consider selling it now. And, if you have no heirs, choose a non-profit you’d like to benefit from the sale of your estate and be sure to put that information in your will. Here in Jacksonville, there are many wonderful non-profit groups such as Britt Festivals, the Boosters Club, the Friends of the Library, Jacksonville Elementary, the Woodlands Association and more to consider—your gift will be appreciated beyond your comprehension.

Does Estate Planning and Antiques go together – you bet!