It's best to be prepared -

Communication is key when it comes to aging parents' wishes and what they'd like done with their possessions should they fall ill or worse.

Do they want their belongings sold, donated or thrown away once they're gone or will they leave that decision up to their loved ones?

Sean Lane, owner of Clean Up Clear Out and Your Home Valet, said it's imperative to know what a loved one's wishes are before it's too late.

“Some people become incapacitated,” Lane said. “They're not dying, but they don't have the ability to speak for themselves. What if parents want things donated and you're throwing everything away?”

Lane said if donation is selected, it's important to carefully inspect items before they're in someone else's hands. It's not uncommon for someone to stash extra cash in shirt pockets or between the pages of books.

“This isn't necessarily just for estate sales,” he said. “If you're downsizing your home or moving from one home to another, be sure the decisions being made are the right ones. Some things you really do need to keep track of — money is one of them.”

The outward appearance of one's home is another, he said.

Regardless of the reason a house is being sold, it's important to have curb appeal. Small, affordable steps can make all the difference.

“Power wash the outside, paint the awnings and railings, do a little minor landscaping — add flowers, do the edging — clean the windows,” he said. “All of that only costs $250 to $300. It can add so much in interest to a house.”

He also suggested replacing loose or rotting deck boards, pulling weeds, trimming bushes and adding outdoor lighting.

“A lot of properties don't have enough lighting,” Lane said. “A little investment yields a great return.

“People have a false sense that because they live in a rock-star neighborhood with excellent city services and a top-notch school system their house is going to sell right away,” he continued. “A lot of houses look OK, but you begin to see the flaws as you get closer and closer.”

He also suggested changing the hardware on kitchen cabinets and faceplates on electrical outlets.

“If you're looking to sell a house and get rid of it quick, certain expenses need to be paid out of pocket,” he said, “but they don't have to break the bank.”

One of the biggest obstacles that can easily be remedied is clearing away clutter. Families and homeowners can take care of the chore themselves or hire an expert. If help is brought in, be sure it's someone who can be trusted.

“I don't see what (online reviews) do for either of us,” Lane said. “I could have three great reviews and show insurance paperwork, but the paperwork could lapse or be cancelled. Some of these sites say they prescreen people, which is great in the beginning, but what happens when the project goes haywire in the middle or at the end? You're paying a fee to have this service do a great skim at the beginning of a job, but what reassurance do I have at the end?

“In every circumstance, you should have a contract and your own signed copy of the contract,” he continued. “They should have certifications, bonding, references .... Look at background, history, honesty, a contract.”