[Uptown Girl]

We're kind of in the same boat. I have already gifted special friends with things they have admired, and the kids have picked what they want to keep for themselves. I've already donated much that isn't worth the effort of selling, but there is still lots left..... particularly large items. I'm toying with the idea (once the house is SOLD) of having a PRIVATE open house (for friends, certain neighbors and whoever they want to bring along) One day only, maybe 3 hours tops. No signs outside, no advertising. Gonna call them, tell them what it's for, send an invite if they're interested and let them walk throughout the house as it is arranged now, pick and buy then and there. Name your price at this point.... just take it.

Small stuff can be loaded up immediately and out of view if they pull in our garage, and I figure pre-purchased big stuff can be picked up two days before we leave. I'll make that condition clear when they buy it and explain why. I'm sure that if they want the stuff, they will be understanding.

I'll arrange for a charity (that picks up) to come the day after that and whatever is left will be taken then. That will be tax deductible if we choose to apply it.

That should satisfy the rules of our Homeowner's Association, and make it easier on us as well. Will we get what it's worth? Well, that's in the eye of the beholder. The bottom line is it will be one thing less we have to wrangle, and a few bucks extra.