Winter Estate Essentials

Winter brings snow, shorter days, and plenty of things to think about. But if a loved one passes away during the colder months, families suddenly have something much more important to deal with….the administering of an estate. Between grief and paperwork, it's easy to overlook some of the practical details. Here are 5 important things people often forget during the winter months.

1. The house still needs care

An empty home still needs heat, security, mail collection and regular checks. And yes, someone may need to shovel the driveway and sidewalks!

2. Don't turn down the thermostat too far

Saving on heating costs can backfire quickly if pipes freeze. Keeping the property adequately heated can help prevent expensive damage.

3. Vehicles need attention too

Whether there is a car, truck, RV, or other vehicle, they will need to be properly stored for the winter months to ensure safekeeping.  Insurance needs to be paid, and maintenance needs to be upkept until they are sold.

4. Keep track of expenses

Snow removal, utilities, insurance, repairs and other property expenses can add up quickly. Keeping organized records that include all invoices and receipts from the beginning makes administration much easier.

10. You don't have to do it alone

Perhaps the biggest thing families forget is that estate administration doesn't have to be handled alone. There is help!

When you're grieving, managing property, organizing assets and dealing with paperwork can feel overwhelming. Professional estate administration can provide structure, guidance and peace of mind when you need it most. Winter can be unpredictable. Estate administration doesn't have to be.

At ETP Canada, we know that settling a loved one’s estate can be a challenging and overwhelming task to take on. We’re here to help ease the burden and help you navigate your next steps. To book a consultation with a member of our team, click here.