When an estate sale is being planned, several people may need access to the home: the client or executor, the sale team, movers, a realtor, and sometimes family members. A simple access plan helps everyone know who is expected, which areas are included, and how the property should be secured at the end of the day.

Start with one point of contact

Choose one person who can answer day-to-day questions and confirm decisions. Share that person’s name and phone number with the company, realtor, and any family members who need updates. If there is a backup contact, identify that person too. This avoids conflicting instructions about access, personal items, or changes to the schedule.

Make a clear key and entry plan

Agree in advance on how the team will enter and leave the property. Decide who will hold keys, where a key may be secured, and who is allowed to use it. If the home has an alarm or temporary entry code, provide instructions directly to the people who need them; avoid sharing security details in a large group message. Confirm how keys and access devices will be returned or deactivated when the work is complete.

Identify private areas and items to remove

Before setup begins, walk through the home and point out rooms, closets, cabinets, or storage areas that are off limits. Remove personal papers, medications, financial records, keys, small valuables, and anything the family wants to keep. Label items that should stay with the family and make sure everyone involved understands the plan before work starts.

Share practical information about the house

Let the sale team know about pets, parking, deliveries, entry restrictions, fragile areas, or equipment that requires special instructions. If there is a realtor or a scheduled showing, coordinate the timing so the sale preparation and marketing plan do not conflict. Keep necessary utilities available during the work and explain how the property should be left at the end of each day.

Document the starting condition

Before the project starts, make a brief walk-through. Photograph existing marks or damage you want recorded, and point out anything that may be hidden by furniture or stored belongings. Ask how newly discovered issues will be documented and who should be contacted if a concern comes up. A shared record gives everyone a clear reference point.

Plan the daily close-up

Agree on what “secure for the day” means for this property: doors and windows checked, lights set as requested, alarm instructions followed, and keys returned to the agreed location. Decide how the team will report that the house is closed up and how urgent issues will be communicated. At the end of the project, confirm the final key handoff and any remaining access needs for the realtor, movers, or contractors.

Put the plan in writing

Keep the access plan with the project notes or agreement. Include the primary contact, approved entry method, restricted areas, daily closing instructions, and who should be called if plans change. Written details are especially helpful when family members live out of town or several professionals are working toward the same move or settlement date.

EstateMAX coordinates on-site estate sales, move management, and property cleanouts for families across Frederick, Montgomery, Carroll, Howard, and surrounding counties. If you are planning a sale or move, tell us about your project and the dates you are working toward.