Attorney & Real Estate Partner Resources

I typically work with:

• Probate and trust attorneys
• Real estate agents preparing properties for sale
• Executors and trustees
• Out-of-state heirs who need local coordination

If you’re managing a property with contents and aren’t sure what should be sold, donated, or removed, I can help you sort that out quickly.

• Partial or full property clean-outs
• Donation coordination (when appropriate)
• Online auction of select items (when appropriate)
• Clear documentation for files and listings
• One point of contact from walkthrough to completion
• I do not provide formal appraisals but can coordinate third-party specialists when needed.

I am local, independent, licensed, insured and not a franchise. That allows flexibility when estates don’t fit neatly into a box.

1. Send the Basics
Property address, timeline, and primary contact (executor, seller, or firm contact).
Access details (lockbox, key, or client coordination) will be obtained from the owner, executor, or authorized agent.

2. Walkthrough
I complete an on-site walkthrough to assess contents, condition, and goals.

I can provide an estimate using photographs but the final bid will be confirmed after an onsite walkthrough.

3. Clear Recommendation
I provide a written recommendation outlining the appropriate service option, scope, and next steps.

4. Timeline Expectations
Timelines are confirmed after the walkthrough and vary based on volume, access, and scope.

5. Work Completed
Removal, donation, and/or Auction is handled per the agreed scope.

6. Documentation Provided
Sales summary, invoice, donation receipts (when available), and completion confirmation are provided.

• All items are assigned to Sell, Keep, or Remove before work begins
• Items not sold remain the responsibility of the client unless Full Clean-Out is contracted
• Hazardous materials (biohazard, pests, mold, etc.) and specialty disposal (piano, hot tub, appliances, etc.)  are excluded unless agreed upon beforehand
• Dump fees and specialty services are billed at cost when applicable

All scope decisions and approvals are made with the authorized decision-maker identified at referral.

Clear expectations upfront prevent delays later.

For organized estates where remaining items will be handled by the client.

• Sorting of Sell / Keep
• Only auction items are removed
• Online auction
• Sorting, listing, buyer coordination, pickup coordination
• Sale and accounting
• Unsold items become the property of Northern Trail Estate Services unless agreed otherwise.

For clients who want help reducing what’s left behind.

• Everything in "Auction Only" plus
• Removal of donatable unsold items
• Donation coordination and receipts (when available)
• Unsold items become the property of Northern Trail Estate Services unless agreed otherwise.
• Trash and non-sell/donate-able items are the clients responsibility

For properties that need to be completely cleared.

• Online auction
• Removal of all remaining contents
• Donation coordination and disposal
• Property left broom-clean
• Unsold items become the property of Northern Trail Estate Services unless agreed otherwise.

I’ll recommend the most appropriate option after seeing the property.

When needed, I can provide:

• Written scope summaries (for probate or transaction files)
• Sales accounting and payout reports
• Donation receipts when provided by the receiving organization
• Final “property cleared” confirmation
• W-9 (upon request)
• Insurance certificate
• Billing is directed to the client or estate unless otherwise arranged in writing. Firms are not financially responsible for services unless explicitly agreed in advance.

If you have firm-specific documentation needs, let me know during referral.

• Local and responsive
• Clear scope — no surprise add-ons
• Flexible options for non-standard estates
• Donation-forward when appropriate
• Respectful handling of occupied or sensitive properties
• Licensed and insured

I understand that for you, this is about moving a process forward, not managing belongings.

If you have a client or listing that needs auction, or clean-out support:

Request a Partner Walkthrough by clicking the link below or contact me directly using the information below.

Andra Tom

360.389.2760

northerntrailestateservices@gmail.com