Moving a parent into aged care? Don’t throw anything out - your family’s ‘junk’ could be worth a fortune

As thousands of Australian families make the difficult decision to move elderly parents into aged care, one unexpected issue is catching people off guard: what to do with a lifetime of accumulated stuff.
 

According to property and estate transition expert Bob Morton, cofounder and director of The Property Clearance Company, rushing to clear out Mum and Dad's belongings could cost families thousands, or even tens of thousands of dollars.
 

"People assume it's just clutter, but many don't realise they're sitting on collectables, retro furniture, vintage tech and memorabilia that are now highly sought-after," Morton said.
 

"We've seen people throw out rare mid-century chairs, antique clocks and first-edition books, only to discover they were worth hundreds or thousands. Others have donated kitchenware that collectors would have paid serious money for."
 

From kerbside to cash cow
 

Retro is in and baby boomer households are full of it, from vinyl records and classic appliances to 70s fashion, original artwork and pre-loved tools. What looks like junk to one generation is treasure to another.
 

"There's a booming market for vintage Australiana, 60s and 70s furniture, Pyrex, old radios, watches, even unopened pantry goods from decades ago," Morton said.
 

"Some rare biscuit tins have sold for $300 online."
 

Hidden treasures everywhere
 

Morton and his team know exactly what to look for and what to save. They have uncovered hidden treasures in family homes all across Australia, including rare pieces of furniture, forgotten jewellery, original artwork and old tools worth thousands.
 

"We recently found a set of old chisels that were sitting in a dusty shed. Turns out they were a collector's dream and sold for well over $4,000," Morton said.

"We've also uncovered vintage handbags, ceramic pieces and inherited watches that families had no idea were so valuable.
 

"People collect and accumulate a lot of stuff in their lifetimes and much of this often goes unnoticed. Grownup children tend to overlook these things due to absence or a lack of interest. An independent third party with experience in this area can often find things that others cannot see."
 

Too busy to sort? You could be throwing away a fortune
 

Morton said one of the biggest mistakes families make is assuming it's not worth the time to sort through everything.
 

"A lot of families are overwhelmed, busy or just want to move quickly, so they have everything taken away. Unfortunately, we see time and time again that they've unknowingly thrown away items worth real money," he said.
 

"For a relatively small cost, you can bring in an expert team to professionally sort, register and sell items on your behalf, maximising the value and avoiding emotional fallout or future disputes."
 

Inventory and transparency protect families from conflict
 

Companies such as The Property Clearance Company provide a full inventory register of items, something Morton said is essential when multiple family members are involved.
 

"Having a clear, documented record of what was in the home, what was sold, what was donated and what went where removes doubt and prevents conflict," he said.
 

"It's not just about money, it's about transparency, trust and preserving relationships during a difficult time."
 

When memories become meaningful money
 

Beyond the financial value, thoughtful sorting can help families preserve history, honour sentimental items and avoid future regrets.
 

"A lot of adult children tell us later, 'I wish I hadn't rushed it.' Once something's gone, you can't get it back," Morton said.
 

"With the right approach, this process can be healing, not just hard."
 

Morton emphasised that every item tells a story. Some of those stories are worth far more than people realise, both emotionally and financially.
 

About The Property Clearance Company
 

The Property Clearance Company is Australia's leading specialist in deceased estate and aged care home clearances. Founded by Bob and Jude Morton, the family-run business offers a trusted, end- to-end service that includes inventory management, item valuation, removals, managed on-sale service, donations and home preparation for sale. With a national footprint and a reputation for compassion, transparency and respect, the company has supported over 3,000 families through emotionally complex transitions. Their mission is simple: to clear homes with dignity, preserve family harmony, and honour the legacy of those who lived there. Visit: www.propertyclearance.com.au