One of the hardest things many of us will face in life is seeing our parents grow older. At some point, the family home — the one filled with birthday parties, late-night chats, and the scent of Mum’s roast dinner — becomes too much for them to manage. Eventually, whether due to health issues, a move into care, or their passing, their home will be left behind… and the responsibility falls to us.

Selling your parents’ home isn’t just a real estate transaction — it’s an emotional journey. It can bring out grief, guilt, nostalgia, and sometimes, family tension. But with a bit of planning, some open communication, and a good support team, you can get through it.

Here are 7 tips to help make the process a little easier:

1. Get it on the market sooner rather than later

This one’s tough. Life is busy, emotions are raw, and family members may be scattered. But the longer a home sits empty, the more it costs — insurance, rates, utilities, lawn care… it adds up. If you can, start the wheels turning early.

2. Get a head start where you can

You’ll need to wait for legal processes to play out — like the will being read and ownership transferring — but that doesn’t mean you can’t make a start. Use that time to get the house ready: make small repairs, tidy up, and meet with potential real estate agents. Getting ahead of the admin helps reduce pressure later.

3. Check the home’s condition

Let’s face it — maintenance can slip when people get older. Heating systems, plumbing, wiring… these things may not have had recent attention. Before listing, get a clear idea of what’s working and what needs fixing. Surprises during a sale can be stressful and expensive.

4. Be ready for the “stuff”

Our parents collect a lot over the years — furniture, books, vintage ornaments, hobbies and heirlooms. Not all of it will have a place in your home or your siblings’. Decluttering is hard emotionally. Try to go through things together as a family, take photos of treasured items, and honour your parents’ memories along the way. It’s okay to shed a few tears — bring tissues!

5. Lock in the memories

Take photos of the house — the garden, the kitchen bench where you had tea, the window with the view. You’ll be glad you did. Ask your real estate agent for copies of the listing photos too. This may be your last time in the home — take a moment to walk through slowly and reflect.

6. Trust your real estate agent with pricing

It’s common for families to overestimate the value of the home — it’s full of your memories, after all. But the market doesn’t price emotion. Overpricing can slow the sale and create more stress. Have honest conversations with your agent and with each other about what’s realistic, and be clear about how much room you’re willing to negotiate.

7. Call in the pros

As much as you may want to handle everything yourself, this is one of those times where getting professional help is worth it. A good real estate agent can manage the marketing, open homes, paperwork, and local tradies — especially helpful if you or your family live out of town. You’ll want someone you trust, who understands the emotional side of selling a family home.

Related reading: The ideal real estate agent goes beyond the commision rate

Selling your parents’ home is more than bricks and mortar — it’s a farewell to a huge part of your life. But with the right support, it can be a smoother and even healing experience.

If you’re facing this journey here in Tauranga, I’m here to help. Whether it’s a chat, a market update, or guidance through the whole process, I’ll walk it with you — gently, professionally, and with respect for what that home has meant to your family.

Thanks for reading. Wishing you a successful day.

Cheers Matt

Chat with me  your local real estate agent in Tauranga City on 0274 951 536 

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