We Inherited a House Full of Belongings in Las Vegas. Can a Realtor Handle the Cleanout and the Sale?

Updated October 2026 by Mike Tchobanian, Broker and Owner, Vegas Capital Realty

Yes. A listing agent who handles estate homes can coordinate the entire cleanout and then sell the house, so you only have to decide what to keep. The one thing that has to happen first is confirming who has the legal authority over the house and what is in it. Mike Tchobanian of Vegas Capital Realty does this regularly for families in Las Vegas and Henderson, including families who live out of state.

A house full of a lifetime of furniture, photos, clothes, and paperwork is often the single biggest reason families put off selling. Here is how Mike takes it off your plate.

Step 1: Confirm who has the authority

Before anything leaves the house, make sure the right person is making the decisions: the executor with court letters, the successor trustee, or the owners on title. In Nevada, the personal representative is responsible for the estate's property, and being a family member does not by itself give someone the right to take items. If the house is in probate, the attorney confirms what approvals are needed. Mike will not start a cleanout until this is settled, and it protects the family from arguments later.

Step 2: The family keeps what matters

Once the authorized person gives the go ahead, family members go through the house and set aside the things that mean something to them: photos, jewelry, documents, keepsakes. Take photos of the rooms first and keep any disputed items in place until the family and attorney sort them out. There is no rush on this step. Mike keeps the house secure in the meantime.

Step 3: Sell what you can

For the rest, Mike brings in an estate sale company or auctioneer. They go through the house, price what has value, run the sale, and handle the buyers. You do not have to be there. Mike meets them at the house and coordinates the schedule. Before hiring any vendor, get the terms in writing: what is included, commission or fees, when payment is due, and who handles what does not sell.

Step 4: Donate what does not sell

Whatever is left after the sale can go to a nonprofit. Many families like this option because it helps someone else. Keep the donation receipts and let the estate's CPA decide whether any deduction is available; the rules for estates are specific.

Step 5: Haul away and clean

Mike's vendors remove anything remaining, then the house gets a deep clean so it shows well. If the house needs any touch ups before listing, Mike has the contacts to handle that too, and will get a bid first so you can decide.

Step 6: List and sell

Once the house is empty and clean, we photograph it, list it, and handle showings, offers, and closing. If you live out of state, Mike is your eyes on the property the whole way, and closing documents can be signed where you live.

Frequently asked questions

Do we have to empty the house before putting it up for sale?

Usually, yes. An empty, clean house shows better and sells for more. Mike coordinates the whole cleanout so you do not have to.

What if we live out of state and cannot be there for the cleanout?

That is common. Mike meets the estate sale company, the haulers, and the cleaners at the house and sends you updates by phone and video.

Can we sell the house as is with everything still inside?

Some investors will take a house with contents, but the price is usually lower. Clearing it out first usually nets the family more, and Mike will show you the numbers both ways before you decide.

Who pays for the cleanout?

It depends on the vendor, the terms, and the amount. Some vendors will wait and get paid at closing from the sale proceeds; others need payment up front. An estate sale can offset the cost but is not guaranteed to cover it. Mike gets the terms in writing and gives you a clear picture of costs before anything starts.

How long does the cleanout take?

Typically a few weeks from the family's walkthrough to a clean, empty house, depending on how much is inside and the estate sale schedule.

Talk to Mike

If you inherited a house in Las Vegas or Henderson that is full of belongings, call Mike Tchobanian at 702-530-5844 or email mike@vegascapital.com. Learn more about Mike and his probate and estate help.

Get a Cleanout and Sale Plan

This article is general information, not legal or tax advice.

Sources

• Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 143, powers and duties of personal representatives
• Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 148, sales of estate property