Within what time frame should sibblings sort out deceased parents belongings ?

Question

My Mum & StepFather passed 20 months ago. I had to sort out their unit, bills and personal items by myself which was extremely difficult. I then stored the packed items in my house for over 12 months now I then moved their belongings to a storage unit 5 months ago and pay a monthly rent for this service as having their belongings in my house was to depressing.

My brother lives in another state and continues to tell me he either can not afford to come down (He could afford it if it was a priority) and sort their belongings out or he says he isn't able to deal with it. (He's 28yrs old)

How do I get him to understand that he needs to be involved ? There are belongings that he should really have .....

I'm 4 months pregnant and am really wanting this stress off my shoulders.......

Answer 1

poor you, i know how u feel, i had to sort out my mum and dads things all by myself but i am an only child and yes it is very stressfull, i had my mums clothes at my house for ages and every time i looked at them i just burst into tears, so i gave them to charity and at least i didnt have to look at them, but it must be worse for you being pregnant, u do not need that kind of stress, if your brother cant be bothered to come and get certain things, give them to charity and at least they will be going to somebody who will appreciate them and it will relieve you of some of the stress, think of your baby. good luck

Answer 2

yes I can understand, however what you do at this point can greatly affect you and your brothers relationship for the long term. We all handle death differently so there may be more to it than priorities. I know this is difficult on you with all your other responsibilities but try to give him as much time as possible and mention to him that you covering the expense of keeping the belongings. Should you be forced to do something you probably know what he should get you can send him a list of everything and let him know what you are doing. Guys aren't multi tasked like you girls are so we are going to respond differently. Good luck I wish you the best.