Recently I was with a client going through bins of old papers from a relative’s house who had passed a number of years ago. The estate had been settled, but she still had tons of papers left from the house. These were the treasures that were found!
Fourteen property deeds were found from the 1800s with the most beautiful handwriting that you can imagine. Look at the address on the envelope – it only has the man’s name and his county – yet he received it! These treasures will all be donated to the county historical society.
With other clients I have found important items such as the family cemetery deed, checks, money and historic family pictures.
So the answer to the question, “Should I look at old papers?” is “Yes!” But do it quickly – standing will make this project go faster. Your eye is looking for treasures such as old stock certificates or other important papers that may have value.