Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Caring Transitions, and what services do you offer?
Caring Transitions is a national company that specializes in senior relocation, downsizing, clean outs, estate sales, and online auctions. We help individuals and families manage the often overwhelming process of transitioning from one living situation to another, especially in times of life change such as retirement, loss of a loved one, or moving to assisted living.

2. How much do Caring Transitions services cost?
Costs vary based on the type and scope of services you need. Some clients hire Caring Transitions for a full-service relocation, while others may only need help with an estate sale or decluttering. We offer a free in-home consultation to assess your needs and provide an estimate to help you reach those goals.

3. Do you handle everything from packing to moving?
Yes. We can handle everything from sorting, packing, and labeling items to arranging moving logistics, unpacking, and setting up the new home. We aim to reduce stress and provide a smooth, safe transition, particularly for seniors and their families. We also offer Space Planning for the new home so that just the right amount of items are placed for a safe and efficient new lifestyle of the senior.

4. What is CTBids, and how does it work?
CTBids is our proprietary online auction platform, where you can sell items from your estate or downsizing project. Through CTBids, we allow a wider audience to shop and buy items remotely because we can ship domestically.  We create the Online Auction based on selecting your items that we know are trending and do well in the market place to retain the best results. Buyers bid during a scheduled auction period, then pick up their items or we prepare the items to ship. Our Online auctions reach thousands of buyers and typically generate higher total value than traditional sales. In Metro Atlanta we have a buyer pool of 80,000 bidders, nationally 850,000 bidders. 

5. Can you help if I live in another state and can’t be there in person?
Yes. We often work with families who live out of town or out of state. We can manage the process remotely and provide regular updates, photos, and check-ins. Our goal is to make the process as hands-off and stress-free as possible for long-distance family members. We partner with our other franchises for long distance moves so that one local franchise passes the baton to the other franchise in the new location to handle the rest of the relocation, having the peace of mind on both ends of a stressful move. 

6. Are your services only for seniors?
No. While our services at Caring Transitions specializes in senior relocation and downsizing, we are available to anyone needing help with organizing, moving, estate clearing, or liquidating assets. This includes people going through divorce, bankruptcy, or the death of a loved one.

7. Are your team members trained or certified in any way?
Yes. Our Caring Transitions team members are trained and often certified in areas like senior move management, estate sales, and relocation assistance. Many franchise owners and staff also have backgrounds in caregiving or social work, and they understand the emotional complexities involved. We have a N.C.I.D.Q. Certified Interior Designer on staff to help with the Space Planning. Our owner, Brandon, is a Licensed Auctioneer in the State of Georgia (GA Auctioneer License AU-C003230) and holds a CRTS Certification (Certified Relocation & Transition Specialist).

8. How long does the process typically take?
The timeline depends on the scope of the project. A simple downsizing, organizing, or clean out project might take a few days, while an Online Auction or full relocation could take several weeks. Our local team works with you to build a customized timeline.

9. Is my personal information and property safe with you?
Yes. We always place a strong emphasis on trust, security, and confidentiality. Our staff is bonded and insured, and they follow strict protocols for handling clients' belongings and sensitive information. When we hold an Online Auction your information is kept private and only your address is given to the winning buyers just prior to Pick up day.  Our staff are the only people that are inside your home.

10. How do I get started with Caring Transitions?
Getting started is easy. You can contact Caring Transitions of Northwest Atlanta office via our website or call 770-818-6121 to schedule a free consultation. During this visit, we will talk through your goals, assess your needs, offer suggestions, and give you a no-obligation quote.

1. What types of relocation services does Caring Transitions provide?
Here at Caring Transitions, we specialize in senior relocation, but we also assist with relocations for busy professionals, families, and individuals downsizing or facing life transitions. Services include Space planning, sorting, packing, coordinating movers, unpacking, and setting up your new home.

2. Do you handle moves to assisted living or retirement communities?
Yes. We frequently help clients transition to assisted living, memory care, independent living, and retirement communities. We work closely with the facility and your family to ensure a safe, smooth, and respectful move. We suggest a Space Plan of the new space so that you bring just what you need to create a safe environment that suits your new lifestyle. We design your space to be familiar with some of your cherished items so the transition is less stressful. 

3. How is Caring Transitions different from a regular moving company?
While traditional movers handle transportation, we provide full-service relocation support, including organizing, space planning, downsizing, packing, setting up your new home, and even selling or donating items left behind. We specialize in compassionate, personalized service, especially for older adults. We know relocating for a senior is stressful and we make every effort to make the process stress free, we call it Day 1 Living. 

4. Can you help if I’m moving from a large home to a smaller apartment or senior community?
Absolutely. We are experienced in downsizing and rightsizing, helping you identify what to keep, donate, or sell. Our team can also create a custom floor plan for your new space to ensure everything fits comfortably and safely.

5. Do I need to be present during the relocation process?
No, not necessarily. Many clients (especially adult children coordinating a move for a parent) cannot be present. Our team can manage the entire move remotely, providing regular updates, photos, and check-ins throughout the process. Once your items are placed accordingly in the new space our team will welcome the Senior, and their family, into their New Home to begin Day 1 Living.

6. What if I have valuable or sentimental items that I don’t want to lose?
Your personal items are treated with respect and care. During sorting and packing, our team members help identify and protect sentimental or high-value items. Items not making the move can be stored, shipped, sold on CTBids, or passed on to your family.

7. Can you help with cleaning and preparing the old home for sale?
Yes. After the relocation is complete, our team can assist with clearing the remaining items, coordinating cleaning services, and preparing the property for real estate showings or sales. We work with many referral partners to help you manage all facets of this transtion.

8. How long does a typical relocation take?
It depends on the size of the home and the complexity of the move, but most senior relocations are completed in 1 to 3 weeks, from initial planning to unpacking and resettling. Emergency or expedited moves can often be accommodated.

9. Is your relocation team trained to work with seniors?
Yes. Our team members often receive specialized training in senior move management and understand the emotional and physical needs of older adults. We provide patient, respectful support throughout the process.

Let's Talk more about our Free Consultation now.

1. What does downsizing with Caring Transitions involve?
Downsizing with us at Caring Transitions means more than just getting rid of stuff. Our team helps you sort, organize, and make thoughtful decisions about what to keep, donate, sell, or discard — all while respecting your emotional and practical needs.

2. What is the difference between downsizing and decluttering?
Downsizing usually involves preparing for a move to a smaller space and deciding what will fit or be useful there. Decluttering is often done in place — to reduce clutter, create more livable space, or prepare a home for sale. Our team at Caring Transitions can help with both.

3. How do you decide what I should keep or let go of?
We don't make decisions for you — we will guide you through a supportive process, helping you assess space constraints, emotional attachments, and future needs. We use compassionate, practical strategies to make letting go easier.

4. Can you help sell or donate the items I no longer need?
Yes! Items you no longer need can be sold through CTBids (our online auction platform), donated to local charities, recycled, or disposed of responsibly. Our team handles all logistics to reduce your workload and stress.

5. I’ve lived in my home for decades, will you be patient with me during the process?
Absolutely. Our Caring Transitions team members are trained to work with people going through emotional transitions. Our team takes a patient, respectful, and non-judgmental approach to every project, especially with long-term homeowners or seniors.

6. Do I need to be there while you work?
That’s up to you. Some clients want to be closely involved in sorting and decision-making, while others prefer a more hands-off approach. We can accommodate either and will check in regularly to keep you informed.

7. Can you help me if I’m not planning to move but just want to reduce clutter?
Yes. Many clients use our services for decluttering and home organization, even if they’re not moving. Services can help you reclaim space, improve safety, and simplify your daily life — especially as you age in place.

8. What happens to important documents, photos, and keepsakes?
Items like legal documents, photos, and family heirlooms are treated with special care. Our team helps you organize, preserve, and store important items, and may offer options for digitizing photos or records if desired. Our staff knows how to properly handle PII (personally identifiable information) and always shreds documents with PII on it, ensuring safety and protection from identity theft.

9. How long does the downsizing or decluttering process take?
The timeline depends on the size of your home and how much work needs to be done. A small project might take a day or two, while a larger whole-home downsizing can take several days to a few weeks. A custom plan and schedule is created just for you.

10. How do I get started with Caring Transitions for downsizing or decluttering?
Start by scheduling a free in-home consultation with your Caring Transitions of Northwest Atlanta team. We walk through your space, listen to your goals, and provide a customized plan and estimate — with no obligation.

1. What does a home clean-out service from Caring Transitions include?
Caring Transitions' home clean-out service includes sorting, organizing, removing, and responsibly disposing of all household items from a property. This may involve donating, recycling, selling, or discarding belongings, as well as coordinating deep cleaning and preparing the home for sale or rental.

2. When would I need a home clean-out service?
Home clean-out services are often used when:

• A loved one has passed away
• You're preparing a home for sale
• You're helping a parent move to assisted living
• You're handling an estate from out of town
• You're overwhelmed with a cluttered or abandoned property

We specialize in sensitive and complex situations, including estate settlements and transitions.

3. Do I have to be present during the clean-out?
No. Many clients, especially adult children or estate executors, live out of town. Our team can handle everything remotely, keeping you updated with photos, check-ins, and progress reports throughout the process. 

4. What happens to items in the home that I don't want to keep?
Our team can help:

• Sell valuable items via CTBids, their online auction platform
• Donate items to local charities (we support St Vincent de Paul in the Marietta area)
• Recycle or responsibly dispose of unusable items

Our team works to minimize waste and maximize value where possible.

5. Do you also clean the home after the contents are removed?
Yes. Our services include an empty, vacuumed, broom swept home. If further cleaning services are needed, our team can coordinate or provide professional cleaning services to get the property ready for sale, rental, or final walk-throughs. We work with many referral partners to help you streamline the process. 

6. Can you help if the home is extremely cluttered or hoarded?
Yes. Our team has experience working with hoarded or highly cluttered homes. We approach these situations with sensitivity and discretion, ensuring that the process is safe, respectful, and effective. Through our thorough decluttering process we often find treasured items or missing documents that families are looking for. 

7. Are you insured?
Yes. Caring Transitions of Northwest Atlanta team is fully insured, providing peace of mind when handling your property and belongings. We are happy to provide documentation of our coverage. 

8. How long does a clean-out take?
The duration depends on the size and condition of the property. A small project or home may take as little as one to a few days, while a larger or more cluttered property may take a week or more. After the initial consultation, you’ll receive a customized timeline. Caring Transitions of Northwest Atlanta has helped many clients with large multi-generational properties that were filled with decades of heirlooms. 

9. What if I want to save or ship certain items to family members?
No problem. A Caring Transitions team member can help identify and set aside keepsakes, then arrange to ship or deliver them to family members, whether they’re across town or across the country.

10. How do I get started with a home clean-out?
Start by scheduling a free consultation with us at Caring Transitions of Northwest Atlanta today. One of our specialists will visit the property (or conduct a virtual walk-through), assess the situation, talk through with you any concerns and your goals to provide a no-obligation estimate and plan of action.

See what our past clients are saying:

"I really cannot say enough good things about Brandon and his team. My situation felt unique in that my father's estate consisted of a house and multiple buildings in Northwest GA. I was overwhelmed with the amount of items collected over the decades. Brandon was excited about such a large project and took it on with vigor. I felt 100% confident in his ability to sort through "all the stuff" and find the gems. He is very communicative and wants to do good by you. The online sale itself went off without a hitch and everyone walked away happy. If you are looking for a team to help you with a family members estate, or downsize your parents to another home, I highly recommend Brandon and Caring Transitions."       Sean C.

1. What is the difference between an estate sale and an online auction with Caring Transitions?
An estate sale is a traditional, in-person event where items are sold onsite. An online auction (via CTBids) allows buyers to bid on items remotely. Many clients choose online auctions because online auctions offer a wider buyer reach, added privacy & safety, and less disruption to the home, which is your largest asset. Our Team at Caring Transitions of Northwest Atlanta are the only people in your home during an Online Auction, we are very careful to protect your home's value. 

2. What is CTBids and how does it work?
CTBids is our proprietary online auction platform. Items from your estate are professionally photographed, cataloged, and listed for bidding online. Buyers place bids over several days, and winning bidders pick up their items after the auction ends.  We remove and ship the items that were bought through that service. Our team is on-site for pick up day and we complete a final broom sweep and wipe down counters so the home is ready for the next stage.  

3. What kinds of items can be sold through your estate sales or auctions?
Most household contents can be sold, including:

• Furniture & home décor
• Collectibles & antiques
• Jewelry & clothing
• Tools & appliances
• Vehicles, boats, and RVs
• Art & memorabilia
• Everyday household goods
• Rare or high-value items may receive extra marketing to attract collectors.

4. How do I know if I have enough items for an estate sale or auction?
You don’t need a full house of antiques or valuables. Even a modest household can generate interest. A free consultation with one of our specialists will help you determine whether a full estate sale, downsizing sale, or online auction is the best fit.

5. Do I need to prepare or organize the items myself?
No. We handle everything from sorting and staging to pricing and promotion. We do the heavy lifting — you don’t need to clean, catalog, or display anything yourself.  We will seperate items for donation and dispose as well.   You don't need to do anything but indicate items you are keeping or passing on to family so those items remain. 

6. How are items priced or valued before the sale?
Our team is experienced with fair market value and are aware of the Market Trends for a wide range of items. Bidding starts at $1 to encourage movement and maximize value, while offering transparency and fair pricing to buyers.  Due to market conditions, values are constantly changing and we are ever mindful to select items that will best generate a successful sale. There are trends in collecting, so depending on what is currently desirable the prices fluctuate.  We work to stay on top of the trends. If the item is of extreme value, or if the owner chooses, we can set a reserve price. If that price is not met, we then report the best bid to the seller and let them decide whether to accept the bid. 

7. What happens to items that don’t sell?
Caring Transitions of Northwest Atlanta through CTBids sells 99% of items listed, so very few items are typically left after an auction. If there are items remaining, we will donate, dispose of, or recycle unsold items, depending on your preferences. Leaving your home empty and ready for the next stage. 

8. How long does the estate sale or auction process take?
The entire process — from consultation to final clean-up — typically takes 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the size of the estate and scheduling needs. Auctions generally run for 5-7 days online, with pick-up scheduled shortly after.

9. How do I get paid from the sale or auction?
After the sale or auction is complete and items are picked up, you’ll receive a settlement statement and payment. Our agreement allows for within 21 days of service completion, but we often can reconcile sooner.

10. How do I get started with Caring Transitions for an estate sale or online auction?
CONTACT US HERE or Call us at 770-818-6121 at Caring Transitions of Northwest Atlanta to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. One of our transition specialists will meet with you to assess the estate, recommend the best sales strategy, and explain the timeline, process, and estimated outcomes.