Trashed by renters and abandoned... what did they leave behind?

[@rkeller8141]

Recently had an epiphany that at 78 in October, my strength and interest in house repairs, declining, that it was time to retire by moving into an independent senior living apartment. Am grateful that my concern of leaving an inheritance, ended, and that I need to care for myself, a single man in old age, while I have enough strength to make the change myself. I have the finances, gratefully, and no longer want my obsessive handy-man projects, that never end and now overwhelmed with many unfinished. Downsizing big time, and a relief that 100s of things have gone and going. Looking forward to rest, relaxing and recovering my strength, with walking, etc.. House up for sale in June, and then San Lous Obispo, Vacation Las Brisas. Things that had sentimental value, letting go also, it does feel good! Sharing to encourage anyone, there are many chapters to a life, and this is another one to be joyful with.

[@chrisberry9017]

Thank you for your frank honesty. I kept many things with ‘sentimental attachment’ from my parents’ home, to the point where my home was not my own. It’s taken me 66 years to realise that I’d be far happier with a lot less ‘stuff’. Sending you every happiness for your retirement!

[@rkeller8141]

@@chrisberry9017 thank u Chris. Left off items at thrift store today, and if item sentimental, I remember that perhaps someone else can have joy with it. Heard also today, that excessive possessions can increase cortisol levels, which I certainly don't need. The best to you and your personal decisions.

[@rpierce7004]

Sounds like a great plan and a nice way to be able to start the next part of your life without all the “stuff”. And San Luis Obispo! You are a lucky guy. 😊

[@deepressland7779]

Good for you. I have done exactly the same. Took voluntary redundancy end 2019 aged 62. The plan was to never work again and sell my huge house, eventually bought myself and my only adult child, separate properties, hopefully to avoid IHT further along the line. Took me a year to sell/donate/give away to family/friends emptying the house - not a hoarder, just loads of cupboard/attic space. Was amazed how much some of my vintage/MCM items/son's toys were worth! My new home/gardens is ideal for me as so much smaller and easier to maintain. Plus, went through and burnt all old paperwork etc - minimalism is defo the way forward and emotionally I feel so much lighter.

[@seventhdayissabbath8747]

@rkeller8141 Good for you, thanks for the encouragement you passed on to others through your post, I too am downsizing and getting rid of "sentimental" items especially the ones from my mothers house that are still sitting in the corner of the junk room and haven't moved in 2+ years. It's going slowly but even one or two items a day or two is progress! Enjoy this new chapter in your life and your senior living apartment !!

[@debbiedusterhoft2870]

I’m so glad that you are able to separate business and kindness. You can feel for them but you wouldn’t be where you are without a keen business mind. You are not in the business of cleaning out garbage and make it clean for them. I’m sure there are businesses that do that. I could see you felt bad for them but you definitely made the right choice. Take care.

[@karenrobertson890]

100% well said.

[@pattipostcard8489]

Agreed. Well said.

[@tenthz]

Thank you for showing that not every visit ends in a massive haul! I know we all feel for them and I'm sure your advice did not fall on deaf ears. They definitely have a few pieces of furniture that would probably sell locally if they can find someone to give them a hand (maybe a young neighbor). The barrister bookshelf looked in decent shape and they are always in demand. I also saw a coat rack and those are rather popular as well. Best of luck to them!

[@aprilfool8329]

I am glad that you heard the voices of your subscribers yelling NOOOOOOOO! as they watched this video. Had the family been paying you to clean out their place, that would have been a different story. But that house and RV were full of mostly trash and it would have not been worth all the effort if they expected you to pay them for the contents of the property. It was great to see another adventure but I am sure I was not the only person who was relieved when you turned down this clean-out. But I am sure with the warmer weather there will be a lot more adventures with a better ending for your business.

[@positivelypenny1392]

😂spoiler alert!😂

[@mozu517]

SO glad you passed on that deal! Unfortunately they're going to have to pay some person or company to clear out that stuff 😢

[@amysimpson646]

Sometimes just feeling like someone cares about your situation can help to motivate you to move. Well done, Alex.

[@rachelh5211]

Agreed. And he did provide them with some advice on the best way to handle their situation. That alone can be invaluable when people feel so overwhelmed that they don't even know where to begin.

[@christophercrowder872]

Kudos to you, Alex, for being able to compassionately maintain boundaries between the business side of things and your innate personal desire to help people.

[@maggie2u135]

Watching you go thru the things there I had a feeling there was not much for you to make a profit on. It's truly sad that some people get into predicaments like this, though it seems as if the owners were not at fault for all of it but their renters made a terrible mess. Alex, after watching all your videos for the past few years, I have been getting rid of a lot of stuff so my children don't have to deal with it. We aren't hoarders but do tend to collect stuff, fortunately not much has gone to the dump as we have been able to give most of it to certain charities. You are a good example.

[@deniseculton]

You are officially my all-time favorite Canadian. ( tell your wife I am NOT flirting. 😉) You are very kind and it's clear you'd love to help. From what I saw there was nothing but yardsale/flea market material and even if they let you have it all free I doubt you'd get enough to cover gas. I just had to compliment you on your big heart. It's one of the reasons I watch your videos. Take care.

[@PatWalden]

You have such a big heart, Alex. I am glad that you have good sense to go along with it.

[@brigittecrawley1872]

Car is looking better with all your hard work. Love watching you rebuild old cars. You have a lovely collection of beautiful cars.

[@laurabuckles7961]

Yep, they just need to sell the RV for what they can get out of it, then use that money to pay someone to come in and clean stuff out, hoping to break even. I feel for them, I'm getting to the point where I'm going to have to start getting rid of stuff before I can't anymore.

[@EliotHussman]

bingo!!!

[@Nwladylaura369]

I’ve been getting rid of stuff for over a year now. Before that I cleaned out my parents hoarder house. That pretty much zapped me, so now I’m going at a snail’s pace. But I have made progress and hope to be done with everything by end of the year. No kids to leave anything to, just my cousin and his family. I have Pyrex and vintage collectibles that someone is gonna love.

[@francesacoy4730]

Or the owners can trade for work in exchange for RV?!

[@LauraLouise008]

When I saw the video I too felt for them. But I kept saying in my head no Alex this is not for you. Truly wish them the best.

[@nyclady27]

Alex, you are so nice. Maybe a local community group can help them. Like, a high school class adopt them and help clean up so they can live out the rest of their lives in some comfort. Good luck to them. 😔☘

[@mattell56]

Thanks for sharing an unsuccessful pick. They can't all be winners, and it is honest to show it

[@Objective-Observer]

You shared your wisdom and experience, and your knowledge. They needed to know they can let go of that stuff without regrets. Thanks for going to see them, and tell them what they needed to hear.

[@jennifercullison]

We see the anguish you felt for these folks is evident in your voice, body and face...hopefully they will find the right folks to help them out of this sad situation.

[@barbaraann7173]

Thanks for taking us along....the old Edsel brings back memories....Back in 1968 Hubby (RIP) & I drove one from Whitehorse to Prince Rupert for a friend. Stopped in Teslin where the owner bought us a case of oil....lol...we used it all....memories.... ...Looking forward to your next video!

[@robertgildea2841]

I am watching from Elmira NY I respect how you explore abandoned places and show respect we have a lot of abandoned places in Elmira NY

[@keeplookingup1164]

Good call Alex .

[@TNgrandee3]

Wise choice, Alex. I am sure you gave them some very good advise.

[@lindatheodorou9827]

That is a sad situation. It was so obvious that you felt really bad that you couldn't help them BUT, you did the right thing. It really only looked like junk, aside from a handful of things. My heart goes out to them and hope they are able to find someone willing to help them out.

[@gilliandrysdale5306]

sorry for the couple but you made the right call ❤🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@katieallen3927]

Not every opportunity will be a good fit for what you do. It's a smart person who knows when to walk away. I appreciate that you share not bad as well as the good. Maybe next time.

[@angellocke8473]

You gave a try! 💓💘❤💝💖watching your videos, thank you for sharing and have a great night!

[@getitvintage]

Yikes! Sad situation. Prayers for them.

[@shelleynobleart]

Two things, one, you are a warm and dearly heartfelt person. Two, I need to clean my house immediately.

[@kerrylynnparsons7879]

Me too!!! 🥹

[@sontisontheim3138]

oh jea. good idea

[@charlottecramer3221]

😂😂😂

[@dawnseymour]

It was clear that it was hard for you to leave these owners behind. Here’s sending up hope for their situation.

[@deebee.14]

This is a great reminder on how not to leave it too late to sort out your home. I really hope they find someone who can sort it out for them My heart truly goes out to these people ❤

[@tinabrewer_24ab12]

Loved the Liberty bell box comment! You are a good man Alex!

[@bizburgess1947]

Wow! Some places are just too far out to make it worthwhile. The turnover has to be higher the further from home you go. I kept thinking please don't buy this Alexander. You are great but you can not save everything nor every situation. Hopefully, it inspires those of us with too much to care for , downsize while we still can.

[@ALittleFree]

I held my breath as you were deciding !! Obviously I was not the only one trying to telepathically communicate....Nooooo!! I'm sure they appreciated your time, interest and caring, as others have shared. 😊

[@ginnyprince1590]

I'm glad you walked away. What a mess

[@davidflamee]

Sometimes, good advice can be all it needs to move forwards. The video might generate some response too. The rented house requires the moving of lots of stuff and there will be people out there that would be happy to help out. It would nice if you can make an update on this situation.

[@matthewkizziahcuzia...gott9632]

That big bookcase was a regular bookcase on it's side. Like a china hutch. It sat on a cabinet on the unfinished side.

[@darbbively3406]

What I came to reply. A barrister's bookcase would never have a door swinging down like that, and the hinges are quite complex where that had simple leaf hinges.

[@matthewkizziahcuzia...gott9632]

@@darbbively3406 exactly. Plus you could see the studs inside that hold up the shelves. They just put a finished side down on the ground.

[@teresaslovingcare4444]

How sad 😢I feel for them.

[@dtruetheeness]

I hope they find a solution.❤

[@bonniedrouillard3963]

Maybe the community can help them Garage sales their stuff and then rid the rest. Spring has sprung. Best wishes for the couples future.

[@quaithom3138]

If i lived in the area, i would most certainly volunteer to clear out everything; they just have to pay the cost of a dumpster. Maybe they could offer all the Yard Equipment in exchange for the help.

[@joanmaxine1]

Oh my, oh my! Sad situation.

[@maddieadams75]

Thanks for sharing ❤

[@robynw6307]

So sad for them in their situation. But I appreciate you showing us that not every house is worth your money and time. After all, you are a business and need to make a profit to care for your family.

[@ladyskellington3296]

Bless you Alex. I can see how torn your heart and head are with these poor people .

[@rebeccabee6615]

“The original box for the Liberty Bell!” 🤣 Good call on this one. Hopefully, they’ll be able to find a way to get the stuff cleaned up.

[@Mr_Oggie]

They probably saw some of your recent videos where you bought the whole house, moved everything out and then swept up and cleaned it up a little when done... and unfortunately missed the part where your business is finding stuff to resell, not the actual cleaning part :) :) :)

[@Pauldjreadman]

Possibly.

[@janielow8719]

That's what my cynical side was thinking watching this video .

[@Pauldjreadman]

@@Rynn21 It just didn’t work out this time.

[@carolynsimone8647]

Such a sad situation...God bless you for stirring them in the right direction,if they choose that...🥰

[@madelynl.5351]

Lately in my area people are doing free yard sales. Everything is free. It is very cleansing to just give the stuff away. Then whatever’s left can go to charity or trash.

[@Gigi-000]

That car was everything!!!

[@nancycornett9949]

Thanks Alex!

[@maryp8388]

Good call.

[@carolmiller7310]

Thanks 😊

[@MrGnomerdoom]

Great video Alex ❤

[@frankm8533]

I just helped a elderly couple clear their house it was so full they thought they had tons of money in Collectibles and good stuff but after many auction, estate people came out nobody was interested in anything so we gave most away to donations I set up a 1$ anything table out front and the rest into dumpsters because of the time frame. They were heart broken very upset but had to move into senior living housing

[@jrand2631]

Yeah that is, in many occasions, the problem - people collect lots of stuff, convinced it will be worth a fortune in the future, but people's taste change over time, and things that what was considered "gold" 40 years ago, and a solid investment, you can't even give away today because nobody wants it. My grandma on my father's side learned that the hard way.

[@frankm8533]

@@jrand2631 That's exactly what they did They traveled the world in the 60s 70s and 80s bought stuff at flea makerts or antique shops in other countries thought they had big money sitting in cabinets stored away forever they had two couches from the 90s they paid 4,000$ each for they sat in a spare room till this year like new but nobody wanted them 90% of it went into dumpsters the house was very clean just full wall to wall with boxes of unfortunately 'junk' I was finding boxes with a lamp shade, one sock, old batteries,old flash light,a spoon,a coffee cup and they wanted 20$ for the stuff 🙄

[@phangirlable]

@@frankm8533 I mean, maybe not big money but how is stuff from flea markets and especially antique shops that is 50+ years old not worth anything?

[@frankm8533]

@@phangirlable I honestly don't know we couldn't find any auction places that were interested in anything I was posting stuff in Facebook daily for a couple dollars just to move it plus a huge free pile. I think the Auction place Alex uses would have taken it all but here nobody would call back or they would say no thanks there's no money to be made its all trinkets our customers won't bid on anything.

[@DawnDavidson]

Sadly, most places are like this. I’ve had to deal with my own stuff, my parents’ stuff, and their parents’ and relatives’ stuff. My great aunt and uncle traveled the world in the 1920’s and 1930’s, and had some stuff that was worth some money. But the rest of it was mostly “just stuff.” It’s hard to get rid of when it has sentimental value, but not much cash value. We always overestimate the value of our own stuff! And having typed l “stuff” this many times now, I’ve got George Carlin’s “A Place for My Stuff” routine in my head: “Did you ever notice that your sh*t is stuff, and everyone else’s stuff is sh*t?” And “A house is just a big pile of stuff with a lid on it”. 😂😂😂

[@carolerandolph4409]

Oh my, bless their hearts!

[@candacedolan4857]

You have a big heart but you did the right thing in passing on this. Better luck on your next one.

[@Elizabeth-tb5wh]

Alex….in the southern US and maybe other places, we have a saying. Now think this in a southern accent…..sometimes ya just gotta cut and run. Alex….cut and run! 😳 AND! We have been looking for that darn Liberty Bell box FOREVER!! 😂

[@caroleroseburgh1344]

Hi Alex and Melissa 🙋🏽

[@kymlouise]

I’m so glad that you took your own advice. Unfortunately, unless people who hoard get therapy at the same time as cleaning out their hoard; they will start hoarding again as soon as the clean out is complete.

[@julielumsden5184]

Happy to hear you made the right decision, it tough for you and for them but there are other options a available to them.

[@kerrylynnparsons7879]

The good thing is that Spring is here and that’s a perfect time for clearing clutter and trash!!!

[@paulinem.procopy3297]

You are so kind Alex. you try so hard to help...hope they can find some way to get a little breathing room...

[@vacayvibes1975]

I love these segments their my favorite!

[@urbanurchin5930]

.......THEY'RE my favorite.......learn English.......

[@dontknowbrian]

I was waiting for you to find a body behind one of them doors! What a dump!

[@cathifamjourney469]

Those glass grapes 🍇 sell well here in the states. Also lucite candle sticks are also good sellers.

[@cindycamden5673]

This was cool. You have some historical items. That air is nasty.

[@carolinedubose5136]

Sorry those folks are in a hard spot! So glad that there wasn't anything to make this project practical for you!! Your heart is in the right place!!

[@phangirlable]

You are glad there wasn't anything for him to make this worthwhile that could have lead to those folks getting help?

[@stubstoo6331]

@@phangirlable not everyone can be helped .

[@bexchick]

@@stubstoo6331 These people could have been helped. Maybe not by Alexander but someone.

[@lparky4409]

I'm from UK and have just seen a news story where a cleaner cleared out a house full of empty beer cans, filled a big truck with them, not to mention rotting food and other stuff.

[@jasondrummond9451]

Here beer cans are worth 10 cents each - so a truckload would be worthwhile!

[@Nwladylaura369]

My sister let my Mom’s kitchen get disgusting! I had to setup a mini frig and microwave in the bedroom for me to use while cleaning out the house. No way was I going to eat out of that mess. Mind you mental illness was a factor in my family’s situation. I try not to think about it, but it’s hard to forget.

[@justmeiniowa]

FYI, that was not a barrister's bookcase in the garage, it is the top part of a china cabinet. That's why the door fell open like that and you could clearly see the holes and a peg in the wood which a shelf would have sat on.

[@NorCackalacky]

Whew! Alexander, I just knew you were gonna say, "They needed help so...." Wise business decision!!

[@madmodders]

9:49 to me that looks more like a cabinet on its side. Especially since there are what looks like shelf pins poking up from the side where the hinges are on the door that flung open.

[@justmeiniowa]

That's exactly what it is. I was boggled when Alexander called it a barrister's bookcase lol.

[@patrickprior4393]

Awesome again 🎸🎸🎸 🎸

[@deborahcaldwell9775]

Ohhhhh my Spring in Maine Going East, you are. And there’s an EDSEL.

[@Kimella777]

U did the right thing👍🏻😊

[@liliamrodriguez3020]

Great video

[@teestjulian]

That's probably has to be so hard.... telling older folks that their stuff isn't worth much. Both of my parents died in the past 3 years, I'm executor of the estate and I'm in the same boat. Some things would have been worth money, if it was cared for properly. Even the house is in disrepair. They loved their stuff, more than anything. But they didn't take care of it properly. Going to see what I can salvage and have a small in person estate sale I'm a flipper, mostly mid century home decor, some antiques, so I do know what is good or not, for the most part

[@cherifew3485]

Not all mid century furniture is called mid century nor modern! Or Mod! Some furniture from late 50’s early 60’s are called “Danish Modern”look up what “Danish Modern” is! Some is called French provincial, some is just called Mod, some of the stuff are called industrial!

[@franswey2]

💔🤗🙏🏻 This lovely couple is in my thoughts, prayers and heart. I pray someone saw this episode and let you know they want to help them. I’m praying for you, Alex, as you have such a giving and caring heart, this had to be difficult for you. 🤗❤️

[@rhondasweeney7271]

This was a sad video. Too bad there is no one absolutely no one to help them.

[@lanitaorjeraldlewisdillorl2258]

It's a shame you couldn't help this couple out but it's understandable. Maybe enough people watched this that are in the area & they'll be willing to help them out, out of charity & good will. I sure hope so. You can only do so much & have only so much time in a day. We know you do a lot for others, whenever you can. God bless you & your family for what you have done & what you will do in the future. Good video.

[@dirthawk2669]

Understand your feelings but you made the proper choice ! On to the next !!

[@melodytwitchell4898]

Hi Alex some times we can't help I know it's sad 😔 loves

[@lorettalouvros207]

There are people that do these kinds of clear outs for free. I don’t know if they live in their area of course but it’s possible. I would definitely help them if I lived there. Starting with the yard and the motor home would be ideal and then moving through the trailer and emptying that and possibly selling it as well. As long as there is no leaks in the motor home there are plenty of people now that would love to demo the inside and make it over. Maybe even as a tiny home? I wish them the best of luck ❤

[@rachelh5211]

Yes, I was thinking the motorhome could be used as a tiny home for someone, maybe even a college student or young couple willing to clean it out and renovate it, mostly with sweat equity.

[@susanpeltz5813]

I hope you had a nice drive

[@mcwatersd]

I am truly sorry for their predicament . I hope they find a way out of their situation. It is so easy for time etc to catch up with you . Glad you didnt say yes to this one. Keep Safe ❤Keep Well❤

[@GuyWithTheDogs]

As word spreads that there's a guy who might pay thousands of dollars for the contents of a house that's stuffed with stuff (and he'll even clean the place up to boot!) you'll get more calls about houses like that. Houses like two of the three you've already done are probably (each) one in a thousand, so you'll get more practice at giving people a gentle reality check.

[@randysinger2673]

after the 1st few minutes of the video i was saying NO !!

[@janice9395]

We have done several of this kind of clean ups and as you know it is a lot of work and comes with costs.

[@judyfaul8524]

This looks like a walk in the park compared to the rental properties I have cleaned!I could write a book about all the horror stories I've encountered!Can't believe how anyone could live like a pig,let alone trash someone else's property!😱

[@pattipostcard8489]

I've had that experience, too. It's awful.

[@cindyurban150]

That was gross ! How can humans live like that ? Glad you walked away from that one.

[@MrShene123]

Where that Edsel was there was also a Moto Ski, it looked like the Ultra Sonic which has a liquid cooled 440 and is the Moto Ski version of the Blizzard 9500 and is worth around 4k.

[@cdmikie]

Sad situation for sure.

[@karlrazzolini2092]

That rv reminds me of a place near Andrew ab that place has plenty of collectibles in the building that looks like a service garage and is typically open weekends for a garage sale ish kinda deal

[@peggysmith5202]

May God bless them.

[@dianne11ca]

Amen

[@bigbandguru]

Holiday Rambler is a good RV from the quality standpoint. It is a gas engine with a gas generator, roof AC, and all the comforts of home… Without leaks on the roof it would be an easy restoration by simply cleaning out and giving some TLC..

[@maristresemann4552]

My heart and prayers are with them. 😢

[@kathrynhodgson5037]

There’s a project dune buggy sitting in my yard too. My son always has a project vehicle.

[@sandradisch9935]

I am not saying this RV, but a RV in general might be a good future plan for you. As you do more massive clean out, you could have a RV has you mobile plan . You can store all you general needs items for a clean up, or could need for a clean up. It could be a neutral familiar space, when someone needs a break from the clean up. You can also keep snacks, and cooler food. You can have a place to take a shower. If you uncover a massive amount of something unpleasant you will have a place to take a shower. Oh and a bathroom in general.

[@Habitnunangel]

I watch all episodes, when did you get the Tesla? I can't recall it in a video.

[@outoftheburrough]

He mentioned it in a live

[@Habitnunangel]

@Sarah M Thank you Sarah.

[@gweniawilliams6815]

Thanks for the video. Yes that is a sad situation that you are just like everyone else you’ve got to be paid for a job that’s just the way life works and I’ll catch you on your next one.

[@ToriLynnH]

They could sell the rv for $5k and use that to hire a clean out crew and a dumpster.

[@chrislongbeard]

About the "quality" of cleanouts I've been involved with since last year. The guy I help says he has turned down alot recently because the owners are expecting resale prices and the cleaning thrown in. But to spend 2 solid weeks usually clearing out with 3 guys it never comes out positive on the business side.

[@aksez2u]

We always think we have more time. I'm struggling with decluttering right now. Trying to downsize a bit, and not have so many possessions when I get into my later years, but it's HARD! I feel for these people, too.

[@Nwladylaura369]

Age and medical issues sneak up on you, so yes, clean and declutter while you can. I’m down to mostly stuff to sell online or donate it. Nothing left to trash.