Out-of-control messes: Owner of home confesses

Dear Amy: My husband died decades ago, the kids moved on, and now I’m a widow living alone in this huge threestory house that never got fixed up. We bought it “as is” with the plan to completely renovate, but never did.

My hubby and kids left a lot of stuff behind, and I don’t feel like fighting about it. The kitchen is from the ’40s, the carpeting has lots of spots from the cat puking. The whole place needs painting inside, there is junk everywhere, and shelves of books.

I am a landlord and I have multiple apartments to tend to, repair and upgrade. Keeping a lovely home is not on my priority list, nor in my budget.

Fornew friends, I cringe at the thought of reciprocating their hospitality. I am embarrassed.

— Old Messy House Dweller Dear Dweller: I think you should choose to treat yourself as well as you treat your tenants. You deserve to live in a safe and comfortable home. Please, do this while you are healthy and have some control over the process.

This sort of project is made easier by working with partners. You could hire a professional to help you sort through your possessions. Selling some things could finance necessary repairs. It would also liberate you from your burden.

If you don’t want to hire someone, one or two friends could help you to get started. Church groups sometimes organize teams to help people in your situation; your local Office on Aging could also point you toward volunteers.

Watch the show “Clean Sweep” (clips and tips available on YouTube). These stories featuring homes such as yours are helpful, useful, and inspiring.