**Published Oct 16, 2025 • Last updated just now • 3-minute read**
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A person is feeling overwhelmed trying to be courteous to their parents’ neighbors who frequently stop by to chat while they are busy preparing the family home for sale. Photo by stock photo /Getty Images
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**DEAR ABBY:** My mother passed away last year, and my father is now 90. I’m in the process of staging their primary and vacation homes for sale, which is a massive undertaking due to their hoarding tendencies. They were well-liked, and whenever I visit the cabin, their neighbors are eager to come by and chat with my dad and me.
Because the property is unique and valuable, several neighbors are hoping my father will make a deal with them. He’s receptive to their requests, and although he hasn’t signed anything, he has made verbal commitments that he can’t fulfill. I’ve informed them that I hold power of attorney, and nothing will proceed without my approval.
My time is limited, and I want to focus on cleaning out the cabin during the few days I have available. However, these visits are taking up valuable time. The cabin requires more attention than I anticipated, and I need every moment to prepare it for sale. These neighbors have been friends of my parents and have supported them throughout their lives, so I hesitate to tell them to leave us alone. How can I politely ask them to give us space to complete the necessary work? Additionally, how can I tactfully inform them to stop inquiring about the sale, as I intend to pursue a traditional selling method rather than any informal arrangements?
— OVERWHELMED BY IT ALL
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**DEAR OVERWHELMED:** It may be time to set some boundaries if you want to complete the work efficiently. When the friendly neighbors stop by, kindly let them know (with a smile) that you have a lot to do to prepare the property for sale and don’t have time for socializing. You can also direct those interested in purchasing to the real estate agent or attorney who will be assisting with the sale.