The household had become overwhelmed by its possessions.

Antique cameras were displayed on the shelves, while the basement was filled with old boxes containing vinyl records arranged in a mysterious order only known to the owner. In the garage, there were 11 hammers, and the kitchen counters were barely visible underneath an array of cookware and appliances, with a food processor still dirty from a previous meal.

The Washington, D.C. estate sale in February showcased the remnants of a lifetime of memories, from vacations to gatherings, left behind by owners who had passed away and whose children had already taken what they wanted. The leftover items were up for sale online, attracting bargain hunters.

In a world where buying goods is easier than ever due to online shopping, the challenge lies in letting go of possessions. This struggle results in overflowing basements and storage units. If items are not passed on to new owners, they are often discarded, leaving the burden to next generations.

Julie Hall, the founder of The Estate Lady, described the current situation as a constant battle against an overwhelming amount of belongings. She revealed that people often overestimate the value of their possessions when trying to sell them.

While it may seem that the era of inexpensive goods is changing due to global tariffs, the aftermath is a monumental accumulation of belongings. The hidden costs go beyond monetary value, causing rifts in families during the distribution of possessions or the decision to dispose of them. As the baby boomer generation ages, more adult children will have to clear out their parents' homes, adding to the strain.

One example is Tiana Arriaga, 25, who downsized with her boyfriend in Santa Monica, California, to a small apartment. Her boyfriend's minimalistic approach contrasted with her extensive belongings, highlighting the challenges of merging two lifestyles.