Can an executor sell the deceased's personal belongings and household items in Ontario?

Yes. Selling personal belongings — furniture, jewellery, vehicles, art, household items — is within the normal scope of an executor's authority to wind up an estate. However, the executor must first review the will for specific bequests. If the deceased left a specific item ("I give my diamond ring to my sister"), that item must be given to the named beneficiary, not sold.

For remaining personal property, the executor's duty is to obtain fair value. This may involve a professional estate appraiser for valuable items, a licensed auctioneer for a larger collection, or direct negotiation with buyers. Selling items to family members at below-market prices — even with goodwill intentions — can expose the executor to claims from other beneficiaries.

Distributing personal property among beneficiaries by agreement is also possible and often simpler — beneficiaries divide items informally and sign documentation confirming the arrangement. This works best when relationships are cooperative and the items' sentimental value is more significant than monetary value.