How do I track all my property and assets?

Estate settlement requires your executor to identify every asset you own, determine its value, and distribute it according to your will. Without comprehensive asset tracking, executors spend months searching for accounts, property, and valuables. Thorough documentation transforms estate settlement from archaeological dig into organised process.

Real property (land and buildings) should be documented with maximum detail: full address for each property, title numbers and land registry information, whether you own outright or have a mortgage, current estimated value, rental status (if investment property), any encumbrances or restrictions, location of property deeds, and your wishes for the property.

Financial assets form the bulk of most estates: bank accounts at each institution, investment accounts and share portfolios, superannuation and retirement accounts, life insurance policies with beneficiary information, cryptocurrency holdings, term deposits and government bonds, and money owed to you.

Valuable personal property often has more sentimental than monetary value but should be documented: jewellery with appraisals for valuable pieces, art collections with provenance, antiques and collectibles, important family heirlooms with history, firearms, and any other collections with significant value.