The Process
How Appointed Works
We coordinate everything that needs to happen after a loved one passes away — so your family has one trusted point of contact and doesn't have to figure it out alone.
Phase 1
First Contact
- Call, text, or email us any time
- We respond promptly and personally
- No forms. No wait times. Just a real conversation.
Most families reach out within the first week or two after a loved one passes — when there is a property to address and a lot that needs to get done.
Phase 2
We Listen First
- We take the time to understand your family's full situation
- No judgment. No pressure. No sales pitch.
- We learn what your family needs — and what it doesn't.
Every family is different. We never assume.
Phase 3
We Coordinate a Plan
- We identify everything that needs to happen
- We coordinate connections with qualified local service providers
- The personal representative makes the decisions. We coordinate the execution.
You'll always know what's happening, who's handling it, and what comes next.
Phase 4
We Coordinate Everything
- We coordinate the property, the vendors, the timelines, and all the follow-through
- We keep family members informed of the status of decisions made by the personal representative
- We handle the details so your family can focus on what matters most
You have one number to call. We coordinate everyone else.
Phase 5
Coordinated and Complete
- All tasks have been completed.
- The property has been taken care of. Every practical matter has been addressed.
- The vendors have finished their work.
- Your family can move forward knowing nothing was left unfinished and everything was done with care.
Many families refer us to others who find themselves in the same situation.
Why Appointed Is Free to Families
When we coordinate a service on your family's behalf — a real estate agent, an estate sale company, a moving service, or another vendor — that service provider compensates us for bringing them to you.
You never receive a bill from Appointed. We recommend providers based on what's right for your family — not what's right for us.
FAQ
Common Questions
Is Appointed's service really free to my family?
Appointed is paid by the service providers we coordinate on your behalf — so our service is offered at no charge to your family. You pay for the underlying services your family needs. You do not pay Appointed for coordinating them.
What exactly does Appointed do?
When a loved one passes away and there is a property to address, Appointed coordinates everything the family needs — property and real estate coordination, estate administration coordination, vendors, and family communication — all through one trusted point of contact.
Does Appointed make decisions or recommendations for my family?
No. Appointed does not make decisions and does not make recommendations. Your family makes the decisions — and the personal representative makes estate decisions, typically guided by their attorney. Appointed coordinates the execution of those decisions. Your family is always in control.
What is the difference between Appointed and a professional fiduciary?
A professional fiduciary is licensed by the state of California and legally authorized to make decisions on behalf of a family member or estate. Appointed is an operational coordinator. Your family and personal representative retain all decision-making authority. Appointed coordinates the practical work that supports those decisions.
Does Appointed serve as the personal representative or executor of an estate?
No. Appointed does not serve as personal representative, executor, or fiduciary in any capacity. Appointed coordinates the execution of decisions made by the personal representative — under the direction of their attorney and in accordance with their legal authority under the California Independent Administration of Estates Act.
Do I need a lawyer before calling Appointed?
No. Many families call us first and we help coordinate the connections they need — including referrals to qualified elder law, probate, and estate planning attorneys. Appointed does not provide legal advice. We coordinate and connect.
Does Appointed provide legal, medical, or financial advice?
No. Appointed coordinates. We connect families with the right qualified professionals for legal and financial guidance. All advice and decision-making remains with your family and their chosen professionals.
What areas does Appointed serve?
Appointed currently serves families in the San Francisco Bay Area and Tri-Valley — including Dublin, Pleasanton, Livermore, San Ramon, Danville, Walnut Creek, and surrounding communities. Contact us to discuss your family's situation.
How long does Appointed stay with a family?
From the first call until everything is settled. We don't hand families off. We stay through the full process.
How do I get started?
Call us, send an email, or fill out the contact form. No paperwork. No commitment. No cost to reach out. Just tell us about your situation and we will take it from there.
Does Appointed work with all estates?
Appointed specializes in coordinating estates that include real property — homes, condos, or other real estate that needs to be addressed as part of the estate process. If your family's situation involves a property, we are the right resource. Call us and we will tell you honestly whether Appointed is a fit for your family's needs.
Ready to take the first step?
Call us or send a message — we'll take it from here.