Frequently when Realtor Erica West talks to senior homeowners about downsizing to an apartment or smaller house, the conversation drifts to discarding furniture and keepsakes they have accumulated over the years.

The sentimental value to them is priceless. To a potential buyer, it may be pennies on the dollar.

“Before a house can be sold, the broker might want the property to be emptied and cleaned so that it can be shown to prospective buyers,” said West. “This adds a degree of time and pressure to an already confusing situation. We can help.”

In much the same approach that West applies to inform clients about their home’s investment value, on May 23 she gathered five appraisers in the Community Center to have an antique or collectible item evaluated.

The appraisers were Jody Rogers, owner of From the Attic; Sara Peters, Scott Gram and Gary Landi of Picture the Past Antiques.

The event was part of West’s lifestyle series, which she dedicates to providing resources and education to individuals wanting to downsize.

“When you have investments in stock, you follow the stock market,” she said. “You track how your investments are performing...You have a need to know what they are worth.

“If you are like most people, you ignore your most valuable asset. You do not track the value of your home. You don’t really think about it until something in your life changes.

“Like stock, gold and antiques, the value of real estate fluctuates.”

West provides a free equity check-up to any town resident. She can be reached on her mobile phone at 480-650-7002.