Once I take ownership of the property, I clear everything that isn't trash into the garage, I try and contact the owner the first week, if no luck I discard the items into a dumpster.  

If you, or your tenants, are concerned about cold feet, put down an area rug (they can be removed easily and cleaned or discarded) or buy a pair of slippers.

My agent recommended that I not discard it yet.  

My business partner wanted to keep them but I am sure with the new railings we would either need to match or discard the old.

Also, in the letter, I would of included any cost to haul away the discard items by her. 

Be sure everyone entering and handling that mess wears some appropriate safety gear - breathing masks, at the very least, head covering, eye protection, good strong gloves resistant to penetration and disposable outer wear which is discarded at least daily, or as needed when heavy soils are encountered.Consider going hazmat compliant.

The family confirmed that what was left behind can be discarded.  

If there are any discrepancies in the above checks we either discard the application or will go for a double security deposit, but you, as the owner, would make the final decision.We check with previous landlords which can be a daunting task.We require proof of income(pay stubs for 2 months, etc).We don't typically send you all of the details on a client, but we send snapshots of the issues we see..DK(Tenants initials) Credit score of 549

Here is a basic plan for hiring a GC:(1) Ceate a comprehensive Scope of Work for your project with most important counts and measurements(2) Get several GC referrals, ask them to see their work on other properties (ideally similar to what you're contemplating)(3) If you like what you see, invite them to bid and hand them a printed copy of your Scope(4) Walk them through your property and explain your vision for the project, bring your laptop to show pics of other remodeled properties you like(5) Ask for detailed bids in writing with estimated start and completion dates(6) Follow your gut in picking a couple of companies that looks trustworthy and capable (discard bids from those that don't impress you regardless of their costs)(7) Review bids, see how prices from different GCs compare for the same items(8) Negotiate bids with all remaining candidates to get to the costs level your project can afford(9) Discuss how many people they'll have on site during most of work days they'll be working there.

I would like the feedback component so I know if a lead is still interested or needs to be discarded from future contact as well as so I can update owners on progress.