DEAR ABBY: I have one sister. Our mother is deceased. When our father passes away, he will leave a sizable estate to my sister and me, consisting of two homes and various businesses.
Because my sister lives 300 miles away, I will likely be the one taking care of Dad's affairs after his death. This will involve a great deal of time, going through both houses, some cleaning, and too many phone calls to count, etc.
Would it be fair to keep track of the time my husband and I devote to this, charge an hourly fee, and deduct it from my sister's share of our father's estate? Let's face it, fair is fair. -- DREADING WHAT'S AHEAD
DEAR DREADING: It seems fair to me. However, if your father has his faculties, this is something that should be discussed while he's still living so it can be noted in his will. If he's too ill to talk, then speak to the lawyer who drew up the will. You may be surprised to learn that what you have in mind is usual and customary. The lawyer can explain it to you.