Begin with a simple, repeatable process that you can stick to. Start by choosing a central place to store the list — a dedicated app, a spreadsheet, or a notebook. Don’t aim for perfection on the first pass; the goal is to capture as much as you can and refine later.
Break the job into manageable sessions by location: one room, one closet, one storage box at a time. Work systematically and move on when a location is done so progress stays visible and momentum builds.
Use photos liberally. A clear image speeds identification, supports insurance claims, and helps with resale. For each item capture a short title and the location — that’s enough to get started. Add fields later for receipt, serial number, or value when you have more time.
Tips for speed and accuracy:
Once the initial pass is complete, schedule a follow-up to add receipts, purchase dates, and estimated values. Back up the inventory to cloud storage and create a PDF export for safekeeping. Over time, keeping it updated after major purchases or disposals will make this a low-effort habit rather than a huge chore.