Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

I'd suggest contacting the clerk of the probate court in the county where the deceased owner last resided and/or passed away to determine if there is a probate proceeding, and if so, who is the executor or administrator of the estate. If you locate one, get his/her written OK to dispose of the stuff. If there is no active probate or this otherwise turns into a blind alley, turn over the property but have the relative sign a simple statement saying that he/she believes he/she is entitled to the stuff and assumes all responsibility if it turns out otherwise.

I disagree that you have to get permission from anyone. It came with the property title in foreclosure. It's yours, do as you like.

However, ethically, if you know of family or heirs with an interest in it, let them have it. And, you could check as Mr. Whipple suggests. But in the end, have whoever takes it date and sign a receipt saying they asserted a claim and you turned it over to them. Include an inventory and all their contact ID.