The House is Sold! - What Stays and What Goes?

Whether you are a buyer or a seller, never assume that items are included or excluded as part of the real estate transaction. Rules and regulations vary from state to state and are something you should discuss with your real estate agent. Sellers should carefully list the details of what comes with the property in writing and remove anything they plan to keep well before potential buyers come through. Also, when things are removed, the area must be returned to its original condition. For example, if a seller removes a light fixture, they should repair, repaint, and replace it with another one. The overall expectation is that anything that is permanently attached or installed stays with the house. Avoid misinterpretations of what will stay and what will go well before the closing date to avoid misunderstandings. Buyers need to ask plenty of questions and make no assumptions when it comes to what will be included in the sale. Here are a few specifics to consider.

Yard and garden - A home’s plantings and landscaping is considered permanent. If you want those tulip bulbs your grandmother brought you from Holland, dig them up and replace them. Built in grills and barbeque pits along with pool equipment stay with the house. Things such as freestanding birdbaths, or outdoor furniture are not permanent and negotiable, that is, the seller can choose to include them or not. Garage door openers are a key part of the fixed garage door and should stay.

Doors and windows - These are definitely included as part of the real estate transaction. However, there have been cases of homeowners removing various doors and windows and not replacing them. For example, an heirloom stained glass window or an interior door, which had been used to record children’s height.

Flooring, moulding, and mantelpieces - These are all permanent components and should not be removed. In rare cases, if the buyer requests it and the seller agrees, then it would be permissible. Again, anything that is discussed should be put into writing before the closing date.

Fireplace components - Screens, grates, and artificial logs are part of the fireplace and are included. Fireplace tools, however, are negotiable.

Satellites and electronics - Things such as satellite dishes, intercoms, and built in speakers that are permanently positioned are typically included in the sale. Again, if the seller wishes to keep any of those items, they must be removed before the home is listed. Remember to take care of returning any areas to their original condition and also keep in mind that things not included should never appear in photos in “For Sale” publications or online listings.

Appliances-Dishwashers, stoves, and refrigerators are viewed as permanent fixtures along with mounted microwave ovens. Washers and dryers are deemed removable.

Again, these are merely suggestions. Be thorough and check with a licensed real estate agent, educate yourself in regard to the state rules and regulations, assume nothing, and address any questionable items in writing.