Stay or Go? What Fixtures Come With the Home You Buy?

When you visit open houses or your College Station, TX realtor takes you to view homes, most will have some furniture and décor inside. The houses may be staged to look their absolute best so you can imagine living in them if you choose to buy. 

It’s important to remember that many of the things you see will not be sold with the house. Most people understand that the furniture, vases and art on the walls are not part of the property, but they might be surprised to learn that there are other things that may be gone when they close on the house, get the keys and walk inside after the purchase.

Appliances

In general, any appliance that is built into the house stays with it. This usually includes ovens and stoves, built-in microwaves and dishwashers. Refrigerators, clothes washers and dryers may also stay behind, but I urge you to ask to make sure.

Even if you are told that appliances are included in the sale, you may not necessarily get the appliances you see. The high-end stainless steel kitchen set may be replaced by less expensive options, so I encourage you to always read the fine print and ask questions.

Fixtures and Hardware

Things like light fixtures, sink faucets and flat screen TV mounting brackets may or may not be included in the sale. That beautiful chandelier in the hall, the electric sconces in the bedroom and the stained glass pendant light in the kitchen could be taken by the people who are selling the house. Likewise, while sinks and bathtubs need to have faucets, they do not necessarily have to be the fancy ones on display.

If you want to keep any of these things, ask if they are included in the sale. If a family plans to remove some, you might be able to negotiate a price and buy them before they take out their screwdrivers.

Building Materials

Everything that is essentially part of the house or property should stay during the sale. This includes things like floor tiles, crown molding, fence posts and rails and ceiling medallions. Although you should check the MLS sheet to make sure before finalizing the purchase, it is pretty safe to assume that the previous owner is not going to rip up the kitchen floor to take the tile with him.

Furniture and Décor

On the other hand, you should assume that all freestanding personal property goes with the previous owner. This includes all furniture, throw and area rugs, art on the walls, lamps and all decorations. It may also include window treatments such as shades, blinds and curtains; although, whatever is on the windows is the most likely to be left behind. Again, ask your realtor if such things are included or if you can negotiate to buy them while you’re buying the house.

Your College Station, TX realtor should lead you through the entire process and reveal everything so there are no surprises or questions once you finally close on your new home. Then you can move in with a positive attitude and not feel shocked or disappointed because you assumed something would be included in the sale and it wasn’t.

Featured Home for Sale in College Station, TX

Sarah Miller, your RE/MAX realtor bryan-college station can help you discover a lot of great tips for making a profitable sale of your home. Call Sarah Miller at 979-255-1904 for your real estate needs in Bryan-College Station and the entire Brazos Valley!