Whether you’re buying or selling real estate, how do you know what’s included in the sale of a house? Presumably, you’re buying or selling the house itself and the land on which it sits. But what about the fancy refrigerator, home theater, or smart thermostat? It depends.
Typically, anything “permanently attached” should stay. However, it all depends on what’s in the contract. If your contract doesn’t specify, you might be in for a big surprise. This is just another reason why choosing the right real estate agent is so crucial. An experienced agent knows how to write a detailed contract that spells out exactly what comes with the house.
You may assume a particular item comes with the house (or not) and end up shocked when things don’t turn out that way. Given the high emotions often involved when buying or selling, it’s best to keep these disputes from happening in the first place. Eliminate confusion surrounding what’s included in the sale by addressing it in the contract.
What’s in the Contract?
The standard Kansas City Regional Association of REALTORS® (KCRAR) residential real estate sale contract outlines anything buried, nailed, bolted, screwed, glued or otherwise permanently attached will typically remain with the property.
Specifically: attached shelves, racks, towel bars, fireplace grates, screens, glass doors, attached lighting, mounted entertainment brackets, attached floor coverings, plumbing equipment and fixtures, bathroom vanity mirrors, storm windows, doors, screens, attached or hung window blinds, curtains, coverings, fences (including pet systems) and window mounting components.
Inclusions & Exclusions
In real estate, virtually everything is negotiable. Items listed in the standard contract can be specifically excluded before the contract is signed by all parties. Just the same, things not listed in the standard contract can be added before the contract is signed.
If you are selling your house and the chandelier in the dining room is a family heirloom, you should replace it with something that has no sentimental value. If you’re not including your home theater, you should consider removing it and repairing any damage left behind after removing system. It’s best to do these things before the home hits the market, ideally before photography. That way, buyers won’t get their hearts set on something they can’t have.
Likewise, if you’re buying a house and really love the custom window dressings, or stainless refrigerator, make sure your contract includes them. On the other hand, if you absolutely don’t want the worn-out swing set to stay, make sure it’s in writing.
Leave Personal Items Out of the Contract
When negotiating the terms of a home purchase, it’s important to know the difference between standard fixtures and personal items. Personal items are things like jet skis, pianos, furniture and lawn mowers. Banks and appraisers don’t like seeing personal items included in a real estate sale contract. That’s because mortgages are for real estate, not personal items. You can still buy or sell these types of items, but it’s best to do that separate from the real estate transaction.
I hope that helps clear up your understanding about what’s included in the sale of a house. If you’re thinking of buying, selling or investing in real estate, or just have questions, feel free to reach me below!
Justin Rollheiser – REALTOR®
Keller Williams Realty | Diamond Partners, Inc.
13671 S Mur-Len Rd | Olathe, KS 66062
Mobile 913-800-7653
Office 913-322-5878
Comments or Questions?