Often times when people are purchasing or selling a home, they are unclear about what is considered included and what is not. It’s important that Seller’s understand their responsibilities in ensuring certain items remain with the home and Buyer’s need to understand what may not be included that they want to specify in the Purchase Contract.
Here are some tips from a recent NBC Segment:
Additionally, Buyers and Seller’s should refer to Page 2 of the Purchase Contract, as it spells out pretty clearly what is included. This is a list of some of the items that will stay with the home:
- built-in appliances
- light fixtures
- ceiling fans and remote controls
- central vacuum, hose, and attachments
- media antennas/satellite dishes (affixed)
- draperies and other window coverings
- outdoor fountains and lighting
- towel, curtain and drapery rods
- outdoor landscaping (i.e. – shrubbery,
- wall mounted TV brackets and hardware
- water-misting systems
- garage door openers and remote
- speakers (flush-mounted)
- storage sheds
Sometimes a home has a rented security system, water softener, water purification system or pool cleaning systems such as a salt cell or vacuum. If you are selling your home and any of these items are rented, rather than owned, you should disclose that information to the Buyer in the MLS listing. It should also be disclosed in the Seller disclosure forms. Buyers will see these items and assume they are attached and included, unless they are told otherwise.
Mirrors are a very commonly overlooked item and another item to pay special attention too. Framed mirrors that are hung on a nail are popular and are not considered attached. So if you’re buying a home and you don’t include those in the contract, the seller can remove them.
If you’re preparing to sell your home and you have a treasured light fixture or ceiling fan, be aware that they are also attached and will be sold with the home, so if there is something special you want to take with you, have it removed and replaced prior to taking pictures and prior to showings. Buyers will want what they see, so remove it before they see it. Also, be sure to review that section of the contract to be sure you understand what is included in the sale and what to expect.
When in doubt, ensure you’ve added it to the contract. Better to be sure than sadly surprised.
For any additional questions, call Holly at 480-266-8785 or holly@henbest.com.