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When you sell your house, the general expectation is that you will leave it in a "broom-clean" condition with only specific items, known as fixtures, remaining. Personal belongings should be removed. However, the specifics can depend on local custom, what's outlined in your sale contract, and any negotiations with the buyer.
Here's a breakdown of what typically stays and what usually goes:
Typically Stays (Fixtures):
- Anything permanently attached or affixed to the property: This is the general rule. If it requires tools to remove, it usually stays. Examples include:
- Built-in appliances: Ovens, dishwashers, microwaves (if built-in), and sometimes refrigerators (often negotiated).
- Plumbing fixtures: Toilets, sinks, bathtubs, showers.
- Light fixtures: Ceiling lights, wall sconces, and sometimes even chandeliers (unless specifically excluded).
- Flooring: Carpets (unless specifically excluded), hardwood, laminate, tiles.
- Built-in cabinetry and shelving: Kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, bookshelves attached to walls.
- Doors and windows: Including the hardware (doorknobs, locks) and sometimes window treatments.
- Blinds and shutters: These are usually considered fixtures as they are fitted to the windows.
- Curtain rods and brackets: The hardware typically stays, but the curtains themselves can often be taken. It's best to clarify.
- Central heating and cooling systems: Furnaces, boilers, air conditioning units, radiators.
- Water heaters.
- Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors (often legally required).
- Garage door openers and remotes.
- Landscaping: Trees, shrubs, planted flowers, unless specifically excluded.
- Permanent outdoor fixtures: Fences, sheds (if permanently installed), decks, patios, in-ground pools, swing sets bolted to the ground, basketball hoops attached to the house or a pole cemented in the ground, gazebos.
- Wall-mounted items: TV mounts (the actual TV is personal property), soundbars if permanently mounted.
Typically Goes (Personal Property):
- Freestanding furniture: Sofas, beds, tables, chairs, dressers.
- Removable appliances: Refrigerators (unless agreed upon), washing machines, dryers, freestanding microwaves.
- Decorations: Pictures, mirrors (unless built-in), wall hangings, rugs (that are not attached).
- Personal items: Clothing, books, electronics, kitchenware, etc.
- Curtains (usually, but clarify).
- Light bulbs (though it's a nice gesture to leave them).
- Items in sheds or outbuildings that are not permanently affixed.
Important Considerations and How to Avoid Disputes:
- The Contract is Key: The purchase agreement is the legally binding document that specifies what is included in the sale. Always clearly list any items you intend to take that might be considered fixtures, and any items you are willing to leave that might be considered personal property.
- Fixtures and Fittings List (TA10 Form in the UK): In some regions, a specific form is used to detail exactly what fixtures and fittings are included or excluded from the sale.
- Communication is Crucial: Talk to your real estate agent and ensure they communicate clearly with the buyer's agent about what will be staying and what will be removed.
- Final Walk-Through: Buyers will typically do a final walk-through before closing to ensure the property is as agreed upon. Removing items that were expected to stay can cause delays or legal issues.
- Replace Items You Take: If you are taking a light fixture or other fixture, it's good practice to replace it with a working, standard alternative so the buyer isn't left with exposed wires or a non-functional space.
- Be Clear About Ambiguous Items: If there's any doubt about whether something is a fixture or personal property, address it explicitly in the contract.
- Consider Leaving Helpful Items: While not required, leaving things like appliance manuals, warranties, extra paint cans (with color names/codes), spare tiles, or even a few basic cleaning supplies can be a thoughtful gesture.
In summary, when selling your house, you generally leave behind anything permanently attached to the property. All personal belongings should be removed unless specifically negotiated and agreed upon in writing in the sale contract. Always clarify with your real estate agent to ensure a smooth transaction and avoid potential misunderstandings with the buyer.
