It can be unclear exactly what’s included when buying or selling a home, but it doesn’t have to be. There are some standard features and fixtures that almost always stay in a home. Everything else is technically up for negotiation! Every home is unique and you should always talk to your real estate agent about specifics, but here’s what you can generally expect to be included in a home sale.
Standard Fixtures and Features
There are a few things that almost always stay in a home when it’s being sold. Examples include the range, built-in microwave, dishwasher, water heater, and furnace.
A good rule of thumb is if it is attached to the wall or floor it stays in the home. This includes flat-screen TVs mounted to the wall, built-in surround sound speakers, window blinds, carpet, etc.
The washer, dryer, and refrigerator are generally not considered fixtures. But again, anything is technically negotiable.
Buying a Home That is Sold Fully Furnished
Because we have such a large second home market, it is very common for homes in Summit and Park County to be sold fully furnished. If everything is in great working order and it is of value to buyers, they generally want to keep it as part of the purchase. If items are older and not working well (such as a hot tub) buyers should request that it is excluded from the sale and have the sellers remove it prior to closing.
Keep in mind there will likely be items that the seller wants to exclude as well. This is understandable – and can also be problematic. It’s important to have a detailed inclusion and exclusion list so that all parties can avoid any disappointment.
Exclusion and Inclusion List
Whether you are the buyer or the seller, you want as much clarity as possible about what will be included in the sale. Sellers should put together a detailed list of items that are both included and excluded and share that with the purchasing party.
Buyers can also create an inclusion and exclusion list and their real estate agent can then try to negotiate those items into the contract. This might consist of appliances, furniture, or decor items such as chandeliers and artwork.
If the seller wants to leave the old refrigerator, buyers will be responsible for the cost and hassle of disposal. So be sure to list anything that you DO NOT want to be included in the sale as well. It’s always a good idea for both parties to take pictures or videos of the home to refer back to specific items.
Be Prepared
Buying or selling a home can be an emotional and stressful time. Something that might be ‘a big deal’ to one party can be totally unimportant and irrelevant to another. An experienced real estate agent will be able to anticipate and avoid potential conflict and reach a compromise. It’s important to openly communicate with your real estate agent about what you want so that they can help you to the best of their abilities.
How Can We Help?
We hope that you’ve found this information regarding what’s included when buying or selling a home helpful. If you need buying or selling guidance or help in the Summit or Park County area please reach out! We will also continue to provide you with relevant and up-to-date information here on our blog.
If you would like more information on how the Summit and Park County real estate market is doing, you can also sign up for our detailed monthly market report by clicking this link.
Best Regards,
Scott & Anne Lindblom
Broker Associates
[email protected]
[email protected]
Scott: 970-485-4065
Anne: 608-345-2734
www.LindblomGroupe.com