Princeton Town Topics – Let’s Talk Real Estate – May 1, 2013
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE SALE?
How do you know if your favorite chandelier or the bookshelf you built for your kids will be included in the sale of your home? Usually if a feature is attached to the house, it will go to the buyer.
In most cases, the critical test is whether the item is permanently fastened to the property by nails, bolts, glue or other permanent attachment. If attached, it is considered a fixture that has been converted into real property. For example, a wine cellar installed after the house was built will convey, but the portable wine rack in the kitchen will not. If there is nothing specific in the sales contract about a fixture, it is automatically included in the sale. To avoid misunderstandings that could lead to litigation, replace your prized chandelier with an inexpensive substitute before the house is put on the market.
A buyer can ask that certain features remain with the home. So it’s important to specify what fixtures are included in the sales contract.
