You’ve been shopping for your dream condo for weeks now and have finally found the perfect home for your family. Before you seal the deal, you need to be aware of what comes with the house and what doesn’t. Below are some tips for new home buyers on the 5 things that won’t normally stay when you buy a new home.
- Stove, Refrigerator, or Washer and Dryer
You need to be aware that the seller is not obligated to leave a stove or refrigerator. They may be large, but they are in no way a fixture and can therefore be removed. If the seller is hell bent on keeping their appliances, then they can simply unplug the refrigerator and remove it. They could also shut off the gas valve and remove the gas stove. The same goes for the washer and dryer. These appliances are considered the property of the seller unless they explicitly state that they are part of the deal.
- Fish in the Koi Pond
A Pond or water feature in a home is usually a fixture that cannot be removed. However, the fish are the property of the seller. In fact, many people consider koi as pets and they would actually take offence if you asked them to leave their precious friends behind.
- Above Ground Swimming Pools or Spa
Many might argue that a spa is a permanent fixture as it’s attached to an electrical source. However, a free-standing spa can easily be removed by disconnecting it from the mains. One way to determine whether the spa is a fixture or not is its location. If it’s located outdoors, then it’s probably the seller’s personal property and they’ll move with it. An indoors spa is usually a permanent fixture. However, you will still need to confirm with the seller.
- Window Treatments
Any shades and blinds you find on the windows are usually considered fixtures. But this is not the case with curtains and drapes that can be easily removed by sliding them off the curtain rod. They are the personal property of the seller of the home. The issue of window treatments can be confusing given that they fall into two categories – hardware and accessories. As a rule, all accessories are the personal property of the seller. Hardware items include curtain rods, cornices, shutters, blinds and shades. Accessories include valances, curtains, sheers and liners. It is best to clarify with the seller on what exactly will be included in the sale to avoid disagreements after you’ve made the purchase. Have all items that will be left behind listed in the purchase contract.
- Home theater Systems
Sadly, you won’t be enjoying the huge flat screen TV and HiFi system you saw during the home tour. This is the personal property of the seller. The only thing you might be left with is the wall brackets for mounting the TV. Even then, you’d have to negotiate with the seller and have it included in the purchase agreement.
