Fixtures vs. personal property
A fixture is something attached to the home in a way that makes it part of the property, like a ceiling light or a built-in shelf. Fixtures usually transfer with the sale.
Personal property is movable and not attached, like a sofa or a floor lamp. It usually leaves with you. When the line is blurry, the contract decides.
What usually stays
- Built-in appliances, such as a dishwasher or wall oven
- Light fixtures and ceiling fans
- Window treatment hardware, such as rods and brackets
- Garage door openers and their remotes
- Built-in shelving, mirrors fastened to walls and wall-to-wall carpet
- Plants and trees in the ground
Items that cause disagreements
Some items fall in between, and they're where most move-out disputes start. Talk about them with your agent before you list.
- Refrigerators, washers and dryers, which may or may not be included
- TV wall mounts, often treated as a fixture
- Curtains and blinds, as opposed to the hardware
- Smart doorbells, thermostats and security cameras
- Sheds, playsets and potted plants outside
Put it in writing
Your listing and purchase contract can list inclusions and exclusions. If you want to take something that might be considered a fixture, like a chandelier, either exclude it in writing or replace it before you list.
Buyers will check at the final walk-through. Leaving the home the way the contract describes helps the closing go smoothly.
Leave a folder for the new owners
A short folder makes the handoff easier and can save the new owners a lot of guesswork.
- Appliance manuals and warranties
- Paint colors and brands for each room
- Service contacts, such as your HVAC and lawn companies
- Notes on the water shutoff, breaker panel and filters
- Keys, garage remotes, mailbox keys and alarm or gate codes
Leave it clean and safe
Unless your contract says otherwise, plan to leave the home broom-clean and free of trash and leftover items. Reset or remove smart devices from your accounts so the new owners can set them up.
