Picture this: You find your dream Victorian home in a sought-after neighborhood, complete with a lovely chandelier in the dining room. Taken over by its by its charm, you imagine the soft glow of crystal drops illuminating your future gatherings. However, when you finally move in, the cherished chandelier is gone, replaced by a lackluster substitute. Welcome to the world of buyer-seller disputes, where seemingly trivial items can become the center of contention. In this article, we’ll shed light on five common items that often spark disagreements between buyers and sellers, guiding you through the intricacies of real estate negotiations.
1. Appliances:
Legally, fixtures – anything bolted, nailed, wired, cemented, or permanently glued – are included in the sale. However, items that can be removed without damaging the property, like a freestanding refrigerator, are considered personal property. Negotiation is key, and it’s common for sellers to leave appliances. To avoid surprises, put your agreement in writing.
2. Window Dressings:
Window coverings, such as drapery rods and cornices, bolted to the wall, should be left by the seller. Drapes, easily unhooked, remain personal property. Clear communication is crucial! Put in writing whether the seller is leaving the window coverings, specifying the type and quality to avoid replacements of lesser quality.
3. Floor Coverings:
While a rug lying on the floor is easily movable, wall-to-wall carpet and glued linoleum tile are fixtures and should stay unless otherwise specified. Make sure the sale contract clarifies what happens to the floor coverings to avoid misunderstandings.
4. Hardware:
Doorknobs, kitchen fittings, and bathroom fixtures typically transfer to the new owner. However, trade fixtures used in a home-based business can be removed by the seller. If the seller operates a business from home, discuss and document what stays and what goes.
5. Flat-Screen TVs:
The status of flat-screen TVs can be a gray area. If professionally mounted on the wall with wires running through it, the TV might be considered part of the realty sale. However, recent rulings often indicate that the mount stays, and the TV goes. To avoid confusion, explicitly state in the sale contract whether the flat-screen TV is included.
In Real Estate, Clarity is Key:
The overarching lesson from these common disputes is clear – never assume anything comes with the house. Always ask about specific items, express your preferences, and most importantly, get everything in writing. Real estate transactions are negotiable, and the written contract is your safety net. Verbal agreements can lead to misunderstandings, so ensure your expectations are documented for a smooth and hassle-free home buying experience.
Conclusion:
In the intricate dance of buying and selling homes, details matter. From appliances to window coverings, each item holds its place in the negotiation tango. Remember, in real estate, nothing is assumed; everything is negotiated. So, don’t shy away from asking for what you want or clarifying your expectations. The key to a successful real estate transaction lies in effective communication and a written agreement. As you embark on your home-buying journey, navigate the path with confidence, armed with the knowledge of what stays and what goes.
