When negotiating a deal to purchase a home, it is important that buyers and sellers agree as to what stays with the home. Items that are considered to be “fixtures” are those elements that are permanent and attached to the home. In many cases, this definition does not go far enough in determining what will remain when the buyer takes possession of the property. With this in mind, it helps to clarify whether kitchen and laundry appliances, chandeliers and light fixtures, fireplace inserts, etc., will be staying in the home. Sometimes, some- thing as seemingly inconsequential as a custom window treatment can hold up a sale if there is a disagreement over its status as a fixture. When in doubt, ask.
When buying or selling real estate, misunderstandings can be avoided by spelling out exactly what will remain when it changes ownership. In fact, sell- ers should consider exchanging fixtures they wish to take with alternative items prior to marketing the property. I will walk you through the process to assure that such issues are addressed. Reach me today to arrange an initial meeting. My office is conveniently located at 1199 Amboy Ave., Edison.
HINT: Sellers can sweeten a sale by offering prospective buyers furniture, window treat- ments, and other items that can save them the expense of purchasing new.