What Comes With Your Home?

When touring a beautifully staged home, it’s easy to appreciate both the design and the furnishings. While certain pieces, like sectional sofas, may seem like a perfect fit, they usually don’t stay with the home after the sale. However, it’s not always obvious which items are included in the sale and which are not.

Here’s a guide to help clarify:

• Appliances: Built-in appliances such as ovens and dishwashers are typically included, while freestanding items like refrigerators or countertop microwaves might not be.

• Built-In Fixtures: Permanent fixtures like ceiling fans and built-in bookcases are usually part of the sale. However, while curtain rods may stay, the curtains themselves might not.

• Outdoor Items: Contracts should specify which outdoor items are included, such as sheds, patio furniture, or unique garden features like koi ponds, to avoid any misunderstandings.

• Security and Smart Home Systems: With wireless technology, sellers can easily remove items like sensors, so it’s important to confirm which components will remain.

Here are some questions buyers should ask their real estate agent when preparing an offer, especially regarding what’s included with the property:

1. Which appliances are included?
   Are there exceptions, like freestanding refrigerators or microwaves?

2. Can you confirm which built-in fixtures will stay?
   Are ceiling fans, bookcases, and light fixtures included?

3. Are window treatments included?
   Does this cover both the blinds or curtains and the hardware like curtain rods?

4. What outdoor items are part of the sale?
   Does this include outdoor furniture, sheds, or garden features like fountains or koi ponds?

5. How will landscaping items be handled?
   Are any potted plants or specific landscape features excluded?

6. What about the security and smart home systems?
   Will any components, such as sensors or cameras, be removed by the sellers?

7. Have any items been added to the exclusion list?
   Are there updates or changes to what’s included that I should be aware of?

8. Can we request specific items in the offer?
   How can we ensure particular items, like an outdoor kitchen setup, are included?

These questions help ensure that buyers are clear on what will be included with the home, avoiding any surprises or misunderstandings later. It’s a good idea for buyers to list any important items in their offer, so both parties can openly discuss and negotiate what will be part of the final sale.