What counts as a fixture?

August 13, 2012

Certain fixtures in homes generally stay with the property once sold.

Buying a home entails figuring out the numerous, little-known ins and outs of real estate transactions. As a buyer, one of the questions you may have could relate to fixtures – specifically, what stays in the residence after the home has been purchased?

What generally stays
Built-in appliances, lighting fixtures, shutters, flowers and plants stay behind at a home when a sale is finalized. In all likelihood, the sellers won't miss these items, as they likely have them in their new residence or no longer have a use or need for them.

Gray areas
While there are clear-cut fixtures as those already mentioned, others may not be completely defined as fixtures. For instance, what if a homeowner had applied window treatments in the residence they've now sold? Do they get to keep them or do they have to stay at the home?

Items like these, as well as free-standing appliances like washers and dryers, are not always considered fixtures. It’s best to ask the sellers’ real estate agent about specific fixtures rather than assuming they will remain with the property after purchase.

Remember, if you’re purchasing a foreclosure or short sale, these properties generally come “as-is” and may be missing the common fixtures that generally come with a new home.