What to Leave When Selling Your Mansfield Home

Have you ever wondered what rules govern what should be left behind when you turn your home over to new buyers? The truth is, there isn't much by way of law to dictate what goes with the house, but common practice can help guide your decisions. There are certain things buyers tend to expect will come with the Mansfield homes they view. When it comes down to it, though, your contract spells out everything for both buyer and seller, so you can specify anything you want to take in your list of exclusions.

Here are some guidelines for what to leave, what you can take, and when to negotiate.

What to Leave

The general rule of thumb is anything that is physically attached to the house should be left for the new buyer. This is partly because these items are seen as being a part of the property, but also because removing them could damage the house. For instance, you should leave behind:

• Window blinds
• Curtain rods
• Built-in fixtures such as dishwashers, oven ranges, and microwaves
• Built-in shelves and cabinets
• Light fixtures and ceiling fans
• Wired alarm systems, surround sound, etc.
• TV mounting brackets

What to Take

In general, anything that isn't nailed down or wired in is considered a personal item, and you are free to take it when you move. Besides your furniture and other belongings, this might include items such as:

• Wireless alarm systems
• Wireless sound systems
• Throw rugs
• Small kitchen appliances that are not built-in
• Framed mirrors
• Wall-mounted (but not built-in) shelves

What Is Negotiable

Unfortunately, there can be a lot of gray area as to what is considered part of the house and should be left. A great example is the draperies. In general, window coverings are assumed to go with the house, but the curtains themselves aren't nailed down. So do they stay or do they go?

The answer is whatever the contract says. In general, if you aren't sure about something, put it in writing. For instance, if all appliances go with the house, the contract should stay so; likewise, if you really can't part with those curtains, list them as an exception.

Negotiable items you might want to mention in your contract could include:

• A framed mirror in the bathroom
• A corner cabinet that is hung, but might appear to be built-in
• Curtains
• Large appliances
• Wall-mounted TVs

Set Clear Expectations

When it comes down to it, you could have almost anything you wanted from the house, as long as you put it in the contract and the buyer agreed to it. Keep in mind, however, that too many exclusions could cause a potential buyer to lose interest. Take some time to walk through the house, with your family and then again with your real estate agent, and determine if there is anything you wouldn't be willing to part with. Discuss these items with your agent and put together a short exclusions list. Also be sure to mention if there is anything that would usually go with you that you are willing to leave behind. For instance, if all appliances go with the house, your agent will mention this in the listing to lure in potential buyers.

Selling your home can be an overwhelming process, especially when you have to negotiate the finer details, such as what stays and what goes after the sale. For answers to these and other questions, contact Haring Realty today. Our REALTORS® have the experience and expertise to help you navigate this important milestone in your life.