What Actually Stays With a House When You Sell It in Michigan?
You sold the house. Can you take the chandelier?
What about the TV mount, refrigerator, Ring doorbell, bathroom mirror, garage shelving or backyard playset?
This is one of those real estate questions that sounds simple until a buyer and seller have different answers.
Fixtures vs. Personal Property
The basic distinction is between a fixture and personal property.
A fixture is generally something that has become part of the real estate. Michigan has not established one simple test that answers every situation. Factors can include how an item is attached, how it is used with the property and whether it was intended to become a permanent part of the real estate.
Personal property is generally movable property that has not become part of the real estate.
The purchase agreement is extremely important because it spells out what is included and allows buyers and sellers to specifically address items that might otherwise be questionable.
What Usually Stays?
The Michigan Realtors purchase agreement includes many items people commonly ask about, including:
• Built in appliances
• Lighting fixtures
• Ceiling fans
• Attached TV mounting brackets
• Attached mirrors
• Attached shelving
• Window shades and blinds
• Curtain and drapery rods
• Wired smart home devices
• Garage door openers and controls
• Fencing
• Mailboxes
So back to the chandelier.
If it is installed as the dining room light fixture and the contract does not exclude it, don't assume you can simply remove it before closing.
What About Refrigerators, Ring Doorbells and Hot Tubs?
This is where I recommend being specific.
A freestanding refrigerator is different from a built in appliance. A smart doorbell may raise questions depending on how it is installed and what the contract says. Hot tubs, sheds and playsets can also create questions depending on how they are installed and what was agreed upon.
Instead of relying on assumptions, identify important items in writing.
Seller wants it? Exclude it.
Buyer wants it? Include it.
If you're selling and have something sentimental that is attached to the house, consider removing it and replacing it before the home is listed. That eliminates confusion from the beginning.
For more ways to prepare a home before putting it on the market, see my 5 Tips for a Successful Home Sale.
If you're buying, my 9 Things to Look For When Buying a Home covers other details worth considering when evaluating a property.
The simplest rule is this: if you would be upset to discover an item gone at the final walkthrough, make sure everyone agrees in writing that it stays.
Thinking about buying or selling a home in Southeast Michigan? Visit SoldByCaleb.com to get started.
This article provides general real estate information and is not legal advice.