What Stays With the House When You Buy or Sell in Minnesota?

If you are buying or selling a home in Cambridge, Minnesota or anywhere in Isanti County, one question comes up all the time.

What stays with the house when it sells?

The general rule in Minnesota real estate is actually pretty simple.

If something is attached to the home, it usually stays with the home. These items are called fixtures and they are considered part of the property once they are installed.

Common examples of fixtures that typically stay with a house include floating shelves that are mounted to the wall, blinds, curtain rods and hardware, light fixtures, and built-in shelving. Because these items are attached to the home, buyers generally expect them to remain after closing.

However, there are a few items that frequently cause confusion during a real estate transaction.

One of the biggest items lately has been decorative bathroom mirrors. Many homeowners assume the mirror stays, but in many homes these mirrors are simply hanging on the wall rather than permanently attached. When that is the case, the mirror is considered personal property, meaning it does not automatically stay with the house. If a buyer wants it, they should request it in the purchase agreement.

Another common question involves appliances. In many Minnesota home sales appliances such as the refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, washer, and dryer often stay with the home. However, buyers should always double check that appliances are specifically included in the purchase agreement so there are no surprises.

Window treatments can also create confusion. Typically the curtain rods and hardware stay because they are attached, while the curtains themselves usually leave with the seller unless they are requested in the contract.

For sellers, if there are certain items you plan to keep, such as a special light fixture or a family heirloom, it is best to remove and replace those items before your home goes on the market. That way buyers do not expect them to stay with the home.

TV mounts are another item that comes up often. If a seller plans to remove the mount, it usually means patching the holes and repainting the wall. Because of this extra work, many sellers simply leave the mount installed with the property.

The most important thing to remember in any real estate transaction is simple.

If a buyer wants something included with the home, it should always be written into the purchase agreement.

Clear communication and proper documentation help prevent confusion for both buyers and sellers.

If you have questions about buying or selling a home in Cambridge, Minnesota or the surrounding Isanti County area, I am always happy to help walk you through the process.

Amy Grafenstein
REMAX Results