Moving out of a recently sold home is exciting, hectic, and sometimes stressful. What happens when you move? Where did you put your new house’s keys? Have you forwarded your mail? But most importantly: what are you required to leave behind when you close your door for the last time?
Nailed down, Bolted or Mounted
Unless the item is of particular importance or is legally required to move, leave it. A good example is your satellite dish. Many companies simply ask that you leave your dish when you move. Not only is it a fantastic incentive for the next guy to maintain their service, your new free dish at your new home will probably be a more modern version.
Leave the Yard Alone
If there is a special plant or tree that you want to take with you when you go, you need to negotiate it in the sale of your home. Any plant, shrub or tree is considered to stay with the property unless specifically stated in the sales agreement.
Other Outdoor Items
Our outdoor living is amazing in Michigan. Many homes have lovely outdoor living spaces, docks, and sports areas. Although you may love certain aspects of your outdoor space, it’s better to rebuild when you settle in at your new place. A great example is a basketball hoop. If it is installed into the ground it needs to stay. If it is mobile, it is yours to take.
Lighting Fixtures
Are you in love with your dining room chandelier? Love your sconces? Light fixtures always stay with the home unless otherwise negotiated. We recommend removing any you wish to take with you before you list your home. Inexpensive but sturdy recessed lighting fixtures are available at your local home improvement stores and are easy to install. Store your prized lighting fixtures when your home is listed for sale so there is no expectation they stay with the home.
Window Treatments
This one can be confusing. Curtains are considered personal property and can be taken but curtain rods and blinds are considered fixtures in the home and should be left behind. If you have exceptional window treatments make sure to negotiate the removal in the sale.
Don’t assume you can take whatever you like when you move. If you remove items that the buyer expected to be left behind it can tank the sale. You should work with your local Michigan Realtor to negotiate what items you wish to bring and those you intend to leave behind. Get it written in the contract and you should be good to go!
