Short answerItems attached to the house, called fixtures, usually stay: built in appliances, light fixtures, ceiling fans, blinds, and the water heater. Freestanding items usually go unless the purchase agreement says otherwise. The purchase agreement also sets the possession date, which can be at closing or a set number of days after.
Usually stays, usually goes
| Usually stays | Usually goes unless listed |
|---|---|
| Built in dishwasher, range hood, microwave | Refrigerator, washer, dryer |
| Light fixtures and ceiling fans | Lamps and furniture |
| Blinds and rods | Curtains |
| Water heater, furnace, water softener if owned | Leased equipment |
| Mounted TV brackets | The TV |
When in doubt, list it in the purchase agreement as included or excluded.
Possession
- At closing: you move out before closing and hand over keys at the table.
- After closing: you stay a set number of days, often with a daily charge and a holdback from your proceeds.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take the refrigerator?
Usually yes, unless the purchase agreement includes it. Many sellers include it to help the sale.
Can I stay after closing?
Only if the purchase agreement allows it. Put the terms in writing.
Keep reading
Want to know what a buyer's inspector may find before they do?
Book a free pre listing condition walk. I walk the house with you, point out what inspectors and FHA, VA, and USDA appraisers tend to flag, and give you planning ranges so you can decide what to fix, credit, price in, or disclose.
Book a condition walkOr call or text (812) 525-5489, or email john@yourpropertynegotiator.com.
The condition walk is a REALTOR® and contractor evaluation, not a home inspection, and it does not replace one. If you have already signed a listing agreement with another agent, please take these questions to your agent.
Written by John Long, REALTOR®, 1 Percent Lists Indiana Real Estate. Working contractor who has priced hundreds of home inspection repair requests. Former labor relations negotiator for a major manufacturer and U.S. Coast Guard veteran.
John Long, REALTOR® · 1 Percent Lists Indiana Real Estate · (812) 525-5489 · yourpropertynegotiator.com
This page is general information, not a substitute for a professional home inspection, and not legal, tax, insurance, or lending advice. Ask a real estate attorney about contracts and disclosure, a CPA about taxes, your lender about loan rules, and a licensed inspector or tradesperson about your house. Nothing here guarantees a sale price, net proceeds, repair cost, payment, timeline, appraisal, inspection result, or loan approval. Cost figures are planning estimates, not bids. I own Wardmark Property Operations LLC, a contracting company. You are always free to use any contractor you choose.