When purchasing a home, ensuring that all expected items are included in the final transfer is a crucial responsibility for every buyer. Many homebuyers operate under the common misconception that all fixtures and furnishings automatically transfer with the property purchase. This assumption often leads to complications, as the reality of real estate transactions is far more nuanced.

In the United States, property transactions involve numerous details that require careful attention to avoid post-closing disputes over item ownership. To protect your interests, here are five essential categories to clarify before finalizing your home purchase:

1. Major Appliances

Kitchen and laundry appliances—including refrigerators, dishwashers, microwases, and washing machines—frequently become points of contention in real estate transactions. Regional customs vary significantly regarding whether appliances are typically included with the home sale. In some markets, sellers routinely include appliances, while in high-end property transactions, owners often remove premium-branded appliances.

Before making an offer, consult with your real estate agent about local norms and explicitly communicate your expectations to the seller. Any appliances you wish to include must be specifically listed in the purchase contract to ensure legal protection.

2. Window Treatments

Often overlooked, window coverings such as curtains, blinds, and shades frequently become unexpected sources of conflict. While most markets consider permanently installed window treatments as part of the real property, custom or high-end window dressings may hold sentimental value for sellers.

Protect yourself by detailing which window treatments are included in your purchase agreement, particularly if you've seen specific coverings during showings that you expect to remain with the property.

3. Personal Property

Decorative items, artwork, freestanding lighting fixtures, and other non-attached possessions remain the seller's personal property unless otherwise negotiated. Never assume these items convey with the home sale.

If particular decor pieces appeal to you, initiate this conversation early in negotiations. For any items you wish to acquire, obtain written confirmation in the contract to prevent last-minute removals that could disappoint your expectations.

4. Electronics and Media Equipment

Modern homes often feature expensive entertainment systems, including wall-mounted televisions and surround sound equipment. While some sellers include these electronics, others consider them personal property to be removed.

Clarify the status of all electronic equipment before finalizing your offer. If you want specific devices included, negotiate these terms during the offer stage rather than assuming they'll remain.

5. Permanent Fixtures

Under U.S. real estate law, permanently affixed items like doorknobs, cabinet hardware, and built-in bathtubs typically transfer with the property. However, exceptions occur when sellers have particular attachments to certain fixtures.

Work with your real estate agent to verify which fixtures are included in your sale. Document these details in your contract to avoid surprises during the final walkthrough.

Advice for Sellers

If you plan to remove specific items from the property, clearly disclose these intentions in your listing and formal contract. Providing an itemized list of excluded possessions enhances transaction transparency and prevents buyer confusion.

Advice for Buyers

Conduct thorough inspections of all property contents during showings. Document items you expect to remain through photographs and detailed descriptions in your purchase agreement. Leverage your real estate agent's expertise to negotiate inclusions properly and ensure all terms appear in the final contract.

Real estate transactions represent significant investments where attention to detail proves crucial. By addressing these five categories proactively through clear communication and proper documentation, both buyers and sellers can achieve smoother transactions and avoid post-closing disputes over personal property.