What Stays and What Goes: A Guide for Homeowners After Selling

Selling your home is a significant milestone, but as the sale settles, you might find yourself wondering what you should take with you and what should remain for the new owners. While the specifics can vary depending on the contract and local regulations, we’ve compiled a handy guide to help you navigate this transition smoothly. Here’s a list of things that must go and those that should stay:

Things That Must Go:

1. Rubbish: Ensure that all trash, recycling, and hazardous materials are properly disposed of before leaving the property.

2. Doormats: Unless specifically included in the sale, doormats are considered personal items and should be taken with you.

3. Removable Appliances: Items like refrigerators, microwaves, and washing machines should be removed unless otherwise stated in the contract.

4. Shelves and Cupboards (Not Fixed): If they are not permanently fixed to the walls or structure of the house, you should take them with you.

5. Paint Cans, Tiles, Spare Bricks: Any leftover building materials or paint cans should not be left behind. Dispose of them properly. Or if you were planning on leaving them ask the purchaser if they would like to hold on to them should they ever need the matching paint, or replacement tiles.

6. Garden Implements: Remove all garden tools and equipment, including shovels, rakes, and lawnmowers.

7. Hoses: If you have garden hoses that are not part of the sale, take them with you.

8. Temporary Lighting: Any temporary or portable lighting should be removed from the property.

Things That Stay:

1. Dishwashers: Built-in dishwashers typically remain with the property unless otherwise specified in the contract.

2. Built-In Appliances: Ovens, stoves, and built-in dishwashers are considered fixtures and should stay with the house unless the contract states otherwise.

3. Light Fittings: Permanent light fixtures, such as chandeliers or ceiling fans, should stay unless specified in the contract. If you want to take something like a chandelier or specific fitting with you you should specify it in the contract.

4. Council Collected Rubbish Bins: Leave behind the bins provided by the local council for rubbish collection.

5. Gates: Unless stated otherwise, gates on the property should remain in place.

6. Keys: Provide all keys, remotes, and access codes for doors, gates, and security systems to the new owners.

7. Water Tanks: Water tanks that are part of the property should stay unless otherwise noted in the contract.

8. Anything Fixed: Anything permanently attached to the property, including fixtures, should remain unless specifically excluded in the contract of sale.

It’s crucial to remember that any items included or excluded from the sale must be explicitly stated in the contract. For example, in the case of a chandelier, a buyer might assume it’s a permanent fixture, while a seller may intend to take it with them. To avoid confusion and potential disputes, both parties should clearly outline these details in the contract and bring them to each other’s attention during the negotiation and finalization of the sale.

Understanding what should stay and what should go after selling your home is essential to ensure a smooth transition. Consult with your real estate agent and legal advisor to ensure compliance with all agreements and regulations. Clear communication and a well-detailed contract will help you avoid misunderstandings and enjoy a hassle-free sale.