When You Buy Your Home...
Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure
For most of us, our home will be the most expensive purchase we will ever make. It's not hard to see how the cost, even by itself, can make the home buying experience stressful. Fear of what can happen after the sale often adds even more stress, and a last minute dispute with the seller can complicate an otherwise smooth transfer of ownership.
Luckily, most of these pitfalls and problems can be avoided by asking the right questions, doing research, and, of course, hiring the right agent. Buying a home should be exciting and leave you a sense of fulfillment, not dread. Use these tips to better understand and prevent common real estate buying problems.
Determine What Stays in Advance
Determine in advance which items stay with the house, and which will be removed by the owner. Generally, attached items stay with the house. This includes items such as light fixtures, garage door openers, ceiling fans, and window awnings. Items which can be moved without damage go with the seller. For example, countertop microwaves, refrigerators, window units (fans or air conditioners), washers and dryers are not included in the sale.
To avoid disputes, items in the "gray" area should be discussed with the seller. Window treatments, built-in units, fireplace covers, swings, and fountains tend to be items which can cause misunderstanding. In addition, any attached items the sellers want to take with them should be specifically noted. Antiques and family heirlooms often fall into this category.
Another useful hint: Print out this page and use it as a guide when discussing items with your agent or the seller.
|
