What Are Attached And Unattached Goods?

In the world of real estate, terms like attached and unattached goods often pop up, leaving both buyers and sellers a bit confused. Here, we break down these terms and their implications on property transactions.

Attached goods, also known as fixtures, are items that are permanently affixed or attached to the property. They could be anything from built-in appliances, blinds, light fixtures, TV wall mounts, to landscaping features. The presumption is these are included in the sale unless otherwise stated. For example, if you're a buyer who has fallen in love with the custom-made bookshelf in the living room, rest assured, it's typically part of the deal.

On the other hand, unattached goods, also known as chattels, are movable items that aren’t permanently attached to the property. They can easily be removed without causing damage to the property. These include appliances like refrigerators, furniture, personal belongings, patio equipment, BBQ's, and curtains. In most cases, these are not included in the sale unless otherwise specified in the agreement and the expectation is that none of these items will be left behind by the seller.

In summary, inclusions are the attached goods that the seller agrees to leave behind, plus any unattached goods agreed upon. Sellers often use inclusions as a bargaining chip to entice potential buyers. Exclusions, however, are the opposite; they are items that the seller plans to take with them post-sale, usually personal belongings or items that hold sentimental value. 

For both buyers and sellers, it's essential to clarify what stays and what goes to prevent any misunderstandings or disputes at the closing. This is an issue that comes up often after closing as it is not always black and white, and buyers and sellers may interpret what is considered attached and unattached differently. If you're unsure, just write everything clearly into the contract! Buyers should ensure that any desired unattached goods are listed as inclusions in the contract. Sellers should clearly indicate any attached goods they plan to take as exclusions in the agreement. 

In a nutshell, understanding the difference between attached and unattached goods can make your real estate transactions smoother and dispute-free. Always remember to have these clearly stipulated in your purchase or sale agreement for a hassle-free experience and if you're unsure what category certain items fall into, ask your real estate agent!