Convey or Not Convey?

What happens when a seller leaves things behind after they move out? In most cases, buyers can expect permanent fixtures or those that cannot be removed without causing damage to convey when a residential property switches hands. Additionally, custom-made items such as window treatments may remain. But buyers also can find themselves saddled with other items -- from old furniture and appliances to storage sheds -- that are not normally conveyed and can become a nuisance. In order to avoid these situations, practitioners typically note conveyable items in the sales contract, using a check-off list or standard form. Buyers should also do a thorough walk-through of the home a day before closing and note any unwanted items that the seller may be trying to convey. In the current seller's market, buyers may have a more difficult time negotiating conveyable items, but experts say they should try anyway. To avoid the expense of removing unwanted items discovered just before closing, buyers could arrange for an escrow account to cover removal expenses or negotiate a cash payment plan with the seller.

Source: Washington Times