Are you selling a home in Ankeny and wondering what stays and what goes? Many home sellers are unsure about which items are included in the sale and which can be taken with them. Buyers in the Ankeny real estate market have certain expectations, and misunderstandings can lead to unnecessary delays or disputes.
At the Allison Hart Home Team, we help sellers navigate these details to ensure a smooth and successful home sale. In this guide, we’ll break down what’s typically included in a home sale, what can be negotiated, and how to avoid confusion with potential buyers.
1. What Stays with the Home When You Sell?
In general, anything that is attached to the home or permanently installed is included in the sale. This means that buyers expect certain features to remain when they purchase your home.
Common Items Included in an Ankeny Home Sale:
✔ Built-in appliances – Dishwashers, ovens, cooktops, and built-in microwaves
✔ Light fixtures – Chandeliers, sconces, and recessed lighting
✔ Ceiling fans – Any mounted ceiling fans in living spaces
✔ Window treatments – Blinds, curtain rods, and plantation shutters (curtains themselves may be negotiable)
✔ Bathroom fixtures – Sinks, toilets, mirrors, and built-in medicine cabinets
✔ Built-in shelving – Custom bookshelves, entertainment centers, or closet organizers
✔ Security systems – Wired security cameras and alarm systems
✔ Attached garage door openers – Any openers or keypads for garage doors
✔ Outdoor landscaping – Trees, shrubs, and any in-ground plants
📌 Pro Tip: If an item is permanently attached, buyers generally assume it stays. If you want to take something with you, it should be clearly addressed in your listing.
2. What Can Be Negotiated in a Home Sale?
While many items are assumed to stay, some features are negotiable. Buyers may request specific personal property to be included as part of the deal.
Items That Can Be Negotiated:
✔ Refrigerators, washers, and dryers – Unlike built-in appliances, these are usually not included unless negotiated
✔ Freestanding furniture – Dining tables, sofas, and decor can sometimes be requested
✔ Hot tubs – Some buyers want them, while others may prefer them removed
✔ Outdoor playsets and sheds – Some remain, but sellers may take them if not anchored
✔ Above-ground pools – Buyers may ask for removal or keep them as part of the deal
💡 Tip for Sellers: If a buyer wants extra items, they may offer a higher price to keep them. Work with your Ankeny Realtor to decide what makes sense for your sale.
3. What Should Sellers Take with Them?
Not everything stays behind. Some personal property and removable items are expected to go with the seller.
Common Items Sellers Take:
✔ Personal decor – Artwork, framed photos, and decorative mirrors
✔ Freestanding appliances – Unless included in the contract, refrigerators and laundry machines
✔ Curtains – While curtain rods stay, curtains are typically considered personal property
✔ Rugs – Area rugs that are not glued or attached are yours to take
✔ TVs – Mounted TVs are removable, but the wall mount bracket typically stays
✔ Patio furniture – Unless specified in the contract, outdoor furniture goes with the seller
🏡 Key Tip: If you want to take anything that is attached (like a chandelier or built-in shelving), it’s best to remove and replace it before listing your home. This prevents any misunderstandings with buyers.
4. How to Avoid Disputes Over What’s Included in the Sale
Disagreements over what’s included in a home sale can cause last-minute headaches. The best way to avoid these issues is to be upfront and clear in your listing agreement.
Steps to Prevent Misunderstandings:
📌 Disclose what you plan to take – If you want to keep an item, put it in writing early.
📌 List included and excluded items in the contract – Your Ankeny real estate agent will ensure the purchase agreement is clear.
📌 Clarify in negotiations – If a buyer wants something extra, make sure it’s agreed upon before finalizing the deal.
📌 Replace sentimental fixtures before listing – If you want to keep a special light fixture or mirror, swap it out before showings.
🔎 Example Scenario: You have a beautiful dining room chandelier that has sentimental value. If a buyer falls in love with it and expects it to stay, this could create tension. The best solution? Remove and replace it with a neutral fixture before listing your home.
5. Why Working with the Allison Hart Home Team Makes a Difference
Selling a home in Ankeny involves more than just pricing and marketing—it’s about avoiding surprises and making the process smooth for both buyers and sellers. The Allison Hart Home Team ensures that:
✅ Your contract is clear – We make sure all included and excluded items are outlined.
✅ Your home is presented professionally – Buyers know exactly what they’re getting.
✅ You avoid last-minute issues – No disputes, no delays—just a stress-free sale.
✅ You get top dollar for your home – The right approach helps maximize your home’s value.
💬 Thinking about selling your home in Ankeny? The Allison Hart Home Team is here to guide you every step of the way.
📞 Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get the best results for your home sale!
