Remembering way back to one of my first clients. I sold their house and when we got to the closing the buyers were most upset that the sellers took the microwave with them when they moved out.
Microwave ovens that are not built-in are considered personal property. Unless the buyers ask for them specifically and unless the sellers agree to include them in the sale they can be packed up and moved away.
The buyers refused to close unless the sellers paid for a new microwave and the sellers refused to do so. At the time a new portable microwave oven cost around $100.
Anything built-in is included in the purchase of real estate in Minnesota. That included the kitchen sink, light fixtures, built-in appliances, cabinets and shelving. If a microwave is built-in then it is included when the house is sold. Light fixtures are included as are curtain rods.
Perennial plants, bushes, and trees also run with the property and are included in the purchase.
If it is a portable model that sits on a table it is considered personal property. It can be included in the sale if specified in writing. Sellers can specify in writing items they do not want to include in the sale.
When asking for personal property the buyer should be specific. Ask for the ______(model) microwave oven, as seen in the kitchen on this day______.
Sellers who do not wish to sell a light fixture with the house should remove it and put in a new light fixture before putting the house on the market.
Over the years I have seen more misunderstandings and disagreements over property that is worth less than $100 than over anything else. There are gray areas as to what is personal property and what isn’t. When in doubt spell it out and get signatures from both parties.
Experienced real estate agents know the difference between personal property and part of the property.
