When I sold my previous home I wondered why the prospective buyer was taking so many photographs and he said that you would be amazed at the amount of fixtures and fittings that are removed or changed by sellers before they move out. I felt a little offended, but then looked at it from his point of view and it made sense. Being a trusting person, I did not do the same when I bought my latest home. I am convinced that the pool equipment was replaced with older equipment and the bedroom mirrors that were affixed to the walls were all removed, leaving unsightly holes. The seller is now in Australia and I did not want to delay the sale, so I let it go.

This does not have to happen to you!

Fixtures are generally those which are screwed or nailed down, glued on, or have in some other way been made a part of the fabric of the home. Fittings are those things which can easily be removed. You need to list all of the fixtures and fittings that you want to remain in the house as part of the sale.

Go from room to room and photograph any and all fixtures and fittings including shelving, light fittings and light bulbs, ceiling fans, built in cupboards, mirrors, window blinds, TV antenna, DSTV dish, smoke and security alarms, fitted floor coverings,solar systems, electric gate motor, outdoor plants and trees (other than in movable containers), burglar proofing and security gates, garden shed etc. Don’t forget the kitchen – make sure you get the make, model and serial number of the oven and stove. Then there’s the fitted spice rack and paper towel holder.

If removed, it will leave you with unsightly holes in the wall.

Then make a list of all the fixtures and fittings that are to remain as part of the sale. If the seller wishes to exclude anything on the list e.g. an antique chandelier, this should be itemised in the offer to purchase. Ideally, the seller should remove any fixtures or fittings that he does not want to include in the sale before putting the house up for sale.

So, don’t worry if the buyer is a little offended at your thoroughness.

This will alleviate confusion and you can avoid any arguments that might delay the sale process.

ECKLAND PROPERTIES are Real Estate Agents in Cape Town, South Africa servicing properties throughout the Western Cape and more specifically the Northern Suburbs of Cape Town. Specialising in the rental and sale of residential property in "Goodwood, Parow" "Type: house, vacant land, apartment, flat, town house."

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