*Seller does not want to include the appliances with the sale.*
This may seem like a minor one but I can assure you its one of the most common problems that can arise during the buying or selling process. A lot of homeowners have taken great pride in upgrading and repairing there homes. New roofing, completing the basement, upgrades in the master bedroom that may include new fixtures, new carpet, double sided windows. Expensive lighting that may include dimmers and adding wall sconces for a more romantic feel. Upgrades to a home can become very detailed and intimate to the sellers needs.
One of the most expensive things on their to do list is upgrading the kitchen. From kitchen cabinets to new floors, back splash and that very expensive appliance package. The sellers have a right to take those appliances with them when they leave. At the very least a seller may have to replace them with something operable and functional before closing only if the lender requires it. Where does this leave the buyers who have fallen in love with the home and adores the kitchen? First let me give each person thinking about buying a home in the future a quick FYI. Never assume the appliances automatically comes with the sale. A lot of buyers think if its there when they view the home its included. Remember if the seller is still occupying the home then he/she will more than likely be using them. First review the property disclosures with your agent. What are property disclosures? It's a brief history of the property from the seller. It includes when the home was built, some of the repairs that have been done by the seller since they have owned it. If there have been any insurance claims on the home and other information. It also includes what will be sold with the home. If the appliances are not included have your agent request that they are sold with the home in the contract. The seller may be willing to this.
If the seller is on the fence about leaving the appliances you must be willing to compromise. A few things you can offer but are not limited to are.......
Increase your purchase price if possible. Remember you will have to go out and buy those appliances after you move in. After earnest money, inspections, closing cost, and moving cost you may be a little tight in the budget. However appliances are a necessity and one that is an immediate need. If you raise the price of the house a little and the seller agrees you can score 2 points. One you avoid additional cost and two the kitchen remains the way you saw it when you fell in love with it.
Forego some of the repairs in the inspection. If there are a few minor items in the report that your able to do after you move in, do them yourself instead of asking the seller. You can save the seller money by doing this and in return you can ask them to agree to include the appliances with the sell.
Volunteer to take care of the little trash or donation items after the move out for the sellers. Now there should not be a lot of mess left over. You shouldn't be looking at a heap of work just a few things that need to be taken to the goodwill or your local trash dump. The seller would more than likely greatly appreciate the gesture and in return you can ask for the appliances. Remember this should be written in the contract prior. Also you and your agent should be specific on what should or should not be left there and how much your willing to take.
Be creative and put yourself in the shoes of the seller. Remember if they choose to leave the appliances they will have to purchase new ones. We all know the feeling of buying something expensive and then having to buy it again for whatever reason. You must be willing to compromise to have a happy closing.
