If you are in the market for a home, you might already know that a house is one of the few items you can still buy where the price can be negotiated. It's important to get the best price you can when it comes to the selling cost, but that is far from the only thing related to the sale that is flexible. Read on and find out more.

Things Too Big to Move

Sellers may be reluctant to move certain large items like hot tubs, pool tables, exercise equipment, and more. However, know that the seller is responsible for removing all furnishings that don't fall into the fixture category (see below). If you are not interested in the item, the seller must move it before closing. However, if you do want it, be sure the agreement is included in the sales contract.

Fully Furnished Homes

While buying a home and getting all of the furniture along with it is uncommon, it can happen under certain circumstances. Sales of estate homes may offer buyers the opportunity to have the furnishings remain. Also, consider real estate deals in resort areas like the mountains, lakefronts, or coastal areas. Those homes are often sold as vacation properties and the furniture may be included in the deal.

What Counts as a Fixture?

In most cases, certain things known as fixtures must remain with the home. You don't want to do a final walk-through of the home only to notice that the HVAC system has been completely removed. While what a fixture is can vary from state to state, in most cases, a fixture is something that is attached to the home in some way through plumbing or electric wiring. Kitchen appliances are commonly included, but washers and dryers may or may not be included. Light fixtures and ceiling fans should be included, but window treatments may not be. Be sure you know what is and what is not included with the home, since knowing you will need to purchase more furnishings could affect your offer. 

Other Negotiables

When it's time to sign the sales contract, pay attention to other terms and issues that might be negotiable. Closing costs, financing fees, and more all mean cash that is due at the closing. To make deals go through, you and the seller might want to decide who will pay what.

To find out more about homes for sale in your area and what to consider, speak with a realtor today.