Experts offer must-know considerations for taking your homes appliances when moving to a new home.
Jacob Fox
When it comes to buying a new home, packing might be the biggest headache.
Typically, features such aslight fixturesmust remain behind in a home unless otherwise negotiated.
Credit:Jacob Fox
Does the same go for your fridge and dishwasher?
Explore the answers as experts weigh in on whether you should take your appliances when you move.
Can You Take Your Appliances?
Whatever the case, you might wish you could take your appliances with youto your new home.
The good news is you might absolutely do that.
Youll just need to check all the boxes.
First things first, I always recommend consulting with your realtor about local norms.
Osborne says these trends have shifted over the years.
A buyer must specify which appliances they would like in a purchase and sales agreement.
Its important to always verify which appliances are staying on the MLS sheet.
As you draw up your contracts, be specific about what you want to leave and take.
Buyers and sellers should clearly outline in the contract which appliances will be included or excluded, Raney says.
Open communication and listing these details in writing help prevent misunderstandings later in the process.
This is especially helpful if the home youre moving into doesnt have any appliances.
Keeping your current washer and dryer thensaves you hundreds, if not thousands,of dollars.
This can be a hassle.
In most cases, the cons of keeping appliances outweigh the pros.
MARIA KOUREPENOS
Additionally,moving these bulky items is not free.
In many cases, youll need to hire professionals to disconnect, pack, andrelocate these heavy pieces.
Its a good idea to consider purchasingextra insuranceto cover any potential damage during the move.
Keep in mind that washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers all requirespecial plumbing and venting.
Refrigerators and other large appliances also require theproper electrical hookup.
In short, you shouldnt install these items without proper knowledge.
This is especially true if your home is damaged in the process of having these bulky items moved.
Exceptions
Still, feel like you want to keep your microwave?
There are of course exceptions that will far outweigh the challenges you might face moving that appliance.
Negotiating Power
Many home buyers like to see that their new home comes with good, working appliances.
If you remove yours, you could lower the quality of the deal potential buyers are expecting.
We recommend selling listings turnkey with all appliances included.
That should not turn off a buyer in the end or affect the overall desirability of the home.
Youll also want to ensure your current appliances will fit in their new space.
Homeowners may also face the risk of damaging appliances during transport, adding to the logistical hurdles.
