Cost to Move > Fair Market Value

Once the Buyer and Seller have resolved any inspection issues — that is, assuming Buyer hasn’t waived their inspection, to prevail in multiple offers — it’s common for the two parties to discuss any personal property that the homeowner may want to sell.

Like many negotiations, the party who speaks first often loses.

So, at least in my experience, a Buyer who (too eagerly) expresses interest in specific items is likely to have to pay more.

By contrast, by simply being quiet, the Buyer can often score one or more items gratis.

Exhibit A: that extra freezer in the basement.

Free Basement Freezer? Maybe

Especially if the freezer is older, it can very well cost more to move than it’s worth.

Because the Seller is contractually obliged to remove all personal property prior to closing, they actually need to get the Buyer’s permission to leave it behind.

As long as the price is “free,” Buyers usually agree (once they confirm it’s in working order) . . .

See also, “And Repeat: “Never Negotiate Furniture,” “Never Negotiate Furniture . . .”

About the author

Ross Kaplan has 19+ years experience selling real estate all over the Twin Cities. He is also a 12-time consecutive "Super Real Estate Agent," as determined by Mpls. - St. Paul Magazine and Twin Cities Business Magazine. Prior to becoming a Realtor, Ross was an attorney (corporate law), CPA, and entrepreneur. He holds an economics degree from Stanford.

Leave a Reply