Online training: Buying your first home Tuesday, March 28 – 1:00 PM Learn more

Movable property

There is a distinction between movable property and immovable property. The house itself is immovable, immobile, and stuck to the ground.

Movable property is property that can be moved without affecting the structure of the house. This can range from furniture and appliances to smaller items such as curtains, net curtains, planters, and things in the garden. Buying these items is usually not included in the purchase of the house, so it is essential to consider them. Movable property is the property that can be moved without affecting the structure of the house. They can range from furniture and appliances to smaller items such as curtains, vitrages, planters, and things in the garden. Again, buying these items is usually not included in the house sale, so it is important to bear them in mind when purchasing a house. Tip: the moment a price deal is coming up, the seller is most sensitive to selling removable items for a bargain.

Movable property on the property list

In the 'list of items that a seller usually presents, they can indicate the movable property that will remain (i.e., including the purchase price), the items that will stay behind, and the items that can be acquired for an additional amount.

What stays behind in the property?

Usually, an offer includes all real estate as indicated on the property list. In addition, you can expect anything complicated to detach will remain, for example, hanging kitchen cupboards. A built-in dishwasher and built-in refrigerator can also be expected to stay behind. On the other hand, a free-standing fridge can sometimes be taken by sellers. To prevent unpleasant surprises, recording agreements is essential. This way, you can check them properly during the home inspection prior to the moment the buyers and sellers meet at the notary's office.

Trees and plants, as you now understand, remain in the garden. This is because they are immovable even when the wind is strong!

Bid including movable property

You can also make a bid explicitly stating it includes some movable goods, such as curtains or the washing machine. Then these items fall within the 'buyer's costs' of the house. The downside is you will have to pay transfer tax on these items.

In that case, it is better to pay for the movable items separately, aside from the house purchase. Many years ago, large sums were allocated to movables that were nowhere near as valuable. The aim was to lower the house's purchase price to avoid transfer tax. After all, no tax had to be paid over these expensive curtains. That's not the case anymore. The tax authorities monitor every transaction, and the notary must also ensure that the house is sold for a fair price: no black money, no tricks with movables.

Walter advisor

Buying a home?

Book your free orientation call with a Walter advisor. We will take you through the process of buying your next home.

Book a call — it's free

Continue reading

National Mortgage Guarantee (NHG)

With the National Mortgage Guarantee, you limit the possible financial risks of buying a home. You make a long-term commitment to a bank when you take out a mortgage. Continue reading →

Reflection period

Buying a house is one of the most significant purchases you will ever make. An excellent way to ensure you make the right decision is to have plenty of reflection time. Continue reading →

Remodeling specification

A remodeling estimate is required if you plan to remodel and want to have the costs paid for within the mortgage loan Continue reading →