This is an intriguing question and maybe not something you considered before. But there are those who include most of the furniture and furnishings when they sell their homes.
You can see one positive right away – you don’t have to move all that stuff. And with the extra money you make by including those items, you can buy new stuff. (Shoppers, rejoice!)
Plus, to leave your old possessions behind is a great way to downsize as you consider whether or not to replace what you’ve left behind.
‘Turn-key’ homes cut needed tasks
“These days, buyers want ‘turnkey’ properties, where they can close the deal on a Tuesday and sleep in their new home Tuesday night,” WSJ.com says.
And while this trend may be most popular with celebrities and international buyers, there are many here who would like to move in with as little to do as possible after the purchase.
Per-piece profit may be lower
Those who include furnishings in the home sale may get less per-item than you would get if you sold them separately.
“Don’t attempt this approach if you’re not willing to take a potential loss for the sake of convenience,” Trulia.com advises.
Also, possible buyers need to remember the décor matches someone else’s taste, which means you either really like it or plan to sell the objectionable pieces once you move in.
Realtors disagree on furnished or empty
Some realtors think a furnished home helps potential buyers visualize themselves living there. Others argue it’s best to start with a blank canvas – an empty house – so buyers can picture their own belongings in place. Also, empty homes often seem larger.
Should they stay or should they go? Well, that choice is entirely up to you. Just remember to do your research, run some numbers and take a realistic look at what you need and use.
