What defines a fixture in real estate?

A fixture in real estate is defined as an item that is physically attached to or closely associated with the land. This means that fixtures are not just objects that are placed on a property; they are typically an integral part of the property itself. For example, built-in appliances, lighting fixtures, and plumbing fixtures are all considered fixtures because they are usually affixed to the property in such a way that removing them would cause damage or significantly alter the functionality of the property.

This definition is crucial in real estate transactions because fixtures are generally included in the sale of a property unless explicitly stated otherwise. Understanding what constitutes a fixture helps both buyers and sellers clarify which items are part of the property being transferred, avoiding disputes at the time of sale. In contrast, items that are easily removable from the property or those that belong to a tenant typically do not qualify as fixtures since they do not exhibit the same level of permanence or attachment.