What Actually Stays With a House in Texas

One of the biggest surprises for buyers?

Realizing that what you see in a home isn’t always what you get.

And this isn’t just opinion—it’s written directly into the contract we use here in Texas.

Let’s break it down in a way that actually makes sense.

**What the Contract Says Stays With the Home**

In Texas, the contract defines something called “improvements.”

This includes the house itself and anything that’s attached to it.

That means things like:

Basically, if it’s installed and attached to the home, it’s expected to stay.

There’s also a category called “accessories.”

These are items that may not be permanently attached but are still included unless excluded.

That can include:

Even things like apps or systems used to control parts of the home can be included if they transfer.

Here’s where buyers get caught off guard.

Items that are not built-in or not listed don’t automatically stay.

That often includes:

Even though you see them in the home, they’re considered personal property unless negotiated.

If you want something like this to stay, it needs to be written into the contract using a Non-Realty Items Addendum.

If it’s not in writing… it’s not guaranteed.

There’s also a section in the contract where sellers can list what they’re taking with them.

If something is listed there—it’s going.

The contract is very clear—but most people don’t read it until it matters.

So here’s the simple version:

Attached = usually stays
Not attached = don’t assume
Want it? Ask for it and put it in writing (Non-Realty Items Addendum)

This is one of those details I always walk through with clients so nothing gets missed (or assumed).

Because the goal isn’t just to buy a house—it’s to know exactly what you’re getting when you do.

— Hannah