"jmcquown" > wrote in message
...
> For some reason my middle brother thinks before we can sell this house we
> need to buy a new refrigerator. He and I were roommates in the 1980's and
> we *rented* a house. It didn't come with a refrigerator. I bought one.
>
> I don't think it's necessary to provide a refrigerator when you're selling
> a house. Just an FYI, this is pretty much a place where retirees move.
> It's not like some 20-somethings (who have absolutely nothing to their
> name) are going to buy the house. People who move here are pretty well
> set and they probably have their own appliances. It's not outside the
> realm of possiblity to throw in the washer and dryer and even the fridge
> when we sell the house. But I don't think we should have to provide one.
> What are your thoughts?
>
> Jill

Don't replace the refrigerator, you'll be wasting your money. Unless it's a
first time homebuyer who needs the appliances and can't afford new ones
after saving up for the downpayment, most buyers have attachments to their
current appliances and will want to bring their old ones with or buy brand
new. If they want them included, they'll write an addendum with their
purchase agreement specifying their inclusion in the sale. Nobody is going
to buy the house just because it comes with a brand new fridge, even if it
is their "dream" fridge, and definitely not if the stove and dishwasher (if
there is one) don't match as well. Carpeting, wallpaper removal and
repainting may or may not increase the selling value enough to justify the
work over selling it "as-is". $5000 worth of work might only increase the
value $2000. An experienced Realtor in the area should be able to tell you
whether it would be worth it or not to make some simple changes, and if so,
which ones. I'd definitely get more than one Realtor's opinion, however.
If you sell it as-is, definitely offer a carpet and redecorating allowance.
Why should my opinion count? I'm a Realtor.

Jinx