Here’s the honest truth that almost nobody talks about until it becomes a problem at the final walk through.

I once sold a home where the sale itself went smoothly… and then closing week hit. The sellers had moved out, but they left a pile of trash out on the curb like it was a last minute “goodbye gift.” Inside, there were still things left behind in the house and yes, even stuff in the refrigerator.

Not only is that stressful for the buyer, it can get expensive fast.

What sellers need to know before closing

In most transactions, the expectation is simple:

The home should be empty and broom clean unless the contract says otherwise.

That means:

• No bags of trash or random furniture on the curb

• No leftover items in closets, basements, attics, garages, or sheds

• No mystery containers in the fridge or freezer

• No “I thought they might want this” piles

Because here’s what can happen when items are left behind.

1) The city or township can fine the homeowner

That curb pile might feel harmless, but many towns will fine the property owner if trash is left out improperly or outside of the scheduled pickup rules. And if it is still there after closing, it can create a messy situation over who is responsible.

2) It can cost real money

If the buyer has to:

• Rent a dumpster

• Hire a junk removal company

• Pay labor to clear out the home

That cost often becomes a point of conflict, and it can sour what should be a happy moment.

And realistically, most buyers do not want to start homeownership by cleaning up someone else’s leftovers.

3) It is not the buyer’s responsibility

Buyers are purchasing the home, not the contents. Unless something is specifically included in the contract, the seller is expected to remove it.

The easy rule for garages, sheds, and leftover paint

If you are unsure, do not guess.

Ask the buyer.

Some buyers might want leftover paint cans, extra flooring, garage shelving, or a workbench.

Some absolutely do not.

So the best practice is:

• Ask in writing through your agent

• Get a clear yes or no

• If it is not a yes, it is a remove it

My practical “seller close-out checklist.”

A few days before closing, aim for:

• Home completely emptied

• Refrigerator and freezer emptied and wiped out

• Garage and shed cleared unless buyer requested items

• Trash removed properly (scheduled pickup, dump run, or junk removal)

• Floors swept, surfaces wiped, bathrooms reasonably clean

Not perfect. Just respectful and ready for the new owner.

If you are thinking about selling in 2026, I will give you a simple pre-closing plan so nothing gets missed and you do not get hit with surprise costs or last minute drama.

Want my “Clear Out and Close Out” checklist? Message me the word CHECKLIST and I will send it to you.