Humber/Ontario Real Estate Course 4 Exam Practice

Which option defines a chattel in a real estate context?

1. An immoveable item permanently attached to the home

2. A rental item

3. A moveable item not affixed to the property

4. A fixture requiring removal prior to sale

5. An item included in the sale agreement

6. A permanently installed item

The correct answer is: A moveable item not affixed to the property

In the context of real estate, a chattel refers to a moveable item that is not affixed or permanently attached to the property. This concept distinguishes chattels from fixtures, which are items that are permanently attached to a property and are typically included in the sale of a home. For example, furniture, appliances, and personal belongings can be categorized as chattels because they can be moved from one location to another and are not a fixed part of the property. Understanding the distinction between chattels and fixtures is crucial for both buyers and sellers in real estate transactions, as it helps clarify what is included in a sale. Fixtures generally remain with the property, while chattels can be removed by the seller unless specifically stated otherwise in sale agreements or contracts. In this context, the identification of chattels helps buyers know what items they can expect to take with the seller upon completion of the sale.