What is the term for personal property that is attached to real property?

The correct term for personal property that is attached to real property is a fixture. Fixtures are items that were once considered personal property but have been affixed to the land or a building in such a way that they are now regarded as part of the real estate. This attachment can occur through physical installation or by means of defined intention, making the fixture an integral part of the real property.

For example, light fixtures, built-in cabinets, and plumbing fixtures are all considered fixtures because they are permanently connected to the structure and are typically included in the sale of a property. Understanding this distinction is crucial in real estate transactions, as it affects what is included or excluded in the sale of the property.

Accessory property typically refers to additional property that complements the main property but doesn't imply attachment. Real property denotes the land and anything attached to it, which is broader and does not specify the nature of the attachment. Appurtenance refers to rights or privileges associated with the property, such as easements or water rights, rather than physical items attached to the property itself. These distinctions clarify why fixture is the most precise term for describing personal property that is permanently attached to real property.