Real Property Characteristics 1. Personal property that, by its attachment to real property, is regarded as real estate is called _____________. a. an emblement b. personalty c. a fixture d. an appliance When personal property is attached to real property to such an extent that a person cannot extract the item from the real property without damaging the real property, the item is a fixture. Another test to determine whether an item is a fixture is whether the item is so adapted to the real property, that to remove the item will diminish the value or utility of the real property. Of course, if the purchase contract specifically includes a certain item with the sale of the property, that item must be regarded as a fixture, whether it meets the legal definition of fixture or not. Likewise if the purchase contract specifically excludes an item from the sale, it must be regarded as personal property, and should be removed. 2. Which of the following lists correctly describes the physical and economic characteristics of real estate? a. Immovable, indestructible, unique, scarce. b. Depreciable, indestructible, scarce, unique. c. Unique, immovable, abundant, indestructible. d. Moveable, indestructible, scarce, unique. Land is characterized as immovable because an entire parcel of real estate cannot be moved to another site. Land is considered indestructible because, in contrast to buildings, an entire parcel of real estate theoretically cannot be destroyed and/or need to be replaced. Land is considered unique because, at the very least, each parcel of real estate has its own different and distinct place on the planet. Finally, land is considered scarce because entire new parcels of real estate cannot be manufactured. Test-Taking Tip: Because the words "unique" and "indestructible" are in each answer choice, you do not need to spend valuable exam time considering them. B is incorrect. Land does not depreciate. Why not? Because, in contrast to a house or a building, an entire parcel of land does not wear out and need to be replaced. Test-Taking Tip: Make sure you remember this rule for your exam: Land does not depreciate. C is incorrect. Despite there being a lot of land, land is considered scarce as brand-new parcels of land cannot be created through human labor. D is incorrect. Land is not considered moveable. While topsoil or even a building can be moved, an entire parcel of real estate cannot be moved to a new location.