Final answer:
The owner cannot take the built-in bookcases with him when selling the house because they are considered fixtures due to being permanently attached to the property. To retain the bookcases, this must be expressly stated in the sale contract.
Step-by-step explanation:
The owner cannot take the bookcases as they are considered fixtures. When an item is permanently attached to a property, it typically becomes part of the property and is classified as a fixture. This includes items like built-in bookcases that are often secured to the wall. In real estate, fixtures are normally included in the sale of the house and are expected to stay with the property when ownership changes.
If the owner wants to retain the bookcases, they must specify this exclusion in the sale contract, ensuring that the buyer is aware that these fixtures are not part of the sale. Custom-built does not automatically grant the right to remove the bookcases, as the attachment to the property is the key factor. If the bookcases were freely standing and not affixed, they would be considered personal property and could be removed.