A free-standing china cabinet built to fit into a corner of a dining room would be considered which of the following?

• A. Real property
• B. Personal property
• C. Fixture
• D. Trade fixture

Answer: (B)

Property classification depends on whether an item is permanently attached to the building. Items that aren’t fixed to the structure and can be moved without damage are personal property. Items that are affixed in a way that becomes part of the real estate are fixtures and thus real property. A trade fixture applies to business tenants installing equipment for their trade and is removable at lease end, which isn’t relevant here. Since the china cabinet is free-standing and not attached to walls, floors, or ceilings, it remains personal property even though it’s placed to fit into a corner. If it were built in or attached permanently, it could be considered a fixture and part of real property.