What defines a "fixture" in real estate?

A "fixture" in real estate is defined as an item of personal property that has been permanently attached or affixed to a piece of real property, resulting in its conversion from personal property to real property. This process often involves making a modification or alteration to the property that integrates the item in such a manner that it becomes a part of the real property.

For instance, when a chandelier is installed and affixed to the ceiling of a home, it transitions from being personal property (which could easily be removed) to a fixture that is considered part of the real estate during a sale. This concept is crucial in real estate transactions, as fixtures typically remain with the property when it is sold, unlike personal property, which can be taken by the seller.

The other options refer to concepts that do not capture the legal distinction of a fixture. A temporary structure does not qualify as a fixture because it is not intended to be permanently attached. A piece of personal property implies it is movable and not fixed to the land. A structure physically attached to land could encompass a fixture but does not specifically address the notion of conversion from personal to real property, which is at the heart of defining a fixture.