Can an inducement by seller to buyer consisting of personal property (a pool table, a piano) be included in basis or closing costs?

[JamesG1]

Are you saying that a pool table and a piano were left behind (abandoned) when the seller left the home that was sold to you?

If so, then the pool table and piano were gifts to you.  See IRS FAQ is here.  Basis of home not changed.  Not a closing cost.

Or are you saying that the seller issued you proceeds on the day of settlement as an inducement.  I did not think that these payments are detailed on the HUD Settlement Statement (HUD-1).

Please clarify.

[VolvoGirl]

I would assume the poster is the seller and left the items and wants to deduct them from the sale.

[Mike9241]

since the pool table and piano are personal property, if credit was given on the closing statement for these items that would be the sales price of these items. loss on the sale of personal property is not deductible, gain is capital gain.  in no way are basis or closing costs of the real property affected.