What to leave/take when moving out?

Unless otherwise stated, they're buying the house, not anything on the walls.

We only found out when we moved in that the previous owners took the washing machine and dryer with them. I doubt people would be bothered with tv brackets being gone. Sure you've no idea where they want to hang the Tv (or if they even want a Tv for that matter)

When I moved in to a place the light bulbs were gone and they took the gas cooker leaving an open gas line so we couldn't switch on the heating till it was closed off.

The brackets would be fittings that should be included in the sale but the tv and speakers would not. I would not fill any holes that make it easier to install a TV and speaker wires. People always leave stuff behind when selling unless it is a huge amount a skip for €200 will do. Just an expected cost. Wouldn't be too bothered by a washing machine left behind as you just drop them off at a bring centre free of charge.

Asking the buyer is the best option and if they aren't interested in it let them know there will be holes in the wall. Anybody buying a 2nd hand house should expect such things. Sounds like you are worrying unnecessarily.

Take the lot.

Take the chimney pots... you can use them as flower pots in your new place

Take the garden gate... you can chop it up for a bonfire next 5th November

Take the sink... it's an ideal bath size for your pet dog or cat

Take the floorboards up... there could be hidden treasures under there. On second thoughts maybe not - there could be bodies.

Yeah that is really practical and vital you do it. Unless it is some huge issue just get over it and acknowledge it for what it is a minor cost and inconvenience.

This certainly points out very good reasons for landlords not letting places unfurnished as the cost to remove stuff to rental income it is not a minor thing unlike the purchase of a property.

The house I am sale agreed on is really nicely decorated. I was wondering would it be appropriate for me to approach the vendor (through the estate agent) to see if they might be open to selling any of it to me? Is that done frequently?

Everybody.

"Vacant possession" means that the property should be handed over to the buyer without any people or possessions inside, unless those possessions are included in the contract.

It means in theory that leaving white goods behind which are not included in the contract could be considered a breach of the contract.

"Vacant possession" is standard in virtually every property sale, and if you're getting a mortgage the bank will insist on it.

Aside from the law, leaving behind large appliances to be thrown out, or a shed full of rubbish, is a dick move. Anyone who does it is an asshole. I always assume the kind of people who do this are spiteful and resent the buyer for some reason.

If you don't want it, how hard is it to throw it out yourself rather than leaving it for someone else to have to deal with.

Integrated appliances you would generally specify in the contract as being part of the sale. And a buyer who didn't verify that has only themselves to blame when they have no appliances.

Freestanding appliances are always assumed to not be included unless specified.

OAPs are the majority of people buying houses and it is such a common problem for them! Come on get with reality for the majority it is not really an issue and exaggerating how difficult it is and who is effected. People do not full clear out property, may not be the nicest but barely an issue for most