What distinguishes a fixture from personal property?

A fixture is defined as a piece of personal property that has been permanently attached to real property in such a way that it becomes part of the real estate. This means that when a fixture is installed, it cannot be easily removed without causing damage to the property itself. The essential distinction lies in the attachment; fixtures are integrated into the property and are meant to stay with the real estate, while personal property can be easily moved and is not permanently affixed.

This permanence of attachment is what makes option B the correct answer, as it clearly captures the characteristic that elevates a fixture beyond mere personal property. Other characteristics mentioned in the other choices do not accurately define the relationship between fixtures and personal property. For instance, fixtures can be made from various materials, personal property can vary in size, and the ability to move a fixture contradicts its definition as something that is permanently attached.