Blog > What to Check on Your Final Walk-Through
The final walk-through on your new home is an exciting event. It means you have successfully maneuvered through negotiations, inspections, and financing approval, and are on the verge of signing your closing papers. Most buyers attend the final walk-through with thoughts of furniture placement and paint colors in their heads. But the walk-through is about more than just making sure your favorite chair will fit by the fireplace. Be sure to do your due diligence to make sure there are no issues that should be resolved before you reach the closing table.
The purpose of the final walk-through is to ascertain that the home is being conveyed to you in the same condition it was when you agreed to purchase it. Here are a few of the things you should check:
1) Make sure no damage has occurred to the home that the sellers are responsible for repairing. Weather conditions or careless movers can cause accidental damage, and old and forgotten damage may be uncovered when the sellers’ belongings are removed. Make sure that the home is clean and free of debris. The seller should have cleaned the home prior to your final walk-through.
2 ) Ensure that all agreed-upon repairs have been completed to your satisfaction. If there were any repairs that were supposed to be made by the seller, make sure they have been completed.
3) Check that appliances are still in working order and no new plumbing or electrical issues have popped up. Turn on the stove, dishwasher, and other appliances to make sure they are working properly. Test all light switches and electrical outlets to make sure they are working. While you aren’t doing a complete home inspection, you can visually check for obvious problems that should be repaired before you move in.
4) Confirm that items under contract such as light fixtures, window treatments, and items that were supposed to remain in the home, are still in place. If the sellers agreed to leave particular furniture, décor, or equipment, see that it has not been removed.
5) Make certain the sellers have removed all their belongings. You don’t want to arrive with the moving truck only to find out that the sellers left behind an assortment of unwanted furniture or trash. The sellers should be held responsible for removing everything that doesn’t convey with the sale.
6 ) Verify that all keys and garage door openers are present and working.
7 ) Check the HVAC system: Make sure the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are in good working order. Turn on the heater or air conditioner to ensure they are functioning properly.
8 )Inspect the plumbing: Check all faucets, showers, and toilets to make sure there are no leaks or clogs. Run water in all sinks and flush all toilets to ensure proper drainage.
9 )Test the windows and doors: Open and close all windows and doors to make sure they are functioning properly. Check for any cracks in the glass or damage to the frames.
The final walk-through is one of the most important steps in the home-buying process, and it is crucial that buyers are meticulous and thorough during this stage. Taking the time to thoroughly inspect the property during the final walk-through can help prevent any surprises after closing. By being thorough during the final walk-through and checking for these additional items, you can ensure that you are making an informed decision before closing on your new home. If any issues are discovered, be sure to address them with your real estate agent or attorney before the closing.