Why You Need a Final Walk-Through

You might be tempted to skip the final walk-through when it comes time to buying your home, but as a Realtor, I view a final walk-through an extremely important step in the home buying process. A final walk-through’s primary purpose is to assure you that the property that you are purchasing is in the condition that you agreed upon.

What Final Walk-Throughs are For

Final walk-throughs are not a home inspection, or a time for negotiations. Instead the final walk-through allows us to address common issues such as:

• If the current owner is on schedule to move out
• That the property is in the same condition it was when shown
• That any repairs required have been completed

Vacant Home or Occupied?

Final walk-throughs are vital for both vacant homes or homes that are still occupied.

If the seller has already moved out of their home, and it is now vacant, problems may have risen while the home sat vacant. Leaking faucets causing flooding or other plumbing problems could have occurred, and a final walk-through will help catch the problem before closing.

On the other hand, if the sellers haven’t moved out yet, make sure the seller is present during the final walk-through. This is because the sellers can explain details about the house that the buyer may need to know, especially tricky pool heaters, access to attics, funny light switches, and sprinkler timers.

The final walk-through is also a great time to put together a list of companies who have serviced the house in the past.

I like to schedule final walk-throughs at least 4 – 7 days before closing, as this is often enough time to resolve any outstanding issues before paperwork must be signed. (The walk-through itself may happen within 24 hours of closing.)

Checklist for the Final Walk-Through

• Electrical: Check the homes electrical system by turning on and off every light switch and check the electrical outlets. A great way to check the outlets in your home is to bring a phone charger and plug in your phone to make sure the outlet is functioning properly. Also check to make sure the garage door, security system, and doorbell are in working order.
• Doors and Windows: Open windows and doors to check latches and locks. Make sure your home is secure.
• Plumbing: Flush toilets, run faucets, and check under sinks for leaks. Make sure the bathrooms are free from water damage, and that the sinks and bathtubs drain properly.
• Heating and Air Conditioning: Weather it is freezing or hot outside, make sure to test the heating and air conditioning.
• Appliances: Test the oven, dishwasher, open the fridge & freezer, and don’t forget to turn on the washer & dryer.

I’m dedicated to protecting my clients from the beginning through the end of the home buying experience. If you want to work with someone who pays attention to the details, get in touch with me today!

Resources: TheBalance, Forbes