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Homebuying Checklist: Tips for the Final Walkthrough Before You Close

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned real estate veteran, nobody wants to be caught unaware when making a big purchase, especially a new home. That’s why it’s so important to complete the final walkthrough before you close the sale and move in to your next home.

It’s worth noting that this step does not replace the home inspection — that’s something to complete after the initial contract terms are negotiated, to ensure you’re not going to discover a major problem down the road where (as a buyer) you’d be responsible to pay for fixing it.

Instead, the final walkthrough is the ultimate step before approving funds and finishing the transaction, and the last chance you have to either receive compensation or if needed cancel or reschedule the closing. (Although it’s quite rare — six percent of contracts — sometimes real estate sales don’t close for legitimate reasons, according to the National Association of Realtors.)

Did the seller agree to repairs, following the inspection? Then the walkthrough allows you to verify it was completed in good order. Was the home clean and reasonably in good condition when you first saw it? If yes, you can check to be sure that’s still the case.

The walkthrough allows buyers (and their agents, whenever possible) the chance to examine the property for any new signs of damage, check all the appliances and systems, and be sure the home is in the condition you expected once you agreed to the purchase. Ideally, having your agent at the walkthrough can help you address issues quickly.

Be sure to bring a copy of your contract, a smartphone or digital camera to quickly send pictures and videos, your inspection report, and this checklist

Here’s our checklist for what to look for in the final walkthrough:

  1. Examine the exterior.

Any visible signs of disrepair or damage? How are the gutters and downspouts? Do you see any signs of pests or items that need to be cleaned or repaired? How about the doorbell(s) and the mailbox?

  1. Check the house exits and entryways.

This includes opening all garage doors (which might need to be done from inside the garage if the owner still has any remotes). Any concerns?

  1. Test the electrical system.

This includes turning on every light switch, testing outlets that were in need of repair, checking the security system, and running the HVAC system, no matter what the temperature is outside. The heating and air conditioning system is a big-ticket item you don’t want to pay to repair or replace after moving in, so give yourself time to ensure it’s functional.

  1. Run anything mechanical.

Test the disposal, run the dishwasher and washer/dryer (if appliances are included in the home sale), turn on the oven/ stove, and try any ceiling fans. If a refrigerator is staying, make sure it’s functioning properly and that the freezer actually freezes.

  1. Inspect the bathrooms.

Bathroom remodeling isn’t cheap, so make sure to flush the toilets, turn on the faucets, and look for any possible leaks or water damage. Remember to check the water pressure and see that both hot and cold water are in working order.

  1. Compare notes on the inspection report.

Double-check to verify all negotiated repairs were successfully completed. (The seller should also provide proof with receipts.)

  1. Look at the overall condition of the home.

Did the seller leave everything in good order? Any signs of mold or water damage? Are window treatments in place, fireplace or built-in bookshelves in good condition, and any furniture included in the purchase agreement still there? If you’re not happy with what you see, work with your realtor to help investigate and ensure a seamless transition prior to the closing date.

There’s always a chance that certain issues will need to be addressed following the walkthrough. That’s why having a professional in your corner matters.

So before you make the move to your next house, be sure that you know what to expect. And hopefully closing day, and more importantly your moving day, will arrive with everything wrapped up just like you expect it.