What should I include in a final walkthrough before closing?
Ensure your new home is perfect before closing with these final walkthrough tips.
Published
Before closing on your new home, it’s essential to perform a thorough final walkthrough to ensure everything is in order. This is your last chance to confirm that the property meets your expectations and is in the condition agreed upon in the contract.
What should I check during the final walkthrough?
During your final walkthrough, inspect every room in the house, checking for any signs of damage or issues that may have arisen since your last visit. Pay special attention to:
- Structural Integrity: Look for cracks in walls, ceilings, and floors.
- Appliances: Ensure that all appliances are in working order. This includes the refrigerator, dishwasher, and heating/cooling systems.
- Plumbing: Turn on faucets and flush toilets to check for leaks or inadequate water pressure.
It’s also wise to verify that any repairs agreed upon during negotiations have been completed. If you’re uncertain about anything, don’t hesitate to ask your real estate agent, who can provide guidance and help you address any issues before closing.
Who should I bring with me to the final walkthrough?
It’s a good idea to bring your real estate agent along for the final walkthrough. They can offer valuable insights and help you evaluate the condition of the home. If you have a trusted friend or family member who has experience with home buying, consider bringing them as well for a second set of eyes. Additionally, if you had a home inspection done, bringing the inspector’s report can help you keep track of any previous issues that need to be checked.
What goes wrong during a final walkthrough?
Many issues can arise during a final walkthrough, ranging from minor concerns to significant problems. One common issue is that sellers may have removed appliances or fixtures that should have remained with the property. Additionally, you might discover that repairs promised during negotiations were not completed or that new damage has occurred, such as water stains or broken windows. This is why it’s crucial to conduct a thorough inspection and hold the seller accountable for any agreed-upon repairs.
How long does a final walkthrough take?
A final walkthrough typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the home and the number of items you need to check. Make sure to allocate enough time to thoroughly inspect the property without feeling rushed. You want to ensure that everything is in order before you finalize your purchase.
What should I do if I find issues during the walkthrough?
If you encounter any significant issues during the final walkthrough, such as unaddressed repairs or missed items, communicate these concerns to your real estate agent immediately. Your agent can assist you in negotiating with the seller to resolve the issues before closing. This might involve asking the seller to make the necessary repairs, providing a credit at closing, or delaying the closing date until the issues are resolved. Always remember that it’s better to address these concerns now rather than later.
Frequently asked questions
- What should I check during the final walkthrough?
- Inspect every room, check for damage, and ensure agreed repairs are completed.
- Who should I bring with me to the final walkthrough?
- Bring your real estate agent, and possibly a trusted friend or family member for their insights.
- What goes wrong during a final walkthrough?
- Common issues include missing appliances, unaddressed repairs, or new damage to the property.
- How long does a final walkthrough take?
- Typically, it takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the home's size.
- What should I do if I find issues during the walkthrough?
- Communicate the issues to your real estate agent for assistance in negotiating with the seller.
Written by Brian Inman, REALTOR® — Mountain Bear Homes, Payson, Arizona. Call (623) 512-9763 or email brian@mountainbearhomes.com.