Final Walkthrough in Real Estate: What to Look For

The final walkthrough is one of the last steps in the home-buying process, and while it’s often seen as a formality, it’s a critical part of ensuring that the property is in the condition agreed upon before closing. During the walkthrough, the buyer gets a chance to inspect the home one last time to confirm that any agreed-upon repairs have been completed, that the home’s condition hasn’t changed since the inspection, and that everything is in working order.

In this blog post, we’ll cover what you should look for during the final walkthrough and how to ensure this important step goes smoothly.

1. Verify Agreed-Upon Repairs

If any repairs were part of the purchase agreement, this is the time to make sure they were completed to your satisfaction. Ask for receipts or proof of work done by licensed contractors, especially for major repairs like roofing or plumbing.

Key Steps:

• Compare Repair List: Bring a list of all the repairs the seller agreed to make and check them off as you inspect the home.
• Inspect the Quality: Ensure that repairs were done professionally and there are no lingering issues or sloppy workmanship.

2. Check for Any New Damage

You’ll want to confirm that the property is in the same condition it was when you made your offer. In some cases, issues can arise between the time of the inspection and the final walkthrough—whether it’s weather damage, accidental harm during move-out, or wear and tear from the seller vacating the property.

Things to Watch Out For:

• Walls and Floors: Look for scratches, dents, or holes that weren’t present before.
• Windows and Doors: Make sure no windows are broken or doors damaged during the seller’s move-out process.
• Plumbing Leaks: Run faucets and check under sinks to ensure there are no new leaks.

3. Test Appliances and Systems

Make sure all major systems and appliances are functioning properly before you close the deal. This includes the heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical systems, as well as kitchen appliances.

How to Check:

• HVAC: Test the heating and air conditioning to ensure they’re working.
• Kitchen Appliances: Turn on the stove, oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher to verify they function as expected.
• Water Systems: Flush toilets, check water pressure, and ensure there are no clogs or leaks.
• Electrical: Test light switches, outlets, and the breaker box.

4. Ensure Personal Property Has Been Removed

The final walkthrough is also a good time to verify that the seller has removed all personal belongings unless certain items were part of the sale (such as appliances, fixtures, or furniture). You don’t want to inherit anything unexpected, like old furniture, garbage, or broken items.

Checklist:

• No Leftover Items: Make sure the home is empty and clean unless otherwise agreed.
• Fixtures: Confirm that any fixtures, such as light fittings, window treatments, or other negotiated items, have been left behind if included in the sale.

5. Look for Pests or Environmental Issues

You’ll want to ensure that there are no signs of pests, mold, or other environmental issues that could have emerged since the home inspection.

What to Watch For:

• Rodents or Insects: Check for droppings, chewed wires, or nests that could indicate a pest issue.
• Mold or Mildew: Look in areas like bathrooms, basements, or attics for signs of water damage or mold.

6. Check for General Cleanliness

The house should be clean and in “broom-swept” condition, meaning all floors, surfaces, and storage areas are free of debris. Some contracts specify professional cleaning, but at a minimum, you should expect a tidy home.

Tips:

• Floors and Carpets: Ensure floors are swept and carpets are vacuumed.
• Cabinets and Drawers: Open all cabinets, closets, and drawers to make sure they’re clean and empty.

7. Double-Check the Paperwork

Bring along a copy of the sales contract to the final walkthrough to make sure everything aligns with the agreement. This includes repairs, included fixtures, and anything else promised by the seller.

Documentation to Have:

• Sales Agreement: Check that everything specified in the agreement is in place.
• Repair Receipts: If repairs were made, ensure you have documentation showing the work was completed by professionals.

What to Do If Issues Arise

If you find problems during the final walkthrough, you have a few options. First, notify your real estate agent right away. Depending on the severity of the issue, you can:

• Delay Closing: If significant repairs or new issues arise, you can ask the seller to fix them before closing.
• Negotiate a Credit: For minor issues, you can request a credit to cover repair costs after closing.
• Hold Funds in Escrow: You may agree to close as planned but hold a portion of the funds in escrow until the issue is resolved.

Conclusion

The final walkthrough is your last opportunity to ensure that the property is in the condition you expect before closing the deal. By thoroughly checking for repairs, damage, and overall cleanliness, and confirming that all systems are functioning properly, you can prevent any last-minute surprises and ensure a smooth homebuying experience.

Be diligent during this step, and don’t hesitate to raise concerns with your agent if you find any issues. After all, buying a home is a significant investment, and you deserve to feel confident in your purchase.