The final walk-through in the home-buying process is your last chance to ensure your future home is exactly as promised before the keys are handed over.
Your main goal is to confirm that the property is in the agreed-upon condition, with all requested repairs completed and nothing new needing attention. This crucial step helps avoid unexpected surprises once you’ve closed the deal.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Final Walk Through
When walking through the home, you must pay special attention to key areas like plumbing, electrical systems, and appliances. A careful inspection can help ensure that everything works correctly and that no damage has occurred since your last visit.
Taking your time during this process allows you to spot potential issues that must be addressed before closing.
During the walk-through, I always make sure my home buyers double-checks that any conditions outlined in their contract have been met. This can include verifying that agreed-upon repairs have been completed properly and ensuring that all personal property of the previous owner have been moved out.
As you assess each aspect of the home, remember that this is your final opportunity to address any concerns before making your purchase official.
Preparing for the Final Walk-Through
It’s beneficial to be ready and well-informed to make your final walk-through a smooth experience. This is your last chance to make sure the home is in the expected condition and that all agreed-upon repairs are completed.
Understanding the Purpose
The final walk-through is your last opportunity to inspect the property one last time before closing. It’s a good idea to double-check that all contractual obligations, like any necessary repairs in the inspection report, are fulfilled.
This step ensures that there are no surprises waiting for you, such as leftover rubbish or forgotten maintenance tasks.
Remember, this process is not an official home inspection but a final check-up to see if everything is in order to your satisfaction.
What to Bring
Come prepared with a detailed checklist to guide you during the walk-through. Include items such as the inspection report, contracts detailing repairs, and receipts or proof of completed work.
A camera or smartphone is helpful for documenting any issues that might still need addressing.
Having a copy of your sales contract handy allows you to verify specific terms, ensuring nothing is overlooked. Lastly, consider bringing a flashlight to examine less visible areas like basements or attics closely.
Key Areas to Inspect
When you conduct a final walk-through, focus on examining crucial areas of the property. This ensures that the home is in the agreed-upon condition and ready for you to move in.
Structural Elements
Check the foundation for cracks and other signs of damage. Inspect the walls for any bulges or bowing that could indicate underlying issues. Examine the ceiling for signs of water damage, which might suggest a leaky roof or plumbing problems.
Ensure that the floors are even and free of squeaks or other issues. Pay attention to windows and doors, making sure they open and close smoothly without any gaps. Verify that the attic and crawlspace are well-ventilated and free of pests or moisture-related problems.
Interior Features
Evaluate the condition of appliances such as the dishwasher, refrigerator, and oven. Ensure HVAC systems, including air conditioning and heating, are in good working order.
Test all electrical systems by flipping switches and trying outlets to ensure they function properly. Check that light fixtures are still in place.
Check for signs of mold or mildew in areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms and basements. Inspect faucets and plumbing fixtures for leaks or low water pressure. Verify that smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors have fresh batteries and operate correctly for safety.
Exterior Components
Examine the exterior siding, paint, or brickwork for signs of wear or damage. Look at the roof and gutters to confirm they’re free of debris and in good condition. Check that pathways, driveways, and entryways are even and not cracked or hazardous.
Make sure that all exterior doors and windows are secure and weatherproof. Check outdoor systems such as sprinklers or lights to verify that they function as expected. Assess external water drainage to prevent potential water damage to the property foundation.
Ensuring Agreed-Upon Repairs
When completing a final walk-through, it’s crucial to confirm that all negotiated repairs are satisfactory and that no new issues have emerged. Keep a checklist handy to evaluate the property’s readiness for move-in efficiently.
Seller’s Repairs
Check that all agreed-upon repairs are done before you close the deal. Use your purchase contract as a reference to ensure everything complies with the agreement. Bring any necessary documentation, such as inspection reports, to verify that repairs were done correctly.
Ask your agent to confirm that the home sellers have completed repairs, that they are up to standard, and that everything is in good working order.
If you find any discrepancies, address them quickly. If repairs were agreed upon but not completed as required, your agent needs to immediately contact the seller’s agent so they can address them.
If the sellers refuse to take care of any discrepancies, legal action might be necessary.
The good news is, in my over 10-year career as a successful real estate agent, I’ve never seen things go that far. Sellers want to sell, and you want to buy!
New Issues
Assess the property for any new damage that may have occurred since your last visit.
Look for signs like scratches, leaks, or malfunctioning systems that weren’t previously there. It’s essential to identify these problems early so that they can be addressed with the seller before closing.
Be prepared to negotiate last-minute fixes or remaining issues. Ensure everything is documented and agreed upon in writing. Discuss possible solutions with your real estate agent to resolve outstanding issues amicably and effectively.
Legal and Contractual Considerations
During the final walk-through, you should pay close attention to legal and contractual details. This ensures that all terms in the sales contract are met and that discrepancies are properly addressed.
Reviewing the Sales Contract
When you conduct your final walk-through, it’s crucial to have a copy of the sales contract on hand. This document outlines all agreed-upon terms, such as repairs, included fixtures, and move-in conditions.
Take some time to compare the current state of the property with the specifics listed in the contract.
This is again where I work closely with my buyers and the listing agent, making sure everyone is on the same page.
Ensure any agreed repairs are completed and all included items, like appliances, are present. If there are discrepancies, note them so they can be addressed before closing.
Understanding the terms of the contract helps protect you from unexpected surprises, saving you from potentially costly legal action later.
Addressing Discrepancies
Addressing these discrepancies is essential if you discover issues during the walk-through that conflict with the contract. Start by documenting any problems with photos and detailed notes.
Contact your real estate agent immediately to discuss these findings (though really, your realtor should be there with you at the final walk-through, I always am!)
You might need the seller to fix issues or adjust the final contract terms before closing. This proactive approach helps safeguard your interests and aligns the property with your contractual expectations.
In some cases, discussing potential solutions and negotiations can prevent delays or the need for legal action.
Closing the Deal
You’re almost a new homeowner, but before signing, there are crucial steps to ensure everything is in order for your closing day. Verify all documentation and make sure the property is in tip-top shape.
Last Steps Before Closing
Before your closing date, confirm that the repairs you requested have been completed. It’s essential to check this before you reach the closing table.
Make an appointment for a final walkthrough to inspect the property one last time.
When you arrive on the day of closing, ensure that you have all necessary documentation, such as your ID and any financial paperwork. You’ll then meet at the closing table to sign the final documents, officially becoming the homeowner.
Conclusion
The final walk-through inspection of the property marks one of the most important steps in your real estate transaction.
It’s the final time to ensure the condition of the home matches the terms of the purchase agreement and that no significant issues—anything from missing fixtures, broken garage doors, or a faulty garbage disposal—have cropped up since your last visit.
From checking window treatments and window screens to testing the water heater, alarm system, and even plugging in a phone charger to test electrical outlets, your goal is to verify that the home is in good shape before those final steps to closing.
I always remind my buyers that taking a closer look now even in the most unexpected spots: in the crawl space, even around the washing machine.
Confirm that agreed-on repairs were made. This is the best way to avoid surprises and move into your new house with peace of mind.
When everything checks out, you’ll know you’re truly in the home stretch and ready to cross the finish line with confidence.
If you’re looking to buy a home St Petersburg or the Tampa Bay area in general, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’ll help you find the perfect house and make sure any final walk-through issues will be taken care of promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should be included on a final walk-through checklist?
Your checklist should cover verifying that agreed-upon repairs are completed, checking the functionality of appliances, and ensuring no new damage has occurred. Look for leftover belongings from previous owners, and inspect all doors, windows, and fixtures to confirm they are in working order.
Can buyers request repairs during the final walk-through?
Typically, the final walk-through isn’t the time for new repair requests. It’s meant to confirm the property’s condition as agreed in the contract. If you notice significant unresolved issues, communicate quickly with your real estate agent to explore potential remedies before closing.
What are the typical expectations for the house’s condition during the final walk-through?
Unless you’ve agreed otherwise, the house should be move-in-ready. This means it’s clean, and no personal belongings have been left behind. All systems, such as plumbing and electrical, should function as expected. Any previously agreed-upon repairs should be completed.
What steps should be taken if issues are discovered during the final walk-through?
If issues are found, contact your real estate agent immediately. They can negotiate with the sellers to resolve the problems, which might result in a repair credit, delay in closing, or other solutions. Documentation and clear communication are key.
How close to the closing date should the final walk-through be scheduled?
The final walk-through is usually scheduled within 24 to 48 hours before closing. This timing ensures that any last-minute issues are identified and resolved quickly, maintaining the planned closing schedule.
Will the new homeowners receive the keys to the property at the final walk-through?
Typically, you won’t receive the keys at the walk-through. The final transfer of keys usually happens at closing once all documents are signed, and funds are transferred. Confirm these details with your agent to ensure everything goes as planned.
