Final walkthroughs aren't home inspections. They're not a time to begin negotiations with the seller to do repairs or a contingency of sale. The primary purpose of a final walkthrough is to make sure the property is in the condition in which you agreed to buy it and is the last task you will do as a homebuyer, before you become owner.
Fara Espandi, Realtor Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty states, “Buyers are often pressed for time as the transaction closing date draws near. Some buyers ask if they need to be present during the final walkthrough. I always advise my buyers to come to the walkthrough because issues can come up, and could potentially hold up the closing date or cause issues after the buyers move in.”
What to Check During a Final Walkthrough
During the walkthrough you will want to check for any remaining, unresolved issues with the home. First and foremost, make sure your real estate agent is with you! Do not perform the final walk-through without your real estate agent. You’ll need a professional who has a thorough understanding of the home buying and selling process. Your agent should be able to follow up with the listing agent about any post-inspection repairs, changes and contract legalities. Having a seasoned professional in your corner also helps make your walk-through a more seamless experience. Below is a sample checklist of what to bring or verify at the walkthrough.
- Copy of contract, notepad, camera
- Copy of inspection report (to verify final repairs were completed)
- Verify if seller left behind warranties and receipts for work that was repaired
- Check to make sure all items that were supposed to be included in sale are there
- Test every light fixture
- Run water and check for leaks
- Test all appliances
- Check doorbell
- Check garage door openers
- Open and close all doors throughout house
- Flush toilets
- Inspect ceilings, wall, and floors
- Run the garbage disposal and exhaust fans
- Test the heating and air conditioning
- Open and close windows
- Make sure all debris is removed from the home
- Check for evidence of pest issues
- Is the landscaping as you remembered it?
As a buyer, express your concerns right away if you have any questions while performing the final walkthrough. Fara says, “Finding a significant problem during the final walkthrough can be a hassle, but it doesn’t have to be a deal breaker.”
Ready to buy? Fara Espandi or any of our ERA Justin Realty agents are here to help guide you through the process. Contact us at 201.939.7500 to see why we’ve sold 3 times more homes in Rutherford than our nearest competitor.
