Tips for a Successful Final Walk-Through of Your New Home

Thank you for the A2A, Steve. When we talk about a ldquo;walk-throughrdquo; in real estate, especially for a home purchase, we usually refer to the final walk-through. This step comes after you have already completed all the necessary due diligence, including a professional home inspection. If there were any items the seller agreed to repair, you should have documented proof of those repairs. However, the focus during the final walk-through is more about confirming the condition of the property as it is now, especially since the last time you saw it.

On a typical home purchase, you mainly want to check for any changes or issues that have occurred since your last inspection. Have the sellers' movers damaged the walls or broken anything? Perhaps the seller once broke a door frame while moving something out, which is a potential concern. Sometimes, even a broken window from kids playing ball can appear. Occasionally, furniture covers something that needs to be addressed.

Ensuring Everything is in Working Order

It is essential to verify that everything is functioning properly during the final walk-through. Turn on all the burners on the stove, the oven, and all the lights. Confirm that the water gets hot by checking the water heater, if applicable. Remember to turn off the hot water tank, as some sellers might have done.

Do not use the final walk-through as a renegotiation opportunity for issues or repairs. The focus is on confirming that everything is as expected based on the agreement you have with the seller. Most of the time, things are as they are for my clients. However, if you had asked the seller to make repairs prior to closing, the situation might be slightly different. I prefer to offer a cash credit instead of renegotiating repairs, as it can be too subjective if the buyer is unhappy with how the seller fixed something.

What to Look for During the Walk-Through

Your final walk-through should include thorough inspections of the following areas:

Kitchen Appliances: Ensure that all appliances are operational and in good condition. Light Fixtures and Electrical Outlets: Verify that all lights work and outlets are functional. Water Heater: Check that the water heater is functioning and that the water gets hot. Plumbing: Inspect for leaks or water damage, especially in areas such as the bathrooms and kitchen. Doors and Windows: Ensure that all doors and windows are properly sealed and in good condition. Flooring and Walls: Look for any damage or stains on the flooring and walls, especially where furniture has been stored.

Document Everything: Take photos and notes during the walk-through to provide evidence of any issues. This documentation can be used later if necessary.

Conclusion

The final walk-through is a crucial step in the home purchase process. It ensures that you are getting the property in the condition agreed upon by both parties. By being thorough and prepared, you can catch any last-minute issues that might arise and make the final decision more comfortable for all parties involved.

Remember, the final walk-through is not the time for renegotiation. It's solely for verifying that everything is as expected. With proper documentation and a detailed inspection, you can ensure a successful final walk-through and a smooth transition to your new home.