What To Do During a Final Walkthrough
The final walkthrough is an important part of any home buying process. Let’s start by stating a final walkthrough is NOT a home inspection. It is however an opportunity for the buyer to see the house one last time before closing.
It’s often done as close to the closing date as possible, preferably the day of. This gives the sellers as much time to get things packed and out of the house. Then the buyers are able to check the home and see if there is any new damage since the home inspection.
Sometimes sellers don’t move out until the day of closing; rarely final walkthroughs can happen with the sellers still hanging around (but it does happen). It’s ideal the sellers have moved out before. A vacant home is the easiest for a buyer to see if there’s damage during the moving process, but it is not always a guarantee they’ll be completely moved out.
Sellers should leave all utilities on for the final walkthrough. Turning them off can cause a delay in closing, which isn’t ideal for the buyer or seller. Here are some things to look for during a final walkthrough:
- Turn light fixtures off/on
- Open and close windows/doors
- Flush toilets, run water and check for leaks
- Inspect ceilings, wall, and floors
- Run the garbage disposal and exhaust fans
- Test the heating and air conditioning
- Make sure any appliances/fixtures included in the contract are still there and properly functioning
As well as easing your mind, a final walkthrough allows one more opportunity to take a look at this exciting next step in your life: home ownership!
