The Final Walkthrough: What Should I Look For?

You’re almost there.

You’ve made it through the offer.

Inspection.

Financing.

Appraisal.

Paperwork.

And now it’s time for the final walkthrough.

This is exciting.

But don’t treat it like a house tour.

You’re not there to fall in love with the house all over again.

You’re there to make sure things are as expected before closing.

What Is the Final Walkthrough?

The final walkthrough is an opportunity for the buyer to look at the property shortly before closing.

The exact timing and purpose can vary depending on the contract and transaction.

Generally, you want to confirm that the property is in the condition you expect based on your agreement.

Start Outside

Walk around the property.

Look at:

• Exterior areas
• Doors
• Windows
• Garage
• Yard
• Any areas where agreed-upon work was supposed to occur
• Items that were specifically included in the transaction

You don’t need to perform another inspection.

You’re checking for anything unexpected.

Check the Major Areas of the House

Walk through the rooms.

Look for:

• Damage that wasn’t there before
• Significant changes in condition
• Water intrusion
• Damage from moving
• Items that were supposed to remain
• Repairs that were agreed upon
• Fixtures or appliances that were included

You’re basically asking:

“Is the house substantially as expected?”

Check the Appliances

If appliances are included in the purchase, make sure they’re still there.

Depending on the circumstances, you may also want to confirm they appear to be in the expected condition.

You aren’t performing a full appliance inspection.

You’re checking for obvious issues or surprises.

Check the Utilities and Systems

Depending on the property and circumstances, you may want to confirm that major systems are functioning as expected.

Your real estate professional can help you understand what is appropriate to check during the walkthrough.

Look for Damage From the Move

The seller may have already moved out.

That’s when you may notice things that weren’t obvious before.

Look at:

• Floors
• Walls
• Doors
• Stairways
• Fixtures
• Areas where furniture was removed

You’re not looking for perfection.

You’re looking for unexpected damage or changes.

Check Any Agreed-Upon Repairs

If the seller agreed to make specific repairs, review those items.

Was the agreed-upon work completed?

Does the property appear consistent with what was agreed?

If you have questions, bring them up before closing.

Don’t Expect a Brand-New House

This is important.

The final walkthrough isn’t a second inspection.

You’re not looking for every loose screw or tiny imperfection.

You’re confirming that the property is generally in the condition you expect under the terms of your transaction.

What If You Find Something Unexpected?

Don’t panic.

Don’t immediately assume closing has to be canceled.

Tell your real estate professional.

Depending on the issue, your attorney or other appropriate professional may also need to be involved.

The parties may need to determine how to address the issue under the contract.

Sometimes it’s simple.

Sometimes it requires negotiation.

The important thing is:

Don’t ignore it.

Give Yourself Enough Time

Don’t schedule your final walkthrough for five minutes before you’re supposed to be at closing.

Give yourself enough time to actually look.

This is your last opportunity to see the property before you become the owner.

Slow down.

Walk through each room.

Open the doors.

Look around.

Think about what you agreed to purchase.

A Simple Final Walkthrough Checklist

☐ Exterior looks as expected

☐ No obvious new damage

☐ Included appliances are present

☐ Included fixtures are present

☐ Agreed-upon repairs appear completed

☐ Seller’s belongings have been removed as required

☐ No obvious water or other new issues

☐ Garage and other included areas are as expected

☐ Property appears substantially as agreed

☐ Questions or concerns have been brought to the appropriate professional

The Bottom Line

The final walkthrough isn’t about finding a perfect house.

It’s about confirming that the house you’re about to purchase is substantially what you agreed to purchase.

Take your time.

Look carefully.

And if something doesn’t look right:

Say something before you close.

Have a Question?

Buying a home comes with a lot of questions. You don’t have to figure everything out on your own.

Have a question about something you read here? Want to talk through your situation? Or just not sure what your next step should be?

I’m happy to help.

Schedule a Time to Talk With Karyn

No pressure. No obligation. Just straight answers.

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