The final walkthrough is a critical part of the home buying process and can be a nerve-racking experience. It is your last chance to check if everything is as agreed upon.
Final walkthroughs are your opportunity as a buyer to get in one last look before you are locked into your purchase. The main purpose of a final walkthrough is to give you a chance to inspect everything in the house: walls, ceilings, floors, windows, appliances, and outlets. It also includes checking the home's systems (plumbing, electrical, and heating), ensuring that all doors close properly and any working appliances work as they should.
We have compiled a complete checklist of the items that should be checked in your home at the final walkthrough.
Why is the final walkthrough so important?
The final walkthrough before closing a home is vitally important. It eliminates the possibility of hidden problems, allows you time to save money and energy doing any repairs and helps you get the house ready to move in
A final walkthrough is not only favourable for the homebuyer, but a comprehensive final walkthrough also provides the home seller with a detailed report on any deficiencies, as well as areas where improvements could be made. This will help the seller to provide buyers with a clean and efficient house, taking away the stress of having to deal with repairs after the closing.
Who should be at the final walkthrough?
If you are unsure whether to do the final walkthrough by yourself or with someone more experieced, your real estate agent can accompany you to the walkthrough and will help you do a more thorough inspection of the house so that you know what you are buying. They know what to look for with everything from the condition of the roof to whether there is a huge hole in the wall you cannot see because it is blocked by furniture.
Things to check during a final walkthrough
- Check if electrical systems like light fixtures and power outlets are in working condition.
- Run water and check for leaks under sinks and showers.
- Inspect the bathroom and make sure toilets are not running or clogged.
- Open and close all doors and windows. Ensure all locks are working properly.
- Try out the heating and air conditioning.
- Carefully inspect ceilings, walls, and floors for any damage – check if there is any new evidence of mold, especially in the moistest areas.
- Look for signs of pests, such as smells and sounds.
- Test major appliances such as the oven, stove, dishwasher, and water heater.
- Make sure that the garage doors open correctly.
- Check if the seller leaves trash or other items behind.
Remember, it is important to have all of the issues in writing before closing. You will also want to make sure that you are completely satisfied with every single aspect of your home and property so that you can save money on repair bills after closing on your new home.
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