The final walkthrough is an exciting time for homebuyers. At this point, you’re close to becoming a homeowner. Don’t let the joy and prospect of owning a new home let you forget the importance of a final walkthrough. Be sure you’re taking a careful look around your property. During a final walkthrough you can determine if repairs have been completed and confirm that the property is in adequate condition. To help guide you through the final walkthrough, we’ve put together this checklist. Print it out and bring with when you’re ready to inspect your property.

Have all your requested repairs been made?
Make a list of what is in your sales agreement. Have all the changes been made?	Yes	No
Do you have all warranty documentation for the repairs made?	Yes	No
Do all your appliances and major systems work?
Dishwasher	Yes	No
Heater	Yes	No
Air conditioner	Yes	No
Thermostat	Yes	No
Ceiling fans	Yes	No
Hot/cold water on all faucets	Yes	No
Refrigerator/freezer	Yes	No
Microwave oven	Yes	No
All burners on stove and oven	Yes	No
Garbage disposal	Yes	No
Washing machine/dryer	Yes	No
Electrical outlets	Yes	No
Lighting	Yes	No
Smoke detectors	Yes	No
Garage door	Yes	No
Doorbell	Yes	No
Alarm System	Yes	No
Any remotes or keypads	Yes	No
Check all plumbing
Do all toilets flush?	Yes	No
Do all sinks fill and drain properly?	Yes	No
Do all tubs fill and drain properly?	Yes	No
Do all jets on tubs work?	Yes	No
Do all showers drain properly?	Yes	No
Check all windows and doors
Do all windows and doors open and close properly?	Yes	No
Do all lock and/or latch?	Yes	No
Do all windows have screens?	Yes	No
Do all windows have storm windows?	Yes	No
Are any windows broken?	Yes	No
Check for mold
Do the windows have mold?	Yes	No
Is there mold or water damage under any sinks?	Yes	No
Are there signs of mold or water damage by the showers?	Yes	No
Are there signs of mold or water damage by the toilets?	Yes	No
Are there signs of mold or water damage by any of the appliances?	Yes	No
Check the exterior of the property
Is there any change or damage to the roof, shutters, and siding on the exterior?	Yes	No
If there’s an irrigation system, are there any leaks?	Yes	No
Do all outdoor lights and electrical outlets work?	Yes	No
Are all railings, decks, and stairs sturdy?	Yes	No
Is the landscaping intact?	Yes	No
Check cleanliness
Has all garbage been removed from the property?	Yes	No
Is the home clean?	Yes	No
Have all smudges been removed from the walls?	Yes	No

The Comprehensive Final Walkthrough Checklist for the Home Buyer

In the home buying process, the final walkthrough is a crucial step that ensures everything is in order before closing the deal. This detailed inspection serves as your last chance to assess the property and verify that it meets your expectations. In this helpful guide, we will help explain why the final walk through is important, what to look for during inspection, who should be involved, and how to handle any potential issues. 

Understanding the Final Walkthrough 

The final walkthrough is an essential component of the home buying process. It allows you to examine the property one last time before closing to ensure that it aligns with the agreed-upon terms and conditions. This inspection ensures that the property’s condition remains consistent with what you saw during the initial viewing and that any negotiated repairs or changes have been completed to your satisfaction.

The Importance of the Final Walkthrough 

The final walkthrough acts as a safeguard against unexpected surprises. In this thorough inspection, you can identify any potential issues or discrepancies and address them before finalizing the transaction. It also provides an opportunity to verify that no new problems have emerged since the initial home inspection and that the seller has maintained the property adequately.

What to Look for During the Final Walkthrough 

During the final walkthrough, it is crucial to pay attention to the following key areas:

• Working Order: Test all appliance setups, light fixtures, electrical outlet connections, and other fixtures to ensure they are functioning properly. Turn on faucets and check for leaks, flush toilets, and test heating and cooling systems. Take the time to check the garage door and opener, garbage disposal, the ceiling fan in each room, and any other electrical or mechanical components.
• Repairs: Verify that any requested repairs or negotiated repairs have been satisfactorily completed. Carefully inspect any areas that were repaired to ensure they meet your expectations in terms of quality and function. Review the documentation of completed repairs provided by the seller.
• Property Condition: Assess the overall condition of the property, both inside and outside. Look for signs of damage, such as cracks, water stains, or mold and pay attention to the condition of the walls, ceilings, floors, and any other structural elements. Examine the windows and doors to ensure they open and close properly.
• Personal Property: Confirm that all personal property items included in the purchase agreement, such as appliances, fixtures, or furniture, are present and in the expected condition. Make a list of included items and check them off during the walkthrough.

Who Should Conduct The Final Walkthrough? 

Ideally, both the homebuyer and their real estate agent should be present during the final walkthrough. Your real estate agent can provide valuable guidance, answer questions, and offer insights based on their experience. Having them by your side ensures that you have a knowledgeable advocate who can help navigate any unexpected issues that may arise during the walkthrough.

When Should The Final Walkthrough Be Conducted?

Schedule the final walkthrough as close to the closing date as possible so the property is in the same condition as when you agree to purchase it. Conducting the walkthrough a day or two before the closing allows time for any necessary resolutions or negotiations.

How Long Should The Final Walkthrough Take?

The duration of the final walkthrough naturally will vary depending on the size and condition of the property. On average, it takes around one to two hours to complete. However, it’s essential not to rush through the inspection. Take your time and address any concerns that may arise.

What If You Encounter Issues During The Final Walkthrough?

If you encounter issues during the final walkthrough, there are several steps you can take:

• Document the Issues: Make a detailed list of any problems you identify during the walkthrough. Take photographs as evidence to support your claims. This documentation will be helpful during negotiations or discussions with the seller.
• Consult Your Real Estate Agent: Discuss the issues with your agent to determine the best course of action. They can provide guidance on how to address the problems, whether it involves negotiating repairs, adjusting the purchase price, or adding contingencies to the closing agreement.
• Negotiating Repairs: If repairs are necessary, work with your real estate agent to communicate your concerns to the seller’s agent. Negotiate the terms for resolving the issues, ensuring that they are addressed before the closing.
• Seek Professional Advice: Depending on the severity of the issues, you may consider consulting professionals such as contractors, home inspectors, or structural engineers for further evaluation and guidance. Their expertise can help you make informed decisions about the property’s condition and the necessary repairs.

By following these steps and handling any issues proactively, you can ensure that the final walkthrough leads to a successful closing and a smooth transition into your new home.

Conclusion 

The final walkthrough is an integral part of the home buying process. By conducting a thorough inspection and following the house walkthrough checklist, you can protect yourself from potential issues and ensure that the property meets your expectations. Remember to involve California real estate agents, document any problems, and address them promptly through negotiations or repairs. With these guidelines in hand, you’ll be well-prepared to finalize the purchase of your new home and embark on the exciting new chapter of homeownership.

Sources:

1. https://www.rocketmortgage.com/learn/a-complete-final-walkthrough-checklist
2. https://www.trulia.com/guides/final-walk-through-checklist/
3. https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/moving-services/final-walk-through-checklist/
4. https://www.redfin.com/blog/final-walk-through-checklist-before-closing-on-a-home/