You may be wondering why you need to complete a final walk through before closing. Here, we outline the reasons you should exercise this option. We also provide a list of things you should be on the lookout for when you view the property a final time before it belongs to you.
Why Should You Do A Final Walk-Through?
A final walk-through is important for a couple of reasons. First, it gives home buyers the opportunity to ensure the condition of the home hasn't changed. Another reason is to review any home repairs completed after the home inspection. As a home buyer, you'll need to ensure all repairs are up to your standard.
What Happens At A Final Walk-Through?
In some circumstances, sellers won't move out of the home until closing or a few days after. If this is the case for your situation, you'll want to complete a final walk-through while the sellers are present. When no one is living in the home and it's been vacant for a long period of time, problems can arise. For example, flooding may occur when disconnecting the refrigerator or washing machine. This may go unnoticed in the absence of the seller. That's why it's important to look over the condition of the home BEFORE closing. If you don't complete a final walk-through, you could end up absorbing the extra costs of incidents like this.
What Should You Bring To A Final Walk-Through?
You will want to bring your real estate agent along with you. You shouldn't complete this walk-through without the company of a professional who understands the process. The agent will follow up with the seller's agent about any post-inspection repairs or changes. Having a real estate professional by your side makes the process smoother and will help put your mind at ease.
You will also need to gather a few documents in advance. Be sure to bring the inspection report and your checklist. You should also bring a phone with a camera to take any photos or videos. Finally, you'll want a pen, a note pad and something with a plug to test the electrical outlets. Note: The Agent cannot test things for you. You, The Buyer will have to do so!
Final Walk-Through Checklist
Now that you know how to prepare, you're ready to complete your final walk-through. Here's a final walk-through checklist:
Check Household Items Included in The Purchase Of Your Home
When you signed your contract, there may have been a few items you asked to keep in the home. You want to ensure they are there and available for your use. Make sure you keep a list of the items you requested on hand.
Inspect All Repairs
There's no such thing as a perfect home! That's why you complete a home inspection - to identify the repairs your new home needs before you move in. Once the inspection is complete, you'll have a list of items that require repair or replacing by the seller. If the seller has agreed to do the repairs, you'll need to inspect the work afterward.
Check Plumbing Fixtures and Bathrooms
Make sure your plumbing fixtures and bathrooms are functioning. Many home buyers become blinded by the wonderful features of their new abode, causing them to forget to flush the toilets or run the bathtub. During the final walk-through, ensure all fixtures are in the condition you expected them to be in. This is also a great time to test the garbage disposal, ceiling fans, heat and air conditioning, lights, electrical outlets, windows and anything else you can think of. Your real estate agent can help ensure you check everything before leaving the home.
