Congratulations! You’re on the brink of closing the deal on your dream home. Before the keys are handed over, a final walk-through is essential to ensure everything is in order. This isn’t another home inspection – it’s your last chance to catch any surprises before officially closing the deal. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to guide you through the final walk-through process.

1. Bring Your Contract:

Take a copy of your contract with you during the walk-through. It serves as a handy reference in case you need to check any specifics while on-site.

2. Consider Seller Presence:

While it’s not common for buyers and sellers to meet, having the seller present during the walk-through can be beneficial. They possess invaluable knowledge about the home and can provide insights into its history.

3. Check for Exterior Changes:

Inspect the exterior, especially if there have been recent storms. Look for potential issues like water damage or changes that might have occurred since your last visit.

4. Verify Fixtures:

Ensure that the seller hasn’t removed any fixtures, like agreed-upon chandeliers, that were supposed to remain in the home.

5. Assess Appliances:

Thoroughly check all major appliances. Test them to confirm they are in working order.

6. Test HVAC Systems:

Turn the heating and/or air conditioning systems on and off to ensure they function correctly.

7. Examine Plumbing:

Turn on water faucets, check for leaks under sinks. Flush all toilets to ensure they are working properly.

8. Inspect Garage Door Openers:

Test the garage door openers to confirm they are operational.

9. Check Windows and Doors:

Open and close all windows and doors, ensuring they operate smoothly.

10. Visual Spot-Check Interior:

Do a visual spot-check of ceilings, walls, and floors for any signs of damage or issues.

11. Test Disposal and Fans:

Turn on the garbage disposal and exhaust fans to check their functionality.

12. Verify Agreed-upon Repairs:

Confirm that any repairs agreed upon in the contract have been completed to your satisfaction.

13. Inspect Screens and Storm Windows:

Check the condition of screens and storm windows. If stored, ensure they are in good shape and know their location.

14. Examine Storage Areas:

Look in storage areas to ensure no unwanted items or hazardous materials are left behind by the seller.

15. Grounds Check:

Perform a quick check of the grounds. Some sellers may have removed plants or trees, so ensure everything is as expected.

16. Lights On and Off:

Turn all light fixtures on and off to confirm they are working correctly.

17. Final Walk-Through Recap:

Invest an hour for this final inspection. This time is a worthwhile investment to avoid unexpected surprises or repairs during your initial weeks in the new home.

Conclusion:

Your final walk-through is a pivotal step before closing the deal. By diligently following this checklist, you can ensure that your dream home is ready for you to move in without any unwelcome surprises. Take the time to address any concerns during the walk-through, guaranteeing a smooth transition into your new abode. Happy homeownership!