Final Walk-Through Guide: 5 Tips For a Final Walk-Through

A final walk-through is when a home buyer takes a final look at their prospective new property to confirm that it is in the condition in which they agreed to buy it. Usually, the buyer and their real estate agent attend the walk-through which typically occurs around a day before the final closing, when the buyer takes possession of the house. For the buyer, a final walkthrough is one last chance to make sure the building is in good shape, and that the seller has completed any repairs that they have agreed upon.

Here is an overview of the final walk-through process.

1. 1. The agent schedules the walk-through. The final walk-through is the second-to-last step in the home buying process. The time is usually set when the parties agree on a closing date. If a repair was discussed prior to the walk-through, it would be included as an inspection contingency, and should be resolved before the walk-through.
2. 2. The seller moves out. The seller has usually completely moved out by the time of the final walk-through. This frees the buyer up to fully assess that the house is in good condition before they move in.
3. 3. The buyer and agent do the walk-through. The buyer and the agent will do the final walk-through, typically 24 hours before closing. They will note any issues that arise.
4. 4. The seller addresses the buyer’s concerns. If any problems arise in the final walk-through, the seller is allowed to address them in a timely manner. Small concerns like changing light bulbs or fixing door hinges can usually be addressed within a few days. If there’s a larger concern—like an inadequate repair to an existing problem—the buyer can delay closing and hold some of the funds for the house in escrow until the repairs are completed. If the seller does not complete the repairs, the buyer can walk away from the sale.
5. 5. The buyer closes on the property. Once the seller completes the repairs that the buyer has requested and the buyer has signed off on them, the buyer can close on the house. The seller will sign the deed to the house over to the buyer, transferring the title and ownership of the house to the buyer.

The final walk-through is effectively your last chance to voice any concerns you may have about taking ownership of your new home. Some tips on preparing for your final walk-through are:

1. 1. Schedule the walk-through as close to closing as possible. Ideally, final walk-throughs should be completed within 24 hours of closing. This gives the buyer the most accurate impression of the home’s condition.
2. 2. Take as much time as you need for the walk-through. Be prepared to spend a couple of hours thoroughly inspecting the home. The final walk-through is your last chance to address any issues you may have with the home, so be patient and meticulous.
3. 3. Communicate any concerns you have. Many issues that arise from the final walk-through can be resolved by simply negotiating more money for the buyer, or holding a portion of the home sale price in escrow. Do not be afraid to raise issues that you find and be sure they are resolved before you transfer any funds.
4. 4. Prepare a final walk-through checklist. It can be difficult to remember every small detail that you intend to double-check on your final walk-through. A comprehensive walk-through checklist can help you keep track of what to look for so that you don’t miss any important details.
5. 5. Bring your inspection report. Your inspection report can be a great guide to make sure that all the negotiated repairs have been completed. Also, in the event that the seller’s agent comes, you have a record of the outstanding issues with the house.

Here is an overview of seven things that a final walk-through checklist should include.

1. 1. Agreed-upon repairs are made. You want to make sure that all the contractually agreed-upon repairs were made when you do your final walk-through. If these issues are more technical, consider hiring your own inspector to confirm that any problems have been fixed. Note any and all issues that have not been addressed.
2. 2. The seller’s personal property is gone. The home-seller should be completely moved out by the time of the final walkthrough, so make sure to report any objects they’ve left behind.
3. 3. Window and door locks are working. Test all of the locks on the doors and windows, including skylights, garage doors, and cellar doors. Make sure all window treatments are properly sealed and that any automated security system is online. Don’t forget to check that the garage door openers work.
4. 4. Electricity is safe and functional. Test out all of the light switches and electrical outlets. Plug a phone charger into each electrical socket to make sure that they all work. Know where the circuit breakers are located and make sure they are all functional.
5. 5. Appliances are working. Appliances can include garbage disposals, ceiling fans, dishwashers, faucets, toilets, stoves, air conditioner (HVAC), light fixtures, washing machines and dryers. Run all of the faucets, and flush all the toilets to make sure plumbing is working. Test out the stove to make sure the gas is working. Find out if the seller has any receipts or warranties for the appliances because these may come in handy later.
6. 6. Water damage, mold, and pests are taken care of. Be mindful of invisible dangers like mold and mildew. Check beneath carpets, in basement corners, underneath dishwashers, and anywhere else moisture may build up. Termites can be a major problem for homes in certain climates, as can infestations of mice and other pests. Check for teeth marks on moldings or droppings, as these are telltale signs of pests.
7. 7. Check out the front and backyards. Leave yourself enough time in your tour to check on the outdoor spaces on the property. Confirm that the landscaping and any patios, hardscaping, or pools are clean and functional. Take note of the exterior of the house, and make sure that there was no damage from when the sellers moved out.

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