The final walk-through
This essential step is an opportunity to ensure that your new home is in the same condition as when you made your offer. It’s also the time to make sure the seller has upheld their obligations based on the terms of the contract as signed, including any requested repairs.
Your real estate agent should make sure this is scheduled either the day before or even the day of closing. Below is a checklist outlining some of the major things to look for during your final walk-through.
___ Every room, closet, basement, attic, and crawl space have been checked over for general condition (look for damage to flooring, walls, doors, fixtures, etc.)
___ Check that all requested repairs have been completed
___ Copies of paid bills and warranties are in hand
___ No major, unexpected changes have been made to the property since last viewed
___ Water heater is working
___ Heating and air conditioning systems are working
___ No plants or shrubs have been removed from the yard
___ Screens and storm windows are in place or stored onsite
___ Garage door opener and other remotes are available
___ Instruction books and warranties on appliances and fixtures are available
___ Wi-Fi devices are either removed or have been reset and logged out
___ Thermostat (nest, Ecobee, etc.)
___ Security cameras (Ring door bell or flood light, Blink, SimpliSafe, Etc.)
___ All debris and personal items of the sellers have been removed
All items included in the sale price are present and as seen previously:
___ Window treatments, TV mounts, and other affixed items are present
___ Shelving (affixed to floor and/ or walls, not free-standing)
___ Appliances as seen at showings (yes sometimes people try to swap these!)
___ Light fixtures
___ Water Softener
Other items as written into your contract:
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All appliances are operational and in expected condition (no new damage or major wear):
___ Dishwasher
___ Washer
___ Dryer
___ Oven
___ Refrigerator
___ Microwave
Please note that this checklist is meant as a starting point and is not comprehensive. Every property and situation is unique. It is ultimately up to you as the the buyer to complete their final inspection to their own satisfaction as part of their due diligence when buying any home. Please let your agent know if anything appears to be missing, damaged, or not working as soon as possible, you will need to discuss any issues found during the final walk-through and decide what your next steps will be.