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Homebuying & Selling
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2 min read
First-time homebuyers—and even buyers with more experience—often don’t realize how vitally important the final walk-through before closing can be during the homebuying process. In fact, the final walk-through can help buyers determine if and when they will close on their new home. In this blog post, we’ll give you tips for making this part of buying a home a breeze.
Why do I need to do a final walk-through?
You want to make sure to do a careful walkthrough before signing on your new home to make sure it is in the same condition as it was when you last viewed it, to verify the agreed-upon, post-inspection work has been completed, and that any items included in the offer are still in the home.
When should I do the final walk-through?
The best time to conduct your final walk-through is just before going to the closing. If too much time lapses between your final walk-through and closing, the status of the house could change. Unforeseen events could occur—a branch may fall on the roof, or contractors could cause damage.
What should I expect during a final walk-through?
According to realty experts, the home should be completely clean prior to the final walk-through, and you should verify the following:
- Aside from being empty, the house should look the same as it did upon last inspection and be as sound as it was when last viewed.
- No garbage, furniture, paint, or similar items are left in the home (unless agreed upon in the contract).
- No damage to walls, floors, cabinetry, doors, windows, garage doors, or outside property.
- Light fixtures are working and in place.
- The water is on and all plumbing should be working.
- All items included in the buyers’ offer have remained in the house—fixtures, appliances, all agreed-upon items.
- All work on the inspection amendment has been successfully completed.
Are there any other issues I should watch out for?
Issues that could potentially impact the purchase of your new home may come up during your final walk-through. You’ll want to pay particular attention to:
- Any new problems that were not apparent during the inspection, such as a faulty water heater, or the seller’s personal items remaining that can’t be removed before closing.
- Previously unknown or hidden damage to the home structure, walls, floors, or exterior. This could include a stain on the floor that had been covered up by a rug during inspection or damage to the exterior that occurred after inspection.
- Unforeseen issues, such as damage to windows and doors from movers, or water damage from a storm.
If these or any other issues arise during your final walk-through, your closing may be delayed while the prospective agents work together to resolve the issues or come up with a plan to move forward with the closing.
The homebuying process can be frustrating, but the end result is worth it! We hope this information helps you on your homebuying journey.
This content is intended for informational purposes only.
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