The Essential Walk-Through Checklist for Home Buyers

Here are the four main things you should be on the lookout for.

Buying a home is a major investment and can be an exciting yet overwhelming process. As you approach the closing date, there’s one important step that you don’t want to overlook—the walk-through. This is typically done a few days or hours before the closing, and it’s your last chance to thoroughly inspect the property before signing on the dotted line. Here are the key things you need to focus on during the walk-through to ensure that everything is in order:

1. Verify that all requested repairs are complete. Before the walk-through, you should have received documentation from the seller’s agent or subcontractors indicating that all requested repairs have been completed. During the walk-through, it’s important to double-check that everything has been done to your satisfaction. This is not the time for a full home inspection, but you should make sure that any agreed-upon repairs have been properly addressed.

2. Check that all systems and appliances are in working order. Another important aspect of the walk-through is to ensure that all electrical, plumbing, heating and cooling systems, and appliances are in good working order. You don’t want to move into your new home only to discover that the dishwasher or air conditioner isn’t functioning properly. While you’re not doing a full inspection, test each system and appliance to make sure they’re functioning as intended.

“Ensure that the general condition of the home hasn’t changed since the inspection.”

3. Verify that the home is clean and empty. One often overlooked aspect of the walk-through is ensuring that the home is clean and empty. The previous owner should have removed all of their belongings and cleaned the property. While there may be some exceptions, such as large items that are difficult to move or fish in a pond, the property should be left in the condition agreed upon in the contract.

4. Confirm that the general condition of the home hasn’t changed. During the walk-through, it’s important to ensure that the general condition of the home hasn’t changed since the inspection. Look for any new damage, such as broken windows or leaks, and make sure that everything is in the same condition as it was during the inspection.

If you have any questions about the walk-through or the buying process, don’t hesitate to contact me by phone or email.