Don't Skip the Final Walkthrough!

You’ve survived home searches, bidding wars, mortgage applications, and home inspections. The finish line is in sight, and signing the paperwork feels like a mere formality. But before you pick up the pen at the closing table, there’s one non-negotiable step left: the final walkthrough.

 

A final walkthrough isn't a secondary home inspection—it's your opportunity to confirm that the property you agreed to buy is in the exact condition you expect before the title officially transfers. Once those papers are signed, any unresolved issues become your financial burden.

What Does the Final Walkthrough Protect?

 

1. Verification of Agreed-Upon Repairs

If your purchase contract required the seller to complete specific repairs following the home inspection—such as repairing a damaged roof, replacing a faulty water heater, or fixing electrical wiring—the walkthrough is your time to verify the work was completed properly. Always request receipts and invoices from licensed contractors prior to the walkthrough so you know what to double-check.

 

2. Identifying New Damage

Moving out can be messy. Sellers carrying heavy furniture down narrow stairwells or removing mounted televisions can leave holes in drywall, scraped floors, or broken fixtures. The walkthrough ensures the home hasn't suffered fresh damage between the inspection and the closing date.

 

3. Ensuring Included Items Are Still There

Contracts explicitly state which items convey with the home—such as custom blinds, light fixtures, washer/dryer units, or kitchen appliances. Walking through the home ensures the sellers haven't accidentally (or intentionally) packed away items that were legally sold with the property.

 

4. Verifying Vacant, Clean Condition

Most purchase agreements require the house to be delivered "broom-clean" and cleared of all personal belongings. The walkthrough verifies that the previous owners haven't left behind old paint cans, bulk trash in the garage, or unwanted furniture that you'll have to pay to dispose of.

 

Essential Walkthrough Checklist

Bring a phone charger (to test electrical outlets), your contract, and a notepad. Run through this system check room-by-room:

  • Plumbing: Run every sink, flush all toilets, and check under cabinets for active leaks or water damage.

  • HVAC Systems: Turn on both the heating and air conditioning to ensure the thermostat and climate controls operate as expected.

  • Appliances: Run a quick cycle on the dishwasher, test stove burners, and check that the refrigerator and freezer are cold.

  • Doors & Windows: Open and close all windows, locks, and interior/exterior doors to ensure smooth operation.

  • Electrical Outlets & Fixtures: Flip all light switches on and off; plug your charger into outlets to confirm power flow.

  • Grounds & Exterior: Check gutters, garage door openers, and ensure outdoor landscaping matches contract terms.

What Happens If You Find an Issue?

Discovering a problem doesn't mean the deal falls through. If you find an issue—like an uncompleted repair or a newly broken appliance—EZ Team can present solutions to the seller’s agent before closing:

 

  • Closing Delay: Requesting a brief delay until the seller fixes the issue.

  • Escrow Holdback: Holding a portion of the seller's proceeds in escrow until the repair is completed post-closing.

  • Seller Credit: Negotiating a financial credit at closing to cover the cost for you to hire your own contractor after moving in.

Treat the final walkthrough as your last leverage point. Taking 30 to 60 minutes to inspect every corner gives you complete peace of mind when you finally receive the keys to your new home.

Need expert advice?  Call EZ TEAM today - 410-271-9499.  From start to finish - we are there for you.