How to Ace Your Final Walk-Through: Essential Checklist for a Smooth Closing

Congratulations! You’re nearing the finish line in your home buying journey, and the final walk-through is a crucial step before you officially close on your new home. This is your opportunity to ensure everything is in perfect order and address any last-minute issues. Here’s a warm and friendly guide to help you ace your final walk-through and ensure a smooth closing.

1. Verify All Agreed-Upon Repairs

• Why It’s Important: Ensuring that any repairs or changes requested during the inspection have been completed is vital for your peace of mind and to avoid surprises after closing.
• How to Do It: Check that all agreed-upon repairs or improvements have been made. Verify that any issues flagged in the inspection report have been addressed and done correctly.

This step ensures that what you agreed upon in the contract has been fulfilled before you take ownership.

2. Test All Appliances and Systems

• Why It’s Important: Confirming that all major appliances and home systems are working properly will help you avoid unexpected repairs after moving in.
• How to Do It: Turn on the heating, air conditioning, and other major systems to make sure they’re functioning correctly. Test appliances like the oven, dishwasher, and washer/dryer to ensure they are in good working condition.

A quick check of these systems and appliances can save you from inconveniences after the move.

3. Check for Any Visible Damage

• Why It’s Important: Identifying any new damage or issues that might have occurred since your last visit can prevent disputes and additional costs.
• How to Do It: Look over walls, floors, and ceilings for any signs of damage. Ensure that everything looks as it should and is in the condition you expect. Note any discrepancies and address them with your real estate agent.

This helps ensure that the home is in the condition you anticipated and agreed upon.

4. Confirm All Included Items are Present

• Why It’s Important: Make sure that all items the seller promised to leave behind, such as fixtures or appliances, are still in place and in good condition.
• How to Do It: Check that all included items, such as window treatments, appliances, and furniture (if included in the sale), are present and in the agreed-upon condition.

This verification ensures you receive everything you expected as part of your purchase.

5. Inspect Exterior Features

• Why It’s Important: Don’t forget to check the outside of your new home to ensure everything is in order and as described in the contract.
• How to Do It: Walk around the exterior of the home, checking for any issues with the siding, roof, gutters, and landscaping. Make sure that there are no new issues or damage.

A thorough inspection of the exterior helps ensure that the entire property is in good shape.

6. Verify that Utilities Are Set Up

• Why It’s Important: Confirming that utilities are in place and functioning will make your move-in process smoother and more comfortable.
• How to Do It: Ensure that all utilities (water, electricity, gas) are active and functioning. If you have specific requirements for utility setup, check that they are in place.

Having utilities ready will make settling into your new home a breeze.

7. Ensure All Documentation is in Order

• Why It’s Important: Proper documentation helps confirm that everything is in place for a successful closing and that there are no last-minute issues.
• How to Do It: Review all final documents and agreements to ensure they are correct and complete. Check with your real estate agent or lawyer to confirm that everything needed for closing is in order.

Having your documentation organized helps ensure a smooth closing process.

8. Review Homeowner’s Association (HOA) Rules (if applicable)

• Why It’s Important: If your new home is in a community with an HOA, understanding the rules and regulations is important for a smooth transition.
• How to Do It: Review the HOA rules and any related documents to ensure you are aware of any restrictions or requirements. Make sure you receive all necessary information from the seller.

Being informed about HOA rules helps you avoid any surprises and ensures you’re prepared for community living.

Final Thoughts

Your final walk-through is an exciting step toward closing on your new home, and being thorough can help you avoid surprises and ensure everything is as expected. By following this essential checklist, you’ll feel confident that your new home is ready for you to move in and start making wonderful memories.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Here’s to a smooth closing and a happy start in your new home!