The finish line is in sight: you found a property and are preparing to close on the home of your dreams.  As you are nearing your move-in date, there is one important task left – to complete the final walk-through checklist before closing!  Here is what you need to know…

 

Final Walk-Through Checklist: What You Need to Know

The final walk-through, with your final walk-through checklist in hand, is your last chance to check the quality of the property before you sign the paperwork at the closing table.  Your real estate agent can guide this process to ensure that you don’t overlook anything. Often, this final walk-through checklist includes:

  • A checklist to make sure the sellers completed the requested repairs
  • No new maintenance issues have come up since the time of the inspection
  • The agreed appliances, furniture, and fixtures are still in the home
  • All appliances and systems are functioning properly

Even though the inspector looks at many of these details in the initial inspection, things can change in a few short weeks. It’s best to double-check the quality of the property. You will be glad that you took the time – especially if you find any repairs or issues in the final walk-through.

In many situations, this last walk-through is just fine and you can move forward with the closing. But there are situations where something happens during the move-out process. Or, repair work might be overlooked because the sellers were too busy working on other tasks.

When to Schedule Your Final Walk-Through

The goal is to schedule this walk-through as close to the closing date as possible. At this point, the seller is no longer occupying the home and their belongings are gone. Looking at the vacant property gives you a better view since the furniture is gone. Ideally, the walk-through should happen 2 or 3 days before the closing date.  Make sure your final walk-through checklist is in hand and up to date.

For a small home, the walk-through can be done in half an hour or less. If you are buying a larger home, then you might need 1 or 2 hours to check all the rooms, storage areas, and yard. Schedule enough time so you don’t feel rushed through the walk-through appointment. A thorough final walk-through checklist right now reduces the likelihood that you will deal with surprises when you move in.

Both your real estate agent and the seller’s real estate should be at the final walk-through. As a buyer, it is also common for you to attend. You might choose to invite other professionals, such as a home inspector if needed.

Professional Services to Protect Your Investment

Buying a home is a big investment, which is why you shouldn’t skip important steps. The final walk-through and final walk-through checklist are the last opportunities you have to identify potential issues before signing on the bottom line. Your real estate agent should help through this process.

At DUFFY Realty, we work hard to protect your investment and maximize the outcome of this purchase. If you’d like to learn more about our quality real estate services, contact us to talk to an Atlanta real estate agent: (678) 318-1700.

 

Updated from 2020 for 2023 Market