Before Closing On A Home: 8 Areas To Check On The Final Walk-Through!

It is imperative to ensure that all aspects are in order before closing on your new home. It could be weeks or even months after a home inspection is performed before the sellers move out. Things can change with the property in that time. One critical measure is to carry out a final walk-through inspection of the property. This last assessment will aid in identifying any concerns that require attention before assuming ownership of the property. Below is a checklist for the final walk-through of a homebuyer that comprises 8 items to verify that everything is in order.

The Final Walk-Through

What To Bring

It is a good idea to bring a notepad, pen/pencil, list of repairs requested, tape measure, blue masking tape, and a cell phone or camera to take pictures.

Verify That Requested Repairs Are Completed

Have on hand the list of the repairs that you requested from your home inspection. Check and verify that all repairs have been made to your satisfaction. Also, verify that the sellers have provided any applicable warranties and/or receipts.

Check The Homes Exterior

Start by inspecting the exterior of the home for any visible damage or issues. Look for cracks in the foundation, missing or damaged roof shingles, and any signs of water damage from inside the home. Check that the gutters and downspouts are clean and still properly secured to the home.

Garage Door

Ensure the sellers have left all remotes and any security codes for the garage door openers. Check the garage door panels for damage. Operate the garage door to check its proper function. If it opens with an automatic door opener, make sure it fully opens and closes with no excessive noise. Test whether the safety auto-reverse feature is working by interrupting the sensor’s path. Simply place your foot in front of the sensor to activate the auto-reverse.

Inspect the Interior

After completing the exterior inspection, move inside and inspect each room. Make sure the sellers have removed all their personal items including from storage areas. Check for any signs of water damage, including mold or mildew, stains, or musty smells. Look at the walls, ceilings, and floors to ensure they are in good condition and have no damage from moving furniture.

Test the Appliances

Check all the appliances that come with the home, including the refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, and microwave. Turn them on and ensure that they are working correctly. It is essential to check that the water heater is functioning correctly by turning on the hot water through a faucet until hot water is dispensed. Look that the sellers left behind any requested receipts and/or warranty information.

Verify the Fixtures

Check all the fixtures, including faucets, showers, and toilets, to ensure they are functioning correctly. Turn on the water in each sink and each shower to check for water pressure, leaks under sinks, or clogs.

Verify the Electrical System

Check the electrical system, including the outlets, light fixtures, and switches to ensure they are working correctly. You can test the outlets by using a simple outlet tester that can be purchased at any hardware store. Ensure there are no electrical issues like blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers.

Test Heat and Air Conditioning

Confirming that the heat and air conditioning are still operational is essential. Switch the thermostat to heat, give the unit a few minutes to warm up, and test that heat is blowing from the registers. Next, switch the thermostat to the cool setting, give the unit a few minutes to cool, and check the cold air is blowing from the registers. Note that running the air conditioning in temperatures below 60 degrees can do permanent damage to the condensing unit. In that case, you should consult with a qualified HVAC technician.

Conclusion

By using this home buyer final walk-through checklist, you can ensure that everything is in order before taking possession of your new home. Taking the time to do a thorough inspection can help you avoid surprises and ensure a smooth transition into your new home. Remember, a final walk-through is a crucial step in ensuring the home-buying process is stress-free.

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Final Walk-Through Checklist

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