You're almost there. You can’t wait to finally get your house keys and move to this new place you’d call home. You just can’t contain your excitement as the closing day approaches. However, you’ve still got the final walkthrough—your last chance to make sure everything is in place and in the right condition before you sign the paperwork. It’s a critical step in the home buying process so it can be just as nerve-wracking. There’s a lot to keep track of because you want to make sure that the house is exactly in the way you want it to be before it can be called yours.
You and your real estate agent's goal is to make the final walkthrough smooth sailing, so here are some tips before you reach the finish line.
- Phone/Camera – Use it to take photos of anything that concerns you or you want to take note of.
- Phone Charger – Aside from keeping your phone alive, you can use it to test the electrical outlets around the house.
- Notepad and Pen – Handy for jotting down notes and questions as needed.
- The Home Inspection Report – Use it to review the issues flagged by the inspector and check if the seller completed the negotiated repairs.
- Your Home Purchase Agreement – Your legally binding contract laying out the terms agreed upon by both parties.
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The home should be in broom-clean condition.
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All negotiated repairs completed, with proof of receipt validating the work and date.
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All appliances included in the sale should be clean and functioning properly.
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All fixtures (doorknobs, cabinet handles, etc.) should be included and in place unless indicated otherwise in writing.
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For new construction homes, inspect for defects or cosmetic issues.
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Open and close all doors and windows to ensure they lock properly.
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Test heating and cooling systems using the HVAC, even in extreme weather.
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Turn on/off all light switches and ceiling fans.
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Plug in your phone charger to test all electrical outlets.
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Inspect walls, ceilings, and floors for damage or mold, especially where furniture used to be.
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Run garbage disposals, exhaust fans, and water fixtures to ensure proper function.
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Flush toilets to check for leaks.
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Test garage doors, doorbells, and smart security systems.
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Ensure all garbage, debris, and personal belongings have been removed.
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Know Who Should Attend – Your agent should accompany you as your “human checklist.” Ideally, the seller has already moved out.
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Remember: This isn’t a Home Inspection – Verify the home is in acceptable, livable condition and that agreed repairs are completed.
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Don’t Get Carried Away by Excitement – Focus on inspection, not furniture placement or floor plans.
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Practice Patience – Take your time; thoroughness is key.
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Never Skip the Walkthrough – Issues can arise, and this is your chance to resolve them before closing.
