REAL TipS: BUYING

Final walk-through

Closing is just days away! You’re about to make a huge investment and you’ve been running around town taking care of business. There are only a couple of things left to do—one of them is the final walk-through inspection of the property. You want to make sure the property is in the condition you expect it to be in when you take ownership, so don’t neglect this important process.

There’s a lot that can happen to a home in the days before closing. Movers may have damaged a wall or the floor during the seller’s move, or perhaps the seller has left the garage or attic full of boxes and other clutter. If the home has been vacant for a few weeks, it may have fallen into some state of disrepair due to vandalism or the elements.

You’ll also want to make sure that any items that were written into the contract are still there. This may include appliances, swing sets, ceiling fans, drapery, or other negotiated items.

The point is that this is the last chance you’ve got to verify the condition of the property before signing your name on the dotted line. Ask your Texas REALTOR® if she’ll accompany you on your walk-through—her expertise can help, and two sets of eyes are better than one set.

If you do find something unexpected, talk with your REALTOR®. She’ll have suggestions and can guide you through your options. You may be able to work out a simple resolution before you get to the closing table.

The checklist below is a basic guideline—your REALTOR® may have other suggestions.

Final Walk-Through Checklist

• Check steps, sidewalks, driveways, and patios for any noticeable change
• Review drains and gutters for change
• Verify the condition and operation of all doors and windows, including locks
• Check the roof for newly missing or loosened shingles
• Check the garage door and confirm operation of the openers
• Check exterior lights and motion-activated lights
• Flush all toilets
• Check all faucets both hot and cold for water pressure and temperature
• Watch all traps and drains for proper drainage
• Verify operation of in-ground sprinkler system
• Check swimming pool and hot tub for anything unexpected
• Appliances
• Washer/Dryer
• Stove
• Dishwasher      
• Water Heater
• Water Softener
• Refrigerator
• Garbage Disposal
• Trash Compactor
• Hot water heater
• Check ceilings, walls, and floors for stains, wet areas, or other signs of new damage
• Check all handrails, inside and out
• Turn on/off all lights, outlets, bathroom fans, and kitchen fans
• Verify that all smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, security systems, intercom, and doorbells are functioning
• Verify operation of heater and air conditioner
• Check that gas fireplace is operating properly
• Ensure that all negotiated items from the contract are present and in the expected condition
• Verify that all of the sellers personal items and debris have been removed

Texas Association of REALTORS®