Staying focus throughout a home buying process and proceeding with a final walkthrough is important to ensure the home is in the same condition when the offer was made. If there were any agreement on repairs or improvements done to the home before you purchase it, ensure that these procedures are verified and done correctly before you close the deal.
Here are some home final walkthrough tips you can consider.
Inspecting a Home
Whether you are looking to purchase a townhouse, apartment, or condominium, you will want to ensure that the property is in the same condition as you agreed to purchase. If there were renovations or repaired to be done, have a final look to make sure that these were completed properly before you make your purchase. Look out for damages or inconsistencies that were not there during the time of the offer.
Schedule a Walkthrough Just Before Closing
Typically, a final walkthrough is scheduled within 24hrs before the closing date. Your property agent would help set a time and date to allow you to have a final check on the property for damages and repairs as well as to ensure that it is vacant and ready to move in.
Bad Weather Circumstances
Occasionally, bad weather conditions such as storms, earthquakes, or flooding might affect your new home. Schedule a repeat final walkthrough to check for extensive damages or if repairs are needed to be done before closing. If the property is damaged in some way due to mother nature, you can remedy the situation by negotiating repairs with the current owner.
Take Your Time
A final walkthrough can take anywhere from 20minutes to an hour depending on the size of the home you are about to purchase. For larger properties, you can get help from family members or professional experts to inspect different areas of the house such as the pool, shed, garage, and basement. Take your time and make sure that every part of the house is checked thoroughly before taking over.
Final Walkthrough Checklist
Here is a list of things to check to ensure that your home is ready to move in:
- Turn on and off all light switches to ensure all lights and ceiling fans in the home are working properly.
- Test all electrical outlets by using a phone charger or a plugged-in LED light bulb.
- Turn on all sinks and faucets, and check for any pipe leaks.
- Make sure all kitchen appliances are working.
- Ensure the remote for the garage is working and test the garage doors as well.
- Switch on all air-conditioners and heaters to make sure they are running at the right temperature.
- Test all fireplaces, open, and close all doors and windows.
- Flush all toilets to check for any leakage problem.
- Run all exhaust fans in the kitchen, bathrooms, and basement.
- Hire an expert or contractor to inspect all exterior, floorings, walls, and ceilings.
- Engage a pest control company to check for any insects or pests that might be inhabiting your property.
- Ensure that all items, garbage, and personal belongings to the current owner have been removed.
After you are done with your home final walkthrough, your real estate agent will assist you in the final documentation to confirm the closing of your new home.
