Final Walk-Through: Don’t Miss This Critical Home Buying Step!

October 24, 2024

As a buyer nearing the end of your home buying journey, the excitement of finally getting the keys to your new home is building! But before you celebrate, there's one last, crucial step—the final walk-through before closing.

This is your chance to ensure everything is as expected before you officially take ownership. The home should be in the same condition it was when you made your offer, and any negotiated repairs should be fully completed. Ideally, this walk-through happens about **five days** before the close of escrow, giving you a buffer for any last-minute issues.

During this important step, you and your agent will walk through both the interior and exterior of the property. Together, you’ll verify that all requested repairs have been made and that no new maintenance concerns have arisen. You'll also want to confirm that all agreed-upon items—like appliances or fixtures—are still in place. After all, you don’t want to discover a missing refrigerator on move-in day!

It's also key to ensure that all systems and appliances are working properly. While this isn’t a full home inspection, it's your opportunity to confirm that everything is aligned with your purchase agreement.

Expect this walk-through to take about 30 minutes, and remember, the seller should **not** be present. If you do come across any issues, your agent will communicate with the listing agent to resolve them before the loan funds and the property closes.

Fortunately, serious issues at this stage are rare, but it’s always better to be prepared. The bottom line is, you want peace of mind knowing the terms of the agreement have been satisfied before you take possession.

Working with a knowledgeable agent can help ensure this process goes smoothly and protect your investment long-term. So, as you get ready to call your new place “home,” make sure you take this final step with confidence!