Selling

Final walkthrough inspection

October 21, 2017

A final walkthrough inspection will be conducted at your home, usually the night before or the morning of closing. It’s the buyer’s opportunity to make sure the property is still in the same condition it was at the home inspections.

Make sure these things are done:

  • All agreed-upon repairs are completed.
  • The lawn has been mowed within a few days of closing.
  • All receipts/paid invoices for repairs are either on the kitchen counter or given to me ahead of time.
  • Any extra paint is left in clear view inside the house (not in the garage or storage building).
  • All agreed appliances (washer, dryer, refrigerator, etc.) and fixtures are left and clean. If you’re in doubt of what was agreed upon, just let me know.

It literally is a walk through of the property and shouldn’t take more than 15-30 minutes. It’s ok to be there in case anything comes up, but it’s not required.

Keep in mind as you leave your property:

  • Make sure all your personal items are removed (e.g. garden hoses, grill, plants, planters, etc.) Once we close, anything left behind in the property legally belongs to the new owner. Double check the attic and other hidden spaces!
  • The home should be left in broom-clean condition. It’s very thoughtful to have it professionally cleaned, but not expected.
  • If you do not want an item, do not leave it behind without consent of the new owner via the agents.
  • Please do not leave the trash bin(s) full for the new owner. If it’s not trash day when you finish, hire a trash removal company for this one time or haul it to the local waste drop off center.
  • Place owner’s manuals, instructions, etc. and our PR HomeBook on the kitchen counter or somewhere conspicuous.

It’s ideal to be completely moved out for this. There’s always the possibility of moving furniture and damaging a wall or something.

Here’s what the final walkthrough inspection is:

  • A second chance for the buyer to make sure all of the appliances are still working
  • An opportunity to make sure you didn’t damage anything while moving out
  • A time to make sure the property is clean
  • When the buyer’s agent (or we) explain to the buyer what day the trash is picked up, etc.

Here is what the final walkthrough inspection IS NOT:

  • It’s not a time to have the buyer’s parents, friends, etc. come look at the property or for contractors give them estimates, etc. All of that can wait until the next day once they officially own the property.
  • It’s not a time for the buyer to begin moving boxes or other items in to the property. That has to wait until after closing.
  • It’s not when the buyer receives the keys. Instead, at the end of the closing, we will hand over all keys, garage door transmitters, etc.

Please let me know if you have any questions regarding the final walkthrough inspection. We’re almost to the finish line!

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