The day before you close on a home, you’ll be given an opportunity to do a final walk-through of the house. It’s a last chance to spot signs the homeowners are trying to hide something and/or to verify repairs. The final walk-through is yours to use wisely because it might allow you to find something you’ve missed before. It’s also when you’ll check if the appliances are still present (if that’s part of the deal between you and the seller). So, it is very important you make the most of it.
Homebuyer Final Walk-Through Checklist
Okay, so there are some things you need to do right after you move into a house but prior to that day, you’ll take a final walk-through. When you first arrive, be sure to take some time to look around the yards and the exterior. Anything that’s out-of-place or junk left behind should be well documented. Then, when you walk inside the home, don’t just open the door, take a moment to open and close it a few times. (Oh, and do this multiple times when you’re doubling checking things.)
After the negotiations, home inspection, and repairs, saying that you’re excited to sign on the dotted line and close on your new house is an understatement. You’re ready. However, it’s standard for you to take one more walk-through of the home before closing — and you shouldn’t take this task lightly. Even if you’ve already scoured the place, it’s possible you missed something, and you definitely don’t want to spend money on a repair after you close and those mortgage payments start. —Trulia
Check all the interior doors and do the same with the windows. Of course, you should notice if the house is clean. By the way, clean is usually defined as “broom swept” condition, which doesn’t mean spotless, it just means it’s largely free of dirt and debris. Look for signs of damage to the walls and floors, as well. (There might be marks left from the seller moving out.) Here are some more things to check in your final walk-through:
- Appliances. If the seller agreed to leave the major appliances in the house (stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, water heater, clothes washer and dryer), you should test each one to ensure that it is working. Open the various doors and drawers, turn the garbage disposal on, and fire up the stove and microwave.
- Electric. Bring a nightlight with you to plug into every outlet in the house. Turn every light on and off a couple of times. Anything that’s powered by electricity, such as ceiling fans, should also be turned on and off.
- Plumbing. Turn every faucet on and off and run hot water in each one to ensure the water heater is working. Then, flush the toilets a couple of times each. Take note of the water pressure and look for any signs of water damage, mold, and leaks.
- HVAC. Although it might be uncomfortable, you need to test the central heat and air system by turning it on. Run both the air conditioning and the heat to ensure both work. Check the vents for airflow and check the filter, as well. Also, check the thermostat to see if it’s working.
If you are considering buying or selling a home in Orlando, contact us for the latest market information. We’ll also provide you with the right advice about the local real estate market so you make the best decisions.