What is a final walkthrough?

As you approach the final stages of purchasing your new home in Columbia, Missouri, there’s one important step you should take before the closing: a final walkthrough. This is a critical part of the home buying process that can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.

What is a Final Walkthrough?

A final walkthrough is a final inspection of the property you are about to purchase. It typically takes place just before the closing date and involves walking through the home with your real estate agent to ensure that everything is in the condition you expected it to be in.

During the walkthrough, you will confirm that any previously agreed-upon repairs have been completed and that there are no new issues that need to be addressed. You’ll also verify that all appliances and fixtures are in working order and that the home is clean and free of any debris or personal belongings that were not included in the sale.

Why is a Final Walkthrough Important?

A final walkthrough is an essential step in the home buying process because it helps you avoid any surprises or unexpected expenses after you move in. Here are some of the benefits of doing a final walkthrough before closing on your new home:

1. Confirm the condition of the property

During the final walkthrough, you’ll be able to confirm that the property is in the condition you expected it to be in. This includes verifying that any repairs that were agreed upon during negotiations have been completed and that the property is free of any new damages. If any issues are discovered during the walkthrough, you can discuss them with the seller and work out a solution before closing.

2. Ensure all appliances and fixtures are in working order

The final walkthrough is an excellent opportunity to ensure that all appliances and fixtures included in the sale are in working order. You can test out the stove, dishwasher, and other appliances to ensure they’re in good working condition. If you find any issues, you can bring them up with the seller and discuss potential solutions.

3. Verify that the home is clean and free of debris

When you agreed to purchase the home, you likely expected it to be clean and free of any debris or personal belongings left behind by the previous owner. During the final walkthrough, you can verify that the property is in the condition you expected it to be in. If you find any issues, you can work with the seller to address them before closing.

4. Peace of mind

Finally, a final walkthrough can provide you with peace of mind. By confirming that everything is in order, you can feel confident in your decision to purchase the home. If any issues are discovered during the walkthrough, you can work with the seller to resolve them before closing, avoiding any surprises or unexpected expenses down the line.

Tips for a Successful Final Walkthrough

To ensure a successful final walkthrough, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Schedule the walkthrough a few days before closing

You’ll want to schedule the final walkthrough a few days before closing to give yourself enough time to address any issues that may arise. This will also give the seller time to make any necessary repairs or address any concerns you may have.

2. Bring a checklist

To ensure that you don’t forget anything during the walkthrough, bring a checklist of items to review. This can include everything from appliances to light fixtures to landscaping.

3. Bring a camera

Bringing a camera can be helpful if you need to document any issues that are discovered during the walkthrough. This can help you discuss any concerns with the seller and ensure that they are resolved before closing.

4. Don’t rush

Take your time during the walkthrough and don’t rush through the process. You’ll want to thoroughly inspect the property to ensure that everything is in order.

In Conclusion

A final walkthrough is an essential step in the home buying process that can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. By taking the time to thoroughly inspect the property and verify that everything is in order, you can feel confident in your decision to purchase the home. If any issues are discovered during the walkthrough, you can work with the seller to resolve them before closing, avoiding any surprises or unexpected expenses down the line. So, if you’re purchasing a home in Columbia, Missouri, be sure to schedule a final walkthrough before closing to ensure a smooth and stress-free transaction.