The final home walkthrough, a crucial step in the home-buying process, offers you an excellent opportunity to review the house before you officially move forward with purchasing it. Not only does this allow you to verify that everything is working as advertised but it also serves as a comprehensive examination of your future home. During the walkthrough, you should focus on several aspects, such as assessing the overall condition of the property, identifying any repairs or maintenance needed, examining the cleanliness of the house, and ensuring the appliances are functioning properly. By taking the time to pay attention to these areas, you can be confident in your purchase knowing that your new home aligns with your expectations and meets your standards of quality and functionality.
1. Assess The Overall Condition of the House
When buying a house, buyers naturally hold certain expectations regarding the condition and overall state of the property. The final home walkthrough is a chance to see whether those expectations are met and that every aspect aligns with the agreed-upon standards.
For instance, it provides an opportunity to examine…
- If any items are missing, such as flowers from a flower bed or other agreed-upon fixtures
- All of the home’s electrical components including smoke alarms and doorbells and testing to make sure everything is in working order.
- The functionality of the plumbing system should also be tested. Assessing the availability and condition of appliances is equally important.
If any of these conditions are not up to the agreed standard, the home buyer can withhold payment from the seller until the issues are rectified.
2. Check That All Home Repairs Were Completed
In addition to the initial home inspection, which identifies and addresses any problem areas, it’s crucial to reevaluate the situation. In most cases, the seller is obligated to make the agreed-upon repairs before the purchase. By carefully looking at the completed repairs, you can ensure that any issues highlighted during the home inspection are properly resolved. The final walkthrough of the house also serves as an opportunity to check for any new issues that may have arisen between the time of the home inspection and the purchase. Dedicating the time and effort to carefully explore the repairs and quality of the work done can truly give you peace of mind before finalizing the purchase of your new home.
3. Walkthrough the House and Check Cleanliness
It is the seller’s responsibility to make sure the house is clear prior to the sale. However, as a buyer, it is crucial to inspect the home to ensure there isn’t dirt left over from construction and repairs before moving forward with the purchase. Even if you plan to clean the house afterward, it’s reasonable to expect a basic level of cleanliness in both the house and the immediate surroundings. Another potential issue that could arise when buying a new house is pest infestations, which can be a major inconvenience, especially if they come with the property. To avoid inheriting a pest infestation, take time during the final walkthrough to inspect the home and its surroundings for any signs of pests. Additionally, buyers should also check for mold, especially after repairs have been carried out. If the repairs are done without proper oversight, they may result in further damage, often leading to the growth of mold. Water damage and humidity provide the perfect condition for mold to grow and thrive, and you should check to ensure there are no signs of mold or moisture-related issues.
4. Examine The Functionality of the Home’s Appliances
Another important aspect of the final walkthrough is assessing the functionality of the home’s appliances. Start by examining the kitchen appliances, then move on to the heating and cooling systems, and end with the plumbing. Test each appliance to ensure they are in good working condition, checking for any unusual noises, leaks, or malfunctions. Dedicating time to investigating each appliance can help avoid any unexpected expenses or repairs after you move into your new home.
The appliances that are crucial to check during the walkthrough include:
- Refrigerator
- Stove/Oven
- Dishwasher
- Furnace
- Air Conditioner
- Water Heater
- Smoke Detectors
- Faucets
- Showers
- Toilets
Final Home Walkthrough Conclusion
Following this checklist during the final home walkthrough provides invaluable opportunities for home buyers to thoroughly assess their future home before completing the purchase. By paying careful attention to various aspects such as the overall condition of the house, completion of repairs, cleanliness, and functionality of appliances, buyers can ensure that their new home meets their expectations and standards. This examination offers peace of mind and confidence in the purchase, as any discrepancies or issues can be addressed before finalizing the deal. Taking the time to conduct a thorough walkthrough empowers buyers to make informed decisions and avoid unexpected expenses or headaches in the future.