Like many people, you may not realize that the final walk-through before closing is a vitally important part of the homebuying process. But the fact is, this final walk-through can determine if and when you will close on your new home.

The ideal time to do your final walk-through is right before heading over to the closing. If there is a larger amount of time than that, the status of the house could change. Unexpected events may occur—a tree may fall, or movers could do some damage. The purpose of the walk-through is to make sure the home is in the same condition it was in when you last viewed it; and to confirm that the post-inspection, agreed-upon work has been completed, and that the items that were included in the offer have remained in the house.

The house should be broom-clean, with the following things verified:

• Aside from being empty, the house should look the same and be as sound as it was when it was last viewed.
• No garbage, furniture, paint, or similar items should be left, unless agreed upon in the contract.
• There should be no damage to walls, floors, cabinetry, doors, windows, garage doors, or outside property.
• Light fixtures should be working and in place.
• Water should be on, and all plumbing should be working.
• Everything included in your offer should still be in the house—fixtures, appliances, and all agreed-upon items.
• All work on the inspection amendment should be completed.

Other issues to watch for:

• A new problem that wasn’t there during the inspection, such as a leaking water heater, or too many remaining personal items that can’t be removed before closing.
• Previously hidden damage to the structure, walls, or floors, such as a stained wood floor that was covered up by a rug.
• Unexpected problems, such as damage to walls and doors from movers, or water damage from a recent storm.

As you know, if any of these issues come up, closing could be delayed while the agents for you and the seller work together to resolve the issues, or work on a plan to move ahead and get the house closed.

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