14 Things To Check During a Final Walkthrough Before Buying a House

It's time for the final walkthrough before you get to move into your new house - you are so close! The final walkthrough is usually completed three days before you close on the house and is a crucial step to ensure everything is in order before closing the deal. Here's a checklist of things to inspect during your final walkthrough to avoid any surprises after you move in:

1. Ensure The Seller Has Moved Everything Out: Confirm that the previous owners have vacated the property and removed all their belongings as agreed upon in the sales contract.
2. Flush All Toilets: Test each toilet in the house to ensure they flush properly and check for any leaks around the base.
3. Run Water in Showers, Tubs, and Sinks: Turn on faucets in bathrooms and kitchens to check water pressure and temperature. Make sure the water gets hot and there are no leaks.
4. Test Light Switches, Fans, and Exhaust Fans: Verify that all light switches, ceiling fans, and exhaust fans are functioning correctly in each room.
5. Test Outlets with Your Cell Phone Charger: Bring your cell phone charger along to test outlets throughout the house and ensure they're working properly.
6. Test All Kitchen Appliances: Turn on and test each kitchen appliance, including the stove, oven, microwave, refrigerator, and dishwasher, to ensure they're in working order.
7. Test the Washer and Dryer: If the house comes with a washer and dryer, run a cycle to make sure they function properly and check for any leaks.
8. Test the Heating and Cooling Systems: Turn on the heating and cooling systems to ensure they're working efficiently and provide adequate comfort throughout the house.
9. Test the Garage Door: If the property has a garage, test the garage door opener to ensure it opens and closes smoothly without any issues.
10. Check Windows: Open and close all windows to ensure they operate smoothly and securely latch shut.
11. Inspect Crawl Spaces, Attics, and Basements: Take a thorough look at crawl spaces, attics, and basements for any signs of water damage, mold, or pest infestations.
12. Double-Check Repairs: If any repairs were requested during the negotiation process, make sure they have been completed satisfactorily before finalizing the purchase.
13. Walk Through the Yard and Check Landscaping: Inspect the yard for any landscaping issues, such as dead plants, overgrown bushes, or drainage problems.
14. Keep an Eye Out for Pests: Look for any signs of pests, such as droppings, chewed wood, or nests, both inside the house and in the yard.

By following this comprehensive checklist during your final walkthrough, you can ensure that the property meets your expectations and that there are no unexpected surprises awaiting you after closing the deal. Congrats on your new home!

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