If you are purchasing new construction, your final walk through takes place with your builder's rep, usually in the week before closing. It includes review of your warranties and signing off on your punch list to make sure everything conforms to contract specifications before final payment and closing on your new home.
If you are buying a previously owned property, your final walk through usually takes in the hours or days shortly before your closing. The purpose is to check to see that the property is in the condition you agreed to when you signed your purchase agreement. That means checking to see that…
- Any repairs you agreed to have been made
- Items sellers agreed to leave with the property are there and everything else has been removed
- There are no significant changes in condition of the property since you signed your purchase agreement
- Everything is in working order
- The property is clean and nail holes have been filled unless otherwise agreed
- All debris has been removed from the grounds
Sometimes, especially in unique properties, the sellers are also present for the final walk through to explain the idiosyncracies of the property. Every home has them… things you often don't even think about when you live there such as switching the HVAC venting with the seasons, unusual light switches or cabling, having sewer lines periodically cleaned from tree roots, garden plantings, etc.
If the sellers are present at closing ask them about things they think you should know about the house. Ask what improvements they had thought about but never got around to doing. Also ask for contact information so if questions come up or some mail doesn't get properly forwarded you know how to reach them. I have even had buyers who have kept in touch with their sellers and have become friends… often the same property appeals to people who have a lot in common!
Sharlene Hensrud, RE/MAX Results - Minneapolis-St. Paul Buyer's Agent
The HomesMSP Team - Sharlene, John, Angela – Twin Cities Realtors
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