The Ultimate Final Walkthrough Checklist: What Buyers Must Look For Before Closing

The final walkthrough is your last opportunity to verify that the home you’re buying is in the agreed-upon condition before you sign the closing papers and hand over the funds. It isn’t a formal home inspection—it’s a final sanity check to make sure no new damage has occurred, all requested repairs were completed, and the seller hasn’t removed items that were supposed to stay.

Here is a comprehensive guide on what to inspect, what to bring, and how to handle any surprises.

1. What to Bring to Your Walkthrough

Having the right tools on hand ensures you don’t miss minor details that could turn into costly post-closing repairs:

• Your Purchase Agreement & Inspection Response: To confirm included items, contingencies, and agreed-upon repairs.
• Cell Phone & Charger: Use the phone as a flashlight and test electrical outlets with the charger.
• Paper Towels or Tissues: Great for checking under sinks for subtle moisture or leaks.
• Notepad or Phone Notes App: To document any unresolved items or new issues.

2. Major Checklist Items to Inspect

Check Agreed-Upon Repairs

• Invoices & Receipts: Verify you have receipts or contractor receipts for all work agreed upon in the repair addendum.
• Visual Inspection: Double-check every item the seller agreed to fix (e.g., roof repairs, plumbing fixes, electrical updates) to ensure the work looks complete and professional.

Inspect Key Systems & HVAC

• Heating & Cooling: Turn on the furnace and air conditioner to ensure both supply warm and cold air as expected.
• Water Heater: Run hot water at several faucets to ensure the water heater functions without strange noises or delays.
• Electrical Panel: Ensure there are no tripped breakers or exposed wiring.

Test Plumbing & Fixtures

• Run Water Simultaneously: Turn on sinks, showers, and tubs at the same time to check water pressure and drainage.
• Flush Every Toilet: Look for leaks around the base, slow drains, or running valves.
• Inspect Under Sinks: Look inside vanity cabinets and under kitchen sinks for dampness, fresh stains, or active drips.

Test Appliances & Inclusions

• Kitchen Appliances: Run the dishwasher through a short cycle, test stove burners, verify the oven heats up, and make sure the refrigerator/freezer are cold.
• Washer & Dryer: Turn them on briefly to confirm power and drum rotation.
• Included Fixtures: Check that light fixtures, ceiling fans, blinds, curtain rods, and smart devices promised in the contract are still installed.

Examine Doors, Windows, & Surfaces

• Open & Close Everything: Test every exterior door, interior door, and window. Ensure locks function smoothly.
• Check for Move-Out Damage: Look behind doors and along main pathways for scuffed walls, gouged flooring, or ceiling damage left by movers.
• Windows & Screens: Verify window panes aren’t cracked and screens are intact.

Exterior & Grounds

• Yards & Landscaping: Ensure the seller hasn’t left behind pileups of trash, hazardous materials, or unwanted furniture.
• Garage & Storage Sheds: Confirm these areas are swept clean and that garage door openers (plus remotes) are present and working.

3. What to Do If You Find an Issue

Finding an unexpected issue during the walkthrough can feel stressful, but it doesn’t mean the deal has to fall through. You have several options depending on the severity of the problem:

1. Document It: Take clear photos and videos immediately.
2. Contact Your Agent: Inform your real estate agent before leaving the property so they can notify the listing agent.
3. Request a Repair Credit or Escrow Holdback: For minor issues, request a financial credit at closing or have funds held in escrow until the seller resolves the issue.
4. Delay Closing (If Necessary): If major damage occurred (e.g., a flooded basement or missing major systems), you can request to delay closing until repairs are completed and re-inspected.