
DC HOME BUYERS FINAL WALKTHROUGH
It's the last step before you go to settlement! You cross your fingers and perform the final walkthrough to verify that the home is in ‘substantially the same condition’ as the date of contract or inspection, that everything intended to convey is still in place and that the seller has not left unwanted items behind for you to dispose of at your expense. Ok, so is there a checklist for that? Yes, it's on this page!
THIS IS NOT AN INSPECTION
SET ASIDE ENOUGH TIME FOR IT
SCHEDULING THE FINAL WALKTHROUGH
FINAL WALKTHROUGH TIPS
WHAT TO BRING
Bring your sales contract, addendum(s) and inspection reports for reference. You’ll also want to make notes on the appropriate sheets that you can refer to later, or complete a walk-through checklist as you proceed. Bring a camera (or cell phone cam) to document any issues.
REVIEW INCLUSIONS AND EXCLUSIONS
Understand in advance which items are to be conveyed to you, and which are not.
WHAT TO VISUALLY INSPECT
Look at walls, flooring, ceilings, check the home’s exterior for any new damage or significant changes. Make sure the grounds have been cleared of any trash or debris. Don't forget the basement, crawl space, attic, garage/parking spaces and sheds or other out-buildings. Be alert for substituted items such as door handles, appliances, or any fixtures or finishes that contractually should have remained, but have been substituted with others.
SYSTEMS CHECKS
If possible, test heat and air conditioning, alarm or other included security systems, water and water-related fixtures, appliances, washer & dryer, lighting, windows, outdoor components, appliances, garage doors, gates, etc.
PRE-SETTLEMENT INSPECTIONS
As mentioned earlier, a pre-settlement inspection may be needed to confirm repairs contractually agreed to by the seller. Your inspector will return to the property for an additional fee to confirm the repairs were made properly, or cite omissions or faulty repairs and replacements. Depending on the significance of the repairs in question, buyers may want to bear this added expense, or forego it if the repair or replacement provides a warranty and can be easily seen/tested by the buyer at final walk-through.
ADDRESSING WALKTHROUGH ISSUES
It’s important to address any issues immediately. If contractually agreed-upon items are missing, debris or personal belongings have been left on the premises, if there are defects that should have been addressed by the seller and weren’t, don’t get upset. Instead, take action. There are standard ways in which to address final walk through issues. As your agents, we would guide you through that process.