14 things to check on your final walk-through

Key takeaways

• The final walk-through is your last chance to verify the home’s condition before closing. Buyers should confirm the property matches expectations, agreed-upon repairs were completed and no new damage occurred after move-out. 
• Preparation helps prevent closing-day surprises. Bringing documents like the inspection report and purchase agreement — and thoroughly testing appliances, utilities and systems — can help buyers spot problems early. 
• Issues discovered at the walk-through can still be addressed. Buyers may negotiate repairs, request credits or, in rare cases, walk away if the home no longer meets the terms of the contract. 

Your final walk-through is your last chance to make sure the home you plan to buy meets your expectations before closing.

You’ll walk through every room and inspect the exterior to confirm the property’s condition matches what you last saw. In some cases, the home may be in better shape, especially if you negotiated repairs or renovations. This step is critical in the homebuying process. It allows buyers to confirm that items included in the sale remain in place and that the seller completed all agreed-upon updates outlined in the purchase agreement.

“The walk-through is often the first time buyers see the home without furniture or items on the walls, so it’s important to look for any damage that may have occurred during move-out,” said Scott Garnett, a real estate agent with Samson Properties in Richmond, Virginia. “I highly recommend every buyer do a walk-through to make sure everything agreed upon is still there.”

Being prepared can help you handle surprises. Use the checklist below to know what to look for, what to bring and how to respond if issues arise.

1. Negotiated repairs: Confirm all agreed-upon repairs were completed. If your offer included an inspection contingency, review your inspection report to verify that outstanding issues were addressed. If you’re receiving a seller credit, ensure the issue matches what’s described in the contract or inspection report.
2. Cleanliness: The home should be broom-clean. All personal items and trash should be removed, including from the garage.
3. Items that convey with the sale: Confirm that any fixtures or items included in the contract — such as appliances, light fixtures, ceiling fans or window treatments — remain in the home.
4. Utilities: All utilities should be turned on so you can test electrical, plumbing, water and gas systems.
5. Appliances: Test all appliances included in the sale. Run the dishwasher, stove, microwave and garbage disposal. Check that the refrigerator and freezer cool properly, and that the washer and dryer function.
6. Water leaks and clogs: Run faucets, flush toilets and watch for leaks, slow drains or clogs.
7. Electrical system: Test light switches, ceiling fans and outlets in every room. A phone charger works well for outlet checks.
8. Mold or water damage: Inspect around plumbing fixtures for leaks or mold. Check attics, basements and crawl spaces for standing water or mildew.
9. HVAC system: Turn on the heating and air conditioning to confirm proper operation.
10. Walls, floors and ceilings: Look for cracks, stains or drywall damage that may have been hidden by furniture or wall decor.
11. Doors and windows: Open and close all doors and windows. Check locks, seals and screens.
12. Garage door: Even if the opener will be delivered at closing, confirm the garage door opens and closes properly.
13. Exterior features: Walk the property. Inspect exterior walls, the roof and gutters. Check decks, patios and sheds for damage.
14. Signs of pests: Look for evidence of rodents, insects or termite damage.

Your real estate agent will attend the walk-through, but having these items on hand can help:

• Phone: Take photos or videos of concerns. Use the flashlight for dark spaces. 
• Inspection report: Verify that agreed-upon repairs were completed. 
• Purchase agreement: Use it to confirm what should remain with the property. 
• Tape measure: Measure rooms or doorways for furniture or flooring plans. 
• Notebook and pen: Record issues, questions or design ideas. 

Final walk-throughs typically take place one or two days before closing. This timing allows buyers to address problems before ownership transfers. Your agent will help schedule it.

No. Sellers should not attend. Buyers and their agent should be the only ones present so the inspection can be completed without pressure. Unless otherwise negotiated, the home should be vacant.

Yes, buyers may renegotiate if they discover new damage or issues that should have been disclosed. Options may include requesting repairs, renegotiating the price or asking for a seller credit.

Document concerns with photos, videos or notes.

“It doesn’t happen often, but if we find anything during the walk-through, I’ll contact the seller’s agent to negotiate repairs,” Garnett said.

Yes, a buyer may walk away if the property’s condition has significantly changed or no longer meets the terms of the sales contract. However, major issues are usually discovered earlier. Review your inspection report closely before the walk-through to avoid last-minute surprises.

This story was updated April 27.