What do I need to look for when I do my final walk through on my new house next week? The week leading up to closing is always a fun and hectic time. You are trying to get the house packed and the movers lined up, all while hoping there aren't any glitches with your loan or closing. When it comes time to doing the walk through, most people are so tired and ready to close already, they don't necessarily take the time to do it right.
A walk through is a very important part of the closing process and should be taken seriously. We all would like to believe that the seller is honest and will leave everything as they said they would, but this is not always the case. It is a lot easier to get items fixed or replaced before closing than it is after wards, so make sure to be thorough and most importantly, actually do the walk through.
What are things you should be on the lookout for?
1. Major appliances: Be sure that any items that were to remain in the home are still there, and that they are in good working order.
2. Major systems: Do the air conditioning, heat, and plumbing still function?
3. Walls and floors: Has any damage occurred to the floors or walls during the sellers move? Were rugs, artwork, or carpets covering water damage that was not disclosed?
4. Repairs: As part of your purchase contract, the seller may have been required to make specific repairs. Be sure that these have been completed, or that the seller has a written timeline for when the repairs will be done.
5. Screens and Storm Windows: If it is the season for these items to be in storage, be sure they have been left behind and that they are in good shape.
6. Remotes: Garage doors, alarms, sound systems, and the like all use remotes, some of which can be very expensive. If any of these components were part of your agreement, be sure they have been kept with the house.
7. Cleanliness: The home should have been cleaned and all debris removed. You don't want to spend the first week living in your new home cleaning up other people's junk.
8. Landscaping: It may seem ridiculous, but yes, some sellers may try to run off with your shrubs and plants. Refer back to your contract to see what should have stayed. If plants were taken, let your agent handle the situation.
9. Fixtures: Light fixtures, curtains, and other items that were agreed upon should still be in the home. If they are not, let your agent address the conflict.
10. Exterior: Has there been any damage to the home since your inspection or first visit? If there have been storm with high winds or hail, be sure to visually inspect the exterior of the house for damage. Once you have signed on that dotted line, the house is yours. Hail damage and all.
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