5 Things to Look for When Doing a Walk-Through for a New Home

Conducting a walk-through is an important part of the process of purchasing a new home. Typically scheduled to take place the day before the closing, the walk-through gives you one last opportunity to make sure the property is in the condition that you expected it to be in. While the final walk-through is not the same as a home inspection, there are several areas that should be thoroughly inspected as you conduct your final walk-through. Here is a look at the 5 areas you need to consider when conducting your walk-through.

Light Fixtures, Appliances and Other Electrical Items

Since the last time you were at the house, something may have happened to cause damage to the light fixtures, appliances or other electrical items in the home. During your final walk-through, you should test all of these items to ensure they are still working properly. This includes light fixtures, appliances, electrical outlets, garbage disposals and exhaust fans. You should also check to make sure all of the light fixtures, appliances and other electrical items that were supposed to be left for you are still in place.

Faucets and Toilets

It is possible for faucets to have developed a drip or for toilets to have become clogged since you last visited the home. Therefore, you should turn on all of the faucets and watch for leaks during your walk-through. While checking for drips, check the area around the plumbing to see if any water damage has occurred since you last visited the property. You should also flush the toilets to ensure they are flushing properly. While there, check the floor to make sure it has not been damaged by an overflowing toilet or shower.

Heating and Air

As you are completing your walk-through, you should turn the heating and air conditioning systems on and off. Make sure these systems are running properly and efficiently.

Windows and Doors

As you walk through the house, open and close all of the windows and doors to ensure they are functioning properly. You should also check screens and storm windows. If they are in storage, be sure to find out where they are located and inspect them to ensure they are in good shape.

Exterior

Finally, walk around the outside of the home to check for exterior damage. This is particularly important if there have been strong wind or rain storms in the area since your last visit. While outside, be sure to inspect the garage door openers and ensure the doors open smoothly and fully.

When conducting your final walk-through, be sure to take your contract with you. This way, you can refer to it while you are on the property. In this way, you can be sure that all of the agreed upon property is still on the house and that all agreed upon repairs have been completed. You should also check storage areas to ensure all trash or unwanted items have been properly removed from the property. If you do discover a problem, you will need to determine if that issue is serious enough for you to postpone closing on the property. If it is of major concern, contact your real estate agent so a solution to the problem can be negotiated. If the seller is unwilling to negotiate, you will need to decide if the you are willing to absorb the cost of addressing the issue yourself or if you would rather pass on purchasing the property.