Is A Final Walk Through Necessary When You Buy A Home

Q: We are finally closing on our first home this week. Our realtor asked us to schedule a final walk through of our new home, but we’ve already taken a lot more time off from work than we wanted or expected. Do you think a final walk through is necessary? Nadine, Bloomfield, NJ

A: The final walk through allows you to verify the property is in the same condition it was when you made your purchase offer and that the seller has fulfilled any agreed-upon repairs or improvements that were supposed to be made to the property. The final walk through is your last opportunity to identify any problems that might have arisen since the last inspection before the closing, such as property damage or missing items. My answer to your question is yes, although it is inconvenient for your timewise, you should absolutely do a final walk through before closing on a home to make sure the property is in the condition you expect. Although it’s unlikely there will be issues, things can happen to a property in a short period of time, particularly during winter in a vacant property for example (i.e. busted pipes, break-ins etc.). You can bring your purchase contract and home inspection report with you as a reference during the final walk through to make sure that all agreed-upon items, like appliances, fixtures etc. are still present. It’s your right as a home buyer to do a walk through before closing so it’s in your best interest to take advantage of that right. You should schedule the final walk through within 24 hours of the closing date to minimize the chance of any issues arising after you’ve seen the property before the closing actually takes place. Thanks for your question, Nadine.

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