🏡 What to Expect from a Final Walk-Through
You’ve negotiated the deal, signed the paperwork, and the closing date is almost here—congrats! But before you get the keys to your new home, there’s one important step left: the final walk-through.
This might seem like just a formality, but it’s a crucial part of protecting your investment. Here’s what you need to know, what to bring, and what to look for during your final visit to the property.
✅ What Is a Final Walk-Through?
The final walk-through is typically scheduled 24 to 72 hours before closing. It’s your last chance to ensure:
- The home is in the same condition as when you agreed to purchase it
- Any repairs or inclusions negotiated in the agreement have been completed
- There are no new issues or damage since your last visit
Note: This is not a home inspection. It’s a confirmation step to avoid surprises on closing day.
🧰 What to Bring
- Copy of your
Agreement of Purchase and Sale
- Final
home inspection report (if applicable)
- A
notepad or checklist
- Phone or flashlight for checking dark spaces
- Your
real estate agent (they’ll be your best advocate if anything’s wrong)
🔍 What to Check During the Final Walk-Through
1. General Cleanliness & Condition
✔️ Has the home been emptied of personal belongings?
✔️ Is it reasonably clean (broom-swept at minimum)?
2. Agreed-Upon Repairs
✔️ Were repairs completed professionally?
✔️ Are receipts or proof of work available?
3. Appliances & Systems
✔️ Are all appliances included in the sale still present?
✔️ Do the lights, faucets, toilets, HVAC, and outlets work?
4. No New Damage
✔️ Are there any new holes in walls, leaks, or broken items?
✔️ Was anything damaged during move-out?
5. Outdoor Areas
✔️ Is the yard maintained and free of debris?
✔️ Are items like sheds, patios, or play structures still in place if included?
❗What If You Find a Problem?
Don’t panic—but don’t ignore it either.
If something major is wrong (e.g., an appliance is missing, a repair wasn’t done, or there’s new damage), your real estate agent can:
- Negotiate a
holdback on funds at closing
- Request repairs or compensation
- Delay closing if needed (rare, but possible)
📆 Quick Checklist: Final Walk-Through To-Dos
✅ Bring your agreement and inspection report
✅ Test all lights, outlets, toilets, and appliances
✅ Confirm completion of agreed repairs
✅ Open windows, doors, cabinets
✅ Check garage, attic, and basement
✅ Document concerns with photos
✅ Ask questions—don’t assume!
🏁 Final Thoughts
The final walk-through is a simple, 30–60 minute step that offers peace of mind and protection before closing. With your agent by your side and a sharp eye, you can ensure everything is in place so the only surprise on closing day is how excited you are.
📩 Buying soon in Guelph or nearby? I’ll guide you through every step—including the final walk-through—to make sure you close with confidence.
