The Final Walk-Through One of the most anticipated days during the home buying process is when you have your walk-through which is usually scheduled sometime right before closing of escrow. This step happens when you as the buyer and your agent explore your home-to-be and check to be sure it is in the condition specified in the contract. Its probably the first time youve been back in a few weeks or so and its empty now of the sellers possessions. Its going to look and feel much different without furnishings and probably wont have that live in feel but it will be easier to envision yourself in the space now. The seller is responsible to have the place empty unless there were some things included in the purchase contract in writing. Take the time to look around the interior and exterior of the property to be sure all the sellers stuff is gone. You dont want to be stuck with unwanted junk. Be sure everything is as it should be and was agreed upon. Sometimes, buyers are so excited to close that they quickly whisk through the walk-through. This can sometimes lead to small issues once the buyers take ownership. Its smart to think things through and be diligent, carefully making your way throughout the house. Make sure the floors are swept and cleaned, carpets vacuumed, bathrooms and kitchens wiped down. Test the appliances to be sure they still work. It doesnt hurt to test out the electrical outlets. Bring your cellphone and plug it into the outlets as you move from room to room. Make sure you receive all the keys: a complete set of every door lock in the house, shed and garage. And dont forget the alarm codes if any. If its a condo you purchased, be sure youve received the mailbox, pool, storage and unit keys. The journey toward homeownership if often long with ups and downs along the way. The final walk-through is one of the last steps of what could be a multiple year process. It is helpful to prepare yourself for it by having a checklist and keeping your emotions in check. This will help ease the way towards a smooth close of escrow.
