Final Walkthrough

If we’ve been given the Clear to Close, I will reach out to schedule the final walkthrough. This is typically scheduled 1-3 days before closing, and I recommend the day or night before. You can expect the walkthrough to be a quick 20-30 minute tour of the home. 

The final walkthrough is a time to:

• Verify repairs have been made. I will forward any receipts and warranties to you in advance.

• Make sure the appliances are still in working condition.

• Make sure the sellers didn’t damage anything moving out.

• Confirm all items that were included in the sales price are still there. 

• If sellers have moved out, property should be in “broom clean” condition. This means it may not be perfect, but it should be manageable. 

• If they sellers have moved out, make sure all of the sellers’ personal items have been removed.  

The final walkthrough is NOT a time to:

• Allow parents, friends, etc to look at the property or for contractors to give you estimates. That can now wait until after closing. 

• You may NOT move your boxes or belongings into the property.

• You will not receive the keys. That will happen at the end of closing or possession.

I will inquire as to how you will get the keys, any garage door openers, mailbox keys, etc. Usually, these are given to me and I’ll bring them to closing and give them to you at the end. 

What happens if damage is found or the seller didn't do a repair? 

You have some options:

• You can delay closing by a few days/weeks and ask the seller to repair whatever items are damaged.

• You can ask the sellers to put money into escrow to cover the cost of the repairs so you can still close on time. 

• You can ask the sellers to provide a credit to cover the cost of the repairs so you can still close on time but will have the funds needed for the repairs. 

• You always have the option of continuing to proceed.

If the sellers are unwilling to do any of the above and you are not willing to proceed, it will be time to consult with an attorney. This is very rare and will be the last option once we’ve exhausted all other options.

Ready to connect? Reach out! I look forward to helping you on this journey!

► Go to Step 22

Monique Hanson is a REALTOR® serving the greater West Michigan area. Monique helps people buy and sell homes in Kent, Muskegon, and Ottawa Counties. You can contact Monique by calling or texting 616-805-9177 or emailing hello@moniquehanson.com.