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When you’re buying or renting a home, you’ll have one last chance to determine that the property is in the condition it should be: the final walk-through.
In the excitement of getting to move-in day, don’t skip this important step!
What Is a Final Walk-Through?
Although the objectives may differ slightly, the final walkthrough for the buyer or renter will cover many of the same areas.
For homebuyers, this is your last opportunity before closing to confirm that repair work requested in the sales agreement has been done and that nothing in the property has been altered or deteriorated since last time it was seen.
For renters, in addition to the essential terms landlords should include in a lease, you will assume responsibility for the property's condition upon vacating. This is one of the last steps in renting a house.
Everything below the inspection standard should be documented to ensure that you’re not charged for repairs or replacement when you terminate the lease.
This includes any issues such as broken or malfunctioning appliances, windows, or other items; stains on carpets or walls; or any other damage that existed before your move-in date.
Who Attends the Walk-Through?
When buying a home, it’s typically the buyer and their real estate agent who do the final walk-through. An agent will have a good idea of what to look for and will guide the homebuyer through any issues or repairs that need to be completed.
Usually, the home walk-through happens after the seller has moved out. However, in cases where the seller hasn’t completed this process, the home seller and their agent may also be present.
As a renter, you may be required to conduct a walk-through with the property manager or landlord, or you might be given a checklist to complete within a certain number of days after moving in.
What Should Renters and Homebuyers Look for During a Walk-Through?
For Homebuyers
Realize, as a buyer, that this is not another home inspection, as this should have already happened. It’s simply your opportunity to ensure that all updates and repairs you agreed upon with the seller have been completed, that nothing is missing, and that the seller has not left items and belongings behind.
Typically, a seller should leave the property in a “broom-swept” condition, meaning that clutter and trash have been removed, counters and surfaces have been wiped down, and floors and carpets have been swept or vacuumed.
See below for a checklist for your renting or home buying walk-through.
For Renters
As mentioned above, your landlord or property manager will likely present you with a walk-through checklist as one of the last renting steps. However, here are some general items to be aware of, based on our article, "7 Things to Know Before Renting Your First Home."
Flooring and baseboards: Carefully examine the condition of the flooring and carpet. Note any stains, pulls, or scratches, as well as the condition of the baseboards.
Walls and paint: Note any scratches or dents, the condition of the walls, if paint is fresh, and any stains.
Appliances and ceiling fans: Ensure that the provided appliances are in working order. If they aren’t, immediately place a work order for repair or replacement. Note if ceiling fans are securely mounted, in good order, and clean.
Windows, blinds, and doors: Make sure that windows and doors open and close smoothly. Report any torn screens and request replacement as needed. If blinds are provided, check that they are clean and report any broken or bent blinds.
Plumbing, toilets, and tubs: Check for leaks, ensure faucets are in good working order, and verify that tubs and toilets are caulked. Report any water leaks or a toilet that constantly runs immediately.
Exterior and landscaping: Note the condition of the grass, shrubbery, and trees. Is the property overgrown or in need of an initial mow? If so, document and report it.
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What if There's a Problem with the Walk-Through?
For Homebuyers
Depending on the severity of the issue, there are several options your real estate agent will probably advise:
- All repairs should be made before closing by the seller.
- The seller’s proceeds deposited into an escrow account to cover repairs after closing.
- Closing delayed pending repairs being completed.
- For extreme issues, consider walking away from the sale or taking legal action.
For Renters
Beyond normal wear and tear, note any necessary repairs or broken items. It’s essential to document this so that repairs can be made and you receive your security deposit back upon moving out. It’s wise to document any damage you notice on moving in with photos or videos.
Don't Skip the Walk-Through!
In the excitement of closing on a home or signing the lease, it might be tempting to skip this very important step… don’t do it! Carefully inspect and record the property's conditions using the checklist below, then download our free move-in/move-out checklist (see the end of the article).
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Home Buyer and Renter Walkthrough Checklist
Specifically for the Homebuyer Walkthrough:
Were the requested repairs made to the property? Are all of the conveyances at the property?
- Appliances
- Light fixtures
- Play structures
- Remote controls for home fixtures/garage door opener
- Blinds/draperies
- Other
For Home Buyer and Renter Walkthrough:
Kitchen
- Turn on appliances and test for function
- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator
- Microwave
- Stove
- Garbage disposal
- Sink
- Ceiling fan
- Counter condition
- Floor condition
- Cabinetry condition
Living Rooms
- Rug/flooring
- Walls/nail holes
- Light fixtures
- Windows (open/close/locks)
- Doors/door frames
Bedrooms
- Rug/flooring
- Walls/nail holes
- Light fixtures
- Windows (open/close/locks)
- Doors/door frames
- Closet fixtures
- Ceiling fans
Bathrooms
- Check fixtures for function
- Flooring
- Tub
- Shower
- Sink
- Toilet
- Windows (open/lock/close)
- Water damage (check inside cabinets/ around fixtures)
- Light fixtures
Basement/Rec Area
- Rug/flooring
- Walls/nail holes
- Light fixtures
- Windows (open/close/locks)
- Doors/door frames
- Water damage
- Ceiling fans
General Interior
- Banisters and stair railings
- Furnace
- HVAC
- Water heater
- Water softener
- Fireplaces
- Storage areas and closets empty and dry
General Exterior
- Doorbell
- Alarm system
- Outside light fixtures
- Landscaping as expected
- Doors/door frames
- Garage door function and remotes
- Deck/patio condition
- Gutters and roof look intact/any repairs completed
- Signs of pests: droppings, decayed wood from termites
Download our free move-in/move-out checklist for landlords and tenants below:
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