You’ve found your dream home, your financing is in place, and the offer has been accepted. You’re almost at the finish line of the home buying process. But before you officially take possession of a home, there’s one last critical step—your final walkthrough.
A final walkthrough is your last chance to make sure everything in the home is as agreed before closing the deal. It’s not just a formality—it’s a safeguard for home buyers to confirm that any repairs were done, the home is in the right condition, and nothing has changed since your last visit. This guide will walk you through what to look for during your final walkthrough so you can feel confident on closing day and avoid costly surprises after buying a home.
What Is a Final Walkthrough?
A final walkthrough usually happens a day or two before the closing date. It’s a scheduled visit to the property that allows the buyer to ensure the home is in the condition promised in the contract. This includes checking for: Agreed-upon repairs The presence (or absence) of fixtures and appliances Signs of new damage General cleanliness and condition While a final walkthrough is not legally required, it’s strongly recommended by real estate agents, especially in competitive markets like Calgary real estate. Think of it as your last inspection before you sign off on the property.
Why a Final Walkthrough Matters
When you’re closing a home, you’re committing to a major financial investment. If you skip the walkthrough or rush through it, you risk inheriting issues that can be costly or difficult to resolve later. You also give up your final opportunity to hold the seller accountable for unfinished repairs or damage that may have occurred during the move-out process. Final walkthroughs protect both buyers and sellers, giving both sides a clear picture of the home’s condition before keys are handed over.
1. Confirm Repairs Have Been Completed
If your offer included any conditions for repairs based on the inspection, now is the time to verify that those repairs were completed properly. Bring a copy of the repair list and receipts if the seller provided them. Check the specific items: Plumbing fixes Roof patches Appliance replacements Window or door repairs If anything hasn’t been done, notify your real estate agent immediately. They can help negotiate a solution before the deal closes.
2. Test All Appliances and Fixtures
Before taking possession of a home, make sure the major appliances work as expected. This includes the stove, dishwasher, fridge, washer and dryer (if included), furnace, and air conditioner. Turn on all the lights, faucets, and check ceiling fans too. Look for signs of leaking or electrical problems. If anything isn’t working, bring it up with your agent right away.
3. Check That the Home Is Clean and Empty
Unless otherwise agreed upon, the home should be left in a “broom-clean” condition. This means it should be swept, free of garbage, and with no personal belongings left behind. Open closets, cabinets, the garage, and any outdoor storage to ensure everything has been cleared out. Any junk or debris left behind will become your responsibility after closing.
4. Look for New Damage
Things can go wrong during a move. Walls get scratched, floors get gouged, and doors can get damaged. Walk through the property with fresh eyes and look for any signs of recent damage. Focus on: Walls and baseboards Floors and carpets Doors and locks Windows and screens This is especially important if the home has been vacant for a while or recently staged and cleared.
5. Test Doors, Windows, and Locks
Make sure all doors and windows open, close, and lock properly. Confirm that any remote controls for garages or security systems are present and functional. Windows should not be cracked or stuck, and doors should be aligned. Functional windows and doors are not just about convenience—they’re a safety and energy efficiency issue too.
6. Double-Check Agreed Items
Your purchase contract may include a list of fixtures and extras that were supposed to stay with the home. These might include: Light fixtures Window coverings Kitchen appliances Built-in shelving Outdoor items like satellite dishes or sheds Verify that all these items are still there and in good condition. If anything is missing, your agent can contact the seller to resolve the issue before closing.
7. Inspect Utilities and Water Systems
Turn on every tap in the house. Run hot and cold water in all sinks, showers, and bathtubs. Flush toilets and check under sinks for leaks. Don’t forget to test the water heater and check if it’s working properly. Also, make sure that utilities (gas, water, electricity) are still connected if the sellers haven’t shut them off. This is important because it ensures everything functions during your move-in and helps you avoid delays when switching accounts.
8. Don’t Forget the Exterior
Check the condition of the outside of the home, especially if it’s a single family home or family home with a yard. Walk around the house, inspect the siding, roof (as much as you can see), eavestroughs, and fences. Look for signs of storm damage, animals, or broken fixtures like outdoor lights or irrigation systems. If the sale includes outdoor features like a deck, shed, or garden, make sure they’re in the agreed condition.
9. Review the Closing Documents One Last Time
While this isn’t a part of the physical walkthrough, reviewing your paperwork before closing a home is just as important. Go through your contract with your real estate lawyer or mortgage broker to ensure the details match what’s been agreed. Be clear on your closing costs, including property taxes, legal fees, mortgage payments, and other expenses so there are no surprises when it’s time to sign.
10. Bring Your Team
If possible, bring your real estate agent or a trusted person with you during the walkthrough. They can help spot issues you might miss and act as a witness if problems arise. Having someone who understands real estate transactions can be helpful if anything needs to be resolved quickly.
A Note on Nolan Hill
Many homes in Nolan Hill—a popular northwest community—are newer and built to modern standards. That said, even brand-new homes can have issues. If you’re exploring houses for sale in Nolan Hill, don’t skip the final walkthrough just because the home looks clean and fresh. Problems can arise in any property, especially during the transition between owners.
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