Kirk Holton Team Blog

I bought a home a month ago and have a walk through scheduled for 2 weeks from now. What is the purpose of the walk through? What am I supposed to be looking for? Please give me any advice you can on this subject, because I am clueless.

Thank you,

The clueless client

Dear Clueless,

Actually this is an excellent question that many buyers struggle with.Your Realtor probably has some tips for you regarding the walk through. The actual purpose is to insure that the home is the same home you bought. Minus normal wear and tear, has anything changed? (A tree cut down, basement suddenly leaking, light fixture changed out, etc.) Were there any repairs done by the sellers that were asked for in the building inspection? Were they completed and were receipts to be given to you, the buyer? If you are unsure of your ability to evaluate the repairs, the contract allows you to take your inspector along to check them. But, under no circumstances is your walk through to become a time for another inspection. Ask yourself: Is this the house I bought? were repairs I requested completed? If so, you are good to go. If not, your Realtor will help you solve the problem prior to closing.

If at all possible, try to view the home when it is empty. That way, you can tell if there was any damage done by the movers. If you have to do the walk through when the home is still occupied, then you can perhaps ask to go back before the loan is funded to see it empty. It’s best to do the walk through at least 24 hours before closing, just to allow enough time in case there are issues to iron out.

Your expectations are also important.  Sometimes the seller and buyer have a different idea of how the home should be left. There is no requirement on the contract as to how the home should be cleaned. Except for the expectation that personal items are all removed, it is generally understood that the  home should be broom swept. You might ask if the sellers are having the home cleaned …if not…allow time for cleaning prior to moving in. If you arrive with your moving truck expecting the home to be spotless, you may be very disappointed. Good luck ..hope your walk through is smooth sailing!

Rita