Walk-Through
A walk-through is the final inspection before closing. Learn what to check during the walk-through to ensure the home is in agreed-upon condition.
Definition
A walk‑through, also called a final walk‑through, is an inspection conducted by the buyer shortly before closing to ensure the property is in the agreed‑upon condition. During the walk‑through, buyers verify that agreed repairs have been completed, fixtures and appliances remain, no new damage has occurred, and the sellers have removed all personal belongings. If issues are discovered, buyers can request repairs or credits before closing. A thorough walk‑through protects buyers from surprises and ensures a smooth transition of ownership.
Why It Matters
Once the deed records, every problem in the house becomes yours to pay for. The walk-through is the last check before that switch flips. It is not a second inspection: it confirms the negotiated repairs actually happened, the appliances written into the contract are still standing there, and the seller's movers did not put a hole in the drywall on the way out.
Examples
A buyer runs the dishwasher and washing machine at the same time and finds the laundry drain backing up, so $2,500 is held in escrow pending repair.
The roof repair promised in the inspection addendum turns out to be sealant smeared on the flashing, and the buyer demands the licensed contractor invoice the addendum required.
The sellers leave behind a dead hot tub, a shed of half used paint cans and a broken riding mower, and the buyer negotiates an $1,800 credit for hauling.
Tips
Schedule it after the movers are completely out, ideally the morning of closing, because furniture and rugs hide wall damage and stained carpet.
Carry the inspection response addendum and every repair receipt, then physically test what was fixed instead of accepting the paperwork as proof.
Turn on every burner, run several faucets at once, flush each toilet, open the windows and flip every breaker; these are systems that have sat unused for weeks.
Related Terms
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Inspection Contingency
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Contingency Clause
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