The Final Walkthrough: What to Check Before Closing

The final walkthrough is one of the last steps before closing. It is your opportunity to see the home again, make sure it is in the condition you expected, and confirm that agreed-upon work has been completed.

This is not another home inspection. It is a final review of the property before ownership changes hands.

What Is the Purpose of the Walkthrough?

The goal is to make sure:
  • The home has not been damaged since you last saw it
  • Agreed-upon repairs or construction items have been completed
  • Items included in the sale are still present
  • Major systems and fixtures appear to be working
  • The home is reasonably clean and ready for possession
For a newly built home, the walkthrough may also include learning how the home’s systems and features operate and identifying small items that still need attention.

Take Your Time

Do not rush through the home because closing is near. Walk through each room and look carefully.

Open doors, windows, cabinets, and drawers. Turn on lights and ceiling fans. Run faucets and flush toilets. Check that appliances included with the home are present and operating. Look for leaks, visible damage, missing fixtures, or unfinished work.

Outside, look over the exterior, porches, steps, garage, driveway, and any other areas included in the purchase.

Bring Your Agreement and Notes

If repairs, corrections, or specific features were part of your agreement, bring a list with you. Photos from an earlier visit can also be helpful if you need to compare the home’s condition.

For a new build, bring any list created during a previous construction walkthrough. Confirm which items have been completed and ask about anything that remains.

Document Concerns Clearly

If you notice a problem, take a photo and write down the location and concern. Be specific. “Scratch on the lower cabinet beside the dishwasher” is more useful than “cabinet damage.”

Share concerns promptly with the appropriate real estate or building professional. Some issues can be corrected before closing. Others may require a written plan explaining how and when they will be handled.

Do not assume that a verbal promise will be remembered. Important agreements should be documented.

Ask About the Home

Before leaving, make sure you know:
  • Where the main water shutoff is located
  • Where the electrical panel is located
  • How to operate thermostats and other major systems
  • What keys, remotes, codes, and manuals you will receive
  • Who to contact about outstanding work or warranty questions

The Bottom Line

The final walkthrough is not about searching for perfection. It is about confirming that the home is in the condition you agreed to purchase.

Take your time, use a written list, document concerns, and ask questions. A careful walkthrough can help you enter closing, and your new home, with greater confidence.