What Sellers Should Know About the Final Walkthrough

After accepting an offer, completing inspections, and working through escrow, sellers are often eager to reach the finish line.

Then comes the final walkthrough.

For buyers, the walkthrough is an opportunity to confirm that the property is in the condition they agreed to purchase and that any negotiated repairs have been completed. For sellers, it's an important final step before handing the property over to its new owner.

A final walkthrough is generally not intended to be a brand-new home inspection. Instead, it gives the buyer an opportunity to verify that the property is substantially as agreed upon before closing.

Knowing what buyers are likely to look for can help sellers prepare properly and avoid unnecessary delays.

What Is a Final Walkthrough?

The final walkthrough is typically conducted shortly before closing.

The buyer and their agent use this opportunity to confirm that:

• The property is in the agreed-upon condition
• Negotiated repairs have been completed
• Included items remain at the property
• No significant new damage has occurred
• The seller's belongings have been removed as required

The exact timing depends on the transaction and contract, but final walkthroughs commonly occur within a few days of closing.

1. Complete All Agreed-Upon Repairs

One of the most important things sellers can do is make sure negotiated repairs are actually completed.

If you agreed to repair or replace something during the transaction, don't wait until the last minute.

After the work is completed:

• Keep receipts
• Keep warranties when available
• Document completed work
• Provide relevant documentation through the appropriate parties

This can make it easier to demonstrate that agreed-upon work has been completed.

2. Leave the Home in the Agreed Condition

A buyer generally expects the property to be in substantially the condition agreed upon in the purchase contract.

That means sellers should avoid creating unnecessary changes between the time the buyer made the offer and the final walkthrough.

Continue maintaining:

• Landscaping
• Pool or spa, if applicable
• Utilities
• Appliances
• Major systems
• General cleanliness

A property that has been properly maintained is less likely to create last-minute concerns.

3. Remove Your Personal Belongings

Moving day can get hectic, but it's important to make sure you've removed the belongings you're required to take.

Check:

• Closets
• Cabinets
• Garage
• Attic
• Storage areas
• Patio
• Yard
• Bedrooms

At the same time, make sure you don't accidentally remove something that was included in the sale.

Items included in the purchase agreement should remain with the property.

4. Don't Remove Fixtures That Are Staying With the Home

One common source of confusion during a move is accidentally taking an item that was supposed to remain with the property.

Before removing anything, review the purchase agreement and confirm what is included.

This may include certain:

• Light fixtures
• Ceiling fans
• Appliances
• Window coverings
• Built-in equipment
• Other specified items

If you're unsure about an item, ask your real estate professional before taking it.

5. Keep Utilities On

Utilities may need to remain operational through the closing process.

Keeping electricity, water, gas, and other necessary services active can help ensure the buyer can verify that systems are functioning as expected.

It can also help prevent unnecessary complications during the final stage of the transaction.

6. Clean the Home

A clean home creates a better final impression.

Before the walkthrough:

• Vacuum carpets
• Sweep and mop floors
• Clean countertops
• Clean bathrooms
• Remove trash
• Wipe down appliances
• Clean the garage
• Remove remaining debris

The specific cleaning requirements depend on the purchase agreement and local practices, but leaving the property clean and orderly can help create a smooth handoff.

7. Check for New Damage

Moving can occasionally cause accidental damage.

Before the final walkthrough, check for:

• Scratched floors
• Damaged walls
• Broken fixtures
• Missing hardware
• Damaged doors
• Broken landscaping features

If something is accidentally damaged during the move, notify your real estate professional rather than hoping the buyer won't notice.

Addressing an issue proactively is generally better than discovering it during the walkthrough.

8. Make Sure the Home Is Ready for Handoff

Think of the final walkthrough as the last opportunity to make sure the property is ready for its new owner.

Depending on the transaction, this can include leaving:

• Keys
• Garage remotes
• Access codes
• Appliance manuals
• Warranties
• Special instructions

The exact items to provide will depend on the agreement and transaction.

What Happens If the Buyer Finds a Problem?

If a buyer discovers an issue during the walkthrough, don't panic.

The first step is usually to communicate the concern through the real estate professionals involved in the transaction.

Possible solutions may include:

• Completing a repair
• Addressing damage
• Replacing a missing item
• Resolving an agreed-upon repair
• Negotiating another solution

The appropriate response depends on the issue and the terms of the purchase agreement.

Understand Your Local Market

The final walkthrough is an important part of completing a successful transaction, regardless of where you're selling.

Whether you're selling in Glendora, Covina, West Covina, San Dimas, La Verne, Azusa, or a surrounding community, staying organized and following the terms of your purchase agreement can help minimize last-minute complications.

Your real estate professional can help you understand what needs to be completed before closing and coordinate with the appropriate parties.

Final Thoughts

The final walkthrough may happen near the end of the transaction, but it's an important step for sellers to take seriously.

Completing agreed-upon repairs, maintaining the property, removing personal belongings, keeping utilities active, and leaving the home clean can all help create a smoother transition.

The goal is simple: deliver the property in the condition that was agreed upon and help the transaction reach the closing table without unnecessary surprises.

Whether you're selling in Glendora, Covina, West Covina, San Dimas, La Verne, Azusa, or a surrounding community, preparing ahead of time can make the final stage of selling your home much easier.