You’ve finally found a place to buy and the offer has been accepted. Closing is underway. Thank goodness you never need to inspect another home again. Right? Wrong. You should go through the property one last time to ensure everything is in order.
Here’s what to look for:
1. Is everything present and accounted for?
The purpose of a final walkthrough is to ensure everything that is listed on your contract is present and accounted for. Never assume. Go through the contract with your agent and check the inclusions are all present – and all work. Check light fittings, stoves, mirrors, window dressings. Sometimes sellers will take them for sentimental reasons, or because they didn’t realise they were in the contract.
2. Is anything going to delay the closing?
If you do find items missing or broken, the seller is technically in breach of contract. Strictly speaking, this means you shouldn’t close. But don’t panic.
Weigh up how big the issue is. Don’t be overly pedantic. Advise your agent and see if they can broker a solution. Missing items can be replaced or the replacement value agreed upon.
3. Are there any unwanted extras?
Your final inspection is also a chance to find out if any unwanted or undesirable items have been left behind. Is there a garage full of trash? A pile of building material down the side? Now is your one and only chance to get the situation rectified in your favour. You are within your rights to request that the situation is resolved or delay closing until it is.
4. Is it clean and presentable?
Your new home should be clean and tidy. The kitchen should be spotless, the oven should be clean, stoves free of grease and grime. Bathrooms should sparkle even if they are outdated. There’s no excuse for dirt. It is the seller’s responsibility to clean it fast or compensate you financially if the property is filthy. The agent may be able to assist by getting in a cleaner quickly if time is of the essence.
5. Test the utilities
Turn on the stove, oven and hot water. Test the airconditioning. Where is the remote to the garage? Do automatic blinds actually work? Advise your agent if any of these elements are missing or broken as they will also need to be accommodated for at the closing.