Essential Guide to Your Final Property Walkthrough
A final property walkthrough is one of the most important steps in the home buying process, giving buyers a final chance to ensure the property is in the agreed-upon condition before closing. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, investor, or moving into your dream home, the walkthrough is your opportunity to verify that all contractual obligations have been met and that the home is truly move-in ready.
As a seasoned real estate professional, I always recommend that buyers approach the final walkthrough with a clear plan. This ensures peace of mind and protects your investment. In this blog, we’ll explore the essential tips for completing a successful final walkthrough and how it fits into the broader context of a real estate transaction.
Understanding the Final Walkthrough
What Is a Final Walkthrough?
The final walkthrough is a pre-closing inspection that typically occurs 24–48 hours before the closing date. Unlike a home inspection, it is not about discovering new issues but about confirming the condition of the home matches the terms outlined in the purchase agreement.
The walkthrough ensures that repairs have been completed, agreed-upon items remain, and the home is in the same or better condition than when the offer was made.
Why the Final Walkthrough Matters
Protecting Your Investment
A property is often the largest investment a person will make. The final walkthrough is your last line of defense against unpleasant surprises after the real estate closing process.
If damage has occurred, repairs were skipped, or appliances have been removed, the buyer has the opportunity to address these issues before closing.
Step-by-Step: How to Prepare for the Final Walkthrough
1. Bring Your Paperwork
Arrive with your purchase contract, inspection report, and any repair agreements. These documents help you verify what was agreed upon and what to check during the walkthrough.
Mark specific items or systems that were supposed to be fixed, included, or upgraded. This ensures you’re not relying on memory during your walkthrough.
2. Check All Repairs
Any agreed-upon repairs should be completed by closing. Bring the repair receipts or contractor confirmations if provided. Physically inspect each repaired area, such as plumbing leaks, electrical issues, roof damage, or drywall patches.
If work was not done to satisfaction, your agent can delay closing or renegotiate terms if necessary.
3. Ensure Fixtures and Appliances Remain
Make sure that all fixtures and appliances included in the contract are still present and functional. This includes the stove, dishwasher, washer/dryer, refrigerator, ceiling fans, blinds, and light fixtures.
If anything is missing, it could breach the contract, which gives the buyer the right to pursue remedies before closing.
4. Test All Systems and Utilities
Turn on lights, test outlets, flush toilets, run faucets, turn on the furnace or AC, and ensure the water heater works. Confirm that all systems are operational and no new issues have emerged.
Ask your REALTOR® to ensure that all utilities are turned on prior to the walkthrough so you can perform a complete check.
5. Inspect for Cleanliness and Debris
The home should be clean and free of personal belongings unless otherwise agreed upon. It’s also important to inspect the garage, attic, basement, and yard for any leftover items.
If a seller has left trash or old furniture behind, that may violate the agreement and delay possession.
6. Walk the Exterior
Check for any new damage on the roof, siding, fence, driveway, landscaping, or deck. Damage can happen during moving or severe weather, so it’s critical not to skip this part.
Take photos of any visible damage and consult your real estate agent immediately to document concerns.
7. Open and Close Doors and Windows
Ensure all doors and windows open, close, and lock properly. Also, check for broken seals, drafts, or missing screens.
Malfunctioning doors or windows can be signs of structural shifts or deferred maintenance that need resolution before closing.
Common Issues Found During Walkthroughs
- Repairs not completed as promised
- Appliances swapped or removed
- Holes in walls after furniture removal
- Water leaks or plumbing issues
- Evidence of pests or rodent infestation
- Damaged flooring or carpet staining
- Junk left behind by seller
When problems arise, your REALTOR® will play a key role in negotiating a resolution before closing. You may request the seller to fix the issue, provide a credit, or delay closing until resolved.
Tips for a Smooth Walkthrough Experience
1. Schedule Walkthrough Close to Possession
Aim to complete the walkthrough within 24–48 hours of closing. The closer it is to your possession date, the less likely the home condition will change before ownership transfers.
2. Bring a Checklist
Use a detailed walkthrough checklist to stay organized and ensure nothing is overlooked. Your real estate agent can provide one tailored to your purchase agreement.
3. Take Photos and Notes
If issues arise, photos and written documentation support your claim and help in negotiating corrections or credits from the seller.
4. Walk Through With Your Agent
A licensed REALTOR® will know what to look for and can interpret the terms of your real estate contract if anything is in question.
How Real Estate Professionals Support the Final Walkthrough
Working with an experienced real estate team—like the Tiwana Real Estate Team—ensures you’re fully prepared for your final walkthrough. We:
- Review your purchase contract and inspection documents
- Help identify what to check
- Document any issues
- Coordinate with the seller’s agent to resolve concerns
- Ensure you’re protected before signing final documents
Final Thoughts
The final walkthrough is your last chance to confirm that the home you’re about to purchase meets the standards outlined in your agreement. By conducting a thorough walkthrough with an organized checklist and the support of your real estate agent, you can move into your new home with confidence and peace of mind.
Never underestimate this final step—a 30-minute walkthrough can save you thousands of dollars and avoid stressful surprises after closing.
If you’re navigating the Calgary real estate market or preparing for a home purchase, the Tiwana Real Estate Team is here to help ensure your entire experience—from offer to final walkthrough—is smooth, professional, and secure.
Malvinder S. Tiwana
Tiwana Real Estate Team | www.maltiwana.ca
Helping you make confident real estate decisions in Calgary and beyond.
