Why A Final Walkthrough Is Essential Before Buying Your Edmonton Home

The thrilling moment of becoming a homeowner is almost within reach! You’ve selected your dream Edmonton home, diligently navigated inspections, and prepared for closing day. But before you pop the champagne, there’s one more critical step you can’t afford to skip – the final walkthrough.

The final walkthrough ensures your home purchase aligns with your expectations and agreements. Skip it, and you could be in for some surprises that could derail your plans or hit your wallet. This guide sheds light on why the final walkthrough matters, what to inspect, and how to prepare.

Why The Final Walkthrough Matters

The final walkthrough is your last opportunity to confirm that the property meets the agreed-upon conditions before closing. The final walkthrough in real estate is one of the most important parts of the whole transaction. This process ensures:

• All Repairs Are Completed: If the seller agreed to make repairs during negotiations, the walkthrough is your chance to verify they’ve been done.
• The Property Is Intact: You can confirm that major fixtures and appliances outlined in the purchase agreement are present and in working order.
• Avoidance of Surprises: It protects you from unexpected issues that could become a financial or logistical burden after closing.

Without this step, you risk inheriting problems that you might not have agreed to in your purchase contract.

Timing and Preparation

Timing plays a crucial role in ensuring that your final walkthrough is effective. Ideally, schedule it about 24 to 48 hours before closing. Why so close? Because a lot can happen between signing the contract and closing day.

To make the walkthrough smooth and thorough:

• Create a Checklist: Draft a list of items to evaluate, including appliances, plumbing, windows, and required repairs. This ensures nothing is missed.
• Bring Essential Supplies:
• • A copy of the sales agreement
  • A phone to take photos or videos for documentation
  • Testing tools for electrical outlets or plumbing
• Inspect Previously Unchecked Areas: Rooms, walls, or floors that were inaccessible during earlier visits should be closely examined.

Preparing in advance saves time, ensures thoroughness, and sets you up for closing day without added stress.

Key Things to Inspect During the Walkthrough

A final walkthrough isn’t the time for an exhaustive inspection but a double-check to confirm all is in order. Here are the critical areas to inspect:

1. Appliances

Test all appliances included in the sale to verify they’re functioning as expected. This may include:

• Turning on the stove, oven, and microwave
• Running the dishwasher through a cycle
• Checking the refrigerator’s cooling and freezer settings
• Testing the washer/dryer if included

2. Utilities

Take the time to check that essential utilities are in working condition:

• Run faucets to check water pressure and temperature
• Flush toilets to ensure functionality
• Test light switches and electrical outlets throughout the home
• Ensure that heating, cooling, and ventilation systems are operable

3. Windows and Doors

Inspect all doors and windows for smooth operation. Look for:

• Locks and handles that operate properly
• Signs of drafts or improper seals
• Cracks or damage to glass panes

4. Repairs

Refer back to agreed-upon repairs in the sales contract. Bring supporting documents and verify repairs have been professionally completed (invoices or receipts help). For example:

• Patched holes in walls
• Replaced fixtures or plumbing repairs
• Roof or structural fixes

5. Fixtures and Items

Make sure all fixtures and items listed in the purchase agreement (like light fixtures, curtains, or built-in equipment) are present and have not been swapped for cheaper alternatives.

Addressing Issues Found in Your Walkthrough

If you find problems during your walkthrough, don’t panic. You have options to address these issues before signing on the dotted line:

1. Delay the Closing: If significant issues arise (e.g., unresolved repairs or damage), request the closing be delayed until the seller rectifies the problem.
2. Negotiate Financial Compensation: Should minor fixes be needed, you can negotiate a price adjustment or request funds in escrow to cover repairs.
3. Escrow for Repairs: For repairs requiring immediate attention, escrow funds can be arranged, ensuring work is promptly completed post-closing.

If you skip this step, as Realtor.com points out, “you would not have had that opportunity to fight back and push... to make the situation right.”

The Risk of Skipping the Walkthrough

Skipping the walkthrough may save time in the short term, but it opens the door to potential issues becoming your responsibility. For example:

• Undetected water damage underneath a large rug
• Missing appliances that were contractually agreed to remain
• Uncompleted repairs the seller promised to address

A walkthrough safeguards your investment and ensures you’re closing on a home that aligns with your expectations.

Protect Your Investment With a Final Walkthrough

Buying a home is one of the most significant investments you’ll make, and every detail matters. A thorough final walkthrough helps eliminate surprises, provides peace of mind, and protects your purchase. Treat this step not as an afterthought but as an essential safeguard toward owning your dream Edmonton home.

Are you preparing to buy a home? Connect with us, your local real estate agent to guide you through your home-buying process, including your final walkthrough, ensuring nothing is overlooked.