As you near the closing day on your new home, one of the most important steps is the final walkthrough — your last chance to inspect the property before ownership officially changes hands.

What’s the Final Walkthrough?

A final walkthrough typically takes place 24–48 hours before closing. It’s not a home inspection, but a chance for you to make sure the house is in the condition you expected and that nothing has changed since your last visit. 

The goals are simple:

  • Confirm condition: Ensure the property matches what you agreed to when you made your offer. 
  • Check repairs: Verify that any repairs the seller agreed to have been completed satisfactorily. 
  • Verify included items: See that all appliances, fixtures, and features included in the sale are still present. 
  • Ensure cleanliness and vacancy: The home should be broom-clean and free of the seller’s belongings. 

Remember, this is not a comprehensive inspection for new problems — it’s a final quality check before you sign the closing documents. 

When Should You Do It?

Schedule the walkthrough as close to the closing date as possible — ideally a day or two before — so there’s minimal time for new issues to crop up. Your agent will coordinate the timing with the seller’s agent, and both often attend with you.

Come Prepared

Bring a few helpful items to your walkthrough:

  • A copy of your purchase agreement and list of negotiated repairs. 
  • The home inspection report for reference. 
  • A smartphone or camera to document any issues. 
  • A checklist to systematically review key areas. 

You might even bring along your home inspector for a more detailed look at completed repairs. 

What to Check

During the walkthrough, systematically go through the interior and exterior:

  • Exterior: Look at the roof, gutters, doors, windows, and outdoor fixtures.
  • Inside rooms: Test lights, outlets, doors and windows; inspect walls, floors, and ceilings. 
  • Kitchen & bathrooms: Run appliances, check faucets, look for leaks, and test showers and toilets. 
  • Systems & utilities: Try the HVAC, water heater, smoke detectors, and electrical panel. 
  • Garage/attic: Open garage doors, check storage spaces, and look for signs of water or damage. 

Skipping the final walkthrough can be risky. Take your time, be thorough, and view this step as protection for your investment. With your agent’s support and a clear checklist, you’ll be confident moving into your new home.