The final walkthrough is the very last step before we close on your home.
Whether you’re buying in Frisco, Prosper, McKinney, Celina, Plano, Little Elm, The Colony, or anywhere in North Texas—the walkthrough is your chance to confirm:
✔️ The home is in the same condition as when you went under contract
✔️ Repairs (if negotiated) are completed
✔️ Nothing new is damaged
✔️ Systems are functioning
✔️ Seller removed all belongings
It’s not a re-inspection—but it is a critical protection for you as the buyer.
Here’s exactly what I check with you during the walkthrough.
1. When Does the Final Walkthrough Happen?
Typically:
✔️ 24 hours before closing
or
✔️ The morning of closing
I schedule it so we have enough time to address issues if they come up.
2. Purpose of the Final Walkthrough
The goal is simple:
✔️ Verify the home is in agreed-upon condition
✔️ Ensure repairs were completed properly
✔️ Confirm seller removed all personal items
✔️ Identify any new problems
It is not for re-negotiations unless the seller damaged the home or failed to meet contract obligations.
3. What I Check During the Walkthrough
Here’s the full checklist I use with every buyer:
A) Repairs Completed
If we negotiated repairs during the option period, I verify:
✔️ Receipts from licensed contractors
✔️ Work matches the amendment
✔️ Major systems were repaired properly
✔️ No shortcuts or DIY fixes
✔️ No new damage created during repairs
If repairs are incomplete, we address it immediately with the listing agent.
B) Overall Condition of the Property
I confirm the home is in the same—or better—condition as when we made the offer.
I look for:
✔️ New dents in walls
✔️ New stains on flooring
✔️ Damage from movers
✔️ Broken fixtures
✔️ Missing hardware
✔️ Removed curtains or mounted items (if they should’ve stayed)
You shouldn't have to pay for damage caused during move-out.
C) Plumbing
I check:
✔️ Toilets flush properly
✔️ Faucets run with good water pressure
✔️ Hot water works
✔️ No leaks under sinks
✔️ No water damage around appliances
Water issues can appear just before closing, especially if the home sat vacant.
D) Electrical
I test:
✔️ Light switches
✔️ Ceiling fans
✔️ Outlets
✔️ GFCI resets
✔️ Exterior lighting
Electrical issues are common after sellers remove mounted items.
E) HVAC System
I verify:
✔️ A/C cools
✔️ Heat works
✔️ Thermostat functions properly
HVAC issues are among the most expensive last-minute surprises.
F) Appliances
If appliances convey, I check:
✔️ Oven heats
✔️ Cooktop works
✔️ Microwave operates
✔️ Dishwasher runs
✔️ Garbage disposal works
✔️ Washer/dryer (if included)
Everything must still function normally.
G) Windows & Doors
I look for:
✔️ Broken glass
✔️ Torn screens
✔️ Doors not closing properly
✔️ Missing remote controls
✔️ Garage door openers included
Sellers sometimes forget transfer items like remotes or keys.
H) Exterior & Yard
I check outside for:
✔️ Damage from movers
✔️ Missing sprinkler heads
✔️ Exterior lights working
✔️ Debris removed
✔️ Pool condition (if applicable)
Texas storms can create damage between contract and closing.
I) Seller Belongings Removed
I confirm:
✔️ Trash removed
✔️ Furniture removed
✔️ Garage cleared
✔️ Attic empty
✔️ Closets empty
✔️ No chemicals, paint cans, or debris left behind
This is one of the most common walkthrough issues.
4. What Happens If We Find Problems?
We have several options depending on severity and timing.
✔️ Option A — Seller fixes before closing
✔️ Option B — Seller gives financial credit
✔️ Option C — Delay closing (rare)
✔️ Option D — Escrow holdback to guarantee completion
✔️ Option E — Terminate (only if seller breached contract significantly)
I advocate strongly on your behalf to ensure a fair resolution.
5. When Buyers Can Legally Refuse to Close
You may be able to refuse closing if:
❌ Repairs were not completed per the amendment
❌ Property condition materially changed
❌ Seller removed items that were supposed to stay
❌ Major systems no longer work
❌ Seller left behind extensive trash or damage
Texas contracts protect buyers from a seller’s failure to comply.
6. When Buyers Should NOT Refuse to Close
Minor wear and tear, such as:
✔️ Small nail holes
✔️ Minor scratches
✔️ Cosmetic imperfections
These are normal and expected in resale homes.
I help you determine what’s material—and what’s not.
7. My Role During the Final Walkthrough
When I represent you, I:
✔️ Schedule the walkthrough
✔️ Bring a thorough checklist
✔️ Review the repair receipts
✔️ Inspect everything with you
✔️ Document issues with photos
✔️ Communicate problems to the listing agent
✔️ Negotiate solutions quickly
✔️ Keep closing on track
You get peace of mind knowing I’ve checked everything carefully.
Bottom Line: The Final Walkthrough Protects You
This is your last chance to verify the home is ready for closing.
During the walkthrough, I make sure:
✔️ Repairs are done right
✔️ Nothing is damaged
✔️ All systems are functioning
✔️ Home is clean and empty
✔️ No surprises await you after you get the keys
You deserve a smooth and confident closing—and I make sure that happens.
Want a Realtor Who Walks Through Every Detail With You?
If you want a stress-free closing and a thorough final walkthrough in North Texas, I’d love to help.
