The final walkthrough is the last opportunity for buyers to ensure that the home is in an agreed state before closing. This is when the buyer has confirmed that the repairs have been completed, the system and appliance are functioning properly, and the property is clean and intact. For sellers, understanding what a buyer can demand during the final walkthrough is key to preventing delays, last minute negotiations, and even cancelled transactions.
Whether you’re selling your home in Chicago, Illinois, Phoenix, Arizona, or Miami, Florida, this Redfin guide will show you how buyers will request on the final walkthrough and prepare sellers to avoid surprises and keep their deals on track.
What is the final walkthrough?
The final walkthrough, usually held 24-72 hours before closing, is the last opportunity for buyers to inspect their homes. Unlike previous inspections aimed at identifying issues, this stage helps to ensure that the status of the property matches the contract. This includes ensuring that all agreed repairs have been completed, no new damages have occurred, and that all items included in the sale remain in the home.
>>Read: Ultimate Final Walkthrough Checklist Before Close At Home
General buyers request during the final walkthrough
The final walkthrough is not a complete inspection, but you will be sure your home is in an agreed state before closing. For sellers, understanding what a buyer needs during this step is key to avoiding last minute surprises.
Repairs are completed: all agreed repairs from inspections or negotiations to be properly completed and documented. Items present include: All contracted appliances, equipment, and window treatments remain in the home. System Operation: Make sure all essentials (lights, outlets, plumbing, HVAC, doors, windows, garage doors) are working. Home Cleared and Clean: Buyers can request that the property be cleaned, ready and free of personal belongings, trash, and clutter. No new damage: new issues after addressing inspections before closing. Outside in good condition: Buyers can maintain gardens, driveways, detached house structures, gates, roofs and exterior lighting and request in the same agreed condition.
What is bound to what is negotiable in the final walkthrough?
Not all the issues discovered during the final walkthrough have the same weight. Some items are non-negotiable legal obligations, while others are simple negotiable preferences that simply fall outside of contract.
Seller’s legal and contractual obligations (non-negotiable)
Following the purchase agreement, the seller must deliver the agreed items with the home in accordance with the agreement that includes completed repairs. Meet legal standards: Property must be safe and habitable and all known issues must be made public as required by law. Meet lender and title requirements: The lender or title company may require certain conditions (clear title, safety certification) for the closure.
Something that can be negotiated
Cosmetics preferences: Items such as paint colors and decoration choices not specified in the contract. Normal wear and tears: Small scuffs, scratches or dents that come with movement and time. Uncompromising upgrade: If the contract only requires functional items, the buyer cannot request a modern appliance. Any contracts beyond the contract that are not written or items not covered by the residential/safety code are negotiable and unenforceable.
>>Read: How to negotiate after inspection of your home: What buyers can ask for
How sellers prepare for the final walkthrough
Understanding what a buyer can request during the final walkthrough is just the first step. Here are some additional tips to help you prepare with confidence.
Check contractual obligations early: Check all the items, repairs and inclusions promised from your purchase agreement. Complete repairs in advance: Maintain professional finish, ensure permission/inspection, and provide receipt/document. Clean and present your home: thoroughly clean interior and exterior, remove any trash and personal items and make sure your home is ready. Transparent belongings and shards: The property must be almost empty and there are no items that could interfere with inspection. Test Systems and Appliances: Check to ensure proper functioning of lights, plumbing, HVAC, doors, windows, locks and garage openers. Do a mock walkthrough: Walk around the house with a listing agent to address the issue before the buyer arrives. There is a trend in appearance: maintain the garden, roof, ditch, driveway, exterior, gate and adjust to the condition of the interior.
Avoid walking through issues and deal with them
Even with the best preparations, unexpected problems can arise. With these tips in mind, you can reduce your risk.
Best practices to avoid problems
Communicate early and frequently: Keep buyers and their agents up to date with repair progress and timelines. Thoroughly repair document repairs: Take photos of the completed work and keep a dated receipt to prove that the repair was properly handled. Use a qualified professional: Hire a licensed contractor if necessary to ensure that all work meets safety and code standards. Protect the condition of your home: Monitor your property for new damages from tenants, weather or neglects between inspections and walkthroughs. Create a backup plan: Provide credits, concessions, or quick fixes for unexpected walkthrough issues.
What happens if a problem is found and what to do
Closure delay: If the issue is not resolved, sales may be delayed. Schedule repairs or provide credit to maintain your schedule. Final negotiation: Buyers can request modifications, credits, or price reductions. Be flexible and work with your agents to make fair compromises. Termination of the contract: The main issues must be addressed with proof of repairs to prevent the buyer from leaving. Funds Hold: The lender/title company may withhold funds until the obligation is met. Provide documentation, quickly resolve and release funds. Legal Disputes: An open issue can lead to legal action. Consult your Redfin agent and attorney to protect your interests.
What can buyers request during the final walkthrough? Final Thoughts for Sellers
The final walkthrough is important to ensure that buyers check the condition of the home before closing. What buyers will demand in the final walkthrough, respect the contractual obligations, and be proactive in preparing, avoid last-minute issues, and ensure smooth and stress-free closure through clear communication and organization.
FAQ: What can buyers request in the final walkthrough?
1. What exactly can a buyer request during the final walkthrough?
Only those in the contract – completed repairs and agreed inclusion (such as appliances and fixtures), and basic working systems (such as plumbing, HVAC, lights, doors). Everything except the contract is negotiable between the buyer and the seller.
2. Can buyers delay the closure because of what is found in the final walkthrough?
Yes, if it is a breach of contract or a major issue, the seller may need to resolve the issue, provide credit, or negotiate promptly.
3. What happens if I, as a seller, do not complete the necessary repairs before the walkthrough?
Depending on the contract, the buyer can request that they complete it and request credit or, in some cases, to suppress the funds to curb or cancel them.
4. Are buyers allowed to leave on the final walkthrough over a small issue?
Usually not. Small cosmetic issues are not the basis for cancelling unless they breach the contract or affect safety/condition.
>>Read: Can buyers return from the contract?
5.How much should the seller prepare for the final walkthrough?
It starts as soon as the offer is accepted. Schedule repairs, clean and organize, and keep your home until closing.
