What to Expect During Your Final Walkthrough
What to Expect During Your Final Walkthrough
By Steven Thomas | Refind Realty
You’re just days away from closing on your Dallas-area home. Before you sign the final paperwork, you’ll have one last chance to walk through the property and make sure everything is in order. That’s your final walkthrough.
This step is quick, but don’t underestimate it. As your real estate agent, I’ve helped countless buyers through this process, and I always make sure they’re prepared to spot anything that could affect their closing.
What Is a Final Walkthrough?
The final walkthrough typically happens 24 to 48 hours before closing. It’s your opportunity to:
Make sure the home is in the same condition as when you made the offer
Confirm all agreed-upon repairs have been completed
Check that nothing has been removed or damaged
Ensure all systems and appliances are still working
Think of it as your final quality check before becoming the official owner.
What to Bring With You
I always tell my clients to bring the following:
A copy of the sales contract
The inspection report
A list of all negotiated repairs
A phone or tablet to take photos
A checklist of what to look for (I provide one for all my buyers)
If you’re still early in the homebuying process, make sure to get pre-approved here so you’re ready when it’s time for this final step.
Room-by-Room Walkthrough Checklist
Interior Checks:
Light switches, fans, and outlets all work
Windows and doors open, close, and lock
No new damage to walls or floors
Thermostat and HVAC are functioning
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in place
Kitchen:
Appliances listed in the contract are still present and functional
Faucets run hot and cold water
Garbage disposal works
Cabinets and drawers open and close smoothly
Bathrooms:
Toilets flush properly
Showers and sinks drain well
No visible leaks or water damage
Garage and Exterior:
Garage door opens via remote and keypad
Lawn and landscaping are as expected
No trash, furniture, or debris left behind
Outdoor lighting works
If you’re buying new construction, I highly recommend checking out my New Construction Home Guide for additional walkthrough tips specific to builder homes.
Verifying Repairs Were Completed
If the seller agreed to fix certain items after the inspection, now is the time to verify the work.
Ask for receipts and contractor contact information. I always review these with my clients to ensure the work meets standard expectations. If repairs aren’t done correctly, we can negotiate a fix or credit before closing.
Want to avoid paying out of pocket? Check out the Refind Realty Rebate Program to see how I help buyers save on closing costs.
What If You Find a Problem?
It happens. Even in well-maintained homes, small issues can come up during the walkthrough. Here’s how we handle them:
Delay the closing until the problem is fixed
Negotiate a seller credit
Set aside escrow funds to cover the repair
As your agent, I’ll advocate for your best interests. You’re not required to close on a home that doesn’t meet the terms of your contract.
Steven’s Final Tips
Don’t skip the walkthrough. It’s your protection before the deal is done.
Do it close to closing day—within 48 hours is ideal.
Take your time. This isn’t a formality. It’s your last check before becoming a homeowner.
Use expert guidance. If you’re buying a new build, register for my New Construction Webinar for a step-by-step look at the entire process.
Next Steps
Ready to take the first step toward your home purchase?
You can browse available Dallas-Fort Worth New Construction Homes, compare incentives, and even book a tour using the Lone Star App.
Download the Lone Star App here: https://lonestarliving.hsidx.com/@sthomas
You're Always Home With Refind Realty
FAQs
Q: Is a final walkthrough required in Texas?
A: No, but it’s strongly recommended to ensure the home is in agreed-upon condition before closing.
Q: What happens if something is broken during the walkthrough?
A: Your agent can negotiate a credit, delay the closing, or have funds set aside in escrow for the repair.
Q: Should I bring anything to the walkthrough?
A: Yes. Bring your inspection report, contract, repair list, and something to take notes or photos.
Q: Can I refuse to close if I find a problem?
A: Yes. If the home doesn’t meet contract terms, you’re not obligated to close until it’s resolved.
Q: What if I’m buying new construction?
A: The walkthrough is even more important. Learn more in my New Construction Home Guide and join the New Construction Webinar for expert guidance.
