People wonder why Homesale Realty agents work so hard to make every home transaction easier. It's simple: We take our responsibility to our customers seriously, whether they happen to be buying or selling. That's a commitment that lasts to closing day and beyond.

Buying a home can have its twists and turns, but it's important to take the right steps. One of the last things a home buyer needs to do is a final walk-through of the property. This is the biggest opportunity they have to notice and draw attention to any issues that have not been addressed as agreed after the home inspection.

With that in mind, it's a great idea to have a final walk-through checklist at the ready. Checklists are extremely useful when you're dealing with complex tasks, especially those that happen to be unfamiliar. Even if you brainstorm with your client ahead of time, you might forget a detail here or there. With a checklist, you can be confident. So can your client—and that peace of mind makes a difference.

What should your final walk-through checklist include? Remember these steps:

1. Remind Your Client Why You're There
   A final walk-through helps buyers verify repairs that the seller agreed to make, usually as the result of a home inspection conducted within the last few weeks. If there is a major change in the home's condition, buyers can choose to contact the seller before closing to discuss that issue.
   
   
2. Let Clients Know What They Should Bring
   Being well-equipped during the walk-through will make it more successful. Clients should always bring the contract, a notepad, their smartphone, the summary of the home inspection, sticky notes (to mark potential problems) and, of course—you, their agent.
   
   
3. Look Everywhere You Can
   Check every room in the home from floor to ceiling. It's crucial to take it slow, checking out everything you can. Keep your eyes peeled for signs of pests. Rotting beams up in the attic may point to termites, while some critters may leave droppings in the basement.
   
   
4. Open All the Doors and Windows
   In every room you visit, remember WDLL: Windows, Doors, Locks, and Latches. All of these should be working smoothly and closing tightly. Be especially cautious of any doors that are painted shut, as this is a major fire hazard. Don't forget to try the garage door.
   
   
5. Try Out Every Water Fixture
   Test every water fixture throughout the property. That includes kitchen sinks, bathrooms, toilet, shower, faucets in the basement, irrigation systems, and pools. Let buyers know they should flush each toilet and look for evidence of leakage. Try both hot and cold on every faucet. Be alert to odd colors or smells, too.
   
   
6. Test AC, Heat, and Electric
   Electrical issues have caused many a buyer to walk away from a home just before closing. Let buyers know a problem with home wiring could point to thousands in needed repairs. Check out the heating, air conditioning, light switches, ceiling fans, doorbells, outlets, and any smart home systems.
   
   
7. Check the Exterior
   Do a walk around the perimeter of the home and check the exterior walls. It's also a wise idea to perform a quick visual inspection of the roof from ground level. If you notice anything odd, such as discolored patches on the roof, check in the attic for signs of leakage.
   
   
8. Verify Repairs
   This is the main event. If a client negotiated repairs after the home inspection, it's time to systematically review these and mark them off one by one. Otherwise, vital details could go unnoticed.

Contact BHHS Homesale Realty to learn more about a real estate career with us.