As a real estate agent, building life-long loyalty from clients means giving world-class customer care from start to finish. One reason why Homesale Realty agents are so effective is the ability to make a good first impression and carry it through the process to closing day and beyond.

The final walkthrough is one piece of the puzzle that's easy to overlook.

The final walkthrough is one of the last steps before the marathon paper-signing process that caps off closing. It is the opportunity for the would-be buyer to give the home a once-over and ensure it's in expected condition.

Sometimes, this simply means that the home looks the same as it did during the showing. In other cases, it's a bit more complex. A final walkthrough is the chance to verify that any repairs or upgrades the seller agreed to have been performed. Whatever the buyer agrees to is what they get!

With that in mind, it's crucial for you to attend the final walkthrough.

How to Help Your Customers Make the Most of the Final Walkthrough

By the time you're doing a last walkthrough, many buyers will be excited and ready to get on with the fun of the move-in process. That said, don't underestimate them. While some buyers need to have their attention gently directed during the walkthrough, others come prepared to go over everything with a fine-toothed comb.

Here's how you can support the best possible outcomes for your buyers:

• Start with a Checklist
  Just about every house consists of bedrooms, bathrooms, and a kitchen—and there are certain things you should always check in all of them. With that in mind, bring a checklist so common issues aren't overlooked. With the help of BHHS Homesale Realty real estate mentors, you can get off to a terrific start.
  
  
• Bring the Inspector's Report
  Unless your buyer makes a cash offer, he or she will probably need a home inspection. Most lenders require it. The inspector's report can be very detailed and often has photos. It serves as a guide to any work that should be done before the home closes, so use it as a reference in your walkthrough.
  
  
• Also Bring the Offer Letter
  Following the inspection, a buyer's offer includes any details of repairs or replacements they require before the sale closes. A visual inspection is an important part of verifying that the work has been completed. Of course, you should also get any pertinent documentation from the seller's contractors.
  
  
• Leave Time in Your Schedule
  Don't rush through the final walkthrough. Leave an opening of at least an hour in your schedule, encouraging your buyer to do the same. It's best to do walkthroughs in the afternoon—not too early or too late when natural light will help you spot things that might otherwise get overlooked.
  
  
• Don't Be Afraid to Raise Objections
  If you notice something amiss during the final walkthrough, your buyer might be torn about whether to raise the subject. It's ultimately up to them, but they will look to you for support. It's wise to stand by them so they aren't tempted to let something important slide. It will only turn into their own problem to solve later on!

Most final walkthroughs are uneventful, but you should always be prepared for the unexpected. As a team member, you'll have the training and resources you need to handle these unusual situations and safeguard your client's interests.

Contact BHHS Homesale Realty to find out more, or join us.