Have you located the home of your dreams and are now anxiously awaiting settlement day?  Do you have all kinds of plans for how to decorate or remodel your new home?  This is an exciting time for you and your family, but don’t let it cloud your judgment when you go for the final walk-through.  Coldwell Banker Select Professionals has compiled the following guide outlining some of the most crucial aspects of a final walk through—you will want to be as thoroughly as possible.

The final walk-through is ideally performed the day of settlement so the buyer can ensure the property’s condition has not changed significantly since they decided to buy, that all agreed upon repairs have been finished, and all the seller’s belongings that are not staying with the home are gone.  You may want to bring a copy of your contract with you so you’re not relying solely on memory to guide you. 

You may be tempted once inside the home to visualize how you will be decorating or arranging furniture, but it is important to stay on task.  Especially if the home is vacant, you will want to be meticulous and check every aspect of the property.  Here is a list of what you should check:

1. Turn every light switch/fixture on and off
2. Run all appliances and major systems (i.e. air conditioner and furnace) to make sure they’re working properly.
3. Open and close all windows and check garage door openers
4. Flush toilets and run water on all spigots to make sure nothing is leaking.
5. Inspect the walls, floors, and ceilings for any damage that might have occurred when the seller moved out or that may have been hidden by furniture.
6. Make sure to inspect the attic, basements, and closets for any hidden problem spots or discarded items.
7. Do a thorough search outside the home to make sure all the seller’s belongings and debris have been removed. 

If possible, have the seller present during the walk through so if you have any questions, the seller will be there to answer.  Also, you will want your agent to be there as well so you have a witness in case you find something wrong—you will want to be able to confirm the issue was there before you arrived. 

Please contact Coldwell Banker Select Professionals if your looking for personal service and have questions regarding buying a home in Lancaster PA, York PA, Harrisburg PA, Lebanon PA, Hershey PA and Cumberland County.  Be sure to connect with one of our agents at www.cbselectpros.com.  We have local offices serving all of Lancaster, Lebanon, York, Hershey, Harrisburg, and Cumberland County PA.  Get started on your search today!