Who Attends the Final Walk-Through?

A final walk-through is an important step in the home-buying process, occurring just before closing. Its purpose is to confirm the property’s condition aligns with the purchase agreement, serving as a safeguard for the buyer’s financial commitment.

The Buyer’s Central Role

The buyer’s presence at the final walk-through is essential, as they hold the primary interest in the property. This is their last opportunity to assess the home before assuming ownership and all associated responsibilities.

The buyer should verify all agreed-upon repairs are completed satisfactorily. Confirm all included items, such as appliances or fixtures, are present and in proper working order. Check for any new damage since the last visit, perhaps from the seller’s move, to protect against unforeseen repair costs.

The buyer should ensure the property is clean and free of debris, in “broom-swept” condition, as stipulated in the contract. Testing basic functionalities is important, including lights, toilets, faucets, the HVAC system, and all included appliances. These checks confirm immediate usability and prevent unexpected expenses shortly after closing.

Real Estate Agents’ Presence

Real estate agents play a supportive role during the final walk-through, representing their clients’ interests. The buyer’s agent guides the buyer through the process and ensures contractual obligations are met. They serve as an advocate, helping the buyer identify and document any discrepancies or issues discovered during the inspection.

The buyer’s agent also facilitates communication with the seller’s agent if problems arise, working to find resolutions before closing. They often bring documentation, such as the purchase agreement and inspection reports, to verify repairs and inclusions. This guidance helps protect the buyer’s financial interests and ensures a smoother transition.

Conversely, the seller’s agent’s role involves facilitating access to the property for the walk-through. While often not physically present during the inspection to allow the buyer freedom, they remain available to answer questions. Their involvement ensures the seller fulfills contractual terms and the property is prepared for a smooth handover.

Additional Participants and Their Contributions

While the buyer and their agent are the main attendees, other individuals might be present for specific reasons. The seller does not attend the final walk-through to allow the buyer an unpressured inspection. Rarely, a seller might be present if questions about the home need direct answers or to provide instructions for certain systems.

An attorney’s role centers on legal documentation at closing, reviewing contracts and ensuring proper title transfer. An attorney might attend the walk-through if contractual disputes arise or if legal interpretation is needed regarding the property’s condition before closing. Their presence is limited to addressing legal matters rather than conducting a physical inspection.

A home inspector, who performs an inspection earlier in the process, might attend the final walk-through in limited circumstances. This occurs only to re-verify that repairs identified in their initial report have been completed correctly by the seller. They are not present to conduct a new inspection of the property, as that service occurs at a different stage.