What to Expect at Your Final Walkthrough Before Closing

Buying a home is an exciting journey, and you're almost at the finish line. Before you receive the keys and officially become a homeowner, there's one final step: the final walkthrough.

At Arizona Home Group, we often hear buyers ask, "What exactly is the final walkthrough, and what should I be looking for?" While it may seem like a formality, this important appointment helps ensure the home is in the condition you expect before closing.

Here's everything Phoenix-area homebuyers should know about their final walkthrough.

What Is a Final Walkthrough?

A final walkthrough is the buyer's last opportunity to inspect the property before closing. It typically takes place within 24 to 72 hours before closing day and serves as a final check to confirm that the home's condition hasn't changed since entering into the purchase contract.

Unlike a home inspection, the final walkthrough is not intended to uncover new issues. Instead, it's designed to verify that:

• Agreed-upon repairs have been completed

• The property is in substantially the same condition

• Included appliances and fixtures remain in place

• No unexpected damage has occurred

• The seller has removed personal belongings (unless otherwise agreed)

Think of it as your final quality-control check before ownership transfers.

Why the Final Walkthrough Is Important

While most transactions proceed smoothly, things can happen between contract acceptance and closing.

For example:

• A repair may not have been completed correctly

• An appliance included in the sale may have been removed

• Damage could occur during the seller's move-out

• Utilities may not be functioning properly

The final walkthrough helps identify any issues before closing documents are signed and funds are transferred.

What Should Buyers Bring?

While the walkthrough is typically informal, it's helpful to bring:

• Your purchase contract

• Repair requests and receipts

• Home inspection report

• A notepad or phone for photos

• Your real estate agent

Your Arizona Home Group agent will help guide you through the process and ensure nothing important is overlooked.

Your Final Walkthrough Checklist

✔ Verify Agreed-Upon Repairs

If the seller agreed to make repairs during the inspection period, confirm that they have been completed.

Review:

• Plumbing repairs

• Electrical fixes

• HVAC servicing

• Roof repairs

• Appliance replacements

If available, ask for receipts or documentation from licensed contractors.

✔ Test Major Systems

It's a good idea to quickly test major components of the home, including:

• Air conditioning and heating

• Faucets and plumbing fixtures

• Garbage disposal

• Dishwasher

• Oven and cooktop

• Garage door opener

• Ceiling fans and lights

In Arizona, making sure the air conditioning system is functioning properly is especially important.

✔ Check Included Appliances

Review your purchase agreement and verify that all included appliances remain with the property.

Common items include:

• Refrigerator

• Washer and dryer

• Dishwasher

• Microwave

• Garage door openers

If an item was included in the contract, it should still be there at the final walkthrough.

✔ Inspect Walls, Floors, and Ceilings

As the seller moves out, accidental damage can sometimes occur.

Look for:

• New holes or wall damage

• Scratches or gouges in flooring

• Water stains

• Broken fixtures

• Damaged doors or windows

If anything appears different than when you originally viewed the home, notify your agent immediately.

✔ Confirm Seller Has Moved Out

Unless otherwise negotiated, the home should be vacant before closing.

Make sure:

• Personal belongings have been removed

• Trash has been cleared

• Storage areas are empty

• The garage has been cleaned out

A few forgotten items are usually not a concern, but significant leftover belongings should be addressed before closing.

Common Issues Discovered During a Final Walkthrough

Although uncommon, buyers occasionally discover issues such as:

• Repairs not completed

• Missing appliances

• Damaged flooring or walls

• Plumbing leaks

• Non-functioning HVAC systems

• Personal property left behind

The good news is that these issues can often be resolved before closing or addressed through escrow agreements.

What Happens If You Find a Problem?

Don't panic.

If an issue is discovered, your Arizona Home Group agent will work with the seller's agent, title company, and other parties to determine the best solution.

Possible resolutions may include:

• Completing repairs before closing

• Providing repair credits

• Escrowing funds for future repairs

• Delaying closing until the issue is resolved

The goal is to ensure both parties fulfill their contractual obligations before ownership transfers.

Final Thoughts

The final walkthrough is your last opportunity to verify that the home you're purchasing is ready for closing day. While it may only take 30 to 60 minutes, it provides valuable peace of mind and helps ensure there are no surprises after you receive the keys.

At Arizona Home Group, we guide our buyers through every step of the home-buying process—from the first showing to the final walkthrough and beyond.

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