The Final Walk-Through of Your Property

Michele Silverman Bedell speaks about the importance of a walk-through.

What is a walk-through?

Just prior to closing in NY, buyers are entitled to a walk-through of the property. The property should be in the same condition as when it was inspected or when you went into contract.  At the walk-through,  the agent should test all the appliances, check s outlets, open and close windows, turn on the heat, AC, and lights, check hot and cold water, etc.

Problems that arise are:

1. Fixtures are missing from the house although stated in the memo and contract.

2. Repairs are not made per the contract 

3. The house was not left broom clean

4. Damage is done to the house: broken windows, appliances not working, scuffed wood floors, damage to walls

5. Violations not remedied

6. Title reports showing out-of-possession issues with fences,  illegal decks, patios etc.

7. Utilities are turned off and therefore heat, AC, and appliances can't be tested.

8. Water in the basement.

   In these cases, most likely either a credit is given at the closing, an escrow is written or the seller will make the repairs.