Within a week or so of your closing, we'll schedule the first walk-through of the home. Here are some do's and don't's to remember for the walk through:
- The purpose of this walk-through is to ensure that all inspection issues have been resolved. Items that were negotiated - perhaps termite treatment, plumbing repairs, window replaceents, or any other item should all be taken care of. If they are not, there is usually enough time before closing to get them resolved.
- The purpose of this walk-through is not a secondary inspection. This is not the time to bring in a home inspector, building engineer, or contractor. It is also not the time to bring in your decorator to take measurements.
- If you uncover any defects during this walk-through, you need to speak with your attorney so that they can be resolved before closing.
Then, about 24 hours before closing, we'll have a second walk through. The purpose of this walk through is to again ensure that all negotiated items have been resolved. Check for the following:
- Are the appliances, light fixures, and window treatments that same as your contract specifies?
- Has there been any damage to the home during the course of the sellers moving out? Look for holes in the wall, scratches, etcetera.
- Has the seller's furniture and belongings all been removed? Is the home broom clean? It is unreasonable to expect the home to be immaculate, but debris should be removed.
Having two walk-throughs is a newer implementation with the TRID changes to the NJAR contract and is designed to protect the buyer. While a buyer can opt out of the walk-throughs, it is not in your best interest.
If you have any questions about your walk through during your home buying process, be sure to ask your realtor agent for clarification!
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