The final walkthrough is your last opportunity to make sure the home you are buying is in the condition you agreed to. It is not another full inspection, it is a careful confirmation that repairs were completed, systems are functioning, and nothing has changed since your offer was accepted. In Utah, this step protects your peace of mind at the closing table and helps prevent unwanted surprises.
According to the National Association of Realtors’ Home Buying Guide, the final walkthrough ensures that the home is delivered in the condition promised, with all agreed-upon items present and functioning properly. Taking the time to check thoroughly can make the difference between a smooth closing and an expensive headache later.
When to Schedule the Walkthrough
Most buyers schedule their walkthrough within twenty-four to seventy-two hours before closing. This window gives you time to verify that repairs were done, utilities are on, and the home is clean before funds are transferred. Realtor.com’s final walkthrough checklist recommends performing the walkthrough as close to closing as possible, while still allowing enough time to resolve any problems that may arise.
If you are unsure when to plan your walkthrough, my article on How Long It Takes to Buy a Home in Utah explains the full timeline from pre-approval to closing so you can fit this step in perfectly.
What to Bring
Come prepared with your signed purchase contract, inspection summary, and a copy of any agreed repair list. Bring receipts or invoices from the seller for licensed work, and your phone to take photos if something looks off. Realtor.com’s experts recommend having the inspection report in hand so you can check each repair quickly and accurately.
Start with the Exterior
Begin outside and move slowly. Look over the siding, stucco, and paint for cracks or damage that were not there before. Check the roofline from the ground for missing shingles or bent gutters. Test exterior lights, outlets, and sprinkler systems. Walk around the yard and make sure any promised repairs, such as fence fixes or landscaping work, were completed.
If you are unsure how to evaluate curb appeal or exterior quality, my guide on How to Evaluate a Home’s Lifestyle Fit can help you look at the home through a long-term lens.
Entry, Doors, and Windows
Open and close every door and window. Make sure they latch securely, locks function smoothly, and no panes are cracked. Look for new scratches or holes from furniture being moved out. If the seller agreed to paint touch-ups, confirm they are done neatly.
Walls, Ceilings, and Floors
Walk through each room carefully. Look for new wall damage, ceiling stains, or floor scratches that were not present during the inspection. Pay attention to areas hidden by large furniture previously. If repairs or patchwork were part of the contract, make sure they meet a reasonable quality standard.
Electrical and Lighting
Turn on every switch and fan. Plug in your phone charger to test outlets in each room. Press the “test” and “reset” buttons on GFCI outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, and garages. Check that fixtures and bulbs match what was shown when you made your offer. Realtor.com’s buyer resources emphasize checking all outlets and lights to avoid safety or repair issues later.
Plumbing and Water
Run every faucet, shower, and toilet. Let the water run for a minute or two to verify pressure and temperature consistency. Check under sinks for leaks. Test the dishwasher, disposal, and washing machine if included. These quick steps can reveal leaks or mechanical issues that may not have been visible before.
For a deeper understanding of what to look for in plumbing, electrical, and structure, see my article on Utah Home Inspections: What Buyers Need to Know.
Heating, Cooling, and Ventilation
Turn on the heating and cooling system to make sure both modes work properly. Air should flow evenly throughout the home. Listen for loud or unusual noises. Check that filters have been replaced and vents are clean. In Utah’s climate, HVAC efficiency can make a big difference in long-term comfort and cost.
Kitchen and Laundry Appliances
Test the stove, oven, microwave, refrigerator, and dishwasher. Make sure burners ignite, ovens heat, and the fridge and freezer are cooling properly. Start a quick cycle in the washer and dryer to verify function. If the seller promised repairs or appliance replacements, confirm they are in place and operational.
Repairs and Receipts
Review all agreed-upon repairs from the inspection addendum. Compare them against invoices provided by the seller. Visual confirmation is key, especially for work such as roofing, electrical, or plumbing. The National Association of Realtors recommends that buyers ensure all promised work is finished before closing to avoid potential contract disputes.
Utilities, Inclusions, and Cleanliness
Verify that all utilities (gas, electric, and water) are on and functional. The home should be clean and free of unwanted items. Double-check that negotiated inclusions like mounted TVs, curtain rods, and smart devices are still present and in working order.
Safety Checks
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Try opening and closing the garage door and make sure it reverses when something blocks it. Check for exterior safety features such as latching gates or pool covers. These details protect your family and meet most lender safety requirements.
Utah Contract Protections and What to Do If You Find an Issue
Under Utah’s Real Estate Purchase Contract, buyers have a due diligence period to evaluate the property and verify the seller’s obligations through closing. If your walkthrough reveals incomplete repairs or material changes, notify your agent immediately so they can work with the seller to address the issue before closing.
You can learn more about this process and other key contract terms in my article Utah HOAs and CC&Rs Explained, which covers how agreements like these affect ownership rights and responsibilities.
Final Thought
A careful walkthrough gives you peace of mind that your new home is exactly what you expected. Move slowly, follow your checklist, and ask questions. If something seems wrong, document it and speak with your agent before signing the final papers.
If you would like a personalized walkthrough checklist tailored to your property, I’m happy to create one and walk the home with you. Together, we can make sure your new Utah home is truly ready for you on closing day.
