What should I check during the final walkthrough of my Bay Area home?

by Alessandra Imanabadi

By Alessandra Imanabadi · Nationwide Fine Homes

Make sure you are receiving the home in the condition agreed—not discovering a different property after the seller moves out. With furniture and rugs removed, damage that was difficult to see may become obvious. Look for new damage from moving, leaks, belongings left behind, or fixtures and appliances that should have stayed.

If the seller agreed to repairs, check the work

Ask for receipts and any required permit sign-offs. For significant repairs, have the appropriate professional verify the result rather than relying on appearances. Run the faucets, flush the toilets, and check included appliances and systems where practical. Compare what you find with the purchase agreement and agreed repairs.

If something is wrong, bring it up immediately

Take photos and have your agent address it before closing whenever possible. Do not settle for “we’ll take care of it later” without a clear written arrangement. This is your opportunity to confirm that the seller has delivered what was agreed. Give it the time and attention it deserves.

Bring the agreement, not just your memory

Use the purchase agreement and repair agreements as your checklist. Is the included refrigerator still there? Was the agreed work completed? Has the seller removed what they were supposed to remove?

Take your own photographs and make a clear list of anything that needs attention. A specific concern is easier to resolve than a rushed conversation about whether the home feels ready.

Give yourself time to respond

Arrange the walkthrough with time to raise issues before closing. If the seller will remain afterward, understand when you will verify the condition again and how that possession arrangement addresses damage and move-out.

The walkthrough does not replace your inspections. It is the final opportunity before closing to check the condition and items the seller agreed to deliver. Do not treat it as a ceremonial visit to collect keys.

Make a short, specific list before arriving

Bring the agreement on included items and repairs. A missing refrigerator is easier to resolve when everyone can point to the same written provision. A repair is easier to assess when you know what was promised rather than remembering only the conversation.

If a specialist completed significant work, decide in advance whether that specialist or your inspector should verify it. Your agent should coordinate the appointment and make sure concerns reach the right people promptly.

Where the seller will remain after closing, the pre-closing visit does not show the condition after their eventual move-out. The possession arrangement should address that later verification, responsibilities and how concerns will be handled.

A well-prepared purchase deserves the same attention at the finish as it received at the beginning. I would be pleased to explain how I stay involved through those final details. You can decide whether that level of care is the service you would like for your move.