6 Things You Should Know About Your Walkthrough
Walking through your home before finalizing the purchase can seem like a basic task, but it really shouldn't be taken lightly. Before you sign on the dotted line, it's important to take a very thorough walkthrough around the home to make sure that everything is as you expect it and that you aren't getting any surprises on the move-in day. Because we realize that responsibility and necessity in this task, your Colorado Springs real estate agents and the MacGuire Team would like to provide you with a quick checklist to keep you on track.
Did you request repairs when you first put in your offer? It's important to verify that those repairs were completed before you officially purchase your home. You'll want to schedule your final walkthrough in advance of your closing day to verify that the sellers have completed their list, and are making progress on moving out and getting the place ready. You'll also want to check and make sure that any garbage or construction debris from the repairs has been removed and that the property is left spick and span.
It may seem silly, but take a walk around your home. There have been times when buyers head to the backyard only to find that a handful of shrubs are missing because the sellers wanted to bring them along. Sounds crazy, but it's worth looking into so that you're not surprised when you move in. After you look into the landscaping and property around the home, take a look at the irrigation system to make sure that it's working. If it's been winterized, you can ask for the paperwork from the landscaper stating that it worked and is free of damages before he closed it off.
Inspect the Repairs
Did you request repairs when you first put in your offer? It's important to verify that those repairs were completed before you officially purchase your home. You'll want to schedule your final walkthrough in advance of your closing day to verify that the sellers have completed their list, and are making progress on moving out and getting the place ready. You'll also want to check and make sure that any garbage or construction debris from the repairs has been removed and that the property is left spick and span.
Check the Windows & Doors
You may feel a bit anal by checking every single thing in the home, but it would be even worse to move into your new home and find that a door doesn't lock or a window won't open. Assign different people to different areas of the home and check to make sure that every window and door opens, closes, and locks.Check the Water Sources
The bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room around going to be vital areas of your home. Check to make sure that there are no mold or water damages in any of these spaces. You'll also want to make sure that there is no water standing by the sink, shower, base of toilet, under the kitchen sink, behind the fridge, around the dishwasher, washer, or utility sink in the laundry room. Turn on ALL of the faucets to both hot and cold to make sure things are working properly. Flush all of the toilets, and make sure that all of the drains are draining properly.Start It Up
No matter what the weather is like outside, turn on the air conditioner and make sure that cold air is coming out. Alternatively, turn on the heat and make sure that it's working as well. Check out the doorbell, the security system, and the garage door as well.Check the Electric
Bring your phone charger with you to your walkthrough because you will want to make sure that every single outlet works. Is this a lot of work? Yes, but it's also a lot of work to find after only a day of living in your home that a handful of outlets don't work and that there could be faulty wiring in your home. If your phone gets power, you're good to go and can move on to the next outlet. You'll also want to turn on all of the lights, make sure that that circuit breaker is clean and working, and that the outlet plate covers are free from damage.
Outdoor Walk Around
It may seem silly, but take a walk around your home. There have been times when buyers head to the backyard only to find that a handful of shrubs are missing because the sellers wanted to bring them along. Sounds crazy, but it's worth looking into so that you're not surprised when you move in. After you look into the landscaping and property around the home, take a look at the irrigation system to make sure that it's working. If it's been winterized, you can ask for the paperwork from the landscaper stating that it worked and is free of damages before he closed it off.
Home Sweet Home!
By taking some time out of your schedule to properly walk through your home, you can help give yourself the best opportunity to truly love your home. There's nothing worse than finding a surprise after you move in, but the worst part is knowing that the sellers aren't responsible for correcting it. If this process sounds intimidating, don't worry! As the best real estate agents in Colorado Springs, we can help you walk through and buy a Colorado Springs home. We have hundreds and hundreds of happy buyers, 25 years worth, in fact! When you're ready to buy your dream home, we're ready to help you with the process. Visit our website to learn more about our buying processes, and don't forget to take a look at featured listings!
Mike MacGuire
Colorado Springs Real Estate Agent
The MacGuire Team
6760 Corporate Dr
Ste 300
Colorado Springs, CO 80919
719-536-4324 or 719-660-6793
Mike@BuyWithMike.com
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