Your final walk-through gives you the opportunity to examine your almost-home a few days — or sometimes hours — before closing. 

As you envision where to put the couch or where your favorite piece of art will hang, the excitement of closing may take over. However, a final walk-through can help you determine if the home is in the same shape it was during the inspection. It also gives you a chance to make sure there are not any unexpected surprises, like flooded floors or insect damage.

Come prepared with this checklist during your final walk-through.

• Run water in sinks, bathtubs and showers, looking for any leaks or water issues.

• Turn on and off all appliances.

• Run garbage disposal and test exhaust fans in kitchen.

• Open and close any garage doors.

• Flush all toilets.

• Turn on and off all light switches.

• Test all outlets. (Hint: Bring your phone charger with you to test!)

• Inspect all floors, walls and ceilings, searching for water damage or other issues.

• Turn on and off both heating and air conditioning.

• Open and close all windows and doors.

• Ensure all debris has been removed.

• Check perimeter of home, inspecting gutters, siding and landscaping.

• Compare list of items included with the home with what is actually there, like appliances or shelving.

• Verify any repairs that have been made since the inspection.

While there may be other items you specifically want to look for, I hope this list helps get you started. I am here to answer any questions you may have before we sign the papers!