Things Buyers Often Overlook During the Final Walkthrough

7 December 2025

So, you've survived the house-hunting marathon, outbid 12 other hopefuls, and somehow managed to wrangle your finances into submission. Congratulations! You're almost a homeowner! But before you pop the champagne and start envisioning your dream Pinterest-worthy living room, there’s one crucial step left—the final walkthrough.

Now, I know what you're thinking—"It's just a formality, right? I just need to make sure the walls are still standing, and the kitchen isn't on fire." Well, my friend, that’s where many buyers go wrong. The final walkthrough is your last chance to catch hidden issues before signing your life away (okay, just your mortgage).

To make sure you don’t move into what turns out to be a money pit, let’s walk (see what I did there?) through some of the most commonly overlooked things during the final walkthrough.

1. Testing Every Light Switch Like a Mad Scientist

Sure, you checked if the lights turn on during your first visit, but have you tested all of them? Flick those switches like you’re in a dramatic movie monologue. A faulty switch here or a dead outlet there might seem minor, but electrical problems can be sneaky—and expensive.

Imagine moving in, plugging in your WiFi router, and realizing the outlet doesn’t work. Trust me, that’s the kind of frustration that’ll have you Googling, “How to cry without looking dramatic?”

2. Do the Toilets Actually Flush?

Look, nobody ever wants to be "that person" obsessing over toilets, but trust me—flush every single one. Unless you enjoy unexpected plumbing bills or dealing with clogs that could rival Niagara Falls, it’s better to know beforehand.

On that note, also run every faucet and shower. Let the water flow, check the pressure, and make sure the hot water isn’t playing hide-and-seek.

3. The HVAC System (a.k.a. Your Future Best Friend or Worst Nightmare)

No one thinks about their HVAC system—until it stops working in the middle of summer and you find yourself sleeping in an ice bath.

So, here’s what you do:
- Crank up the heat and make sure it’s actually heating.
- Blast the AC to feel if cold air comes out.
- If it's winter and the AC won’t cooperate, at least turn on the fan and listen for weird sounds (your HVAC shouldn’t sound like a haunted house).

An HVAC repair can cost you thousands, and I don’t know about you, but I’d rather spend that money on something fun—like a decent couch or a celebratory pizza party.

4. Appliances: More Than Just Pretty Faces

Just because the refrigerator is stainless steel and looks fancy doesn’t mean it actually works. Test every appliance included in the sale, including:
✅ Refrigerator & freezer (Is it cold? Is there an odd smell?)
✅ Dishwasher (Does it actually clean or just spray water in a sad attempt?)
✅ Stove & oven (If it doesn’t heat, you're about to become an expert in microwave cooking.)
✅ Washer & dryer (If they’re staying, make sure they’re functional.)

There’s nothing worse than moving in, preheating the oven for your "first meal in the new home" only to realize it maxes out at lukewarm.

5. Checking for That “Oops, We Forgot to Move It” Situation

Sellers are supposed to take their personal belongings with them, but sometimes they “forget”—or conveniently leave you with their broken treadmill and 27 old paint cans.

Look around for anything left behind that you don’t want or need. On the flip side, make sure they didn’t take anything that was supposed to stay (Yes, some sellers mysteriously "forget" that the chandelier and built-in bookshelves don’t count as personal belongings).

6. Open! Close! Repeat! (Doors and Windows Edition)

Be that person who opens every window and door like a detective searching for clues. Do they lock properly? Are they sticking? Do they creak in that horror-movie way?

Windows that don’t open are not just inconvenient; they’re also a safety hazard. Plus, a stuck front door could make your first pizza delivery at your new place way more awkward than necessary.

7. The “Mysterious Smell” Test

Nothing kills "new home excitement" faster than realizing your house smells funky.

Sniff around like you're a bloodhound. If something smells off—mold, mildew, or worse—rodents—you’ll want to investigate before it becomes a bigger (and smellier) issue.

8. Are the Walls Hiding Secrets?

Sellers are crafty. They might have strategically placed furniture or rugs to hide damage. Once the house is empty, those “cute area rugs” may reveal scratched hardwood, or that massive dresser may have been covering a hole in the wall.

Pro tip: Bring a flashlight and inspect every wall, ceiling, and floor carefully. If something looks suspicious, ask about it.

9. Water Damage – The Silent Killer of Home Happiness

Water stains on ceilings? Peeling paint? A weirdly damp smell in the basement? These are all red flags that could signal leaks or past water damage.

Water damage isn’t just ugly—it can lead to mold, structural issues, and headaches that make moving seem like a vacation.

10. Double-Check the Agreed Repairs

If the seller promised to fix something before closing, verify that they actually did it. Don’t just take their word for it—your home inspector might have flagged issues, and it's your job to make sure they're resolved before you get the keys.

If repairs weren’t done, now’s the time to have a friendly (or not-so-friendly) chat before you’re the one footing the bill.

Final Thoughts

The final walkthrough isn’t just a chance to say goodbye to your soon-to-be new home before officially signing on the dotted line. It’s your last line of defense before taking full responsibility for whatever surprises the home might be hiding.

So, be thorough. Flush those toilets, flick those switches, open every door, and follow your nose! Your future self (and your wallet) will thank you.