What is involved in the final walkthrough?
Final Walkthrough Exposed: What Happens in the Final Walkthrough — Don’t Move Out Until You Move Out!
Why the final walkthrough matters for Georgetown home sellers
Closing day is one moment, but the final walkthrough decides whether the sale finishes clean and on time. For sellers in Georgetown, ON, the walkthrough is not passive theater. It’s the last inspection before keys change hands. If something is wrong, buyers can delay closing, ask for money, or demand repairs. That means missed deadlines, extra costs, and stress. Act like the expert your agent hired you to be.
I work with hundreds of sellers in Halton Hills. Here’s a direct, no-fluff playbook that tells you exactly what to expect and what to do so the final walkthrough doesn’t become a problem.
What is the final walkthrough? Simple definition
The final walkthrough is a short, focused inspection done by the buyer (often with their agent) within 24 hours of closing — sometimes the same day. It confirms the property’s condition matches the purchase agreement. Buyers check repairs, ensure appliances and fixtures promised in the contract are present, and verify there’s no new damage.
Who attends: the buyer, buyer’s agent, sometimes the buyer’s lawyer, and occasionally the seller or seller’s agent. As a seller, your agent should coordinate and, when appropriate, attend.
The seller’s responsibilities — what buyers expect to find
Be clear on these points before you leave the house:
- Property must be broom-clean and reasonably free of debris.
- All agreed repairs must be completed and documented.
- All fixtures and items specified as included in the agreement must be present.
- Utilities should be on for inspection (water on, heating/cooling accessible) unless otherwise agreed.
- Keys, remotes, garage openers, alarm codes, and gate passes should be available and handed over as specified in the contract.
- Lawn, driveway, and exterior areas should be in the condition agreed upon.
If you leave the place trashed, missing appliances, or with unfinished repairs, the buyer has leverage.
Final walkthrough checklist for sellers (print this)
- Confirm all contractual repairs are completed; get receipts.
- Take dated photos of repaired areas and finished cleaning.
- Leave appliances that are included; label them if needed.
- Leave manuals, warranties, and service records in one folder.
- Ensure all keys, remotes, and inaccessible attic/basement keys are available.
- Remove personal property not included in the sale.
- Disconnect or transfer utilities per your agreement (but keep them on until buyer inspects).
- Remove garbage and debris; sweep and vacuum.
- Secure valuables and sensitive documents.
- Leave the garage door open or provide access if buyer needs to test the opener.
Timing and logistics — when the walkthrough happens and what sellers must do
- Walkthrough window: usually within 24 hours before closing. Confirm time with the buyer’s agent.
- If you must move out before the walkthrough, arrange a re-entry plan with your lawyer or agent to allow buyer inspection.
- Leave a contact method with your agent for any last-minute questions.
- Ensure your lawyer has keys/closing documents as required for possession transfer.
Common red flags buyers look for — and how sellers avoid them
- Missing promised fixtures or appliances: Double-check the contract list. Replace or provide a credit.
- Damage from moving: Protect floors and doorways during move-out. Patch holes and touch-up paint.
- Dirty or smelly rooms: Hire a cleaner. A clean house reduces disputes.
- Unfinished repairs: Don’t promise partial fixes. Finish any work or provide documented proof of a contractor schedule and payment.
- Nonfunctional systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical): Get service reports showing systems are working before you hand over keys.
If buyers find problems, they can request a credit, demand repairs, or — in rare cases — delay closing. Prevent that by documenting everything.
How to handle last-minute claims during the walkthrough
- Stay calm. Emotions escalate conflict.
- Communicate through your agent and lawyer. Do not sign anything on the spot without advice.
- Provide receipts, photos, and repair invoices immediately if you have them.
- If a quick fix is possible (e.g., replacing a missing bulb), handle it promptly.
- For unresolved items, negotiate a holdback at closing or a credit on closing statements handled by lawyers.
A reasonable buyer wants the house in the agreed condition — not perfection. Clear documentation solves most disputes.
Specific notes for Georgetown, ON sellers
Georgetown sits in Halton Hills, with specific local services and timelines. Keep these local points in mind:
- Utility transfers: Coordinate with Halton Hills utilities and local service providers. Confirm water meter readings if applicable.
- Winter closings: If closing in cold months, ensure snow removal and safe walkways for inspection.
- Property standards: Buyers expect tidy lawns and functional outdoor features in Georgetown neighbourhoods. If your property has a septic system or well, confirm documentation and working status with local inspectors.
- Local contractors: Use reputable, local trades for last-minute repairs. Local invoices and warranties reassure buyers and their lawyers.
Always confirm any legal or municipal questions with your lawyer or municipal office.
Move-out strategy that prevents walkthrough headaches
- One week before closing: Confirm all contracted repairs are done and booked. Order cleaners and movers.
- Two days before: Pack non-essential items. Take photos of each room empty for records.
- Day before: Do a final deep clean. Leave manuals/warranties in a visible folder. Turn off non-essential utilities only after buyer confirms inspection timing.
- Moving day: Protect floors and doors. Keep an inventory of items removed and items left.
- After moving: Keep access window open (with permission) if buyer wants a quick re-check. Coordinate with your lawyer about possession timing.
A well-executed move protects your proceeds and reputation.
Practical documents to have ready for the walkthrough
- Repair receipts and invoices.
- Photos dated after repairs and cleaning.
- Appliance manuals and warranty info.
- Utility transfer confirmation or final meter reading.
- Keys, remotes, and codes list.
Hand these to your agent or leave them in a clearly labeled folder inside the house.
Worst-case scenarios and how to avoid them
- Buyer refuses to close because of major damage discovered: Avoid by documenting the property condition and being present/accessible through your agent.
- Missing expensive items that are in the contract: Triple-check the inventory.
- Legal disputes over condition: Use your lawyer to negotiate holdbacks or credits instead of ad-hoc promises.
If a dispute escalates, it’s better to resolve via professional channels than through last-minute concessions.
Quick-moving checklist for Georgetown sellers (copy-paste)
- Confirm all contractual repairs finished and documented
- Hire cleaner and take dated before/after photos
- Leave included appliances and label them
- Prepare folder: manuals, warranties, receipts
- Ensure utilities remain on for inspection
- Provide keys, remotes, garage openers
- Protect floors during move
- Remove all personal items not in contract
- Communicate through your agent and lawyer
Final words: Make the final walkthrough painless
The final walkthrough is the last chance for the buyer to confirm you delivered what you promised. For Georgetown sellers, the difference between a smooth closing and a costly delay is simple: preparation, documentation, and common sense. Don’t leave it to chance.
If you want someone in Georgetown who runs closings like clockwork, relies on local trades, and protects your sale proceeds — call or email to get a step-by-step plan for your closing and move.
Contact: tony@sousasells.ca | 416-477-2620 | https://www.sousasells.ca
FAQ — Final walkthrough answers for Georgetown, ON home sellers
How long before closing is the final walkthrough?
Usually within 24 hours before closing. Often it’s the same day. Confirm the window with the buyer’s agent.
Can a buyer cancel the sale based on the walkthrough?
Buyers can raise issues and may negotiate remedies. Cancelling is rare unless there’s a material breach of the purchase agreement. Most issues are resolved through credits, repairs, or holdbacks.
What if something promised in the contract is missing?
Provide proof it was present (photos/invoices) or offer a credit. If the missing item is significant, negotiate through your lawyer.
Do utilities need to be on for the walkthrough?
Yes. Buyers want to test plumbing, heating, and electrical systems. Keep utilities on until after the walkthrough unless you’ve agreed otherwise.
Can sellers be present during the walkthrough?
Yes, but it’s often better if your agent attends. Direct seller presence can create tension. Let professionals handle communication.
What if the buyer finds new damage during the walkthrough?
Communicate via agents. Provide evidence of prior condition if you have it. Negotiate a solution — a credit, repair, or a holdback — rather than arguing on the spot.
Who pays for last-minute repairs found at the walkthrough?
If the damage occurred after the buyer’s last visit and before possession, the seller is generally responsible. If damage was pre-existing and undisclosed, the seller may be liable. Lawyers work out adjustments.
Do sellers have to move out before closing?
Possession timing is set in the agreement. Most sellers vacate by closing day/time. If you need extra time, negotiate and document it in writing.
What local steps should Georgetown sellers take?
Confirm utility transfer with Halton services, plan for seasonal issues (snow/ice), and use local trades for quick repairs and invoices.
When should I call a lawyer if there’s a problem?
Immediately. If the buyer raises a major issue during the walkthrough, have your lawyer involved to negotiate credits or holdbacks and prevent delays.
If you want a pre-closing checklist customized to your Georgetown property or a local contractor list I trust, contact tony@sousasells.ca or call 416-477-2620. I’ll send a personalized plan and walk you through the exact items buyers will check on closing day.
