You’re almost at the finish line. Your loan is approved, your Closing Disclosure is signed, and your closing date is set. But before you officially become a homeowner in Texas, there’s one last — and very important — step: the final walkthrough.
The final walkthrough is your opportunity to make sure the home is in the condition you agreed to buy it in. It’s not an inspection, and it’s not a negotiation. Instead, it’s your last chance to confirm that repairs were completed, the home hasn’t been damaged, and everything is ready for closing.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the final walkthrough in Texas — what it is, why it matters, what to look for, and how to protect yourself before signing on the dotted line.
What Is a Final Walkthrough?
A final walkthrough is a buyer’s last visit to the home before closing. It typically happens:
24–48 hours before closing
The purpose is simple:
To ensure the home is in the same (or better) condition as when you went under contract.
During the walkthrough, you verify:
• All agreed upon repairs are completed
• The home is clean and move in ready
• No new damage has occurred
• All appliances are present and working
• The seller has moved out (unless otherwise agreed)
• The property is in the condition stated in the contract
It’s your final quality control check before ownership transfers.
Why the Final Walkthrough Matters
The final walkthrough protects you from:
• Incomplete repairs
• Damage caused during move out
• Missing appliances or fixtures
• Leaks or electrical issues
• Trash or debris left behind
• Contract violations
Once you close, any issues become your responsibility — so the walkthrough is essential.
Is the Final Walkthrough Required in Texas?
Technically, no — it’s not legally required.
But skipping it is extremely risky.
Your agent will always recommend completing a walkthrough to protect your investment.
When Does the Final Walkthrough Happen?
Most final walkthroughs occur:
• The day before closing
• The morning of closing
• After the seller has fully moved out
If repairs were required, you may do:
• A repair verification walkthrough
• A final walkthrough
Two walkthroughs are common when major repairs were negotiated.
Who Attends the Final Walkthrough?
Typically:
• The buyer
• The buyer’s agent
The seller usually does not attend.
If repairs were made, contractors may be present to explain work completed.
What You Should Bring to the Final Walkthrough
To make the walkthrough smooth and thorough, bring:
• A copy of your contract
• A copy of your inspection report
• A list of agreed upon repairs
• Your phone (for photos/videos)
• A notepad
• Your agent (essential)
Your agent will guide you through the process and help identify issues.
What to Check During the Final Walkthrough
Here’s a comprehensive checklist of what to look for.
1. Repairs
Verify that:
• All agreed upon repairs are completed
• Repairs were done professionally
• Receipts or warranties are provided
• No new issues were created during repairs
If repairs look incomplete or poorly done, your agent will address it immediately.
2. Appliances
Check that all appliances included in the contract are:
• Present
• Installed
• Working properly
Test:
• Stove burners
• Oven
• Microwave
• Dishwasher
• Refrigerator
• Washer/dryer (if included)
3. Plumbing
Turn on:
• Faucets
• Showers
• Toilets
• Tubs
Check for:
• Leaks
• Low water pressure
• Slow drains
• Hot water availability
4. Electrical
Test:
• Light switches
• Outlets
• Ceiling fans
• Garage door openers
• Exterior lights
Bring a small outlet tester if possible.
5. HVAC System
Turn on:
• Air conditioning
• Heating
Make sure both systems function properly — especially important in Texas heat.
6. Windows and Doors
Check:
• Windows open and close
• Locks work
• Doors latch properly
• No broken glass
• No new damage
7. Walls, Floors, and Ceilings
Look for:
• New cracks
• Holes
• Water stains
• Damage from move out
Normal wear is expected — new damage is not.
8. Exterior
Walk around the property and check:
• Siding
• Roof (visible areas)
• Gutters
• Sprinklers
• Fences
• Landscaping
Make sure nothing has been removed or damaged.
9. Cleanliness
The home should be:
• Broom clean
• Free of trash
• Free of personal belongings
• Free of debris
Texas contracts require the seller to leave the home in reasonably clean condition.
10. Contract Items
Verify that items included in the contract are still present, such as:
• Light fixtures
• Window treatments
• Built ins
• Smart home devices (if agreed)
• Garage remotes
• Pool equipment
If something is missing, your agent will address it immediately.
Common Issues Found During Final Walkthroughs
Walkthrough issues are more common than buyers expect.
Here are the most frequent problems:
1. Incomplete Repairs
The seller may have:
• Not completed repairs
• Used unlicensed contractors
• Provided no receipts
2. Damage from Move Out
Examples:
• Scratched floors
• Damaged walls
• Broken fixtures
• Leaks from disconnected appliances
3. Missing Appliances
Sometimes sellers accidentally remove:
• Refrigerators
• Washers/dryers
• Curtains
• Light fixtures
If it was in the contract, it must remain.
4. Trash or Debris Left Behind
Garages, attics, and sheds are common problem areas.
5. New Leaks
Plumbing issues sometimes appear after the seller moves out.
6. HVAC Not Working
Systems may fail or be turned off incorrectly.
What Happens If You Find Problems During the Final Walkthrough?
If issues are discovered, you have options.
1. Delay Closing
This gives the seller time to fix the issue.
2. Request a Credit
The seller may offer a financial credit at closing.
3. Request Repairs Before Closing
The seller may agree to complete repairs immediately.
4. Escrow Holdback
A portion of the seller’s proceeds is held until repairs are completed.
5. Cancel the Contract (Rare)
If the issue is severe and violates the contract, cancellation may be possible.
Your agent will guide you through the best option.
What You Cannot Do During the Final Walkthrough
The final walkthrough is not:
• A new inspection
• A chance to renegotiate the price
• A time to request new repairs
• An opportunity to change contract terms
It is simply a verification step.
Final Thoughts: The Final Walkthrough Protects Your Investment
The final walkthrough is your last opportunity to ensure the home is exactly as promised before you close. It protects your investment, prevents surprises, and gives you peace of mind as you take ownership.
In a market like San Antonio — where homes vary widely in age, condition, and seller circumstances — a thorough walkthrough is essential for a smooth, confident closing.
Buying a Home in San Antonio? We’ll Guide You Through Every Step.
As a family owned San Antonio brokerage, we help buyers:
• Navigate the final walkthrough
• Verify repairs
• Identify red flags
• Protect their investment
• Close with confidence
If you’re preparing to buy, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today. Click Here.
