Final walkthrough for home purchase - what to do?

Question

I have my final walk through on my first home and am wondering what I am supposed to do. I know to test appliances, windows, doors, lights, etc., but what about things I find unsatisfactory. For example, there is trash in the shed that I want removed prior to closing - how do I ask for this? Do I ask for money back or demand it be done? What about smoke alarms - there are none in the house - can I ask that these be installed before closing?

Answer 1

Anything you want, anything, ask. The seller can either fix or change it, or say they will do nothing. Then it's your turn to say thank you for taking care of all of it, or prepare a counter. As far as money back, the price you agreed is set in stone, but you can ask for an allowance for repairs. It's a back & forth process, neither party should get mad, stay calm. You must think of this process as a business deal, not the house you want to make your home.

Good luck, take care.

Answer 2

All the things that are not satisfactory need to be writen in the Offer to Purchase. This would go under the heading of Conditions of Sale. The sellers will have to agree to the conditions and the date in which they are to be done. Your realtor should explain this to you.

Homes do not have to be clean before moving in. The clause in the contract is very non discript. However all junk and garbage needs to be removed. I had this problem with every house I moved into. They were not clean and there was nothing I could do. Put everything in the Offer To Purchase and be extremely clear with your wording.

Remember that realtors are out for your money, and will suggest things to make the sale. Don't let them walk on you or suggest wording or leaving things out. They want the sale. If have had a bad experiences with every realtor used to purchase or sell a house.

Answer 3

I assume this is a "new to you" home and not brand new. If you don't know what to look for, get a Home Inspector. Find one for yourself rather than taking a recommendation from the Realtor. Did the owner list anything on the paperwork in the Disclosure portion? These are things the owner knows are wrong or not working. It is mandatory they state these things. Smoke alarms are not mandatory on used homes unless mandated in your area. If you don't get a Home Inspector, you may want to think about a Home Warranty. These cover the house for one year against many defects. The current owner may split or cover the cost with you.

Answer 4

Most homes are thoroughly cleaned prior to owners moving in, if in doubt ask. Ask also about anything your are in doubt about, that is why the foreman is there with you.to write it down. Anything you don*t want to have to do yourself after you move in. Some builders install smoke alarms, some don*t Some will do things you want but charge you extra.
JUST ASK; it is too late after you sign off on the stuff.We waited almost a year to get a wrong counter top changed because we signed off on their word. it would be fixed.

Answer 5

If you have a realtor helping you simply tell the realtor your concerns and she/he will help you. If this isn't a new house, look for leaks under sinks. Does it have a basement? If so, check the walls for mildew. If the walls have mildew, it usually means they have been leaking. Is there more than one floor? If so, look at all ceilings to make sure there are no leaks from the floor above it. Make sure all concerns are addressed before the closing.

Answer 6

smoke alarms is a MANDATORY fire code now a days. These must be installed period. The trash just be nice about that one. Congrats and enjoy it just make sure you got a 30 year fixed mortgage.

Answer 7

Hire a home inspector, will know what problem areas to check., The foundation and roof are critical areas.

Answer 8

PUT IT IN WRITING! Whatever you want done or undone.