Final Walk-Through Checklist

General Guidelines for your final walk-through in Chicago:

Whether you are buying in Chicago’s Gold Coast, Bucktown / Wicker Park, Lakeview, Lincoln Park, River North, or West Loop, the main goal of the final walk-through is to confirm the home is at least ‘broom clean’ and in the same condition, it was at the time of contract.

1. Review all remarks made on the inspection report.  Some remarks on the inspection report made have required special attention by the seller. Generally receipts would be provided prior to closing, but they may be available at the walk-through.
2. Bring a good flashlight to check dark areas, and light bulbs to test fixtures.
3. Never run air conditioner if the temperature is colder than 60 degrees.  If you are doing your walk-thru in the summer and the air conditioner is running, test the air conditioner first.  You must then wait at least 30 minutes before you turn on the furnace.
4. If you are buying a house, take a slow walk around the exterior looking for any problems that may have arisen subsequent to the inspection.
5. Make a note to pay special attention to areas that were previously snow covered during the inspection.
6. Remember to ask the seller for the house keys, garage door opener, alarm key or code, fireplace keys and any other special items.  These items should be tested to make sure they work properly.
7. Ask the seller for all owners’ manuals, warranties and guarantees on items to be left with the house.                                                                                                                           

Final Walk-Through Checklist Items

Heating:

Operation of the main system

Thermostat present

Test all the vents or radiators to make sure heat is flowing

Electric:

Test all closet lights

Test all light switches

Test the exterior lighting

Windows and Doors:

Inventory screens and storms

Ring doorbell

Test all locks

Look for cracked or broken areas

Open and close each window

Garage:

Test door opener

Look for water stains

Look for settlement cracks

Cooling:

Operation of the main system

Test all vents or individual units to make sure cool air is flowing

Kitchen/Laundry & Appliances:

Range (all burners)

Oven (all control)

Refrigerator

Freezer

Compactor

Disposal

Dishwasher (all cycles)

Washing Machine

Dryer (all cycles)

Exhaust Fan

Microwave

Intercom

Interior Rooms:

Look for water stains on ceilings & floors

Settlement cracks

Kitchen/Bathroom:

Run all faucets for hot & cold water

Check water pressure

Flush all toilets