Complete the Final Walkthrough
The final walkthrough is an opportunity to confirm that the home remains in substantially the expected condition before ownership transfers. It is not a second inspection or a chance to reopen issues that were previously accepted.
During the walkthrough, buyers typically verify that the property has not sustained unexpected damage, agreed-upon items remain, the home is vacant when required, and negotiated repairs appear to have been completed.
- Confirm included appliances and fixtures remain
- Check that required personal property has been removed
- Review agreed repairs and available documentation
- Look for significant damage since the inspection
- Test accessible systems or items when appropriate
- Confirm the condition required by the contract
Review the Final Financial Figures
Compare the final settlement and loan figures with the estimates you received earlier. Confirm that the purchase price, loan amount, deposits, seller credits, prorations, lender charges, and other expenses appear correctly.
Ask questions before the closing appointment when possible. Discovering a discrepancy at the signing table creates unnecessary pressure and may delay the transaction.
Our page about buyer closing costs provides additional information about the expenses and prepaid items that may appear in the final figures.
Confirm Your Funds and Wiring Instructions
The closing provider will explain how the required funds must be delivered. Depending on the amount and closing arrangements, the approved method may involve a wire transfer or another form of certified funds.
Wire fraud is a serious risk in real estate transactions. Never rely solely on wiring instructions received by email. Confirm the instructions directly with the closing provider using a trusted telephone number before sending money.
If wiring information changes unexpectedly, stop and verify it independently. A last-minute change is a flashing red light, not a friendly little administrative update.
Bring the Required Identification and Documents
Confirm what the closing attorney or settlement provider requires before arriving. Most buyers will need valid government-issued photo identification, and some transactions may require additional documentation.
- Government-issued photo identification
- Any documents requested by the lender or closing provider
- Proof of homeowners insurance when required
- Marriage, trust, entity, or power-of-attorney documents if applicable
- Information needed to verify the source of closing funds
Names on identification should match the names used in the closing documents. Address discrepancies or documentation questions before the appointment rather than at the last minute.
Expect a Significant Number of Signatures
Buyers using financing may sign loan documents, disclosures, affidavits, tax forms, settlement statements, security instruments, and other closing documents. Cash purchases may involve fewer documents, but the process still requires careful review.
Take the time to ask questions about anything you do not understand. The professionals conducting the closing can explain the purpose of the documents and identify questions that may need to be directed to the lender, attorney, or another advisor.
Understand When Ownership Transfers
Signing documents does not always mean that ownership and possession transfer at that exact moment. Funding, recording, lender approval, contract terms, and local closing practices may affect when the transaction is legally complete.
Confirm when the deed will be recorded, when funds will be disbursed, when keys may be released, and when you are entitled to occupy the property. Do not schedule movers based only on the time of your signing appointment.
Coordinate Utilities, Access, and Move-In Details
Arrange utility transfers and services in advance, but coordinate the effective dates with the expected closing and possession. Depending on the property, buyers may also need to plan for keys, remotes, gate access, security codes, mailbox access, and community registration.
- Electricity, gas, water, and sewer services
- Internet, television, and telephone service
- Security and smart-home access
- HOA or condominium registration
- Mailbox, gate, pool, or amenity access
- Lock changes or rekeying after possession
Keep Your Closing Records
Store the final closing package, settlement figures, title information, surveys, repair documentation, warranties, insurance information, and other important records in a secure location.
These documents may be needed for tax preparation, insurance claims, refinancing, improvements, future questions about the property, or the eventual sale of the home.