What Is a Final Walk-Through in NH Real Estate and What Should Buyers Look For?

🏡 What Is a Final Walk-Through in NH Real Estate and What Should Buyers Look For?

Right before closing on a home in New Hampshire, buyers complete a final walk-through. This is not another home inspection — it’s the buyer’s chance to confirm that the property’s condition hasn’t changed and that the seller has met all contractual obligations.

Here’s what NH buyers should know.

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What Is a Final Walk-Through?

A final walk-through is the buyer’s last opportunity to examine the property before signing at closing.

It usually happens within 24 hours of closing and ensures that:

✔ The home is in the same condition as when the offer was made

✔ Agreed-upon repairs are completed

✔ No new issues have appeared

✔ Seller belongings have been removed

✔ Major systems still function properly

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What Buyers Should Check During the Walk-Through

Here’s a practical NH buyer checklist:

1. Repairs

Confirm all negotiated repairs were:

✔ Completed

✔ Done professionally

✔ Supported with receipts/photos

2. Appliances

Turn on and test:

✔ Stove

✔ Dishwasher

✔ Refrigerator

✔ Washer & dryer

✔ Microwave

3. Plumbing

Check for:

✔ Leaks

✔ Running toilets

✔ Water pressure

✔ Hot water working

4. Heating & Cooling

In NH, especially winter months, verify:

✔ Furnace or boiler runs properly

✔ Thermostat works

✔ No unusual smells or noises

5. Electrical

Test:

✔ Light switches

✔ Outlets

✔ GFCIs

✔ Smoke/CO detectors

6. Windows & Doors

Ensure:

✔ No broken glass

✔ All locks function

✔ Screens present (if applicable)

7. Cleanliness

The property should be:

✔ Broom clean

✔ Free of trash

✔ Free of unwanted items

8. Property Condition

Look for new issues such as:

✔ Water damage

✔ Roof leaks

✔ Wall or floor damage

✔ Missing fixtures

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What If You Find a Problem?

Buyers have options:

✔ Delay closing until issue is fixed

✔ Request a credit

✔ Negotiate a hold-back escrow

✔ In major cases — terminate if allowed by contract

Most NH deals resolve minor issues quickly.

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Why the Final Walk-Through Matters

The walk-through protects buyers from:

✔ Taking ownership of new damage

✔ Getting stuck with unfinished repairs

✔ Overlooking missing appliances or fixtures

✔ Unexpected cleanliness or condition issues

Once the closing documents are signed, the home is yours — including any problems.

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Bottom Line

A final walk-through ensures your new NH home is in the expected condition before closing. It’s a simple but crucial step to protect your investment and confirm the seller honored their commitments.

Jim Johnson — Real Estate Agent

58 NH Route 25A

Wentworth, NH 03282

P: (857) 249-7392

W: www.JimJohnsonRealEstateAgent.com

Licensed New Hampshire REALTOR® with Three Hills Real Estate Services

Broker Email: info@ThreeHillsRES.com

Broker Website: www.ThreeHillsRES.com