Before you close on your new home, you will have to conduct a “walk-through” with your builder. The walk-through is an opportunity to identify things that need to be corrected or adjusted. This is also the perfect time to learn how your new home works. Let’s discuss steps you can take to plan a successful walk-through of your new home.
What You Can Expect
During the walk-through, your builder will address the operation of the home’s components, the maintenance responsibilities, and any warranty coverage.
When you buy a new house, you will receive a stack of instruction booklets. In addition, these materials will contain information on how to operate the appliances, the heating and cooling systems, the water heater, and other features. The final walk-through allows you to learn from your builder about each item until you have the time to read through the materials.
What You Need to Know
Another important task during the final walk-through is learning about maintenance responsibilities. Furthermore, most new homes come with a one-year warranty on workmanship and materials. However, these warranties may not cover problems that develop due to lack of maintenance. Many builders will provide a booklet explaining the common upkeep responsibilities of new homeowners and how to perform them.
Focus On The Details
There any many items youโll want to inspect during the walk-through. Make sure to examine the surfaces of counters, fixtures, floors, and walls for damage. Create a checklist of the problems you see and agree to a timeframe of repair with the builder. Keep in mind, builders generally prefer to repair these issues before you move in as it is easier for them to work in an empty house. This might delay your move-in date, or mean dealing with workers in your home while you’re trying to unpack.
Be thorough and observant during the walk-through to avoid future problems. For example, a dispute can arise if a buyer discovers a gouge in a countertop after move-in, and there is no way to prove whether it was caused by the builder’s workers or the buyer’s movers. Many builders ask their buyers to sign a form at the walk-through stating that all surfaces have been inspected and that there were no damages other than what has been noted on the walk-through checklist. This will hold homeowners accountable for any damage done after the purchase of the home.
A thorough walk-through will give both you and your home builder peace of mind. The ideal walk-through allows you to enjoy your brand-new home for years to come. For more tips on closing and moving into a new home, contact ourย Executive Director, Stephanie Stipins @๐ฌ๐ญ๐๐ฉ๐ก๐๐ง๐ข๐@๐๐จ๐ซ๐ญ๐ฌ๐ฆ๐ข๐ญ๐ก๐ก๐จ๐ฆ๐๐๐ฎ๐ข๐ฅ๐๐๐ซ๐ฌ.๐๐จ๐ฆ.
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Are you interested in learning more about tips for a smooth transition into your new home, check out this article.