The final walk through, referred to as the J-3 Property Condition Maintenance and Final Walk Through on the Purchase Contract, is the last opportunity for the buyer to view the home, condo or property prior to the close of escrow. It usually occurs three to five days prior to the close of escrow. “How important is this final step?”, you may ask. It is VERY important. This is the time when the buyer verifies that:
1. The home is still in the same condition as when it went into escrow.
2. The home has been cleaned (professionally if noted in the Contract), to include carpets professionally cleaned, windows sparkle, trash gone, etc.
3. All requested repairs and replacements noted in the J-1 Inspection Report (if any) have been accomplished.
All utilities must be on, including propane, if applicable, at the seller’s expense. If the property has not been property maintained, or the repairs not completed, the buyer has the right to repeat the Final Walk Through, which could delay the close of escrow.
This is NOT the time to note additional repairs, make requests for the purchase of furnishings, or add any additional conditions for the closing of escrow.
Upon the successful completion of the Walk Through, the required J-3 document must be signed by all parties and sent to the escrow company. Then…you zoom to closing!
