Closing on a home is exciting — and stressful. By the time you reach your final walkthrough, it feels like the finish line. But this last step is more than just a formality; it’s your opportunity to make sure the home is in the condition you expect before signing the papers.
In Bolivar, Tennessee, I often meet buyers who aren’t sure what to look for during this stage. That’s where a professional inspection can make all the difference. Whether it’s a newly built home or a charming older property in Hardeman County, a careful final walkthrough helps ensure there are no last-minute surprises.
What Is a Final Walkthrough Inspection?
The final walkthrough isn’t a replacement for your main home inspection — it’s a follow-up check, usually conducted right before closing. Its purpose is to confirm that:
- Repairs from your original inspection were completed correctly
- No new damage occurred since your last visit
- Appliances and systems are still working properly
- The property is move-in ready and matches the agreed condition in your contract
If the home sat vacant for several weeks or underwent repairs, a final walkthrough helps verify that nothing was overlooked.
Why It’s Especially Important in Rural Areas
Homes in Hardeman County can have unique conditions: longer well lines, septic systems, detached garages, and older HVAC or electrical systems. Many homes also sit on acreage or were built decades ago, meaning small maintenance issues can develop quickly if left unattended.
Even something as simple as a minor plumbing leak or tripped breaker can go unnoticed between the initial inspection and closing — unless someone checks carefully.
That’s why I recommend every buyer schedule a pre-closing walkthrough inspection, particularly if the seller made repair commitments or the property had known concerns during the first inspection.
Common Issues Found During Final Walkthroughs
Here are some of the most common problems I’ve found during final walkthrough inspections across Bolivar and surrounding towns like Middleton and Toone:
1. Repairs That Weren’t Completed (or Done Incorrectly)
Sometimes sellers agree to make repairs but use the cheapest or quickest methods possible. I’ve seen patched roof leaks that weren’t sealed correctly, missing vapor barriers replaced with plastic tarps, or plumbing “repairs” that didn’t fix the underlying issue.
A professional walkthrough verifies workmanship and ensures repairs meet acceptable standards.
2. Damage During Move-Out
Moving can cause accidental damage — scratched floors, broken fixtures, or dents in drywall. A walkthrough confirms that the property’s condition matches what you expect before finalizing the sale.
3. HVAC or Electrical Systems Not Functioning
I’ve arrived at walkthroughs to find that power had been turned off — or that HVAC units wouldn’t start because breakers were tripped. Checking all major systems one last time ensures everything is operational before you move in.
4. Water Leaks or Plumbing Issues
Even small leaks can appear after a home sits empty. Faucets, toilets, and water heaters should all be tested again. In rural Hardeman County, many homes rely on private wells or septic systems — both of which deserve one last check for leaks, odors, or unusual noises.
5. Appliances Missing or Not Working
If appliances were included in your contract, verify that they’re still in place and working. I’ve seen ovens removed, washers swapped, and refrigerators left unplugged.
6. Unnoticed Exterior Damage
High winds, rain, or wildlife can cause roof, gutter, or siding issues even after your first inspection. I often take a quick exterior walk to make sure everything looks sound before closing.
What I Check During a Final Walkthrough Inspection
During a professional final walkthrough, I typically:
- Recheck all systems (electrical, HVAC, plumbing)
- Confirm functionality of lights, fans, and outlets
- Run all water fixtures and flush toilets
- Verify that all agreed-upon repairs were completed
- Test major appliances and water heaters
- Inspect the attic or crawlspace if repairs were made there
- Confirm that doors, windows, and locks operate properly
This short inspection offers enormous peace of mind — especially for buyers investing in older or rural properties where issues can reappear quickly.
When to Schedule Your Final Walkthrough
Ideally, schedule it within 48 hours of closing so any problems can be addressed immediately. If your home inspection report included a repair list, bring it along to compare what was promised to what was delivered.
If something wasn’t completed correctly, your agent can work with the seller to fix it or hold funds in escrow until the issue is resolved.
Why It’s Worth Doing
Skipping the final walkthrough is one of the most common (and costly) buyer mistakes. Once you close, any defects or missing repairs become your responsibility — even if they appeared after your original inspection.
A professional walkthrough inspection ensures your investment is protected, your repairs are verified, and your new home is ready for move-in day.
📞 Schedule Your Bolivar Home Inspection Today
Serving Bolivar, Middleton, Grand Junction, and communities across Hardeman County, Upchurch Inspection provides certified home inspections, pre-closing walkthrough inspections, and specialized testing for mold, radon, water quality, and sewer systems.
📞 Call (901) 350-8885 or visit UpchurchInspection.com to schedule your inspection today.
