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Buying a home is a huge decision, and for most people, it’s one of the biggest investments they’ll ever make. From finding the right property to signing the final documents, there’s a lot to think about during the home-buying process. But what happens after you’ve made an offer and it’s been accepted? The next important step is the final inspection.

In this blog, we’ll discuss why the final inspection is so important, what to look for during the inspection, and how it can help you avoid costly surprises later. We’ll also touch on how working with a professional team, like The Johnson Team, can ensure your real estate experience goes smoothly.

What is the Buyer's Right to a Final Inspection?

When you buy a home, most real estate agreements include a clause that gives the buyer the right to perform a final inspection before closing. This inspection typically happens just before the closing date, after the seller has moved out of the property but before the final documents are signed.

The final inspection is not the same as the home inspection, which is usually done earlier in the buying process to assess the condition of the house. Instead, the final inspection is your opportunity to confirm that the seller has made any agreed-upon repairs and that the home is in the condition you expect. It also gives you a chance to make sure no new issues have arisen since the original inspection.

Why is the Final Inspection Important?

The final inspection helps protect your interests as a buyer. Without it, you may not notice small problems that could turn into big issues down the road. Here’s why the final inspection is so important:

1. Ensures Agreed Repairs Are Made
   If the seller agreed to make repairs after the initial inspection, the final inspection gives you a chance to confirm that those repairs were done properly. This could include anything from fixing broken appliances to addressing structural concerns.

2. Checks for New Issues
   Sometimes, things can go wrong after the home inspection. A leaking pipe, a broken window, or other issues can pop up between the time your offer is accepted and the final inspection. The final walkthrough is your chance to catch these problems before closing.

3. Confirms the Condition of the Property
   During the final inspection, you’ll want to make sure the property is in the condition you were promised. If the house was supposed to be cleared out by the seller, for example, you’ll want to confirm that all personal belongings are removed and that everything is ready for you to move in.

4. Gives Peace of Mind
   The final inspection is one of the last steps in the buying process. It helps ensure that there are no surprises and that you can move into your new home without worrying about hidden problems.

What Should You Look for During the Final Inspection?

The final inspection is not about finding every minor flaw in the home, but it’s your opportunity to check that everything is in order. Here are a few things to pay attention to:

• Repairs: If there were any repairs agreed upon in the offer, check to make sure they were completed and done properly. For example, if there was a plumbing issue, test the faucets and check for leaks.

• Cleanliness: Make sure the house is clean and that the seller has removed all their belongings, including any leftover furniture, trash, or personal items.

• Fixtures and Appliances: Check that all the light fixtures, fans, and appliances that were included in the sale are working. This includes the fridge, stove, microwave, and dishwasher.

• Structural Integrity: Ensure that no new damage has occurred to the home. This includes looking for cracks in the walls, doors that no longer close properly, or any other signs of damage.

• Exterior Conditions: Walk around the outside of the property and check for any damage to the roof, foundation, or landscaping. This is also a good time to inspect the yard, fences, and gates.

• Utilities: Test all the utilities to make sure they’re functioning. This includes water, electricity, and HVAC systems like heating and air conditioning.

What Happens if Problems Are Found During the Final Inspection?

If you find problems during the final inspection, you have a few options:

1. Request Repairs: If the issue is something that can be easily fixed, you can ask the seller to make the repairs before closing.

2. Negotiate a Credit: If you prefer to handle the repairs yourself, you might be able to negotiate a credit with the seller. This allows you to pay for the repairs after closing.

3. Cancel the Deal: In some cases, if the problems are significant and the seller is unwilling to make repairs or offer a credit, you may have the option to cancel the deal and walk away from the property.

How Can The Johnson Team Help?

Navigating the home-buying process can be complicated, but The Johnson Team is here to help. Our extensive experience in the Greater Toronto Area means we know the ins and outs of local real estate and can guide you through every step of the process, from the initial search to the final inspection. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or an experienced investor, we’ll make sure you’re protected and that your real estate transaction goes smoothly.

If you’re ready to start your home-buying journey or have questions about the final inspection process, don’t hesitate to reach out to The Johnson Team today.