Pairs with the reel: One of the biggest mistakes you can make as a buyer…
One of the biggest mistakes I still see: scheduling the final walkthrough two days before closing "to get it out of the way." In Metro Detroit, that gap can cost you. The walkthrough is your last look before you own it — treat it like closing day, because it should be.
Why agents schedule early
Early walkthroughs feel efficient. Title is booked, movers are staged, kids need a nap schedule. Agents sometimes push the walkthrough earlier so any punch-list items have "time to fix." On paper that sounds responsible. In practice, it leaves a window where the house can change after you've already signed off emotionally.
Overnight risk in Michigan
Between an early walkthrough and closing, a lot can happen overnight:
- Storms — basement seepage, sump issues, roof leaks after a SE Michigan downpour
- Fixtures & appliances — items that were there at walkthrough mysteriously "forgotten" by movers
- Utilities — water, gas, or electric shutoffs or transfers that reveal a problem only when systems are live
- Last-minute seller moves — debris left behind, damaged walls, missing remotes or garage openers
I'm not saying every seller is careless. I'm saying risk compounds with time. Closing-day walkthrough shrinks that window.
Day-of checklist
- All agreed repairs completed and visible (ask for receipts if that was in the amendment)
- Systems on: heat/AC, water, electric — run briefly where safe
- Appliances and fixtures that convey are present and look undamaged
- No new stains, holes, or debris; personal property removed per contract
- Garage openers, keys, fobs, mailbox keys, codes as negotiated
- Walk the exterior quickly — gutters, windows, obvious storm damage
Bring the purchase agreement amendment list. Don't rely on memory after a long escrow.
What if something's wrong
Stop. Call your agent before you head to the closing table. Options usually include a seller fix, escrow holdback, credit, or delay — depending on severity and contract language. The point of a day-of walkthrough is catching issues while you still have leverage, not discovering them after the deed records.
FAQ
What if the title company only has a morning slot? We schedule the walkthrough immediately before — same morning — not two days prior.
Can the seller be present? Often yes, but you don't need a tour guide. You need time to look.
Is this different for new construction? Punch lists are longer; still don't "pre-clear" days early without a same-day confirmation pass.
Want the day-of walkthrough checklist?
Comment WALKTHROUGH on the reel, or call — I'll send the checklist we use with Metro Detroit buyers and walk you through timing before your closing.