The final walk-through

Shortly before the closing on your home, you will typically make one last inspection called a final walk-through. Your agent should help you examine the house.

Verify that all items you have contracted to buy are there, and items you have not contracted to buy have been removed and that the house has not been damaged in the process. When you do your walk-through, pay particular attention to attics, crawl spaces, basements and garages. If the sellers haven't moved, you may see items you’d like them to remove. Bring this to the attention of your agent to avoid hassles on moving day.

Take your time and be as calm as possible. Have a copy of your sales contract with you to review items that should be included with the house.

Here are some additional tips:

• check from bottom to top: basement to attic.
• pay specific attention to expensive items and those that are of importance to you.
• watch for areas where furniture or rugs may have been when you originally looked at the house in case defects are revealed in their absence.
• if an item is missing, or if there's trash or discarded items left behind, deal with it now. Let your agent know so that he or she can get it handled before closing.
• leave your emotions at the door. You will have plenty of time to swoon over your new home ?now is the time to make sure the house is as you expected it to be.