Closing Day: Schedule Walkthrough, Deliver Keys to the Closing and Transfer Utilities

Final Walkthrough usually happens a day before or on a day of closing. 

A final walkthrough is the last milestone prior to closing where a buyer visually inspects the property to ensure what they are buying is in substantially the same condition as when they first saw it, and to check on the completion of any negotiated repairs or replacements that were agreed upon to be made. 

This is the last chance for the buyer to make sure everything looks as it should. The property should be empty (except for what’s supposed to stay), clean, and in the condition as agreed upon. Think of it as the real estate equivalent of a dress rehearsal—no surprises, please. 

Closing day: the grand finale of a real estate transaction. It’s the day when everything comes together—and sometimes, when things try to fall apart. But with a little preparation (and maybe a checklist or two), it can be smooth sailing to the finish line.

Delivering the Keys
Once all the signatures are signed, the funds have been wired, and the attorneys have given their thumbs-up, it’s time to hand over the keys. It could be one key or a whole jangly set, but either way, this is the official moment when possession changes hands. 

Transferring Utilities
Here’s the part that everyone forgets until they’re sitting in the dark. Utilities need to be transferred on the day of closing. Not before, not after, and definitely not “whenever someone remembers.” A quick call to the electric, gas, and water companies can save everyone from an unintentional camping experience.

For the seller it is important to check the home before the walkthrough , hand off the keys to the attorney or the agent if not attending the closing with buyers, and make the utility calls.