There’s something exciting about getting ready to take possession of your new home! After searching, viewing properties, negotiating, signing paperwork, and counting down the days, you’re finally almost there. Moving day is just around the corner, and you can practically picture where the furniture will go and how you’ll make the space your own.
But before you pick up those keys and start moving boxes, there’s one important step you don’t want to overlook: the pre-possession walkthrough.
It might feel like one more thing on an already busy to-do list, but this final visit to your new home can help prevent surprises and give you peace of mind before possession day.
What Is a Pre-Possession Walkthrough?
A pre-possession walkthrough is an opportunity for buyers to revisit the property shortly before taking possession. It allows you to check the home's condition, confirm any agreed-upon repairs have been completed, and make sure everything is generally as expected based on your purchase agreement.
Think of it as your final opportunity to look things over before the home officially becomes yours.
Here are five important things to check during your walkthrough.
1. Verify the Property's Condition
When you first viewed the home, you likely focused on the big things: the layout, the kitchen, the backyard, and whether your furniture would fit.
Now it's time to look a little closer.
Check that the property is in substantially the same condition as when you agreed to purchase it, subject to the terms of your contract and any normal expectations outlined in your agreement.
Look for any new damage, missing fixtures, or unexpected changes. Check the walls, floors, windows, doors, and other areas that may have been affected during the seller's move.
If something doesn't look right, take photos and speak with your Realtor before possession.
2. Confirm Agreed-Upon Repairs
Did the seller agree to complete any repairs or address specific items as part of your purchase negotiations?
Now is the time to check!
Review the agreed-upon items and confirm that the work has been completed as promised. If you negotiated a repair or other specific condition, make sure you understand exactly what was agreed to and whether it has been fulfilled.
If something appears incomplete, don't simply assume it will be taken care of later. Bring it to your Realtor's attention so the situation can be addressed before possession whenever possible.
3. Check Cleanliness and Left-Behind Items
Nobody wants to arrive at their new home with a moving truck full of boxes only to discover that the previous owners left behind unwanted furniture, garbage, or a house that hasn't been cleaned.
Take a look through the home, garage, basement, and yard.
Has the seller removed their belongings as agreed? Is the property in the condition required by your purchase agreement? Are there unexpected items left behind?
The goal is to start your next chapter without unnecessary surprises or extra work on moving day.
4. Check Utilities, Appliances, and Essential Systems
Take a few minutes to check the essentials.
Confirm that the heat is working.
Check that electricity and water are functioning where applicable.
Test the taps and flush the toilets.
Check that included appliances are present and appear to be working.
Look for any obvious leaks or signs of damage.
A walkthrough isn't a substitute for a professional inspection, and some systems may not be fully testable during a brief visit. However, identifying an obvious issue before possession is much better than discovering it after you've moved in.
5. Prepare for Moving Day
Your walkthrough is also a great opportunity to get familiar with your new space one last time.
Measure doorways if needed, double-check where large furniture might go, and make a mental note of anything you want to tackle first.
Where are the electrical outlets? Which room will become the home office? Where will the Christmas tree go? And which box absolutely needs to be unpacked first?
Okay, that last one might just be me!
A little planning now can make the first few days in your new home feel much more organized.
What If You Find a Problem?
First, don't panic. But don't ignore it either.
Document the issue with photos or notes, contact your Realtor promptly, and discuss the appropriate next steps before possession.
Your purchase agreement matters, and the options available will depend on its terms and the circumstances. Avoid assuming that you can automatically delay possession, withhold funds, or require a particular remedy without proper advice.
This is one of the reasons having a knowledgeable Realtor in your corner throughout the process is so valuable. You don't have to figure everything out alone.
One Final Step Toward Your New Beginning
Buying a home is a significant investment, both financially and emotionally. After all the excitement, negotiations, paperwork, and planning, you deserve to feel confident as you prepare to take possession.
A pre-possession walkthrough isn't about finding every tiny imperfection or expecting a resale home to be brand new. It's about making sure expectations have been met, identifying potential concerns, and giving yourself the opportunity to address anything that needs attention.
My advice? Never skip this important step if you have the opportunity to include it in your purchase arrangements. Discuss the walkthrough and its timing with your Realtor early in the process so the appropriate terms can be considered.
At Russell Realty with CIR Realty, We believe buying a home is about more than getting to possession day. It's about helping you feel informed, supported, and prepared throughout the journey.
Because getting the keys should be an exciting milestone, not the beginning of an unexpected to-do list!
Thinking about buying a home in Calgary or the surrounding areas? We're happy to answer your questions, help you understand the process, and make sure you know what to look for along the way.
Let's make your next move a confident one!
