Tips from Realtors in Middletown, NJ for the Final Walk-Through of Your New Home

Advice from Middletown, NJ Realtors on what to look for before closing on your new home

Buying a home can be one of the most exciting and happy times in your life, especially if it is brand new and built just for you. Although you might think everything is safe and sound regarding the structure and safety of your new home, it is very important to have a home inspection done and conduct a thorough walk-through of the property prior to closing. Not doing so can potentially cost you a large amount of money as well as put the security of you and your family at risk, according to Middletown, NJ Realtors.

See below for the proper steps on how to do a walk-through on your home:

Do your own research

Middletown, NJ Realtors suggest it is a wise idea to conduct some research in advance to know what you have to look for on the day of your walk-through. Organize your findings into a checklist to bring with you to the home to remember to check for the little details such as cracked tiles or squeaky floors.

Contact the builder

Before you sign off on any paperwork and assume ownership of your new home, you will want to contact the builder. Set up a time and date that works for both parties, and allow ample time to carefully go through the entire home in order to avoid overlooking any substantial imperfections.

Be punctual

Realtors in Middletown, NJ stress that timeliness is of utmost importance as the builder is also setting aside time to accommodate your needs. If you arrive late, you may not be able to perform a thorough inspection, and might overlook important elements that can cost you money for repairs in the future.

Check the home’s interior

You will want to ensure that all painting is complete in all rooms, and make a note if this is not satisfactorily done. The walls should be smooth and free of dents and scratches, and the windows and doors should be in working order with no cracks or condensation. All flooring should be properly installed and stain-free, and tiles should be aligned and have no cracking or chipping. Appliances and cabinetry in the kitchen should be scratch-free and in working order. Check the air-conditioning and heating units for proper operation, and the basement for evidence of dampness, cracks in the foundation and leaks.

Check interior plumbing and electrical work

Realtors in Middletown, NJ advise to check that all electrical receptacles, GFCI receptacles, and switches should be in working order with proper switch plates throughout the home. Telephone jacks, network jacks, cable TV jacks, and door bell should be working and labeled correctly on the home’s electrical panel. Regarding plumbing, all fixtures should be correct and free of scratches and nicks, and hot water should be heating up correctly. You will also want to ensure the builder has obtained a final plumbing and electrical certificate prior to closing.

Check the home’s exterior

All windows and doors should be tightly sealed, and siding should not be discolored or have cracks or damage. The property should be graded correctly away from the home, leaders and gutters should be damage-free, and the roof should be complete.

Deal with miscellaneous issues and double-check your list

Ensure the job site is clear of all debris, check garage doors and garbage disposals for correct operation, and obtain all manuals and warranty information for appliances. Also, Realtors in Middletown, NJ suggest you re-check your list, and establish a mutual date of completion for any unfinished items before you sign off on anything. Finally and most importantly, do not leave the home without a copy of this agreement between yourself and the builder.

The Real Estate market is changing rapidly and expanding into new avenues almost daily. Sometimes it can be very difficult to find the answers you need on a specific topic or issue. In times like these, you need a Real Estate professional who will provide valuable information and trustworthy advice. For more information on NJ Real Estate, call us today or click here to be connected with one of our top Real Estate specialists.