For example, let's say you negotiated with the seller that he would keep the chandelier in place as part of the sales contract. What might occur if you close on the property, take the keys, and then go to your new home with a missing chandelier? You would not be too happy.
Several years ago, before I was a licensed agent, my husband and I bought a home from an estate. The house was vacant with just some odds and ends laying around, and so we did not feel compelled to do a walk through. What a mistake. The home was a cape cod style with eves upstairs for storage. In those eves, post closing, I found about two hundred hangers and garbage. I had to clean it.
Also consider this. The plants and trees in the ground, at the time you signed the contract, are part of the real estate. There have been instances when the sellers cut trees down or took bushes with them prior to closing. In one case of which I am aware, a seller cut down two beautiful trees that adorned the sides of the front driveway leading to the home. The buyer loved the trees. After closing, the buyers discovered the trees were gone. In this case, the seller had to make restitution because the buyer took him to court. He could not replant the trees, but he did have to reimburse the buyer several thousands dollars for their value.
Most often, everything is fine during a walk through and it's a formality, but why take that chance? This is likely the largest purchase you will make. Conducting a walk through is your right - so take it, and be sure you are getting what you agreed to buy.
Annmarie Cristiani
REMAX Traditions Real Estate
201-815-7861
