A final visit to the property, usually done the day before or the morning of closing, to confirm that the home is in the same condition as when you made your offer. You're checking that the seller hasn't caused damage during move-out, that agreed-upon chattels are still present, and that any negotiated repairs have been completed.
Why It Matters
The walk-through is your last chance to catch problems before the keys change hands. If the seller removed fixtures they weren't supposed to or left the home in poor condition, you can raise the issue with your lawyer before closing. Don't skip it -- it takes less than an hour and can save you a major headache.
Real-World Example
The morning before your closing on a townhouse in Oakville, you and your agent do a walk-through. You discover the seller has removed the built-in microwave (listed as an included chattel) and left garbage bags in the garage. You notify your lawyer, who negotiates a $1,500 holdback from the seller's proceeds to cover the replacement microwave and cleaning costs.
Ontario & GTA Context
There is no legal entitlement to a walk-through inspection in Ontario -- it must be negotiated as part of the APS or arranged through the agents. Most standard OREA agreements do not include an automatic walk-through clause, so your agent should add one to the offer. Ontario courts have upheld buyer claims for damages when a property's condition changed materially between offer acceptance and closing.
How It Works in Practice
Schedule your walk-through as close to closing as possible -- ideally the morning of or the evening before. Bring your APS and the listing photos to compare. Check that all included chattels are present, that the home is in broom-clean condition, and that no damage occurred during the seller's move-out.
Common Questions
Is a walk-through inspection required in Ontario?▾
What can I do if I find damage during the walk-through?▾
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