The process of buying a new home has a number of memorable moments, but some experts think one of the most important – the walk-through – often fails to get the buyer attention it deserves.
In real estate jargon, a walk-through is a tour of the presumably finished home by the buyer and a representative of the builder. It precedes the buyer`s move into the home and is a crucial point when the buyer is in a position to spot and point out defects that need to be fixed.
In a walk-through, both the buyer and builder`s representative have checklist-type forms that serve as a formal record of the buyer`s reactions. In effect, it is the buyer`s last chance to blame the builder for some defects, because after the move-in there might be a question whether the builder or buyer caused a problem.
William Marchiony of Phoenix, who has 25 years of experience in construction and real estate and who estimates that he has conducted more than 500 walk-throughs with new-home buyers, says buyers often badly botch the walk-through and overlook many important details that should be placed on the record.
Marchiony has distilled his experience into a book, ”The New House Buyer`s Guide,” which is possibly the most complete treatment of walk-throughs ever published. The paperback book is priced at $22 postpaid and is available only by mail from Carefree Living Co., 4050 E. Rosemonte Dr., Phoenix, Ariz., 85024.
A few of Marchiony`s basic tips for a walk-through:
– Insist on a daylight tour of the home and plan on spending at least 1 1/2 hours. ”Do not allow yourself to be rushed,” Marchiony says.
– Don`t take children, friends or relatives on a walk-through. A professional home inspector can be a helpful companion, however.
– Prospective buyers should practice walk-throughs in their present homes or in sample homes at various developments, trying to spot defects and familiarizing themselves with what to look for.
– During a walk-through, don`t overlook out-of-the-way places such as closet and cabinet interiors, garages and attics.
– After completing the walk-through, a buyer should compare his or her work sheets with those of the builder`s representative to be sure all defects are noted.
Marchiony stresses that most reputable builders aren`t out to cheat buyers and might even voluntarily point out some defects during a walk-through, but the burden is basically on the buyer.
The book covers a house section by section, giving lists of checkpoints and describing what to look for. A room-by-room checklist and a sample walk-through form is also included, along with a glossary of building terms and addresses of state consumer-protection agencies in each state.
