Our Closing Checklist: What We Look For Before Buying A Home
When you’re about to close on a home, the final walkthrough is your chance to make sure the property is truly ready. At CHS Revival, every house we purchase as an investment or as a long-term home goes through a careful, step-by-step review before we sign on the dotted line.
Here’s the checklist we use ourselves, and what we recommend every buyer keep in mind:
1. Big-Ticket Items
We start with the essentials: HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and the roof. Roof age is as important as its visible condition, since replacement can run into five figures. The hot water heater is another item we check for age, functionality, and proper sizing.
2. Agreed-Upon Repairs
If inspection items were negotiated, we verify they are complete and professionally finished. It is not enough for something to appear fixed; it must be done correctly.
3. Appliances and Fixtures
We run every appliance and test every fixture. Ovens, dishwashers, washers and dryers, faucets, and light switches should all function properly and match what was promised in the contract.
4. Termite Protection
Charleston is termite country. We confirm whether the property has an active termite bond and request documentation. If it does not, we factor in the cost and timing of securing one. A bond is not optional; it is protection for your home’s structure and your investment.
5. Crawlspaces and Foundations
We always look beneath the surface. Crawlspaces reveal the story of moisture, ventilation, and pest exposure. We check for standing water, proper vapor barriers, intact insulation, and signs of rot or sagging joists. In a flood-prone area, the crawlspace is often where problems show up first.
6. Water and Drainage
With flood levels and storm risk in Charleston, drainage is a top priority. We walk the yard and check gutters, downspouts, and grading. Even minor signs of pooling water can become major issues over time.
7. Doors, Windows and Security
We test every door and window to confirm they seal, latch, and lock properly. Drafts, leaks, or sticking doors may seem minor but quickly add up in terms of comfort and cost.
8. Cleanliness and Condition
The home should be broom-clean at closing. Garages, sheds, attics, and crawlspaces should be cleared of debris. Anything left behind becomes the buyer’s responsibility.
9. The Live-In Test
Finally, we walk the property as if moving in that day. Does it feel livable? Do smells, creaks, or drafts make you hesitate? This instinct check is as important as the technical boxes.
“Closing” Thought
The Lowcountry presents unique challenges including moisture in crawlspaces, termite exposure, and storm damage. At CHS Revival, our final walkthrough is more than a formality. It is a safeguard against hidden costs and an assurance that a property is worth the investment.
When you walk into closing, you deserve confidence. With the right checklist and the right local perspective, you will have it.
