You won’t need your “10,000 steps” sneakers for this exercise. But whether you’re the buyer or seller, you will need to keep your eyes wide open - to make sure the co-op or condo that’s a day or two away from closing is in ship-shape condition - just the way it was during the initial walk-through. Any variables in the condition of an apartment can lead to delays in closing - and last-minute price haggling - and that’s the last thing any seller wants. And it can be a real nuisance for buyers as well.

A checklist for buyers.

-- Confirm the status of all repairs that were discussed and agreed upon.

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-- Try all major appliances. Test burners on the stove, turn on the oven, run the dishwasher, check any special features of refrigerator, etc. to ensure nothing has changed since the initial home inspection.

-- Open and close all windows, doors and closet doors.

-- Check the walls, ceilings and floors – see if there was any damage during the owner’s move-out process.

-- Turn all lights on and off and test all electric outlets. Bring your phone charger with you to quickly test the outlets.

-- Run all faucets, check for hot water and look under the sink to see if there are any leaks.

-- Turn on heat and air-conditioning to ensure that units are all working properly.

-- If a storage unit is part of the purchase, make sure the owner’s possessions were removed.

Should you observe any condition “glitches” that are more than superficial, this is the time for your agent to negotiate a fair price adjustment – ideally right on the spot! If repairs are deemed to be much more extensive, your agent will negotiate for funds from the seller to be placed in an escrow account.

Tips for sellers.

-- Your apartment must be empty of furniture and accessories – except for any built-ins that are part of the “as is” agreement.

-- Repair any gouges on floors or walls that may have been caused by moving or the removal of pictures.

-- Make any necessary repairs to appliances.

-- Do not cancel Con Ed or gas services – you need to show that everything is working.

-- Thoroughly clean the apartment and all appliances. It’s worth hiring a professional service – and will lessen the chances of any nit-picking from buyer.

-- Make sure all lightbulbs are working in ceiling fixtures – if you have removed a favorite fixture, an inexpensive replacement will be adequate.

A proven path to a successful walk-through.

While a final walk-through isn’t a walk in the park, the goal is to make it a quick and hassle-free experience for all parties. Over the course of a 19-year career, I’ve guided buyers and sellers through every facet of their real estate transactions – all the way to the final walk-through and closing. It helps to have a proven agent by your side - every step of the way!

Data provided by Aaron Ritter of Citizens Bank