Can a buyer back out at the final walkthrough in California?

It depends on whether any contingencies are still active. If the inspection, appraisal, or loan contingency has already been removed, the buyer cannot walk away without risking their earnest money deposit — typically up to 3% of the purchase price under California's liquidated damages clause. However, if the seller has failed to perform a contractual obligation (such as completing agreed-upon repairs), the buyer may have grounds to delay or demand a remedy. Talk to your agent immediately if you discover a material issue at the walkthrough.

What can a buyer demand at the final walkthrough in California?

Buyers can demand a closing credit (most common), require the seller to complete repairs before funding, request an escrow holdback for unfinished items (though lenders often restrict this), or negotiate a purchase price reduction. What you're entitled to depends on what the seller agreed to in the inspection response and what the purchase contract specifies. The walkthrough isn't a tool to renegotiate the deal — it's a verification that the seller has met their contractual obligations.

What happens if agreed repairs from the inspection weren't done by the walkthrough?

If a seller agreed to repairs in the Request for Repair (C.A.R. Form RR) response and those repairs weren't completed, the buyer has a legitimate contractual claim. The most practical resolution is a closing credit equal to the cost of the work. Your agent should document the incomplete repairs in writing and present a demand before the close of escrow. If the seller refuses and contingencies have been removed, consult your agent and potentially legal counsel before proceeding.

How far in advance of closing is the final walkthrough in California?

Under the C.A.R. Residential Purchase Agreement (RPA), buyers have the right to conduct a final verification of condition within 5 calendar days prior to close of escrow. In practice, most West Valley buyers schedule the walkthrough 1–2 days before closing — close enough that the seller has fully vacated, but with enough time to flag and resolve any issues before the loan funds.

Can the seller remove appliances or light fixtures before the final walkthrough?

No — not if those items are included in the purchase contract. Under California law and the C.A.R. RPA, all items listed in the contract as included (built-in appliances, light fixtures, window treatments, etc.) must remain. 'Fixtures' under California law generally includes anything permanently attached — a chandelier bolted to the ceiling, for example, is typically a fixture. If the seller removed something that should have stayed, that's a breach of the purchase contract and grounds for a demand or credit.