Congratulations, you’re in the final stretch of selling your Seattle home! The final walkthrough is just around the corner, and one essential step is often overlooked but can make a big difference: leaving manuals and warranties. In this blog post, we’ll explain why it’s crucial and how to do it right.

Why Leaving Manuals and Warranties Matters

When you sell your home, you’re passing on not just the physical property but also the appliances, systems, and equipment that come with it. Leaving manuals and warranties for these items benefits both you and the buyer in several ways:

Buyer Confidence: Providing manuals and warranties shows that you’re committed to transparency and that you’ve maintained your home well. This boosts the buyer’s confidence in their purchase.
Easy Troubleshooting: Manuals help the new homeowner understand how to operate appliances, HVAC systems, and other equipment. They can troubleshoot minor issues without calling for professional help.
Warranty Coverage: Warranties are essential for any items still under warranty. If an appliance or system malfunctions within the warranty period, the buyer can use the warranty to get it repaired or replaced at no cost or a reduced cost.
Saves Time and Money: Access to manuals and warranties can save the buyer time and money on repairs and replacements. It’s a valuable resource for them.
Positive Closing Experience: Providing these documents contributes to a positive closing experience, leaving the buyer with a favorable impression of the transaction.

What to Include

Here’s a list of items to consider when gathering manuals and warranties for the final walkthrough:

Kitchen Appliances: Include manuals for the stove, oven, dishwasher, refrigerator, microwave, and any other appliances that will stay with the house.
HVAC System: Provide manuals for the heating and cooling systems, including the thermostat.
Water Heater: Include the manual for the water heater.
Washer and Dryer: If the washer and dryer are staying, provide their manuals.
Garage Door Opener: Include the manual for the garage door opener.
Ceiling Fans: If you have ceiling fans, leave their manuals.
Security System: If your home has a security system, provide the manual and any access codes.
Pool or Hot Tub: If your property has a pool or hot tub, leave manuals for their maintenance and operation.
Outdoor Equipment: If you’re leaving behind outdoor equipment like a lawnmower, leaf blower, or snow blower, include their manuals.
Home Warranty Information: If you have an existing home warranty that covers any systems or appliances, provide the warranty information and contact details.

How to Organize and Present Them

Now that you’ve gathered all the manuals and warranties, here’s how to organize and present them for the final walkthrough:

Create a Folder: Place all the documents in a dedicated folder or binder. You can use clear sheet protectors to keep them in good condition.
Label Clearly: Label the folder or binder clearly with a title like “Home Manuals and Warranties.”
Leave It in a Visible Location: Before the final walkthrough, place the folder or binder in a visible and easily accessible location in the home. The kitchen counter or a prominent shelf is a good choice.
Inform the Buyer’s Agent: Let the buyer’s agent know about the location of the folder or binder. They can inform the buyer during the walkthrough.
Highlight Key Information: If there are specific warranties or important contact information, consider using sticky notes or highlighting those details for easy reference.

Benefits of Leaving Manuals and Warranties

Leaving manuals and warranties is a simple yet impactful gesture that can benefit both you as the seller and the buyer:

Peace of Mind: It gives the buyer peace of mind knowing they have access to information and warranties if anything goes wrong.
Smoother Transition: It facilitates a smoother transition for the new homeowner, making them feel more at ease in their new property.
Showcases Responsibility: It showcases your responsibility and commitment to maintaining the home, enhancing the buyer’s confidence in their purchase.
Fewer Post-Closing Disputes: Providing these documents can help prevent disputes or misunderstandings after closing regarding the condition and coverage of appliances and systems.

In conclusion, leaving manuals and warranties for appliances and systems during the final walkthrough is a small but thoughtful gesture that can go a long way in ensuring a smooth home sale in Seattle. It benefits both you and the buyer, providing them with valuable resources and contributing to a positive closing experience. So, as you prepare for the final walkthrough, remember to leave these documents in an accessible and visible location to make the transition as seamless as possible.