punch list

Intermediate 🏠 Real Estate

Definition

A final list of minor repairs or incomplete items that need addressing before closing on new construction. It's proof that even 'move-in ready' is aspirational.

Example Usage

Our punch list includes seventeen items, mostly proving that our builder's definition of 'finished' is creative.

Origin

Construction industry term from the early 20th century, possibly from 'punching' items off a list

Fun Fact

Savvy buyers do their own pre-closing walkthrough with contractors to create the real punch list before the builder's version appears.

Source: New construction and building terminology

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