Ontario Closing Guide
Pre-Closing Checklist for Buyers and Sellers in Ontario
A practical timeline of who to contact, what to arrange and what to confirm between a firm agreement and closing day.
Important: This checklist is a practical reminder, not legal, mortgage, insurance or tax advice. Contact your lawyer, lender or mortgage broker, insurer and other service providers directly, and follow the instructions they give you for your transaction.
Download the Printable Checklist
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As soon as the deal is firm · Two to three weeks before · One week before · Two to three days before · Closing day · After closing
Choose the Checklist That Applies to You
As Soon as the Agreement Is Firm
Buyer Checklist
Seller Checklist
Two to Three Weeks Before Closing
Buyer Checklist
Seller Checklist
One Week Before Closing
Buyer Checklist
Seller Checklist
Two to Three Days Before Closing
Buyer Checklist
Seller Checklist
Closing Day
Buyer Checklist
Seller Checklist
After Closing
Buyer Checklist
Seller Checklist
Common Pre-Closing Mistakes
Waiting too long to contact professionals
Contact your lawyer, lender or mortgage broker and insurer as soon as the agreement is firm, not a few days before closing.
Booking movers too early
A closing date does not guarantee that keys will be available first thing in the morning. Build flexibility into your moving plan.
Disconnecting utilities too soon
Sellers should generally keep essential services active through closing unless their lawyer or provider gives different instructions.
Removing included items
Review the agreement before moving. Items included in the sale must remain unless the parties later agree otherwise in writing.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should buyers book movers?
Book early enough to secure the date, but schedule the actual move with flexibility. Closings can complete later in the day, and buyers should not enter until their lawyer confirms completion and the keys are released.
When should sellers cancel utilities?
Contact each provider in advance and arrange final billing or transfer. Avoid shutting off essential services before closing unless you have been specifically instructed to do so.
Who tells the buyer when the keys are available?
The buyer's lawyer normally confirms when the transaction has closed and explains how the keys or access instructions will be provided.
What should a seller leave behind?
Leave all items included in the agreement, along with the keys, remotes, fobs and access devices arranged for the buyer. Manuals and warranties are also helpful when available.
What happens if closing is delayed?
Contact your lawyer and real estate agent immediately. Your lawyer will address the legal and financial implications, while your agent can help with practical communication and access issues.
Questions About an Upcoming Closing?
Every transaction is different. I am happy to help buyers and sellers understand the practical steps and connect with the appropriate professional when a legal, mortgage or insurance question arises.
Related Guides
This checklist is for general informational purposes only and does not replace instructions or advice from your lawyer, lender or mortgage broker, insurer, accountant, utility provider or other professional. Dates, possession arrangements and responsibilities depend on the agreement and the circumstances of the transaction.
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| pre-closing-checklist-ontario.pdf | 6.73 KB |