Home Sale and Closing Process
For buyers, an accepted offer starts the next stage. Keep your contract deadlines, financing, legal documents and moving arrangements on one checklist.
Start with the dates in your agreement
Send the signed agreement to your lawyer and lender promptly. Confirm the deposit instructions, any condition deadlines and the completion date. Ask who is responsible for each next step; do not assume an outstanding condition has been resolved.
If you are also selling or ending a tenancy, compare both timelines and make a backup moving plan. RECO’s buyer’s checklist recommends planning for dates that do not align.
Confirm financing for this property
A mortgage preapproval is not a guarantee of final approval. Your lender will also assess the property and its own lending requirements. Ask what documents, appraisal or other conditions remain outstanding and when they must be completed. Read FCAC’s preapproval guidance.
Get the final cash requirement in writing
Ask your lawyer to explain the closing statement, adjustments, taxes, fees and remaining funds you must provide. Confirm the required payment method and deadline directly with the law office. Ask your insurer when coverage must begin, and arrange utility accounts for possession.
Budgeting for these items starts before closing: review the ownership and purchase-cost checklist. The CMHC homebuying guide also provides a preparation and closing workbook.
When can you collect the keys?
Do not plan on access simply because closing day has begun. Confirm completion and key-release arrangements with your lawyer and agent before sending movers to the property. RECO’s closing guidance requires brokerages to confirm completion before releasing keys, unless the seller has given written consent for earlier access.
Build your purchase checklist
Tell us where you are buying and your preferred moving date. We can help organize the property and timing questions for your next step.