Home Purchase Checklist

Home Purchase Checklist

If you are buying a home, this is what you can do to get ready for your closing:

Please fill out our INTAKE FORM as soon as possible to help us get started. This will provide us with provide us with all the information required to open your file. If you are uncertain about any of the information being requested, or if any of the information requested is unavailable, simply complete the intake form to the best of your ability and knowledge. You may also contact us at any time for assistance.

Your file will be assigned to one of our lawyers shortly after it’s been opened. You should provide the following parties with your lawyer’s name, phone number, email address and fax number:

  • your bank, lender or mortgage broker;
  • your real estate agent;
  • your insurance company (re: property insurance).

It is a good idea to make yourself a separate list of the conditions of the offer–such as financing, status certificate, property inspection, etc.– so that you remain aware of any time-sensitive material that could cause the offer to expire. You will also need to inform us when you waive any conditions that are part of the offer.

Book your moving arrangements as soon as possible to ensure the best rates and availability of the moving company, or a truck if you are doing it yourself. Getting access to a truck at the last minute may be challenging, especially if you are moving in August, when most students are also moving back to school).

If you are moving in on the same day that your deal closes, we recommend that you schedule movers for late morning or early afternoon, as keys are usually released between 1:00pm and 4:00pm.

You will need to meet one of our lawyers to review and sign your closing documents. Ideally, this appointment would take place 2-3 business days prior to your closing date. Once you have completed our INTAKE FORM, we will be in touch to schedule the meeting.

Provide your insurance company with our contact information and advise them to contact our office ahead of your closing. Important information will need to be confirmed, and a copy of your proof of insurance will need to be sent to our office.

Please note that we require proof of valid insurance to register and release keys on the day of closing. The start date of your new insurance should be your closing date.

You are responsible to contact all utility providers (e.g.: telephone, cable, heat, hydro electric, etc.) to advise them of the change of ownership and to set up your accounts. Our office will only contact the local municipality regarding taxes and water on your behalf. Please contact utilities at least one week prior to your closing date.

Your lender may need us to produce several documents to fund your deal. Examples of other documents that may be required for closing include a void personal cheque; a water/septic tank certificate (if the property is not connected to the local municipality); a copy of your Tarion Certificate (for new constructions); etc.

We will provide you with a list of all required documents as soon as possible once we receive instructions from your lender.

We will contact you prior to closing to confirm the exact amount of the certified cheque, bank draft, or wire transfer needed to close your purchase. Personal cheques or cash cannot be accepted. To make it easier for you, the requested amount will be inclusive of all legal fees, disbursements, and the remainder of your down payment.

The keys to your new home will be made available to you as soon as your transaction registers. Please note that closings are generally completed later in the afternoon (between 1:00pm and 5:00pm). We therefore strongly recommend not to schedule any deliveries or movers on the day of your closing.

Plan your move as far ahead as possible and start packing. One of the biggest stressors during a purchase is waiting until the last minute to get packing.