When do I get the keys to my new home?
“When do I get the keys to my new home?” — here’s the blunt, step-by-step answer for buyers and sellers in Georgetown, ON.
Fast, Clear Answer
You usually get the keys on the possession day specified in your Agreement of Purchase and Sale. In Georgetown and across Ontario, possession commonly begins at 9:00 a.m. on the closing day — but the keys won’t be handed over until your lawyer confirms title registration and funds have cleared. Builders and condo corporations can set different rules. Read the possession clause in your contract. Know the timeline. Plan accordingly.
Why this matters (cut to the point)
You don’t want surprises on closing day. Wrong expectations cost time, money, movers, storage and stress. Know the process so you can schedule movers, transfer utilities and plan move-in details without panic.
The exact process — step by step (what actually happens in Georgetown, ON)
- Agreement of Purchase and Sale (APS)
- The APS sets the closing date and the possession time. That’s the legal guide. If it says “possession 9:00 a.m.”, that’s the target.
- Lawyer prepares for closing
- Each side’s real estate lawyer exchanges documents, confirms funds, and prepares to register the transfer at the Land Registry Office. In Halton Hills (Georgetown), closings are handled by Ontario-licensed real estate lawyers or notaries.
- Closing occurs
- “Closing” means the title transfer is registered and funds move from buyer’s lawyer to seller’s lawyer.
- Confirmation and key release
- Once registration and funds are confirmed, the seller’s lawyer or listing agent authorizes key release. The keys are typically handed to the buyer or the buyer’s agent. If a lockbox or builder process is used, keys are released following their rules.
- Possession takes effect
- Possession is effective when the buyer is legally allowed to occupy — usually the time written in APS. If the seller has not vacated, the buyer shouldn’t force entry — follow legal remedies instead.
Common scenarios and what to expect
- Traditional resale home: possession time usually 9:00 a.m. Keys released after lawyers confirm registration and funds.
- Condo purchase: condo corporation may require an early orientation and specific key release steps. Your condo lawyer can confirm move-in packages and locker access.
- New-build home: builders may set a different possession protocol (e.g., orientation, occupancy permit, staged access). Don’t assume keys on the legal closing date until builder confirms occupancy date.
- Private sale or unusual possession terms: if APS lists a different time (noon, 3 p.m., or a date after closing) that controls.
Practical checklist — plan your closing day in Georgetown
- Confirm possession time in the APS.
- Confirm with your lawyer the exact timing they expect to register title and transfer funds.
- Book movers with a buffer — don’t schedule arrival earlier than the possession time plus one hour.
- Arrange utility transfers for the possession day (Halton Region utilities and local services in Georgetown). Confirm meter readings with seller if needed.
- If it’s a condo, check the condo corporation’s move-in rules and elevator booking times.
- Keep communication lines open: have your realtor and lawyer’s numbers ready.
What can delay key release? (and how to avoid it)
- Funds not released: make sure your mortgage, down payment and closing costs arrive early to your lawyer.
- Title or registration issue: minor title problems can delay registration. Your lawyer will tell you if anything comes up.
- Seller hasn’t moved out: if the seller is late, keys won’t be released until possession conditions are met.
- Missing documents or adjustments: incomplete closing documents or unresolved adjustments can pause the process.
How to avoid delays: confirm funds transfer 2–3 days before closing, and keep in close contact with your lawyer. Confirm utility switch dates and mover arrival windows.
Specific local tips for Georgetown, ON buyers and sellers
- Halton Region Services: transfer water/garbage accounts and property tax information around possession. Call Halton Region or Halton Hills municipal offices ahead of time.
- Movers and narrow streets: Georgetown has older neighbourhoods with tight streets and permit rules for oversized trucks. Book local movers who know the area.
- Condo boards in Georgetown: some condo corporations require insurance certificates, ID, and specific move windows. Get board rules in advance.
- Seasonal considerations: winter closings need snow-clearance plans and heating system checks. Summer closings need AC and irrigation switchovers.
If something goes wrong: quick remedies
- Keys not released because funds not cleared: your lawyer will explain next steps. Sometimes a short delay (hours) is all it takes.
- Seller refuses to leave: do not force entry. Your lawyer can apply to court for remedies. As a buyer, document possession attempts and communications.
- Builder delays: builders often have clauses about occupancy and completion. Check your purchase agreement and speak directly with the builder’s closing coordinator.
Examples — real-world closing timelines
- Example A (resale): APS lists possession at 9:00 a.m. Lawyer registers transfer at 8:45 a.m., funds clear by 9:10 a.m., and keys released by listing agent at 9:30 a.m.
- Example B (condo): possession 9:00 a.m., but condo board requires 10:00 a.m. orientation. Lawyer clears funds at 9:00 a.m. Keys are collected at management office at 10:15 a.m.
- Example C (builder): legal closing completed, but occupancy permit delayed. Closing moves forward with a temporary occupancy date. Keys only given after builder issues the permit.
Buyer and Seller responsibilities — what each side must do before key handover
Buyers:
- Ensure funds and mortgage documents are in order.
- Sign closing documents promptly when your lawyer requests them.
- Arrange movers and utility transfers around the possession time.
Sellers:
- Vacate by the possession time listed in the APS.
- Leave the property in the agreed condition and remove personal property unless items are included in the sale.
- Provide all keys, garage openers, and instruction manuals as agreed.
Negotiation point: possession time matters
If you need a late possession or early access, negotiate it into the APS. Sellers sometimes rent-back the property or provide a short possession extension against compensation. Put it in writing. Verbal promises don’t transfer legal possession.
Why you want a local expert handling this in Georgetown
Local experience matters. A Georgetown-savvy realtor knows Halton Hills’ rules, municipal practices, local movers, and condo boards’ quirks. That knowledge prevents costly delays. That’s the difference between a smooth day and a weekend in storage.
I represent buyers and sellers in Georgetown and Halton Hills. I handle the logistics, coordinate lawyers, and ensure movers and utilities are booked around the legal possession time. If you want clarity, call or email — you’ll get fast, practical answers specific to this market.
Contact:
- tony@sousasells.ca
- 416-477-2620
- https://www.sousasells.ca
Final checklist — get the keys without chaos
- Confirm possession time in the APS.
- Confirm funds transfer with your lawyer 2–3 days ahead.
- Book local movers with a buffer.
- Check condo or builder-specific move-in rules.
- Transfer utilities for the possession day.
- Keep your realtor and lawyer on speed dial.
FAQ — Clear answers for home sellers in Georgetown, ON
Q: Can I stay in the home after closing and hand over keys later?
A: Only if the APS includes a rent-back or extended possession clause. Without written agreement, you must vacate at the possession time.
Q: What if the buyer is not ready to move in at possession time?
A: If buyer delays, keys normally remain with the seller or their agent until buyer is ready. Both parties should communicate and document any changes.
Q: Can I leave items behind for the buyer?
A: Only if that’s written in the APS. Unclear items lead to disputes. List included chattels in the contract.
Q: Do I have to be present when keys are handed over?
A: No. Key handover is usually done through lawyers or realtors. You can be present if you prefer.
Q: What happens if keys are handed over before funds clear?
A: That’s risky. Keys should only be released after lawyers confirm registration and funds. If keys are handed over early, consult your lawyer immediately.
Q: Who pays for mover damages or missing items after possession?
A: After legal possession, the buyer assumes responsibility. Keep meter readings and an inventory if there’s a concern during handover.
Q: How do I handle condo move-day rules?
A: Provide the condo board required documents (ID, insurance certificates) and book the elevator/time slots. Your listing agent should coordinate this.
Q: Can I keep copies of keys if buyer takes originals?
A: You should hand over any keys, garage openers and security devices included in the sale. Keeping copies without agreement can create legal issues.
Q: Who notifies Halton Region about address change and utility transfers?
A: Sellers should arrange final reads and notify Halton Region; buyers should arrange new accounts. Coordinate the exact switch date (possession day).
Q: If seller refuses to vacate, what are my options as a buyer?
A: Do not attempt self-help. Contact your lawyer. Legal remedies include damages or court orders. Document everything.
If you want direct, local help to plan your Georgetown closing so you get the keys when you expect them, call or email. You’ll get straight answers and a clear timeline tailored to your deal.
Contact:
- tony@sousasells.ca
- 416-477-2620
- https://www.sousasells.ca
