Buying your first home is one of the most exciting—and sometimes overwhelming—milestones in life. Among all the paperwork, legal jargon, and checklists, one word you’re bound to encounter is conveyancing. But what does it mean? And when, exactly, can you move into your new home?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about conveyancing in Ontario, including how it works, who’s involved, key timelines, and what determines when you can finally get the keys to your new property.

What Is Conveyancing?

Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring ownership of a property from the seller to the buyer. It begins once an Agreement of Purchase and Sale (APS) is signed and continues until the legal title is registered in the buyer’s name on closing day.

In Ontario, conveyancing is conducted by real estate lawyers who ensure that:

• The title is clear of any issues, such as unpaid taxes or liens.
• All conditions in the purchase agreement are met.
• Funds are transferred properly.
• Title is legally transferred and registered.
• The buyer receives the keys.

Why Is Conveyancing Important?

Conveyancing protects both the buyer and the seller by making sure that:

• The buyer receives a valid and marketable title.
• The seller receives payment in full.
• Legal documents are properly executed and registered.
• Outstanding financial obligations tied to the property (like mortgages or utilities) are settled.

Who Is Involved in the Conveyancing Process?

Several parties collaborate during conveyancing:

• Buyer’s Lawyer: Performs title searches, prepares legal documents, registers the transfer, and coordinates funds.
• Seller’s Lawyer: Prepares the deed and statement of adjustments, and ensures the seller’s mortgage is discharged.
• Lenders (if there’s a mortgage): Release mortgage funds upon satisfaction of conditions.
• Title Insurance Companies: Often used to protect against unknown title defects or fraud.

Timeline: What Happens During Conveyancing?

Here’s a typical conveyancing timeline for Ontario real estate deals:

1. Offer Accepted (Day 0)

• The Agreement of Purchase and Sale is signed.
• Buyer hires a real estate lawyer.

2. Before Closing (2–4 Weeks Prior)

• Lawyer conducts a title search to uncover any legal issues.
• Buyer arranges mortgage financing.
• Home insurance is secured by the buyer.
• Title insurance is ordered.
• Buyer reviews the Statement of Adjustments, which outlines how property taxes, utilities, and other costs are divided.

3. Closing Day

• The buyer’s lawyer receives mortgage funds and the balance of the down payment.
• The funds are transferred to the seller’s lawyer.
• The deed is registered in the buyer’s name with the Ontario Land Registry.
• Legal title is transferred to the buyer.
• The buyer receives keys to the property—this is when you can officially move in (more on this below).

When Can I Move Into My New House?

✅ You can move in on the closing day—but only after the deal is officially completed and the transfer is registered.

The exact time you can move in on closing day depends on a few factors:

🕓 Key Timing Factors:

1. Registration of Transfer: This must be done at the Land Registry Office and usually occurs by early afternoon (around 1–4 p.m.). Your lawyer handles this electronically.
2. Fund Transfer: The buyer’s lawyer must send funds to the seller’s lawyer. Only when this is confirmed will the title transfer proceed.
3. Release of Keys: Once registration is complete and funds are received, the seller’s lawyer authorizes release of the keys—often to the buyer’s lawyer or directly via the realtor.

❗ Important Tip:

Don’t book your movers for the early morning on closing day. Unexpected delays (e.g., banking issues, registration backups, or missing documents) can push key release to late afternoon.

What Could Delay My Move-In?

Even on closing day, delays can happen due to:

• Late mortgage funding
• Issues discovered in the final walkthrough
• Incomplete documents
• Missed deadlines for wire transfers
• High volume at the Land Registry (common at month-end)

If closing is delayed past business hours, you may not receive keys until the next business day. Your lawyer can negotiate occupancy or per diem penalties if this happens.

Pro Tips for a Smooth Closing and Move-In

1. ✅ Hire a real estate lawyer early—preferably right after your offer is accepted.
2. ✅ Respond promptly to any requests for documents or information from your lawyer or lender.
3. ✅ Avoid closing on a Friday or before a long weekend—if delays happen, you’ll wait until the next business day.
4. ✅ Do a pre-closing walkthrough (usually 24–48 hours before) to ensure the property is in the agreed condition.
5. ✅ Have temporary accommodation ready (just in case) if you must vacate your current place before closing.

Final Thoughts

Conveyancing is a critical part of buying your first home. While it may seem like a behind-the-scenes process, it determines when and how smoothly you get your keys and take possession of your new property. By working closely with your real estate lawyer and staying informed, you’ll be ready to move in with confidence—on closing day, once everything is officially completed.

Need Help With Real Estate Legal Services in Ontario?

If you’re a first-time homebuyer and feeling overwhelmed, working with a trusted legal professional can make all the difference. At Philer.ai, we combine technology with expert legal knowledge to make your homebuying process seamless and stress-free.

📩 Have questions about your closing or conveyancing? Contact us today or explore our services here.