Congratulations! Your new condo is nearly complete and you are just weeks away from closing on your home. Although this is a very exciting time, it can also be stressful. So being prepared for a smooth completion whether you are a first time home buyer, moving up or simply downsizing can ensure this process stays exciting.

So what steps can you take in order to facilitate a smooth legal transfer of title (the “Completion”) and subsequent possession of your new home? Well, it just takes 5 easy steps:

Step 1 – Scheduling Pre-Occupancy Inspection Appointments

Weeks before your Completion, you will receive a call from the developer to schedule your inspection walkthrough. You or an authorized person will have to make yourself available on this day to view your home.

Step 2 - Pre-Occupancy Inspection

Before you move in to your new home, you will have an opportunity to view the completed product. During the pre-occupancy inspection, a representative will walk you through your suite to inspect the finishes and familiarize you with operational systems such as gas, plumbing and electrical. The pre occupancy inspection usually takes approximately 1- 1 ½ hours. This is the time to ask any questions or concerns (if any) with regards to your new home.

Step 3 – Completion

Before your Completion date, you will need to ensure you have provided a copy of your contract to your lawyer and financial institution. On your Completion day, legal transfer of your new home occurs provided that the vendors’ solicitor receives the transfer of funds by a specified time on that day.

Step 4 – Taking Possession

You will be able to take possession of your new home 24 hours after closing, provided that the Vendor’s solicitor’s received the transfer of funds on the Completion Date. A Customer Service Representative will call you to arrange a key pick up appointment. During the appointment, you will receive your keys, fobs, homeowner manual and home component warranty manuals. Be sure to contact hydro, telus, shaw, etc to set up your accounts effective your possession day and change your mailing address with Canada Post.

Step 5 – Moving In

Prior to moving in, you must schedule a move-in appointment to ensure that an elevator is available for you during that time. Appointments usually need to be booked at least one week prior to closing and you will likely be given a time slot for approximately two hours.

Although this is an exciting time, it is easy to get lost in the details. However by taking these steps and being prepared you can make certain for a seamless Completion process. Good Luck!

Irshaad Ahmad