Your Ontario Pre-Closing Visit Is Not a Victory Lap: Use This Checklist

The offer is firm, the lawyer has the file and moving day is close. It is tempting to treat the pre-closing visit as a chance to measure rooms, plan furniture or bring a contractor. That misses the point.

RECO describes the visit as the buyer’s final opportunity to confirm that the property is still in the expected condition, the appliances and major systems work, the seller has not removed included fixtures or items, and agreed repairs or other obligations were completed. The home still belongs to the seller until closing, so additional visitors require permission unless the agreement already provides otherwise.

Bring the agreement, not just your memory

Review the Agreement of Purchase and Sale and any amendments before you arrive. Make a short list of included appliances, fixtures, chattels and promised repairs. “I thought that was staying” is much harder to resolve than an item specifically identified in the agreement.

Check condition methodically

Walk through each room in the same order. Look for material changes since the last viewing, new damage, missing items and signs that systems are not operating normally. Test what you are permitted to test: lights, major included appliances, faucets, toilets, heating or cooling controls, garage-door equipment and other agreed inclusions. Take factual notes and photos where appropriate.

Do not turn the visit into early possession

The visit is not permission to renovate, move belongings in, give contractors access or market a basement apartment. RECO says work must wait until title has transferred or the transaction has closed. If someone other than the buyer and their representative needs to attend, obtain the seller’s permission first.

Escalate problems; do not improvise a remedy

If something appears wrong, document it and tell your real-estate representative promptly. Your representative can communicate through the seller’s representative, and your lawyer can advise on legal options. Do not withhold funds, enter the property again, arrange a repair or make a legal conclusion on your own.

The five-minute summary

Bring the agreement, follow a room-by-room checklist, verify inclusions and repairs, document concerns and respect that the seller still owns the property until closing. A careful visit cannot eliminate every risk, but it can replace a rushed emotional walk-through with an organized final check.

General-information disclaimer: This article provides general information, not legal, financial, mortgage, insurance or inspection advice. Agreements and property circumstances vary. Obtain advice appropriate to your transaction before acting.