Closing Day in the GTA | What to Expect
Updated: January 2026
Quick Answer
Closing day in the Greater Toronto Area is when mortgage funds are released, title is registered, and legal possession transfers to the buyer. Most buyers receive keys in the late afternoon, typically between 3:00 and 5:00 p.m., although timing depends on lender funding, lawyer coordination, seller vacating, and condo access rules.
This guide explains exactly what happens on closing day in the GTA, Hamilton, and the Niagara Region. If you’re earlier in the process and want to review timelines leading up to closing, start with the First-Time Home Buyer Guide Ontario.
Typical closing day timeline in the GTA
While every transaction is unique, most GTA closings follow a predictable sequence. Understanding this order helps reduce anxiety on the day itself.
- Morning: the lender releases mortgage funds to your lawyer
- Midday: your lawyer completes final title searches and document checks
- Early afternoon: funds are transferred to the seller’s lawyer
- Late afternoon: title is registered and keys are released
Delays usually occur between these steps, not because of problems, but because each stage depends on the one before it.
What your lawyer does on closing day
Your real estate lawyer controls the legal and financial process on closing day. Even though your realtor coordinates the transaction, only the lawyer can confirm registration and authorize key release.
Mortgage funds and lender timing
Lenders release funds during business hours. As a result, closings scheduled on Fridays or month-end often run later in the day. This timing is normal and does not indicate an issue.
Title registration
Once funds are confirmed, your lawyer registers the transfer of ownership through Ontario’s electronic land registry system. Legal possession only occurs after registration is complete.
Key release
Keys are released only after the seller’s lawyer confirms full payment and the seller has vacated the property. For this reason, buyers should plan for late-day access.
When will you actually get your keys?
In most GTA transactions, buyers receive keys in the mid to late afternoon. Earlier access is possible but should never be assumed. Planning flexibility into your move-in day prevents unnecessary stress.
Common closing day delays in Ontario
Delays are common and usually resolve the same day. The most frequent causes include:
- Lender funds arriving later than expected
- The seller not fully vacated
- Condo elevator bookings or concierge restrictions
- Minor last-minute documentation corrections
Pre-closing planning checklist
Preparation is the biggest factor in a smooth closing.
48–72 hours before closing
- Confirm all instructions with your lawyer
- Arrange home insurance effective on closing day
- Schedule utility transfers
- Confirm movers with a flexible arrival window
The day before closing
- Complete a final walkthrough if available
- Confirm condo move-in rules and elevator bookings
- Pack essentials separately
On closing day
- Stay reachable by phone and email
- Avoid new credit or large banking changes
- Expect keys later in the day
Closing day when relocating from the GTA
Buyers relocating from the GTA to Hamilton or the Niagara Region should build extra buffer time into their move. Travel distance, elevator availability, and late key release often make same-day long-distance moves more complex.
If budget flexibility is part of your relocation plan, review GTA vs Niagara Home Search Tips.
Helpful internal resources before closing
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Book a Buyer CallFrequently Asked Questions
Most buyers receive keys in the late afternoon, typically between 3:00 and 5:00 p.m., once funds are transferred and title is registered. Earlier access is possible but should not be assumed, especially in busy GTA markets.
Yes, but it’s best to plan for flexibility. Because key release often happens later in the day, many buyers choose to move the following day to avoid stress and delays.
The most common causes include lender funding timing, sellers not fully vacated, condo elevator or concierge restrictions, and minor last-minute documentation issues. Most delays resolve the same day.
On closing day, your lawyer is the person who confirms when funds are received, title is registered, and keys can be released. Your realtor stays available for coordination and support, but only your lawyer can legally confirm that the transaction has closed.
Your lawyer will manage follow-up with the lender. Buyers should avoid committing to early move-in times until registration is complete.
Often yes, but access depends on the building’s rules, concierge hours, and completion of required move-in procedures. Some buildings release fobs separately from keys.
Yes, but same-day closings require careful timing. If sale proceeds fund your purchase, delays in the sale can affect key release, so extra coordination with your lawyer and movers is important.