Ontario First-Time Home Buyer Checklist -

Quick Overview

This Ontario first-time home buyer checklist covers what to do before showings, what to prepare before you write an offer, and what to handle after acceptance and during closing week. If you want the full strategy and local examples, start here: First-Time Home Buyer Guide Ontario.

Home Buying Checklist Ontario: Phase 1 (Before You Tour Homes)

☐ Get pre-approved and confirm your rate hold period (this is your mortgage pre-approval checklist Ontario step).
☐ Confirm your down payment checklist Ontario plan: savings, FHSA, RRSP HBP, and any gifted funds.
☐ Set a monthly budget that includes property taxes, utilities, and condo fees if you’re considering condos.
☐ Build your must-have list, your deal-breakers, and a realistic commute plan.
☐ Choose 2–3 target areas plus a backup area (GTA, Hamilton, or Niagara based on lifestyle and timeline).

Pro Tip

If you’re buying a condo, add “status certificate review” to your plan early. It changes timelines and can affect your offer strategy.

First-Time Buyer Steps Ontario: Phase 2 (Before You Make an Offer)

☐ Review comparable sales and confirm your comfort price, not just your maximum.
☐ Decide inspection strategy (pre-offer inspection vs inspection condition) based on property type and market pace.
☐ For condos: plan for status certificate review timing and legal review if needed.
☐ Confirm your first-time buyer closing costs Ontario estimate (LTT, legal fees, title insurance, adjustments).
☐ Shortlist a real estate lawyer so you can move fast once your offer is accepted.

Offer Checklist Ontario: Phase 3 (After Your Offer Is Accepted)

☐ Send the accepted Agreement of Purchase and Sale to your lender and lawyer right away.
☐ Book your home inspection (if it’s a condition) and complete follow-up due diligence.
☐ Satisfy mortgage approval conditions by the deadline (documents, appraisal if required).
☐ Arrange home insurance effective for closing day (lenders usually require proof).
☐ Confirm deposit delivery instructions and keep proof of delivery.
☐ Review your lawyer’s title search and closing statement, then confirm the final funds needed to close.

Closing Day Checklist Ontario: Phase 4 (Closing Week)

☐ Arrange certified funds for closing (per your lawyer’s instructions).
☐ Set up utilities, internet, and address changes.
☐ Do a final walkthrough where applicable and confirm included items match the agreement.
☐ Pick up keys and save all closing documents in one folder.

Want a printable first-time home buyer checklist?

Request the printable version and we’ll send a one-page checklist you can save to your phone and bring to showings.

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Helpful Official Resources

How early should I start this Ontario first-time home buyer checklist?

Ideally 6 to 12 weeks before you want to buy. That gives you time for pre-approval, down payment planning, and a realistic budget before you tour homes seriously.

What documents should I have ready for pre-approval?

Most lenders ask for ID, income proof, employment details, and a snapshot of debts and savings. Your lender will confirm what applies to your situation

Do I need a lawyer before I buy?

You don’t need one to tour homes, but you should shortlist a real estate lawyer before you offer. Once your offer is accepted, timing moves fast.

What’s the biggest thing first-time buyers forget?

Closing costs and adjustments. Your down payment isn’t the only cash you need. Your lawyer can estimate the total once you have a target price range.

Should I use this checklist for condos too?

Yes, but add condo-specific steps like status certificate review, confirming condo fees, and checking what utilities are included.