BUILDING A HOME SERIES
Moving In Here at Activa, we are the local experts in all things home building related. In this ‘Building a Home’ series, you’ll learn about in-depth process of purchasing a new build from start to finish and you can follow our tips along the way! We are dedicated to making every step understandable, and hopefully, feel less overwhelming. At this point, your home is now ready for you, but are you ready for it? Read on to learn our top tips for a successful and seamless move in to your new home.
NOTE: This process may look slightly different if you’re purchasing a condo with us! But don’t worry
– you’ll always have a dedicated customer experience coordinator to help you through the process.
Closing Preparations
About 30 days prior to your closing date, you should begin final preparations for your move. We have provided a helpful to-do list to organize yourself for a smooth transition into your new home. 1. Contact Your Solicitor Ensure your lawyer has a copy of every amendment you have signed. This will include your original Agreement of Purchase and Sale, as well as any subsequent amendments. Schedule a meeting with your lawyer prior to your closing date so they can walk you through all the closing paperwork and review documentation and adjustment costs. Adjustment costs will include but are not limited to: lawyer fees, Tarion enrollment, land transfer tax, and pro-rated property tax owing. Ensure you are aware of these fees in advance! NOTE: You only need to contact your lawyer if your home is closing. When it’s a condo under occupancy, this step is not required.
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2. Contact Your Financial Institution Ensure your lender has a copy of every amendment you have signed. This will include your original Agreement of Purchase and Sale, as well as any subsequent amendments. They will require these amendments in order to confirm the total Purchase Price. They will work hand-in-hand with your lawyer to ensure all closing funds are in place. This step is not required if you’re moving into an occupied condo. 3. Home Insurance Ensure you have put together an appropriate home insurance policy to be active on the day of closing. Your lawyer will also need proof of this. 4. Utilities Set up all your utilities to be active on the day of closing/occupancy. These utilities will include Hydro, Gas, Water Heater Rental (if applicable), Telephone, Cable and Internet. Each provider will need to be contacted in order to set up a new account or transfer a former account to your new address. There may be set-up fees required for this.
