My seller just triggered the 48-hour clause — what do I do now in Ontario?

When a seller triggers the escape clause, they are telling you that another buyer has submitted an acceptable offer and that you must decide — within the time specified in your clause (commonly 24–48 hours) — whether to waive your outstanding conditions and proceed firm, or let your deal end so the seller can accept the competing offer.

The moment you receive the notice, the clock starts. Do not wait. Contact your mortgage lender immediately to find out whether they can provide a firm commitment in time. Contact your home inspector to see whether an emergency inspection is possible. Call your real estate lawyer to review your position and advise on the risk of waiving without fully satisfying your conditions.

If you decide to waive, you are fully committed to closing regardless of what happens next with financing or inspection. If you decide not to waive, your deal ends and your deposit is returned. There is no right answer — it depends on how much you want the property and how comfortable you are with the remaining uncertainty. The key is to make the decision with clear information rather than panic.