How long does the closing process take in Ontario?
The closing period is the time between when your offer is accepted and when ownership legally transfers to you. In Ontario, residential deals typically close in 30 to 90 days, though parties can agree to almost any timeline. Shorter closings (under 30 days) are possible but give your lawyer, lender, and insurer less time to complete their work.
During that window, your lawyer conducts the title search, reviews the mortgage commitment, satisfies any conditions in the agreement (such as a home inspection or financing condition), and prepares closing documents. If the deal is delayed — for example because the seller cannot deliver clear title — your lawyer can request an extension, though the other side must agree.
On the actual closing day, your lawyer registers the transfer electronically and releases purchase funds to the seller's lawyer. Keys are typically released once registration is confirmed, which usually happens by mid-afternoon. Your lawyer will tell you what time to expect access.
Key takeaways
- Most Ontario residential closings take 30 to 90 days after offer acceptance.
- Short closings are possible but carry more scheduling risk.
- Your lawyer handles registration and fund release on closing day.
- Key release typically follows electronic registration, often by early afternoon.