Selling your home is a huge accomplishment, and while it might feel like the finish line, it's actually just the start of a new phase! The period between accepting an offer and getting the keys to the new owners is often a whirlwind of packing, paperwork, and planning.

Here’s a checklist to help you navigate the process after you’ve sold your place:

1. Paperwork & Legalities (Stay on Top of the Details)

• Review the Purchase Agreement: Go over the contract again with your real estate agent. Make sure you understand the conditions (e.g., financing, inspection) and the agreed-upon timelines.

• Connect with a Real Estate Lawyer: Your Realtor® or the Brokerage will send conveyancing instructions to your lawyer of choice to handle the legal transfer and closing of the property. They will prepare the necessary documents and coordinate with the buyer’s lawyer to ensure a smooth closing. Your lawyer will arrange a time directly with you to set an appointment to have you come in and sign off. It will likely be about 1 week prior to closing. 

• Gather Important Documents: Locate all relevant paperwork for your lawyer if you haven't already, including your Real Property Report (RPR), marriage, divorce or death certificates if necessary, and any receipts or invoices for proof of required repairs and payment if required by the contract. 

• Outstanding Mortgage Balance, Property Taxes and Closing Costs: With the proceeds from the sale, your lawyer typically will pay off any outstanding mortgage, real estate commissions, property taxes and legal fees.

 2. Prepare for Moving Day (Start Early!)

• Create a Plan: Decide on a moving date and either book professional movers or enlist the help of friends and family. This is especially important if your closing date is during a busy time of year. Don't leave it till the last minute! 

• Start Packing (The Right Way): Begin with non-essential items first—think out-of-season clothing, books, and decorative items. Label all boxes clearly with the contents and the room they belong to.

• Declutter Ruthlessly: Go through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or throw away. This not only makes packing easier but also reduces the cost and stress of the move.

3. The Final Walk-Through & Closing Day

• Clean Up: Think of the final walk-through as your last chance to make a fantastic impression! While your contract outlines the expectations, a good rule of thumb is to clean the home as if you were moving in yourself. Give the space a thorough scrub and be sure to dispose of all garbage. Remember: one person's trash is not always another's treasure! Never assume the new owners want your unwanted items, no matter how good you think they are. Always check with your real estate agent first to ask the buyer if they would like the item left behind.

• Leave Keys and Important Info: Gather all keys, including mail keys, fobs, and garage door openers for the new owners. It's also a thoughtful gesture to leave behind appliance manuals, warranties, and instructions for any home systems (like a smart thermostat or security system). Leave a small note with the location of the mail box and any code for items in the home, like alarms, garage doors, and keyless entry locks.

• Utilities & Services: Contact all your utility providers (gas, electricity, water, internet, cable) to schedule a final meter reading and to have services disconnected or transferred on or after the possession date. Remember to also update your address with Canada Post and any other services. Do not cancel your home insurance policy in advance. You are required to keep the property insured until closing. The last thing you want to have happen is for there to be a day or two delay in the closing and have something to happen. Only cancel your insurance once your lawyer has confirmed the transaction is complete. 

• The Big Day: This is a coordinated effort. Once the buyer's lawyer has successfully transferred funds to your lawyer, your agent will be authorized to release the keys to the new owners. While this typically occurs between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., it is essential that the property is completely vacated and cleaned no later than the evening prior to closing. This ensures a smooth and seamless transition for all parties involved.

4. After the Sale (Look Ahead!)

• Reevaluate Your Finances:  Consult a financial advisor to help you decide on the best way to handle the remaining funds, especially if you're not immediately purchasing another property.

Embrace the Next Chapter: Take a moment to celebrate! The sale of your home is a major life event. Embrace the old memories and get excited for the new ones you're about to create in your next home.