A Move-In Checklist - How to Prepare for Possession Day

Topic: Buying and Selling Home

move-in checklist blog: white moving truck on end of drive way with ramp leading to van and moving boxes by the truck

YOU RECEIVED YOUR 35-DAY POSSESSION LETTER!

Congratulations! You purchased a new home, and that’s a big deal. Maybe it’s your first home or maybe it’s your forever home, either way—we are so excited for you.

You signed on the dotted line months ago, and now out of nowhere, you’re one month away from your possession day. Have your stress levels spiked? Is your mind running a mile a minute? Don’t let the upcoming move get you in a panic. We’re here provide you with a step-by-step guide to moving in.

Your move-in checklist

You received your 35-day possession letter, now what do you do?

  • Step 1: Talk to your Lawyer – Hire a lawyer to handle the legalities and fine details of your home purchase. Your lawyer will act as your representative when closing your home purchase, and will transfer the funds from your lender to the builder prior to your possession day. Upon receipt, forward a copy of your 35-day possession letter directly to your lawyer’s office.
  • Step 2: Contact your Lender – Make sure to inform your financial institution of your possession date right away. Confirm the mortgage amount with your lender and ensure that the funds are sent to your lawyer’s office two to three weeks before the indicated date.
  • Step 3: Set-Up Your Utilities – Trust us, you’ll want running water when you move in. Contact the applicable utilities companies one to two weeks prior to your possession day with both your new home address and move-in date. Set up the basics including heat, electricity, water, and internet, cable, or satellite. We even have a special promotion for one year of free Telus services with the purchase of your new Rohit home.
  • Step 4: Purchase Home Insurance – We cannot stress enough the importance of home insurance. Prior to taking possession, your lawyer will require proof of insurance for your new home. Ask your insurance provider to fax this directly to your lawyer’s office prior to closing.
  • Step 5: Get Your Mail in Order – Contact Canada Post approximately two weeks prior to your possession day for information on your superbox location, mailbox number, and to arrange for pick-up of your mail keys. You’ll be asked to provide proof of home ownership for key release, so we suggest bringing a copy of your purchase agreement with you.
  • Step 6: Book a Mover – Time flies when you’re moving, so get prepared. Get your boxes, pack your boxes, book your movers, and plan for the unexpected! Big purchases (like a home) equate to many fine details. As such, we recommend planning your move for the day following your possession day. This allows for the necessary time to resolve any last-minute issues so you can move in stress-free. 
  • Step 7: Update Your Personal Documents – Now that you know where your new mailbox is, you’ll want to make sure your mail knows where to find you. Update your new mailing address on all personal documents, including on your: driver’s license, car registration and insurance, banking information, on billing information for existing credit cards and bills, and at your doctor’s office. The list goes on!

It’s possession day! 

You did it! Welcome home. You’ve dotted your ‘i’s and crossed your ‘t’s, checked your list twice, and it’s finally the big day—you get possession of your home (and you’re prepared for it!). Now … it’s time to start unpacking! Happy moving.

Still looking for your new home? Be sure to check out our showhomes and quick possession homes in a community near you. 

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