From browsing to closing—here’s how long the process usually takes for Ontario buyers.

How Long Does It Take to Buy a Home in Ontario?

It’s one of the most common questions I get from buyers—especially first-timers:

“How long does it actually take to buy a home?”

The truth? It depends. But there’s a general timeline most buyers in Ontario can expect, from getting pre-approved to closing on their home. Let’s break it down.

📌 Step 1: Mortgage Pre-Approval (1–10 Business Days)

Before you start house hunting, you’ll want to get pre-approved for a mortgage. This gives you a clear budget, shows sellers you’re serious, and helps avoid surprises later.

Some lenders can do this in 1–2 days, while others may take a week—especially if documents are missing or you’re self-employed.

Need a trusted mortgage partner? I recommend Mitchell McCormack—he’ll get you started quickly and walk you through your options.

🔍 Step 2: House Hunting (1–12+ Weeks)

This part varies the most. Some buyers fall in love with the first home they see. Others spend weeks or even months finding the right fit.

What Affects the Timeline?

• How tight your criteria are (e.g. must-have features or location)
• Current inventory in your budget
• Your readiness to make decisions

We’ll set you up with real-time listing alerts so you don’t miss anything. Learn more about how I help buyers at Buyer Services Explained.

🖊️ Step 3: Making an Offer + Negotiations (1–5 Days)

Once you find the one, we move fast. We’ll draft the offer, negotiate terms, and try to reach a conditional agreement—ideally within a day or two. If we’re in a multiple-offer situation, this can move even faster.

In slower markets, there’s often more back-and-forth over a few days.

📄 Step 4: Conditional Period (Typically 5–10 Business Days)

This is when you complete conditions like:

• Home inspection
• Final mortgage approval
• Reviewing status certificate (for condos)

Most conditional periods last 5 to 10 business days. Once those are satisfied, we firm up the deal.

🏁 Step 5: Firm Deal to Closing Day (30–90 Days)

This is the stretch between removing conditions and getting the keys. You’ll work with your lender, lawyer, and insurance company to prep for closing.

What Happens During This Time?

• Mortgage gets finalized
• Your lawyer orders title search and handles paperwork
• You arrange home insurance, set up utilities, plan your move

30–60 days is standard for most Ontario closings, but some buyers (especially those renting) may request longer closings—up to 90 days.

📊 What Can Slow Things Down?

• Delays with pre-approval or financing
• In a competitive market: more time to find the right home
• Waiting for your current lease or home to sell
• Unexpected issues with inspection or title

✅ What Speeds It Up?

• Getting pre-approved early
• Being decisive once the right home pops up
• Using a Realtor and lender who work together seamlessly

🧠 Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead, Move Smoothly

Most buyers in Ontario can expect the entire home buying process to take anywhere from 6 weeks to 6 months, start to finish. Some move faster. Others take their time. Either way—it helps to have a plan.

If you’re thinking of buying soon, let’s chat about your goals and timeline. Whether you’re ready now or six months from now, I’ll help you move with confidence.