The Pre-Construction Buying Process
Here's exactly what happens, in order, when you buy a pre-construction home in Ontario.
On this page
Step-by-step
- Register for VIP / Platinum access. Get early pricing and the best floor plans before the public.
- Choose your unit & floor plan and submit a worksheet to reserve.
- Sign the Agreement of Purchase and Sale and provide your initial deposit cheques.
- 10-day cooling-off (condos). Your lawyer reviews everything; you can still walk away.
- Pay deposits on schedule over the next months (see Deposit Structure).
- Choose finishes & upgrades at the design centre.
- Interim occupancy (condos). Move in and pay occupancy fees until the building registers.
- Final closing. Title transfers, your mortgage funds, and you pay closing costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a worksheet?
A worksheet is a non-binding form that tells the builder which suite and floor plan you want. It puts you in line — it is not a purchase. The binding step is signing the Agreement of Purchase and Sale.
When do I need my mortgage?
You provide a pre-approval up front, but your mortgage is finalized close to final closing — which could be years away. Rates and your finances are re-checked then, so keep your credit and income stable.