Early Possession Horror Story: Why You NEVER Hand Over Keys Before Closing

This seller is watching their buyer move into the house they still legally own.

Closing is in 30 days.

The buyer has already:

• Changed the locks
• Installed security cameras
• Taken possession without permission

Let me be clear: This is not normal. This is not okay. This is a legal issue.

In Ontario, the property doesn't transfer until closing day. Until then, the SELLER owns it. The buyer has no right to access, modify, or occupy.

What should happen immediately:

1. Call your real estate lawyer (not just your agent)
2. Document everything (photos, timestamps, communication)
3. Lawyer sends a formal letter demanding the buyer cease access
4. Consider whether you even want to proceed with this closing

Why this matters for first-time buyers reading this:

Never, EVER take possession before closing.

I don't care if the seller is your cousin.

I don't care if they verbally said "sure, start moving stuff in."

If something goes wrong (financing falls through, inspection reveals issues, deal collapses), you're now squatting in someone else's property.

And if you're the seller?

This is why you don't hand over keys early—even out of kindness.

The purchase agreement has a closing date for a reason. That's when ownership transfers. Not before.

Let's talk through your options with zero pressure.

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Your Credit Score Is Being Judged in Ways Nobody Tells You About

You know your credit score matters when buying a home. What most people don't realize is how lenders actually read it — and what quietly tanks your approval before you even apply.

Here's what lenders look at beyond the number:

• Utilization rate — Using more than 30% of your available credit? That's a red flag, even if you pay it off monthly. Keep balances low in the 3–6 months before applying.

• Hard inquiries — Every time you apply for a new credit card or car loan, your score dips. Avoid new credit applications for at least 6 months before a mortgage application.

• Credit history length — That old credit card you want to cancel? Don't. The age of your accounts works in your favour.

• Payment history — One missed payment from two years ago can still haunt you. Lenders look back 2 years minimum.

• Credit mix — Having only one type of credit (just a credit card, for example) can limit your score. A mix of revolving and installment credit helps.

The move: Pull your free credit report at Equifax or TransUnion now — months before you need it. Errors are more common than you think, and they take time to fix.

Your mortgage rate lives inside your credit score. Treat it like a financial asset.

💬 Not sure if your credit is mortgage-ready? Hit reply — let's take a look together.

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Got other questions? You can book your free 15 MIN. MEETING call - no pressure, no sales pitch.

BOOK MY FREE 15 MIN. CONSULTATION

Just clarity.

Talk soon,

Fred Camingal