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Can You Extend a Closing Date in Ontario? How It Works and What It Costs

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Published 21 September 2026 · By Jatin Dua, Broker of Record, RE/MAX Quantum Realty

Keys and a document folder on a lawyer’s desk (illustrative)
Short answer

A closing date in Ontario can be moved only if both parties agree in writing before it passes, usually through an amendment prepared by the agents. The party granting the extension often asks for per diem compensation, an extra deposit or legal costs.

A closing date in an agreement of purchase and sale is binding. It can move, but only if both sides agree, in writing, before the date passes.

Why extensions happen

  • The buyer’s lender is late with funds or an appraisal.
  • The buyer’s own sale is delayed.
  • A mortgage discharge on the seller’s side is slow.
  • A problem appears on title or with a survey.
  • Illness, family emergencies or a moving problem.

How it is done

The agents prepare an amendment to the agreement changing the closing date, and both parties sign it. Lawyers are involved immediately because they have to rebook everything: the mortgage advance, the discharge, insurance, adjustments.

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What the other side may ask for

An extension is a favour, so the side granting it often asks for something:

  • Per diem compensation for the extra days, often based on the seller’s carrying costs.
  • An additional deposit from the buyer.
  • Coverage of extra legal costs.
  • Firm dates with no further extensions.

If one side simply can’t close

Without an agreed extension, a party who fails to close is in breach. The other side can pursue remedies, which for a seller may include keeping the deposit and claiming damages if they resell for less. This is a lawyer’s conversation, fast.

Protecting yourself

  • Build a realistic closing date into your offer.
  • Line up financing and documents early.
  • If you are buying and selling, match dates or plan bridge financing.
  • Tell your agent and lawyer the moment you see a delay coming.

The takeaway

Build a realistic closing date into the offer, flag delays to your agent and lawyer immediately, and get any extension in writing.

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Frequently asked questions

Can a closing date be extended in Ontario?

Yes, by written agreement of both parties before the original date.

Does the seller have to agree to an extension?

No. Neither side is obliged to agree.

What does an extension cost?

Whatever the parties negotiate, commonly per diem compensation, an extra deposit and extra legal costs.

What happens if the buyer can’t close?

The buyer is in breach, and the seller may keep the deposit and claim damages. Get legal advice immediately.

Sources

Related reading

About the author — Jatin Dua, Toronto and GTA real estate broker

I am Jatin Dua, Broker of Record and co-founder of RE/MAX Quantum Realty Inc., Brokerage, Unit 101, 799 The Queensway, Etobicoke. I work with buyers and sellers across Toronto and the GTA, with deep local knowledge of the west end. Four-plus years of active GTA transactions and over $100 million in sales volume. Every market figure here comes from TRREB’s published tables and every rule from RECO or Ontario legislation, so you can check all of it without asking me.

Reach me at connect@jatindua.com or 833-330-1925, or book a call.

Please read this. General information current as at 21 September 2026. It is not legal, tax or financial advice and not advice on any specific transaction. I am a registered real estate broker, not a lawyer or accountant. Market figures are from TRREB Market Watch, August 2026 (released September 2026); district samples are small and change month to month. Statements about my own services describe what I offer and are not a ranking or an endorsement by any third party. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract with another brokerage. Images are illustrative. E. & O.E.

Call or text 833-330-1925
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