Top 5 Things to Do on Possession Day (Every Buyer Needs to Know)

Possession Day Is Here — Don't Celebrate Before You Do These 6 Things

You've signed the papers, handed over the funds, and now the keys are finally in your hand. Possession day is one of the most exciting milestones in any homebuyer's journey — but before you start planning where the couch goes, there are some critical steps you need to take first. As a Saskatoon real estate professional, I've guided countless buyers through this process, and I can tell you with confidence: what you do in the first few hours inside your new home matters more than most people realize. Here's exactly what to do — and why it protects you.

1. Establish Sole Access Control Immediately

The very first thing you should do when you walk through that door? Take control of who has access. Change all exterior locks, reset your alarm system PIN, and reprogram every garage door remote. You have no way of knowing how many copies of the old keys were made over the years — previous owners, contractors, housekeepers, neighbors, or family members may all have a set. This isn't about distrust; it's about protecting your family and your investment from day one. Don't wait until the weekend to get around to it. Do it first.

2. Inspect Every Area That Was Hidden by Furniture

During showings, you saw the home styled and furnished. Now it's empty — and that changes everything. Walk every room carefully and examine walls, floors, and baseboards that were previously covered by the seller's furniture. Look for staining, water damage, holes, scuff marks, or flooring issues that may have been concealed — whether intentionally or not. Pay special attention to corners, areas behind doors, and spots beneath where large furniture or rugs sat. This is also a good time to check inside closets and storage areas that may have been overlooked during showings.

3. Test Every Appliance and HVAC System

Your contract specifies that included items must be in normal working order — so verify that they are. Run a full cycle on the dishwasher, washer, and dryer. Turn on the oven and all burners. Test the heating and cooling systems, even if the season doesn't call for it. Walk through every room and test electrical outlets with a phone charger or a simple plug-in tester. Don't assume everything works just because it appeared to during the showing. If something is broken or malfunctioning, you need to know today — not three months from now.

While you're at it, locate the electrical panel and label any unlabeled breakers, find the main water shut-off valve, and check the furnace filter. Knowing where these are before an emergency happens is something every homeowner should prioritize.

4. Record Your Utility Meters and Collect All Documents

Before you do anything else, take timestamped photos of your gas, electricity, and water meters. This establishes your baseline reading and protects you from being billed for consumption that occurred before your possession date. While you're at it, gather any manuals, warranty documents, appliance guides, or service records left behind by the sellers. These documents have real value — they can save you money on repairs and help you understand the history and maintenance needs of your new home. Pro tip: Set up or transfer all utilities into your name before possession day to avoid any gap in service.

5. Conduct a Thorough Plumbing Check

Water damage is one of the most costly issues a homeowner can face, and early detection is everything. Run every tap — both hot and cold — in every bathroom, the kitchen, and the laundry room. Flush every toilet. Check under every sink for signs of leaks, moisture, or past water damage. Listen for unusual sounds in the pipes and pay attention to water pressure. Slow drains, gurgling toilets, or reduced pressure can all be signs of underlying issues. A few minutes of testing now could save you thousands of dollars down the road.

6. Know Your 24-Hour Reporting Window

This is one of the most important — and most overlooked — pieces of advice I give every buyer: if you discover something on possession day that was not disclosed or does not match the condition agreed upon in your contract, you need to act fast. Document everything with photos and video immediately, and contact your REALTOR® or real estate lawyer within 24 hours. Delays can complicate your ability to seek remedy. Don't assume something is minor. Report it, let the professionals assess it, and protect your legal position.

A Few More Things to Do Before You Unpack

• Walk through with your contract and schedule of inclusions in hand — verify that every agreed-upon item (appliances, window coverings, light fixtures, etc.) is still present.
• Test all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors — replace batteries if needed. This is non-negotiable for your family's safety.
• Check that all windows and doors open, close, and lock properly — including patio doors, basement windows, and any secondary entry points.
• Record a full video walkthrough of the entire home on possession day. This timestamped record documents the property's condition and can be invaluable if any disputes arise later.
• Bring your possession day checklist, government-issued ID, and your lawyer's contact information with you — you may need them.

Ready to Buy in Saskatoon? Let's Talk.

Possession day should be one of the best days of your life — and with the right preparation, it will be. Whether you're a first-time buyer or an experienced homeowner, having a knowledgeable REALTOR® in your corner makes every step of the process smoother, safer, and less stressful.

If you're thinking about buying a home in Saskatoon, reach out to Clayton McNally today. From your first showing to the moment you turn that key, Clayton is committed to guiding you through every detail with local expertise, honest advice, and genuine care for your best interests. Don't navigate one of the biggest purchases of your life alone — contact Clayton and let's get started.