As the new year gets underway, this week’s Three Bullet Thursdays is a practical one. Thinking about holidays in advance isn’t just about avoiding scheduling headaches — it’s about ensuring smooth closings, timely funding, and fewer last-minute surprises for everyone involved.
Holidays are for celebrating, not scrambling to close deals. Scheduling real estate closings on statutory holidays or long weekends increases the risk of funding delays, registry issues, and unavailable parties. Planning around these dates helps ensure smoother transactions and happier clients.
Here are the three things you should keep in mind for 2026:
1. Real estate closings should not be scheduled on statutory holidays or long weekends
Courts, land registries, banks, lenders, municipalities, and utility providers may be closed or operating on reduced schedules on holidays. Even when electronic registration is technically available, related steps — funding, payouts, keys, and adjustments — can be delayed.
Avoiding holiday closings reduces the risk of:
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delayed funding
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failed registrations
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unavailable lenders or counterparties
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stressed clients and professionals
2. These are the Ontario holiday dates you can NOT schedule closings on in 2026
Please do not schedule closings on the following dates:
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February 16 – Family Day- Monday
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April 3 – Good Friday
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April 6 – Easter Monday
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May 18 – Victoria Day- Monday
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July 1 – Canada Day- Wednesday
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August 3 – Civic Holiday-Monday
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September 7 – Labour Day – Monday
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September 30 (Wednesday) – National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
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October 12 – Thanksgiving- Monday
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November 11 – Remembrance Day- Wednesday
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December 25 & 28 – Christmas Day and Boxing Day
( Boxing Day falls on Saturday so Monday the 28th is a Holiday) -
January 1, 2027 – New Year’s Day – Friday
A little advance planning around these dates can prevent significant last-minute issues.
3. Timing matters — mid-month and month-end closings carry extra risk
Where possible, avoid:
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mid-month closings
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month-end closings, especially during the busy summer months
These periods place additional pressure on lenders, registries, movers, and service providers. Choosing a quieter closing date often leads to a smoother experience for everyone.
Wishing you a Happy New Year ahead!
If you have questions about timing, scheduling, or protecting your transaction, feel free to reach out.