You are nearly home: 10 checks before the keys change hands

The final week can feel like a countdown to the keys. It is also when small unfinished tasks become urgent. Make one handover list with your attorney, lender and agent so everyone knows what still needs to happen and who is confirming it.

Do not schedule irreversible moving arrangements solely around an expected date. Ask when completion and possession are confirmed under the transaction, and keep a practical backup if timing changes. The aim is to enjoy the move with the important details already settled.

Ten items for your closing list

1. Final funds. Review the completion statement with your attorney. Understand the balance, payment method and timing, and verify bank instructions independently through known contact details.
2. Lender readiness. Ask whether every condition for disbursement is satisfied and who will confirm funds are available. Avoid treating an earlier approval as that final confirmation.
3. Legal completion requirements. Let your attorney confirm the necessary documents and treatment of outstanding matters. Ask what evidence you will receive and what follow-up work remains.
4. Insurance start. Confirm the required policy is accepted and active at the appropriate time, with evidence supplied where needed. Keep the policy and emergency contacts accessible.
5. Agreed repairs. Check the work promised in the agreement and request the relevant records. Raise unfinished or different work with your attorney before accepting an informal solution.
6. Final walkthrough. Arrange access at an appropriate stage. Compare the condition and included items with the agreement; note any new concern promptly.
7. Utilities and accounts. Confirm the practical process for service transfer or activation. Record meter information where useful and ask about any relevant clearance documentation.
8. Keys and access. List house keys, gate remotes, parking access and any shared-facility credentials. Arrange to change personal security codes after possession.
9. Operating information. Request manuals, warranties and instructions for equipment included in the sale. Learn the location of shut-offs and any systems that need regular attention.
10. The first month. Keep money and time available for essential setup and maintenance. Furnishing everything immediately is less important than a safe, workable start.

Give the list an owner

Each item should have one person responsible for confirming it and a place to record the answer. Scotiabank's closing checklist includes insurance and several property-specific clearance or completion documents. Ask your own lender and attorney which items apply, rather than copying a checklist without checking the property.

Keep a digital folder with the signed documents and important confirmations, and store sensitive records securely. Ask your attorney what documents will arrive after completion and how to track that follow-up. Collecting keys and completing every administrative step may not happen at the same moment.

What if the walkthrough reveals a new problem?

Document it and contact your attorney and agent promptly. Ask how the contract addresses the issue before agreeing to proceed, delay or accept an arrangement.

Can I move in before completion?

Discuss any proposed early access with your attorney, lender and insurer. Do not assume permission to collect a key settles responsibility for occupation, damage or insurance.

Start your prequalification conversation or explore buying a home in The Bahamas with Matt.

Sources checked 4 October 2026: Scotiabank Bahamas: Mortgage application checklist. Lender, contract and policy terms depend on your circumstances; confirm the details with the relevant professional before committing.