Every figure, rate, threshold, and deadline in this guide is drawn from a verifiable primary source listed at the bottom of the page. The article is updated whenever the underlying rules change, with a fresh review date stamped at the top.
Chapter 01 · Topic 01.10 · Chapter tools
The 12 steps of FL purchase process for Canadians, from FAR/BAR contract to closing: effective date, deposits, inspections, loan application, disclosures, appraisal, title commitment, loan commitment, insurance bind, closing disclosure, closing. Days from effective date.
Direct answer · 60-second summary
Interactive diagram of the 12 steps in a Florida real estate purchase for Canadians, from contract to closing. Each step is clickable to show: who does what, when, with which form, and typical timing in days since effective date.
REFERENCE · ACRONYMS USED IN THIS GUIDE
Day 1
FAR/BAR contract signed by both parties. All other dates calculated from this day.
Days 1–3
Buyer wires initial earnest money (1–3 % of price) to title company escrow account.
Days 5–10
Buyer orders general, 4-point, wind mitigation, WDO inspections. Total cost ≈ $800.
Day 5
Formal application to foreign national lender. Canadian documents submitted.
Day 7
Seller's Property Disclosure and condo docs received if applicable.
Days 12–15
Decision: accept, negotiate, or withdraw (AS-IS). Written notification mandatory before period end.
Days 15–20
Lender orders appraisal. If value < price, renegotiation or withdrawal via appraisal contingency.
Days 15–25
Title company issues Title Commitment. Defects curing in progress.
Days 30–35
Written lender commitment received. Financing contingency satisfied.
Days 35–40
Hazard, hurricane, flood policies active from closing.
Day 42
Final document delivered 3 business days before closing (TILA-RESPA).
Day 45
Signatures, fund wire, deed recording. You are owner.
Every figure, rate, threshold, and deadline in this guide is drawn from a verifiable primary source listed at the bottom of the page. The article is updated whenever the underlying rules change, with a fresh review date stamped at the top.
Sources publicly accessible at the last review date.
Chapter tools covered. Chapter 01 Acquisition is now complete at 56 articles published of 56.
This guide is for educational purpose only. Figures, rates, thresholds, and timelines are drawn from public sources at the date shown and may change.
For any concrete decision, consult a Florida-licensed Realtor®, a cross-border tax attorney, and a Canada–US CPA.