Airbnb Property Owners Beware: Ontario Court Says You Owe HST on Sale

Ontario Man with Sign

In 1351231 Ontario Inc. v. The King (2024 TCC 37), the Tax Court of Canada (TCC) held that a condo initially used for long-term rentals but later listed on Airbnb did not qualify as a โ€œresidential complexโ€ under the Excise Tax Act (ETA), making its sale subject to HST. The corporation had purchased the unit in 2008, treating it as … Read More

The Hidden Risks of Pre Construction Homes in Toronto

Toronto Homes

Thinking About Buying Pre Construction in Toronto? Read This First. The appeal of buying a pre construction home in Toronto, Ontario is undeniable โ€” modern finishes, customization options, and the sense of getting in on the โ€œground floorโ€ of a new development. But while glossy brochures and show suites highlight the potential, they often leave out the risks. Many buyers … Read More

Title Searches in Toronto – Why they Are Important

Toronto Title Search

A title search in Ontario is the process of examining public records to confirm the legal ownership of a property and to identify any encumbrances, liens, easements, or other issues that may affect the title. It is typically conducted by a real estate lawyer or a title searcher through Ontarioโ€™s land registry system (Teranet). Whether you are buying a home … Read More

Why Specificity in Your Purchase Agreement Could Save Your Deal (or Your Wallet)

In the world of real estate, whatโ€™s not written in your Agreement of Purchase and Sale (APS) can cost you. Whether you’re buying a home in Toronto, an investment property in Vaughan, or a commercial unit in Mississauga, vague or poorly defined conditions or amendments can lead to disputes, delays, or lost deposits. It is unbelievable the number of Agreements … Read More

Is Your Condoโ€™s Reserve Fund Ready for the Future?

A reserve fund for a condominium in Ontario is a pool of money that is set aside by the condominium corporation to cover the cost of future major repairs, replacements, and maintenance of the common elements and assets of the building or complex. These common elements can include things like the roof, parking garage, elevators, HVAC systems, and the building’s … Read More

Looking to Cut Trees in Ontario? There are Certain Rules You Need to Know.

In Ontario, cutting trees is subject to various rules and regulations to protect the environment, preserve natural habitats, and ensure sustainable forestry practices. Whether you’re removing a tree on your own property or on public land, hereโ€™s a breakdown of what you need to know: 1. Private Property (Your Own Land) โ€ข No General Provincial Law for Cutting Trees on … Read More

In Condominium Ownership, What is a Special Assessment?

A special assessment for a condo owner in Ontario is a one-time extra charge imposed by the condominium corporation to cover unexpected or extraordinary expenses that go beyond what the regular monthly condo fees can cover. This typically happens when the condominiumโ€™s reserve fund is insufficient to pay for major repairs, maintenance, or improvements that are necessary for the common … Read More

Moving Into a New Construction Home

Moving into a new construction house in Ontario can be exciting, but itโ€™s also important to take care of a few key things to ensure everything is set up properly and your new home is safe and comfortable. Hereโ€™s a checklist of things to do when moving into a new construction house: 1. Inspect the Home โ€ข Final Inspection: Before … Read More