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 Ontario’s land registry system (Teranet). Whether you are buying a home … Read More
Looking to Sign a Commercial Lease? Take a Look at These Tips Before You Do
Signing a commercial lease in Ontario is a significant step for your business, and it’s essential to ensure that the lease terms align with your needs and protect your interests. Here are some important tips to keep in mind: 1. Understand the Lease Term • Length of Lease: Commercial leases can vary in length, typically ranging from 1 to 10 … Read More
Why Specificity in Your Purchase Agreement Could Save Your Deal (or Your Wallet)
In the world of real estate, what’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 Condo’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, here’s a breakdown of what you need to know: 1. Private Property (Your Own Land) • 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 condominium’s reserve fund is insufficient to pay for major repairs, maintenance, or improvements that are necessary for the common … Read More
Should you get a Will? – The Key Differences between having one and not having one
In Ontario, the key differences between dying with a will (testate) and dying without a will (intestate) are related to how your estate is distributed, the process of handling your affairs, and who is in charge of managing your estate. Here’s a breakdown of the differences: 1. Distribution of Assets • With a Will (Testate): o You get to decide … Read More
Moving Into a New Construction Home
Moving into a new construction house in Ontario can be exciting, but it’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. Here’s a checklist of things to do when moving into a new construction house: 1. Inspect the Home • Final Inspection: Before … Read More
Going on title to a property with a parent and it is your matrimonial home? How Section 26 (1) of the Family Law Act could impact you.
Real estate law and family law often intersect in very interesting and sometimes unwanted ways. Imagine a situation where your parents own their property, and you marry and live in the property, and you go on title to it as part of your estate planning. What would happen if you passed away before your parent? Recently, I came across this … Read More
What does your real estate lawyer do for you?
Many people fail to realize the importance of a lawyer working for them in a real estate transaction. The video below provides a great summary on the benefits of having a legal professional working for you.