Toronto Lawyers

Real estate lawyers are useful in many types of deals including residential and commercial transactions whether you are buying, selling leasing or simply transferring a title.

Laws and procedures governing real estate vary from one province to another. In Quebec, for example, notaries handle contractual agreements, especially real estate contracts.

When Purchasing a Home

1. Do your research! The more information you have, the better off you’ll be when you meet with a lawyer.
2. Inspect the property you intend to buy yourself and ask for a statement of disclosure from the vendor.
3. Do the groundwork on financing, mortgage and insurance requirements. Having these crucial aspects in place at the outset will make a huge difference.
4. Organize all these details and bring them to your first meeting along with adequate ID of any people who will be listed on the title of the property.
5. In the long run these preparations will save you time, money and unnecessary anxieties.

When Shopping for a Real Estate Lawyer

1. Note that some lawyers specialize in real estate law and others simply provide these services on the side.
2. If you have a lot riding on this deal, make sure you find a lawyer that is up to the task. Don’t be shy! Ask a lot of questions, and don’t settle for just any lawyer.
3. Find out how the firm structures fees for real estate transactions. Many will charge a flat rate. Find out what’s included in that rate. There are likely to be additional charges.

What Your Real Estate Lawyer Can Do for You:

1. Help you clearly understand the agreement of purchase and sale and give you some advice before you actually put your signature on it.
2. Review all other vital documents and certificates for accuracy and authenticity.
3. Explain inherent rights, obligations and potential pitfalls.
4. Coordinate communications during the transaction and protect your interests.
5. Ensure that in the end your goals have been adequately met.