Real Estate Law Blog
Property Law Basics Ontario
Ontario property law sets how ownership, leases, easements, and covenants work on title — and why a title search and lawyer-led closing still matter on a residential deal.
Private Mortgage Lawyer: Lending, Borrowing, Refinancing
A private mortgage in Ontario is a charge on title from someone other than a bank. You usually need two lawyers, the borrower often pays both, and the commitment is the deal.
Land Severance in Ontario: The Complete Guide
How land severance works in Ontario: creating a new lot, the municipal consent process, appeals, and typical costs.
The Condo Status Certificate: A Complete Guide
A condo status certificate in Ontario is the corporation's snapshot of the unit and the building: fees, reserve, lawsuits, rules. Section 76 binds the corporation. The APS condition is the walk-away.
First Dealings Exemption Ontario: Eligibility Guidelines
How Ontario's First Dealings Exemption can skip Estate Administration Tax on a first sale after Land Titles conversion, and how to check the parcel register.
Joint Tenants vs Tenants in Common
In Ontario, joint tenants take by survivorship and the will does not get a vote. Tenants in common each own a share that goes through the estate. If the transfer is silent, the default is tenants in common.
Buying a House Privately in Ontario: A Complete Guide
Buying privately in Ontario means no realtor on the deal — you still need a lawyer to register title, and the APS, deposit, and due diligence are on you.
How Do I Perform a Property Title Search in Ontario?
How to run an Ontario property title search on OnLand: map, PIN, address, or instrument, and what a parcel register actually shows.
Canada Foreign Buyers Ban: Amendments and Exceptions
Canada's foreign buyers ban is still in force until January 1, 2027. Ontario's 25% NRST is a second gate, and Toronto adds 10%. An exception to the ban does not wipe the tax.
Land Transfer Tax in Ontario
Ontario land transfer tax is paid by the buyer on closing and remitted at registration. In Toronto a second municipal tax applies on top.
The Agreement of Purchase and Sale (Ontario)
The Ontario Agreement of Purchase and Sale: OREA Form 100 and 101, deposit, irrevocable date, closing date, chattels vs fixtures, and Schedule A conditions.
Virtual Real Estate Closing: Signing Remotely in 2026
A virtual closing in Ontario is the client-side work on video: ID, signing, commissioning. Teraview registration was already electronic. Same legal result as sitting in the office.