What are real estate lawyer services?

In Ontario, real estate lawyers protect your interests, ensure funds move securely, and make sure title transfers cleanly. Real estate lawyer services typically include:

• Agreement of Purchase and Sale (APS) review and conditions management
• Title search and off‑title inquiries (taxes, utilities, zoning, work orders)
• Condominium status certificate review for condo purchases
• Title insurance placement and coverage explanation
• Mortgage instructions review and lender coordination
• Statements of Adjustments and trust ledgers preparation
• Closing funds management through a regulated trust account
• Electronic registrations (transfer/deed and charge/mortgage)
• Keys and possession coordination with the other law firm and your realtor
• Post‑closing reporting package with registered documents and receipts

If you need a deeper dive into any step, review our Toronto real estate law services overview for practical examples and a step-by-step workflow.

Why timing matters: the closing timeline

While every file is unique, most Toronto closings follow a predictable cadence. Start your file early to avoid rush surcharges, courier cutoffs, and lender delays.

Costs and fees you should expect

Budget for legal fees, disbursements (out‑of‑pocket costs like title searches, registrations, and couriers), and Ontario Land Transfer Tax. If your property is in the City of Toronto, expect the municipal Land Transfer Tax as well. First‑time buyers may qualify for provincial and municipal rebates. Ask for a written estimate that breaks down legal fees versus disbursements and taxes so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

If you plan to sign affidavits, certify copies, or notarize documents for the transaction, you can streamline everything with our notary public services before your signing appointment.

Purchase vs. sale vs. refinance vs. title transfer

Different files require different real estate lawyer services. Here’s how they compare at a glance:

Risk checks we run—so you don’t get surprises

Title and off‑title searches

We look for liens, easements, encroachments, tax arrears, open permits, and work orders. If something shows up, we secure written undertakings or seller credits, or we arrange corrective steps before funds are released.

Condominium status certificate review

For condo deals, we review the status certificate for reserve fund health, special assessments, litigation, and by‑laws that may affect short‑term rentals, pets, or renovations. You learn the red flags before you commit.

Mortgage instructions and lender conditions

We confirm your rate, conditions like proof of insurance, and any appraisal or lawyer’s opinion required. We coordinate directly with your bank or broker to keep the file on schedule.

Fraud prevention and identity verification

Your funds move through a regulated trust account. We complete in‑person or remote ID verification and follow strict professional rules to protect you from identity and title fraud. If you require sworn statements or certified copies, our notary team can handle them on the spot.

Documents you’ll sign (and why they matter)

On signing day—either in person or by secure video—you’ll review key documents and we’ll explain each one in everyday language:

• Transfer/Deed: Moves legal title to you (or from you on a sale).
• Charge/Mortgage: Registers your lender’s security interest.
• Title Insurance Policy: One‑time premium that protects against covered title defects and certain fraud risks.
• Statement of Adjustments: Shows buyer/seller credits for taxes, condo fees, and deposits.
• Trust Ledger: Final accounting of funds in and out.
• Authorizations & Affidavits: Sworn statements confirming occupancy, residency, or other facts.

Local context: visiting 23 Westmore Dr. Unit #218A

Our office is near Highway 27 and Finch Ave W in Etobicoke, close to Albion Rd and Humber College. Closings are electronic across Ontario, but in‑person visits help with ID verification and document review. End‑of‑month and end‑of‑quarter dates are busiest—start earlier for those timelines.

When you need Independent Legal Advice (ILA)

ILA is common when a non‑owner guarantees a mortgage, when spouses transfer title for a refinance, or when family members gift funds with conditions. The advising lawyer explains rights and risks in a private meeting and signs a certificate confirming the advice was independent. If your transaction touches on estate planning or family arrangements, we can coordinate with our wills and estates team to keep everything consistent.

Preparing for a smooth closing

1) Verify ID and occupancy details

Bring two pieces of valid government ID. If you plan to live in the property, confirm your occupancy and insurance details with your lender to avoid last‑minute hiccups.

2) Line up down payment and closing costs

We’ll send your exact bank draft amount a few days before closing. That figure includes your remaining down payment, legal fees, disbursements, and applicable land transfer taxes. If you need corporate payouts or inter‑company agreements, our business law support can help structure them.

3) Coordinate move‑in logistics

Book elevators (for condos), arrange movers, and transfer utilities. Keys are released after registration—usually early afternoon once funds clear and both lawyers confirm.

How this translates to your scenario

Whether you’re a first‑time buyer in Etobicoke, upsizing in Vaughan, or investing in Mississauga, the fundamentals stay the same: clear due diligence, efficient lender coordination, and precise registrations. If your purchase involves a corporation or family trust, or if you need affidavits and certified copies, we’ll integrate those steps into your closing so you’re not duplicating appointments.

• First‑time buyer: We’ll explain rebates and walk you through every document before you sign.
• Investor: Expect a streamlined process, clear rent and status reviews (for condos), and tight timelines.
• Refinance with title transfer: We handle lender instructions, discharge statements, and any ILA required for spouses or guarantors.

FAQs: Toronto real estate closings

How long does closing take on the day?

Most registrations complete between late morning and mid‑afternoon once funds are exchanged and the other side’s lawyer confirms keys. Plan for a half day and keep your phone handy.

What funds do I bring to the lawyer?

For purchases, bring a bank draft or certified check for the balance due on closing (after deposit and mortgage). We’ll provide the precise amount 2–3 days before—this covers legal fees, disbursements, and land transfer taxes.

Is title insurance mandatory?

It’s not legally mandatory, but most lenders require it. Many buyers choose it anyway because it’s a one‑time premium that protects against covered risks such as certain title defects or fraud.

Can we close if I’m out of town?

Yes. We can verify ID remotely where permitted, arrange couriers for originals, and use secure e‑signing for eligible documents. Build in extra time for shipping.

What if the seller isn’t ready on closing?

If the other side misses obligations, lawyers may negotiate undertakings, holdback funds, or a brief extension. The goal is to protect your position and still close efficiently.

Key takeaways

• Real estate lawyer services cover APS review, searches, lender coordination, registrations, and keys.
• Start your file 7–10 business days before closing to avoid rush costs and delays.
• Ask for a written estimate clearly separating legal fees, disbursements, and taxes.
• Plan for busier timelines at month‑end and during winter weather.
• Use in‑office notary and estate planning support to streamline complex files.