In Ontario a lawyer completes the legal side of every home purchase or sale: reviewing the agreement, checking title, handling the money and registering the transfer. We act for buyers and sellers, and real estate agents and brokers have reviewed our work on this site.
You can send us the agreement of purchase and sale before you sign it, or as soon as conditions are removed. Earlier is better.
What happens between offer and keys
- Review of the agreement of purchase and sale and its conditions
- Title search and review of any liens, easements or work-order issues
- Review of your mortgage instructions and arranging the funds
- Preparing the transfer and registering it electronically on closing day
- Paying land transfer tax and adjusting taxes and utilities
- Title insurance and reporting to your lender
Costs to expect
Your costs are legal fees plus disbursements (title search, registration, title insurance) and land transfer tax. Mississauga and Brampton do not charge a municipal land transfer tax; only the City of Toronto does. Ontario's first-time buyer rebate can reduce provincial land transfer tax by up to $4,000. Use our calculator for an estimate.
New builds and condos
Pre-construction and new-build closings add steps: occupancy dates, adjustments for development charges, HST, and the builder's statement of adjustments. Send us the agreement and any amendments as early as you can.
What to bring or send your lawyer
- Signed agreement of purchase and sale with all schedules and amendments
- Two pieces of government photo ID
- Mortgage commitment and your lender's name and contact
- Proof of home insurance effective on closing day
- Closing funds in the form your lawyer asks for (bank draft or wire)
- Voided cheque or void bank details if the sale proceeds are being deposited
- For sellers: details of the existing mortgage and any rental or equipment contracts
Frequently asked questions
When should I contact a lawyer?
Before you sign the agreement if possible, or as soon as conditions are removed. We can flag problems in the agreement while it can still be changed.
How much will closing cost?
It depends on the price, the type of property and the mortgage. We give a quote that lists legal fees and the disbursements and taxes separately.
Is there land transfer tax in Mississauga?
Ontario land transfer tax applies everywhere in the province. Mississauga and Brampton have no additional municipal land transfer tax. Toronto does.
Last updated: .This page is general information about Ontario law, not legal advice. Every situation is different; speak to a lawyer about yours.