What does a real estate lawyer do when I buy a condo in Ontario?

Buying a condominium in Ontario without a lawyer is not advisable — and for most transactions involving a mortgage, the lender requires one. Your real estate lawyer handles the legal elements of the purchase that protect you and ensure a clean transfer of title.

Their work typically includes: reviewing the agreement of purchase and sale before you sign (ideally) or advising on conditions; ordering the status certificate, which the corporation must furnish within 10 days of the request, and reviewing it within the review period set out in the agreement of purchase and sale; conducting a title search to confirm the seller has clear title and identify any outstanding liens, encumbrances, or restrictions; reviewing the declaration, by-laws, and rules for significant restrictions; preparing and reviewing closing documents; registering the transfer of title electronically; and handling the financial closing — receiving and disbursing mortgage funds, purchase price, land transfer taxes, and adjustments.

They will also provide you with a final statement of adjustments showing all the credits and debits on closing, including any common expense adjustments for prepaid amounts. After closing, your lawyer registers your ownership at the land registry and provides you with a reporting letter.