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Working with a Lawyer When You Buy a Home

Two people shaking hands next to a model of a home.

Working with a lawyer is key to protecting your investment and ensuring a smooth home purchase. Here's how they help:

  1. Offer Review
    Lawyers review your offer to include escape clauses, warranties, and an itemized list of included items, protecting your interests.

  2. Managing Costs and Special Cases
    They help identify additional costs (e.g., taxes, prepaid utilities) and handle complexities like new builds, condos, or unique property features.

  3. Post-Acceptance Tasks
    Lawyers handle legal checks, prepare mortgage documents, and oversee the transfer of funds and keys.

  4. Title Protection
    Ensure clear ownership through:

    • Lawyer’s Opinion: Legal confirmation of ownership.
    • Title Insurance: Covers risks like title fraud or encroachments.
    • TitlePLUS® Insurance: Includes title and legal service coverage.
  5. Facilitating Closing
    They manage funds, insurance, and legalities for a seamless transfer of ownership.

A lawyer provides the expertise to protect your rights and simplify the process of buying a home.

Produced by the Ontario Bar Association in cooperation with the Law Society of Ontario.