The Role of your Lawyer

You need to arrange for a lawyer to look after the legal aspects of buying a home, or a public notary if you buy in Quebec. It is a good idea to contact a lawyer early, even before you actually begin to look at properties. Your local and provincial bar association can refer you to a lawyer who specializes in real estate. Ask for an estimate of costs in advance so you know what to expect.

Your lawyer will represent your interests throughout the process of buying your new home:

• reviewing the Agreement of Purchase and Sale
• advising you during the counter and re-counter process of the offer
• making sure that you get clear title to the property and verifying, preparing and executing transfer documents, deeds and your mortgage
• registering the change of property ownership and obtaining legal possession for you.