Do You Need a Lawyer to Buy a Home in Ontario?
This page is general information for people in Ontario. It is not legal advice, and Law HelpLine is not a law firm. Laws and deadlines change and every situation is different, so check your own facts with a licensed lawyer or paralegal.
In Ontario, most home purchases are closed with a lawyer. Most buyers use a lawyer. Ask your lender and a lawyer whether you need one in your situation.
What a lawyer does for you
- Reviews the agreement of purchase and sale and explains conditions
- Searches title and checks for liens or other claims against the property
- Registers the transfer and your mortgage
- Calculates taxes and adjustments and handles funds on closing
- Explains title insurance
Get the agreement reviewed early
The best time to involve a lawyer is before you sign, or at least before you waive conditions. After that, your options shrink.
What it costs
Expect legal fees plus disbursements such as title searches and registration. You will also pay land transfer tax on most purchases, and buyers in Toronto pay a municipal tax too. Ask for a quote in writing so there are no surprises.
Questions to ask
- What is included in the flat fee?
- What extra costs commonly come up?
- Do you act for the lender as well?
- Who will I deal with on closing day?
Finding a lawyer or paralegal
Law HelpLine is an independent legal information website. We are not a law firm and we do not give legal advice. To find a licensed lawyer or paralegal, use the Ontario government’s Find a lawyer or paralegal page or the Law Society of Ontario directory at lso.ca. If you are in danger, call 911.