What Does a Real Estate Lawyer Actually Do?

Buying or selling a property is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make—and it involves more than just signing a few papers. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or preparing to sell your home, having a real estate lawyer on your side ensures that your interests are protected every step of the way.

So, what exactly does a real estate lawyer do? Here’s a clear breakdown of how we help you through the process.

1. We Review and Explain the Agreement of Purchase and Sale

The Agreement of Purchase and Sale is a legally binding contract between the buyer and seller. A real estate lawyer reviews this document to ensure:

• Your rights and obligations are clearly stated

• Important deadlines and conditions are in place (e.g., financing, inspection)

• There are no clauses that could put you at a disadvantage

If you’re buying a pre-construction property, we also review the builder’s agreement, which can be lengthy and full of hidden costs.

2. We Conduct Title Searches and Ensure the Property Is Legally Clear

Before closing, we perform a title search to make sure:

• The seller legally owns the property

• There are no unpaid taxes, liens, or claims on the title

• There are no easements or restrictions that could affect your use of the property

We’ll also advise on whether title insurance is recommended or required by your lender.

3. We Handle All Legal Documentation

Real estate transactions involve a lot of paperwork—from mortgage documents to land transfer tax forms. We take care of:

• Preparing and registering the legal documents with the Land Registry Office

• Communicating with your lender to complete mortgage instructions

• Preparing the statement of adjustments (which outlines all the costs on closing day)

This ensures everything is in place for a smooth, legally compliant transaction.

4. We Transfer Funds and Register the Title

On closing day, your lawyer takes care of:

• Exchanging funds between the buyer, seller, and their lenders

• Paying land transfer taxes and any final adjustments

• Registering the new title in your name

We make sure everything is done securely and in line with provincial regulations.

5. We Help You Understand Closing Costs

From legal fees to land transfer tax, closing costs can add up quickly. We provide a clear breakdown of these costs early in the process so you can budget with confidence—and we don’t charge hidden fees.

6. We’re Your Advocate Every Step of the Way

Real estate deals don’t always go as planned. If issues arise—like a delayed closing, property defects, or last-minute mortgage complications—we’re here to protect your interests and help resolve them quickly.