🏡 Essential Legal Steps Every Buyer & Seller Should Know
Buying a home in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is a major milestone and one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. With a fast-paced, competitive market, it’s easy to overlook key legal details that can make or break your transaction.
At Jan’s Realty Team, we guide buyers through every step to ensure a smooth, secure, and stress-free home purchase.
1️⃣ Understanding the Agreement of Purchase and Sale (APS)
The APS is the foundation of any real estate transaction. It outlines the purchase price, conditions, and closing date. Before signing, it’s vital to review every clause carefully. We’ll explain each term in plain language, protect your rights, and help you avoid costly disputes.
2️⃣ Conducting a Title Search
Title insurance protects you from financial loss caused by hidden title defects, errors in public records, or even fraud.
A Real Estate Lawyer will help you understand what’s covered and determine if additional protection is needed for your specific property.
3️⃣ Securing Title Insurance
Title insurance protects you from financial loss caused by hidden title defects, errors in public records, or even fraud. A Lawyer will explain what’s covered and determine if additional protection is needed for your specific property.
4️⃣ Navigating Property Taxes
Property taxes can significantly affect your budget. These costs are often adjusted between buyer and seller at closing.
The lawyer should review all property tax details, ensure accurate payments, and identify potential savings or exemptions for first-time buyers.
5️⃣ Reviewing Zoning and Bylaws
GTA’s zoning and bylaw rules can affect what you can build or modify on your property.
Before purchasing, you must confirm that your intended use, such as renovations, additions, or rentals, complies with local regulations.
6️⃣ Considering Legal Obligations for Condominiums
Buying a condo comes with added responsibilities. A lawyer should review your status certificate to identify potential red flags, such as upcoming special assessments, reserve fund issues, or high maintenance fees, before you buy.
7️⃣ Understanding Mortgage and Financing Terms
Your mortgage terms can have long-term financial implications.
Review your financing agreement in detail to ensure clarity and fairness, so you know exactly what you’re committing to with no surprises later.
8️⃣ Preparing for Closing Costs
Closing costs in the GTA typically range from 1.5% to 4% of the purchase price and may include legal fees, land transfer taxes, and title insurance.
We’ll provide a detailed estimate, allowing you to plan confidently and avoid unexpected expenses.
9️⃣ Missing Important Deadlines
Real estate deals have strict deadlines for financing, inspections, and document submissions. Miss one, and you could face penalties or even lose your deposit. At Jan’s Realty Team, we stay on top of every date so your transaction stays smooth and stress-free.
🔟 Attempting a DIY Approach
With so much information online, some buyers try to handle everything themselves. But real estate transactions are complex, and every deal is different. Working with an experienced Real Estate Broker and Lawyer ensures you’re fully protected, every document is handled correctly, and you don’t make costly mistakes.
🏠 Buy Smarter. Avoid Mistakes.
Don’t let avoidable missteps cost you thousands or derail your purchase.
At Jan’s Realty Team, we guide you through every step — from mortgage pre-approval to closing — so you can buy with confidence.
📞 Call us today at 289-724-1638
or
👉 Request Your Free Homebuyer Consultation