The Course, “Just Deposits”, basically covers all you ever wanted to know about deposits. When it comes to deposits, ask yourself the following questions: Is a deposit necessary? What happens …
Inexpensive Ways to Fix Up the House Before Sale
You only get one chance to make a first impression, so let’s make it count. Oftentimes, when sellers are getting their homes ready for sale they concentrate on the inside …
Can a Corporation Be a Joint Tenant?
From time to time people wonder whether a corporation can hold title as a joint tenant. After all, it can’t really die? Strange question, in fact, I have been asked …
Agency: The Difference Between Estoppel and Ratification
A contract of agency can be created in several ways. The most common method is a express agreement in writing. Sometimes, it arises by implication. But, there are two other …
Agents: Acting within the Scope of Authority
Is the agent’s statement binding upon the Principal? Is the Principal known or unknown? That seems to make a difference when it comes to determining liability. Disclosed Principal It is …
Does Title Insurance make sense?
That’s a good question. Prior to 1997, there was no commonly available title insurance in Ontario and yet it was the norm in the United States. Solicitor’s Opinion Traditionally, purchasers …
Time for Closing: 5:00 pm or 6:00 pm?
There used to be a time when agreements of purchase and sale provided that transaction must be completed prior to 4:30 pm on the date scheduled for closing. Now that …
Legal Obligations of Agents
Oftentimes, it is difficult to determine precisely the legal obligations owed by an agent. You have to be aware that real estate brokers and sales representatives are regulated under the …
Responsibility for the Missing Dishwasher
Here is a question that arises about once every two weeks: If the agent fails to include the dishwasher in the Agreement of Purchase and Sale, but told the buyer …
Protecting Buyers and Sellers from “leaky basements”
Never mind wondering who you can sue, the best time to protect yourself is before the deal is done. Consider the following case, it’s really quite common. John and Mary …