From time to time the question of private deed restrictions comes up. What do they mean? Where are they registered? Who enforces them? An owner of a parcel of property …
Creation and Alienation of Life Estates
Life estates are relatively straightforward; they are simply estates “for life”. So, if Robert leaves an estate to James for his lifetime, then when James dies, it is longer part …
Fire Department and Other Municipal Searches
Question: Does the Seller have to agree to fire department and other related municipal searches? Answer: Yes, they do, in they signed the standard Form OREA Agreement of Purchase and …
Squatter Makes Millions!
And you thought squatter’s rights were abolished years ago. In part, you’re right, but you must remember that there are two systems of land registration. Under the land titles system, …
Property Division under Power of Sale
Question: There are 2 sellers on title, one moved out but continued to pay their half of mortgage. Seller in home missed two mortgage payments, so the Bank has implemented …
Construction Liens
If you are planning on any renovations or you are building a new home, then you need to know about the Construction Act. First, there is a lien which can be …
Matrimonial Home Designation: Don’t Give it Up!
There certainly are situations where the matrimonial home designation should not be given up. The registration of the designation on title is like a lien on the property. That’s fine …
Good Title and Better Title
The traditional definition of good title in law, is a title without any qualifications, exceptions or explanations. A solicitor’s opinion on title would point out any matters that were relevant …
Joint Tenancy: A Poor Man’s Will
Brian Madigan LL.B. Question: I am concerned about my mother. Ten years ago, she married a man who now seems to be in ill health. He has operated his own …
Tree Thieves
By Brian Madigan LL.B. Now,you might think that I’m talking about people who steal trees. I’m not. I’m talking about trees that steal property for you! Obviously, these are good …