When does good faith and honesty start when it comes to contracts? Well, the first thing that you have to have is a contract. So, that means that the two …
Cancelling the Listing (Early Termination)
What if you have a real estate agent you don’t like? How do you get rid of them? You don’t want to be a complainer, you don’t want to report …
Can Your Agent Switch Sides and Act for the Buyer?
The quick answer is “no”. The problem is that this “impression” was provided recently in a newspaper column. I’m sure that there will soon be a published correction, retraction or …
Brian Madigan’s “Bidding War Rules
Bidding wars are just not fair. They only help one person and that’s the Seller. If there are 31 bids, then there are 30 prospective Buyers who went home, dissatisfied …
Beware of the January Thaw!
Potholes, the trademark of the January thaw are not your biggest problem. This is the time when water is going to get into the basement. There are a few factors …
Ice Damming ~ Be careful!
In the particularly cold months, “ice damming” can become a problem. It starts out with cold weather outside, and insufficient insulation in the attic. The heat in the house escapes …
Should You sign a SPIS (Sellers Property Information Statement)?
Brian Madigan LL.B., Broker The question is: “do you sign one or not?” OREA says yes. RECO says yes. But, most Ontario lawyers would say “no”. So, who do you …
Ontario Tree Thieves Might Steal Your Property
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 …
Mick Jagger Knows the Canadian Residency Rules: Do You!
You have to be careful if you’re purchasing property from a non-resident. If you don’t, you may end up paying their income tax. As part of every real estate transaction …
Matrimonial Home ~ Special Rights in Ontario
Matrimonial homes in Ontario are subject to special considerations. In most cases, people believe that if a couple is married, then the house is split 50/50. Others, usually older people …