What is WETT: Wood Energy Technology Transfer?

Wood Energy Technology Transfer Inc. (WETT Inc.) is a non-profit training and education association which functions as the national registrar of the WETT program to promote the safe and effective use of wood burning systems in Canada. The Wood Energy Technical Training program is designed to: “provide training to those who offer wood energy products…

Navigating Pet Ownership Laws in Toronto Rentals and Condos

2 pets waiting to see if they are allowed in a rental unit in Toronto.

Navigating pet ownership rules in Toronto and the greater Ontario rental apartments and condominiums can be a complex task, especially when it comes to understanding the rights of tenants and residents regarding service animals. This article aims to clarify these rules, ensuring that pet owners and property managers alike are well-informed. Key Points: Pet Policies…

Navigating Tree Laws in Ontario: An Essential Guide

Navigating the complexities of tree laws in Ontario and specifically Toronto, particularly with property boundaries involvement, can be intricate and daunting. This comprehensive guide aims to clarify critical aspects property owners often grapple with, including dealing with overhanging branches, planting trees on property boundaries, managing a neighbor’s trees that encroach onto your property, and understanding…

Mortgage Down Payment Help From Parents: Is It a Gift, Loan, or Trust?

My mom gave me $50K to help with my down payment: is it a gift or is it a loan or did a trust just get thrown at me? Many parents are financially assisting their adult children to purchase real estate. Sometimes it’s a few thousand dollars; sometimes significantly more. Is this financial assistance a…

What’s So Important About A Condominium Status Certificate?

The purchase of a condominium differs in many regards from the purchase of a house. Condominiums are created by statute and the Declaration, Rules and By-Laws of each condominium differ. Here are some of the questions that you and your agent should be asking each other: Are pets allowed? What kinds of pets? How many?…

The APS calls for my seller to terminate the tenancy so the buyer can move in. The buyer is a corporation. Is it legal?

Here’s the bottom line: Section 49 of the Residential Tenancies Act allows a seller/landlord to terminate a tenancy within a residential complex that contains no more than three (3) residential units, or a condominium unit; if: (i) The seller/landlord has entered into an agreement of purchase and sale to sell the residential complex; and (ii)…

Acting in Good Faith: Navigating Real Estate Agreements

In real estate transactions, particularly within the context of resale residential agreements of purchase and sale, the principle of acting in good faith is a cornerstone of ethical and fair dealings. But what does acting in good faith truly mean, and how does it influence the ability to navigate real estate agreements effectively? The Principle…

Unraveling the “Survive Closing Non Merger” Clause in Real Estate Agreements

In the world of real estate, the process doesn’t end with a handshake – it’s filled with complex jargon and clauses. One such term that often pops up is the “Survive Closing Non Merger” clause. Not exactly a phrase that rolls off the tongue, right? Fear not, we’re here to break it down for you,…

The buyer won’t close. What are my legal remedies?

What can a seller do? Here’s the short answer: Extend the closing if the seller still wishes the transaction to close Accept the breach, terminate the transaction, keep the deposit without having to account to the buyer and walk away (this is prudent in an escalating market) Accept the breach, hold the deposit in abeyance,…

Death In Real Estate: Do I Need to Probate the Will Before I Sell the House?

As a real estate lawyer, I am often asked if the Will of a deceased client must be probated before his real estate may be dealt with. There are a few issues to consider before the aforementioned question can be answered (and in this blog I will only address situations where the deceased has made…