What is a Mortgage? Understanding the Basics of Home Financing in Ontario
June 24, 2025 By Nick Melchiorre Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions most people will ever make. Chances are, if you are buying a home, you will require a mortgage. If you are a first-time buyer, you may not be familiar with everything that comes with a mortgage. Even if […]
The Hidden Risks of Waiving Conditions in Ontario Real Estate Deals
June 17, 2025 By Nick Melchiorre In Ontario’s competitive real estate market, it’s become increasingly common for buyers to submit offers with no conditions in an effort to stand out. While a “clean offer” may appeal to sellers and increase the chance of acceptance, it can expose buyers—and sometimes sellers—to significant legal and financial risks. […]
When Time is of the Essence Part Two
June 12, 2025 By Mark Mikulasik We have written before to comment on “time is of the essence” clauses in real estate contracts. THE ISSUE Our recent article commented on a case where the Ontario Court of Appeal strictly applied the concept of a strict time limit. In that case, the buyers were 35 minutes […]
Options to Renew: Formality Counts
June 10, 2025 By Mark Mikulasik Does your commercial lease contain an option to renew? THE ISSUE If so, do you need to strictly comply with formal requirements of the option, or is it good enough to communicate the essence of your intention to renew? THE CASE In Garlicky Mediterranean Grill Inc. v. 2715762 Ontario […]
Legal Aspects of Selling Your Home in Ontario
June 3, 2025 By Nick Melchiorre Selling a home is one of the most significant financial transactions you will make in your life. In Ontario, as in other provinces, there are several legal requirements and considerations to keep in mind when selling a property. Whether you’re a first-time seller or have sold homes before, understanding […]
Buying or Selling Property in Ontario
May 22, 2025 By Mark Mikulasik Buying or selling a property in Ontario is an exciting, yet complex process that involves multiple legal steps. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, understanding the legal requirements is crucial to ensure a smooth transaction. This article will guide you through the essential legal steps involved […]
After the Fire
May 13, 2025 By Nick Melchiorre A typical Ontario residential agreement of purchase and sale contains a provision that pending closing, the house remains at the risk of the seller, which means that they continue to insure it against fire. THE ISSUE So, what happens if there is a fire before closing? The typical clause […]
Oral Arguments and the Sale of Land
May 1, 2025 By Mark Mikulasik The Statute of Frauds is intended to prevent frauds, not to allow them. The most well-known provision of the Statute is the requirement that an agreement for the purchase and sale of land must be in writing. THE ISSUE Usually, this rule works well to prevent fraudulent claims to […]
Buying a Cottage in Ontario
April 24, 2025 By Nick Melchiorre Owning a cottage in Ontario- or we in Northwestern Ontario call them, a “camp”- is a dream for many, offering a peaceful retreat from city life. However, purchasing a seasonal property comes with unique legal and financial considerations. Prospective buyers must be aware of zoning laws, access rights, environmental […]
Commercial Landlords May Not Have To Mitigate
February 28, 2025 By Mark Mikulasik If a commercial tenant repudiates the lease, that is, says they no longer intend to perform their side of the bargain the landlord has two options: they may immediately terminate the lease by following the procedures in the law, or they may refuse to accept the repudiation and treat […]