Imagine the moment you hold the keys to your new home or business location for the first time—it’s exhilarating. This excitement is at the heart of every real estate transaction, signifying a new beginning and endless possibilities. At Francis Lawyers, our real estate lawyers in Ottawa, Ontario, are ready to guide you through each step with confidence and ease. Whether you're entering the commercial market to expand your enterprise, or seeking a residence that feels like home, our mission is to make your real estate dreams a reality.

The Framework of Real Estate Transactions

Be it buying a house, selling a property, or leasing a commercial space, real estate transactions are similar but never identical. In the residential domain, emotions often run high as dreams of a new home or the need to move on from old memories drive the narrative. Alternatively, in commercial transactions, pragmatic negotiations and the bottom-line reign supreme.

Here is a detailed look at the role we play in each real estate needs:

Commercial Real Estate Transactions

In the bustling world of commercial real estate, the stakes are high, and so is the complexity of the transactions. From the negotiation of lease agreements to the purchase and sale of office complexes, each move demands strategic legal counsel. We handle a myriad of matters that include, but are not limited to:

For leases and offers to lease, see our commercial leasing lawyers in Ottawa, for landlords and tenants.

Signing soon? Read our guide to commercial lease review in Ottawa.

Drafting and Reviewing Contracts: Ensuring that the terms aligned with your commercial objectives are accurately reflected in the contract which is the central piece of any real estate investment.
Title Searches and Examinations: A comprehensive investigation to uncover any claims, defects, or liens that may affect the property and your acquisition or leasing goals.
Land Use and Zoning Compliance: Navigating the often convoluted web of local and municipal regulations to ensure that any intended use of the property aligns with the zoning laws in place.
Environmental Due Diligence: Evaluating the property to gauge potential environmental risks and liabilities that might pass onto you as the new property owner or occupant.
Closing and Post-Closing Matters: Overseeing the final transfer of the property and ensuring that all post-closing tasks, such as recordation and compliance with title insurance requirements, are completed.

Our real estate lawyers are attuned to the unique challenges businesses face in their real estate endeavors, providing pragmatic advice that safeguards your commercial interests.

Residential Real Estate Transactions

Residential real estate transactions often involve an emotional investment that parallels the financial one. As your advisors in the home buying or selling process, we appreciate the trust you place in us to handle these pivotal life events. When dealing with residential properties, we provide guidance on:

Offer and Acceptance: Assisting with the formulation and negotiation of offers and navigating the counteroffer process to ensure the terms are agreeable and legally sound.
Home Inspections and Contingencies: Advising on the right contingencies to protect your interests and working through any issues that may arise from the inspection process.
Financing and Mortgages: Walking you through the intricate process of securing a mortgage, including understanding the terms of financing agreements and mortgage commitments.
Closing Procedures and Documentation: Preparing all the necessary documents for the closing, such as the transfer, charge, and all ancillary documentations, and explaining each document's significance before the big day.
Post-Closing Matters and Title Insurance: Ensuring all documents are correctly filed and that you are afforded the protection of a secure title.

We recognize that the sale or purchase of a home is much more than a financial transaction; it's a pivotal life event. Our lawyers provide personalized service to make this transition as smooth as possible.

Francis Lawyers focuses on real estate law: four of our real estate lawyers in Ottawa practise residential real estate law, and the firm has handled Ottawa real estate since 1974. We act on resale homes, condominiums, newly constructed homes, refinancing and commercial property. Buying a condo? See what we review on a condominium purchase. Buying from a builder? See our new-build home page.

Your purchase, step by step

When	What happens
Before you sign (ideal)	We review the offer, its conditions and the closing date with you.
Offer accepted	Send us the agreement of purchase and sale, all amendments and your mortgage commitment. We open the file and verify your identity with government-issued photo ID.
Before the requisition date	We search title and off-title matters and send requisitions to the seller's lawyer by the date set in your agreement.
Title assurance	You choose title insurance or a lawyer's opinion on title; we explain both.
1 to 2 weeks before closing	We prepare the statement of adjustments review, mortgage documents and land transfer tax statements, and tell you the exact funds needed.
Signing appointment	You sign the closing documents and the authorization that lets us register electronically for you.
Closing day	Funds are exchanged through our trust account, the transfer and mortgage are registered, and keys are released.
After closing	You receive our reporting letter and, if chosen, your title insurance policy.

Timing varies with your agreement. For the full closing walk-through, see how our real estate closing lawyers in Ottawa handle closing day.

What to bring to your lawyer

Buyers

Government-issued photo ID for every buyer (for example, a driver's licence or passport). Municipal ID cards aren't accepted.
The signed agreement of purchase and sale, with all amendments and waivers.
Your mortgage commitment and lender contact.
Your home insurance binder, with the lender noted.
How you want to take title, and everyone's full legal names.
Your closing funds, in the form we tell you.

Sellers

Government-issued photo ID.
Your current deed (transfer), mortgage details and latest statement, latest property tax bill and recent utility bills.
Any survey, and details of changes made since it was done.
Information on marital status and residency.
If selling a condo: your property manager's contact.

Legal Services Offered by Francis Lawyers

Our legal services go beyond mere documentation; we serve as strategic partners throughout the transaction process. Here are a few critical services we offer to clients in Ottawa:

Real Estate Litigation: In the event of a dispute post-transaction, we are well-equipped to handle all forms of real estate litigation, from boundary disputes to breach of contract claims.
Easements and Restrictions: We assist with the negotiation and drafting of agreements for easements and use restrictions that may impact the transfer or use of the property.
Landlord-Tenant Disputes: For both commercial and residential leases, we're adept at managing the complexities of landlord-tenant relationships and represent clients in negotiations and, when necessary, litigation.
Foreclosure and Distressed Real Estate: With a comprehensive understanding of foreclosure laws, we can guide both borrowers and lenders through the foreclosure process or work towards a more amicable resolution for distressed properties.

Our goal is to be by your side through every turn of the real estate transaction maze, providing clear and actionable legal advice.

For All Your Real Estate Needs

Speak With a Lawyer

Canada Real Estate Transaction FAQs

If you're buying or selling property, you'll likely have a lot of questions that need to be answered. Here, we've compiled a list of frequently asked questions that offer insight into the Canadian real estate transaction process.

What Are the Key Legal Requirements for Real Estate Transactions in Canada?

The legal requirements can vary significantly depending on the province or territory. Generally, transactions require a written contract, disclosure of the property's condition, clear title, and the involvement of a lawyer or notary in closing the transaction. It's essential to consult with a real estate lawyer to understand the specific requirements in your area.

How Do Closing Costs Work in Canada?

Closing costs in Canada can range between 1.5% to 4% of the property's selling price and include legal fees, land transfer taxes, and other miscellaneous expenses. These costs are over and above the property's purchase price and should be budgeted for accordingly.

What Is the Role of a Real Estate Lawyer in Canadian Transactions?

A real estate lawyer in Canada plays a pivotal role in the transaction, from drafting and reviewing the agreement of purchase and sale to conducting a title search, ensuring there are no liens or encumbrances on the property. They also manage the transfer of funds and ensure the deed to the property is correctly filed with the government.

Is a Home Inspection Mandatory in Canada?

While not legally mandatory, a home inspection is highly recommended as it can uncover potential issues with the property that may not be visible during a simple walkthrough. This step is particularly crucial for buyers, as it provides an additional layer of protection.

Can Foreigners Buy Property in Canada?

Generally, not at the moment. Until January 1, 2027, a federal law bars non-Canadians from buying residential property in Canada, including in Ottawa. "Non-Canadian" means an individual who is not a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident or a person registered as an Indian under the Indian Act, and certain foreign or foreign-controlled corporations and entities (Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act, ss. 2, 4(1); repeal date set by the Budget Implementation Act, 2022, No. 1, s. 237(2)). The main exceptions are: certain temporary residents with a work permit (183 days or more remaining) or who meet strict study-permit conditions, and who have not bought more than one residential property; protected persons; a non-Canadian buying with a spouse or common-law partner who is a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or registered Indian; and certain diplomats and eligible refugee claimants (Act s. 4(2); Regulations ss. 5–6). The ban does not cover property outside census metropolitan areas and census agglomerations (Regulations s. 3(1)), and acquiring property through death, divorce, separation or a gift is not a "purchase" (Regulations s. 4(2)(a)). Foreign buyers who are allowed to buy may also owe Ontario's Non-Resident Speculation Tax (NRST), which applies anywhere in Ontario to purchases of residential property by foreign nationals and certain foreign corporations and taxable trustees, currently at 25% of the value of the consideration (O. Reg. 182/17, s. 1.3(1)(a)). Speak with a real estate lawyer before you sign an offer.

How Does the Mortgage Approval Process Work in Canada?

The mortgage approval process involves obtaining a pre-approval, which gives you an idea of how much you can afford, followed by a formal approval once you've made an offer on a property. Lenders will assess your creditworthiness, income, debts, and the property's value before granting a mortgage.

What Happens on the Closing Day of a Real Estate Transaction?

On closing day, all legal and financial obligations outlined in the agreement of purchase and sale must be met. This includes the transfer of the purchase price from buyer to seller, the transfer of property title to the buyer, and the payment of legal fees, land transfer taxes, and other related costs. The keys to the property are then handed over to the buyer, marking the completion of the transaction.

How Is Ontario Land Transfer Tax Calculated?

Ontario land transfer tax is paid when the transfer is registered on closing, at these rates on the value of the consideration: 0.5% up to $55,000; 1% from $55,000 to $250,000; 1.5% from $250,000 to $400,000; 2% above $400,000; plus an additional 0.5% (2.5% in total) above $2,000,000 where the land contains one or two single family residences (Land Transfer Tax Act, s. 2(1)). Ontario's own example: a $400,000 home attracts $4,475. Your closing lawyer calculates and pays the tax on registration.

Can First-Time Homebuyers Get a Land Transfer Tax Refund?

Eligible first-time buyers can get a refund of up to $4,000 where the transfer occurs on or after January 1, 2017 (Land Transfer Tax Act, s. 9.2(2.1)); in practice no tax is payable on the first $368,000. Generally you must be at least 18, a Canadian citizen or permanent resident (or become one within 18 months of the transfer), occupy the home as your principal residence within nine months, and never have owned a home anywhere in the world (nor had a spouse who owned one while your spouse). The refund is usually claimed on registration, or by application within 18 months.

Do Ottawa Buyers Pay the Ontario Land Transfer Tax?

Yes. The Ontario land transfer tax applies to conveyances anywhere in the province, including Ottawa (Land Transfer Tax Act, s. 2(1)).

General information about Ontario law as of October 2026, not legal advice. Laws change; speak with a lawyer about your purchase.

Why Choose Us for Your Real Estate Transaction Needs?

Choosing the right legal representation for your real estate matters is critical. At Francis Lawyers, our commitment to high-quality service and our depth of experience in real estate law set us apart. Here's why our services are the perfect fit for your transaction needs:

Local Support and Connections: With a strong presence in Ottawa, our firm's local knowledge and relationships with key players in the real estate industry can be a significant advantage.
Focus on Communication: We understand the importance of clear communication and strive to keep clients informed at every step of the process, demystifying legalese along the way.
Tailored Approach: We recognize that each client and each transaction is unique. Our services are never one-size-fits-all; they're tailored to meet your specific needs and goals.
Proactive Problem-Solving: Rather than waiting for problems to arise, we take a proactive approach to identify and address potential issues early in the process, mitigating risk and ensuring smoother transactions.

During real estate transactions, having a trusted legal advisor can make all the difference. Entrust Francis Lawyers with your real estate matters and experience a level of professionalism and dedication.

Your real estate lawyers

J. Paul Francis, Counsel, founded Francis Lawyers in 1974 and assists clients with residential and commercial real estate transactions.
Baljinder Kaur Basi, Partner, practises residential and commercial real estate law. Services in English, Punjabi and Hindi.
Marie-Luise Francis, Counsel, practises residential real estate law. Services in English, French and German.
Paige Smith, Associate, assists clients with residential real estate transactions.

Our lawyers are supported by our clerks, including Sue Hillsdon, Real Estate Clerk, who has over 40 years of experience in real estate law, and Caitlynne Scagel, Real Estate & Estates Clerk.

Book a real estate consultation · (613) 226-1011