Opening A Bar? Some Thoughts to Sip On…

There’s certainly a ‘cool factor’ to owning a bar. For restaurant owners, adding the sale and service of alcohol is another valuable revenue stream. The application process for a New Liquor Sales License with the AGCO is oftentimes a tedious and costly procedure. Businesses that ignore careful planning and professional consultation run the risk of […]

Hot Potato: Who’s Responsible for Fire Code Compliance?

Ontario’s fire protection and prevention laws are complex and oftentimes confusing. Business owners, landlords and even tenants should have some understanding of fire code compliance and their responsibilities under these laws to ensure their safety and the safety of others is met. Additionally, a firm knowledge of these legalities help mitigate against dangerous risks taking […]

Condo Living Primer: Common Element Fees

You often hear people who own condo units complain about their monthly ‘fees’ being too high.  While it may be common knowledge that the vast majority of condominiums charge unit owners monthly common element fees, many property owners still don’t quite understand what they are being charged for and how these costs are apportioned.  Prospective […]

3 Qualities to Look for in a Real Estate Lawyer

While price is obviously an important consideration when hiring a lawyer, it shouldn’t be the only aspect you value when entrusting a professional with your real estate matter.  Oftentimes, consumers are told that they ‘get what they pay for’. However, it’s less common to find any practical indicators on how to value a particular legal service provider. […]

Real Estate Spotlight: Featuring Joshua Levesque

Navigating the real estate market can be an exciting, but often overwhelming, experience. Not only are there many options in terms of properties, but there are many professional services to consider when you are buying or selling a home. Learning from industry professionals can help make the process of navigating the world of Ontario real […]

What is a Matrimonial Home?

Marriage is an important milestone for many people.  Apart from the glitz and excitement during wedding season, marriage symbolizes a lifelong commitment to share in the love of another person.  Unfortunately, this is a blog post is about real estate law… It should go without saying that, unsurprisingly, law lacks any understanding of romance.  Instead, […]

Real Estate Spotlight: Featuring Elizabeth Long

We are proud to continue our Real Estate Spotlight Series, where we help you learn from industry professionals as you navigate Ontario real estate. Finding the right fit for any professional service is important.  As part of our commitment to honest, transparent and personalized real estate services, we are proud to share our network with you. […]

Pre-Construction Investments: Basic Legal Considerations

Canada’s residential real estate market is considered a booming investment hotbed.  Whether you are investing from overseas or putting in an offer locally, it’s important to keep some practical legal considerations in mind when purchasing pre-construction projects. Drive anywhere in the GTA and you are bound to witness a seemingly endless fleet of cranes, bulldozers […]

Non-Resident Speculation Tax: The Foreign Homebuyer Overview

Over the past decade, Ontario’s real estate market has experienced sharp price increases partially as a result of increased foreign investment activity.  In response to concerns over housing affordability and market stability, the Ontario Government enacted the Non-Resident Speculation Tax (NRST). The NRST became effective as of April 21, 2017 and impacts an array of […]

Live-In Landlord: When You Are Roommates With Your Tenant

Landlord and tenant relationships are all about balance – the interests of the landlord and the tenant don’t always align perfectly and may even conflict at times.  Add to this the stress of living under the same roof and the delicate balance between each party can easily be tested by an awkward comment, passive aggressive […]