So, you’ve found the perfect place. Maybe it’s got a dream kitchen, a cozy backyard, or that extra room you swear you’ll turn into a gym. But before you start measuring for furniture, it’s time to take a step back.
While realtors help you find the right house, a professional real estate lawyer helps you protect the biggest purchase of your life. And there are a few things your realtor won’t (and can’t) tell you, but your lawyer absolutely should.
The Purchase Agreement Isn’t Just Paperwork
Let’s start with the document that kicks everything off: the purchase agreement. Real estate agents often use standard forms, but that doesn’t mean those forms cover everything important.
A lawyer reviews the agreement to
- Clarify vague clauses
- Ensure deadlines are realistic
- Protect your interests if the deal falls through
- Flag any red flags around deposits, conditions, or seller responsibilities
Without the right lawyer to guide you, you might be signing something that leaves you vulnerable, especially when it comes to conditions like financing, inspections, or property disclosures.
Title Issues Can Derail Your Ownership
When you buy a home, you’re not just getting a set of keys; you’re taking on legal ownership of a property. And that comes with history.
Your lawyer will do a title search to ensure
- The seller is the rightful owner
- There are no unexpected liens or debts attached to the property
- Easements, caveats, or encumbrances are clearly understood
Sometimes, homes come with shared driveways, old utility rights, or unpaid taxes. You’ll want to know all of that before your name is on the title.
Property Boundaries Might Not Be What You Think
That cute fence? The tool shed? The stretch of lawn on the side? It’s possible some of those features don’t sit entirely within the property lines. Boundary disputes can become legal headaches long after the sale closes.
Lawyers can
- Review the Real Property Report (RPR)
- Flag encroachments or discrepancies
- Recommend how to protect yourself before finalizing the deal
Without reviewing these documents, you might unknowingly inherit an issue with a neighbour, or worse, face legal action to move or remove structures.
Condo Purchases Come With Strings Attached
If you’re buying a condo in Alberta, your lawyer will help you navigate the condominium documents, which go far beyond what your realtor typically covers.
These include
- Financial health of the condo corporation
- Reserve fund studies
- Bylaws and rules
- Meeting minutes that may highlight ongoing issues
A condo with poor reserves or legal trouble could become a financial burden. Your lawyer helps you spot those risks early.
There Are Legal Risks On Both Sides Of A Hot Market
In Edmonton’s fast-paced markets, deals move quickly, but that doesn’t mean corners should be cut. Waiving conditions to win a bidding war may seem like a bold move, but it can also lead to big regrets.
A real estate lawyer provides:
- Strategic advice before waiving financing or inspection conditions
- Guidance on backup clauses and offer timing
- A realistic assessment of what’s legally at stake
It’s easy to be swept up in the emotion of a hot market. Your lawyer brings the balance of logic and legal clarity.
Mortgages, Adjustments, And Closing Costs Deserve Attention Too
Beyond the price tag, there’s a long list of financial details that go into buying a home. Your lawyer will break down all the numbers, including:
- Land transfer taxes (also called registration fees in Alberta)
- Property tax adjustments between the buyer and seller
- Mortgage instructions from your lender
- Legal fees and disbursements
Most buyers are surprised at how many small fees can add up, and how critical it is that funds are handled precisely on closing day.
Why The Final Walkthrough Isn’t Always Final
Many people assume that once they’ve walked through the home one last time, they’re good to go. But if something has changed, say, an appliance is missing or the home was left in poor condition, your lawyer can help determine:
- If there’s recourse based on your purchase agreement
- Whether funds should be held back until issues are resolved
- If further negotiation or legal steps are necessary
This is where having a lawyer involved from the beginning becomes a game-changer. They’ve already set up protections in the contract, so you’re not left scrambling.
The Bottom Line: Protect Your Investment Before You Get The Keys
Buying a home is exciting, but it’s also legally complex. Real estate agents are great at helping you find and negotiate for a property.
But it’s your lawyer who ensures that what you’re getting is legally sound, financially fair, and fully protected.
Don’t wait until something goes wrong. The best time to bring a lawyer into your home-buying journey is before you sign anything. With the right legal support, you can focus on moving forward without second-guessing your decision.
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