Power of sale and estate sales: what is different
Doorvia Guides · April 26, 2026
Expect no warranties, limited disclosure, unusual clauses and sometimes no vacant-possession certainty.
In a power of sale, a lender is selling the property after a borrower default. In an estate sale, an executor is selling on behalf of a deceased owner's estate. In both cases the seller has little personal knowledge of the property and will offer minimal representations or warranties.
Expect amended standard clauses, longer response times because a lender or executor must approve, an as-is sale, and occasionally uncertainty about occupancy or the condition of appliances and systems.
These sales can be good value, but the diligence burden shifts to you. Budget for a full inspection, have your lawyer review the amended schedule before you sign, and confirm arrears of taxes or condo fees.
More from the newsroom
Market update
GTA market update: what buyers are seeing this fall
Listing counts are up across the Greater Toronto Area while price growth stays flat, giving buyers more room to negotiate.
Buying guide
Ontario land transfer tax: the rates and how the bill is calculated
Ontario land transfer tax is charged in brackets, so the rate rises only on the portion of the price above each threshold.
Pre-construction
The 10-day cooling-off period on a new Ontario condo
Buyers of a new condominium from the developer get a statutory 10-day right to rescind without penalty.