What your real estate lawyer actually does in Ontario
Doorvia Guides · August 11, 2026
Only a lawyer can close a transaction in Ontario - and the earlier you hire one, the more they can protect you.
In Ontario, a lawyer completes your purchase. They search title, confirm there are no unregistered liens or work orders, review the agreement of purchase and sale, order title insurance, prepare the statement of adjustments, register the transfer and mortgage, and hold and release funds in trust.
They also raise problems you cannot see: an easement across the driveway, an open building permit, an unregistered addition, or a survey mismatch.
Hire the lawyer before you sign anything if you can, and at minimum during your conditional period. Send them the agreement, the status certificate for a condo, and any disclosure documents immediately - they need time to review, not the day before closing.
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