For Consultation

905.764.8599

Markham Office: 7030 Woodbine Avenue, Suite 500, Markham, Ontario L3R 6G2

Post-Closing Property Tax Surprises for Newly Constructed Homes

Purchasers of newly constructed homes are often surprised to receive after closing omitted or supplementary property tax bills. They are issued because between annual assessments of property values, properties continue to change. For example, new homes are constructed, owners renovate, additions are built and the uses of properties change. The change in the current value […]

Jointly Held Assets: Avoiding Some of the Pitfalls

Two or more people may own assets jointly. This most often means that on the death of one of the joint owners, full title to the asset(s) will immediately transfer to the surviving joint owner(s), known as a right of survivorship. The result is that probate fees, some solicitors’ fees, some creditors, and publicity are […]

Before changing lenders, it’s wise to seek, knock and ask

I’ve seen a few clients lately who were very surprised at their mortgage payout statement. Unfortunately, the penalty on payout for one couple was a staggering $20,000! Here are some tips to consider before you decide to change lenders in the middle of a term: Call your current lender’s customer service and tell them you […]

RRSP Designations Within An Estate Plan

There are two common ways to designate a beneficiary of your registered plan: On the application form for the plan. This method allows for quick transfer of the plan benefits to the beneficiary upon your death. It also means that your estate will not have to pay probate fees on the value of the RRSP. […]

Ensuring Good and Marketable Title

The Agreement of Purchase and Sale (the “Agreement”) contemplates a period of time for the purchaser to determine whether the seller has a good and marketable title to the real property and that it is owned free and clear of any claims, liens or liabilities. Unfortunately, the search of title and other inquiries often reveal […]

Personal Effects: Have You Considered Their Effect?

The division and disposition of a deceased person’s personal goods and household effects is often a contentious issue, particularly amongst family members. The conflict is most often caused by sentimental and emotional values friends and family members place on the items rather than their intrinsic values. Unfortunately, most people spend relatively little time considering how […]