Real estate · 8 min read · Published September 2026
Buying a home in Ottawa: legal checklist
The documents, searches, financing conditions, title questions, and closing details to discuss with a real-estate lawyer.
Short answer
A home purchase involves contract review, title and tax checks, financing, adjustments, insurance, and a closing transfer. Before signing or waiving conditions, ask a real-estate lawyer what the agreement requires, what searches are planned, and which risks are not covered by a standard title policy.
What happens between offer and closing?
The lawyer reviews the agreement, confirms title and registration information, coordinates with the lender, checks adjustments, and prepares closing documents. Timing can be tight when conditions and closing dates are close together.
- Agreement of purchase and sale and all schedules
- Mortgage commitment and lender instructions
- Survey, status certificate, or condominium documents where relevant
- Property tax, utility, rental, and insurance information
What should you ask before signing?
A lawyer can explain legal terms and conditions but cannot replace a home inspection, financing advice, or a building professional. Raise unusual clauses and occupancy or rental issues early.
- What conditions protect inspection, financing, or document review?
- What is included or excluded from the sale?
- Are there tenants, easements, work orders, or condo restrictions?
- What funds and identification are needed for closing?
Common questions
Do I need a lawyer before making an offer?
You may sign an offer before a lawyer reviews it, but legal review before signing can be useful when the agreement is unusual, the property is complex, or you are unsure about conditions.
What is title insurance?
Title insurance is a policy that may cover certain title and fraud risks under its terms; it is not a general property inspection or guarantee of every issue. Ask what the policy covers and excludes.
Official sources to check
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