It’s not uncommon to hear of someone who promises a certain item to someone on their death, or mentions the way their will is set up. What is less is to find out that person actually followed through with that plan – in writing. In estates law, as in almost...
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cesia@wall-arm.ca
Do you qualify for a tax rebate?
Ontario has a number of excellent tax rebates for first-time buyers. One of the biggest ones is the rebate on the provincial Land Transfer Tax (LTT) (and equivalent rebates on the Municipal Land Transfer Tax if you live in Toronto). If you qualify, you can get up to...
Checking your charity
Many people donate to charities on a very regular basis; we live in a very giving society. Many more people will leave a bequest, large or small, in their will to ensure that their legacy will live on after their death. However, it is crucial to be sure of what is...
Does your lifestyle suit condo living?
I have a lot of clients who purchase condos, often in towers. Buying a condo can be a great way to enter the real estate market – they are often less expensive than houses, even townhouses or semi-detached homes, and can be easier to care for. However, there are...
The importance of a properly drafted power of attorney
Even though the vast majority of Canadians do not actually have a will, most at least recognize the importance of them. The same is not true for powers of attorney, and in particular, the Power of Attorney for Personal Care. In Ontario, as in many other places, it can...
I’m back
I've had a great time home with my new son for the past four months, and am now back to work. I am easing back into the swing of things this week, and look forward to sharing more information starting next week.
Time for a break
I recently had a baby. My husband and I are very excited to start this next adventure, and as part of it, I will be taking about four months off to be home with our baby. I will also be taking a break from this blog during that time. I’ll be back in the spring. Have a...
Restrictive covenants
It is quite common in real estate agreements to see a paragraph where the buyer agrees to accept basic easements, subdivision agreements and restrictive covenants. These are often on title and have been for years or even decades, and would be very difficult for a...
Paying your executor
Whenever I take will instructions, one question I ask is how much they want to pay their executor. Sometimes, the client feels that the executor will be inheriting a large portion of the estate and so should not be compensated at all; people are more likely to allow...
The stigma of a death in the house
For some people, the history of the people in the house they are buying is irrelevant; for some, it’s only relevant if there was something violent; and for others, any issues are important to know and address before deciding to go ahead with a purchase. I had clients...