Do I need a lawyer to buy a home in Ontario?

Yes. Ontario requires a real estate lawyer to handle the title search, prepare closing documents, and register the transfer. Legal fees typically range Expect $1,500–$2,500 for a real estate lawyer. Required for title transfer in Ontario — you cannot close without one..

What is title insurance and do I need it?

Strongly recommended. Protects against title fraud, survey errors, and unknown liens. Typical one-time cost: $250–$400. Title insurance protects you if issues with the title are discovered after closing — such as unpaid liens, survey errors, or unknown encumbrances.

Can I make a conditional offer when buying a home?

Yes. Common conditions include financing approval (typically 5 business days), satisfactory home inspection, and review of condo documents if applicable. If the condition is not met, the deal is void and your deposit is returned.

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Buying a Home — ON

Buying a Home in Ontario

Province-specific costs, taxes, and the step-by-step process for Ontario home buyers.

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Offer checklist, closing cost summary, land transfer tax guide, and step-by-step buyer guide — customized for Ontario.

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Land Transfer Tax / Fees

Ontario charges Land Transfer Tax (LTT) on a sliding scale: 0.5% up to $55k, 1% $55k–$250k, 1.5% $250k–$400k, 2% $400k–$2M, 2.5% over $2M. Toronto homebuyers pay a second Municipal LTT on the same schedule.

First-Time Buyer Rebate

First-time buyers get a provincial rebate up to $4,000 (eliminates LTT on homes up to ~$368k). Toronto adds a municipal rebate up to $4,475.

Official rate information →

Closing Costs to Budget For

Land Transfer Tax (provincial + possibly municipal)
Legal fees ($1,500–$2,500)
Title insurance ($250–$400)
Home inspection ($400–$700)
HST on new builds (resale homes exempt)
Adjustments (property tax, utilities prepaid by seller)
Mortgage discharge/setup fees

Professionals You'll Need

Lawyer / Notary

Expect $1,500–$2,500 for a real estate lawyer. Required for title transfer in Ontario — you cannot close without one.

Title Insurance

Strongly recommended. Protects against title fraud, survey errors, and unknown liens. Typical one-time cost: $250–$400.

Home Inspector

Not legally required but strongly recommended. Budget $400–$700. Ask for a OAHI-member inspector.

Step-by-Step Process

1
Get pre-approved for financing
2
Hire a real estate agent (or go FSBO — Guidepost can help)
3
Make an offer with conditions (financing, inspection)
4
Satisfy conditions and firm up the offer
5
Hire a real estate lawyer
6
Complete title search and arrange title insurance
7
Final walkthrough 24–48 hours before close
8
Close — sign documents, transfer funds, get keys

Watch Out For

Never waive a home inspection in a competitive market without understanding the risk

Confirm no liens on title before closing — your lawyer handles this

New builds trigger HST — the builder price may or may not include it

Assignment sales have complex tax implications — consult a lawyer

Official sources

Ontario land transfer tax — official rates →

Last updated: June 2026

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