Why You Need a Real Estate Lawyer When Selling a Home
Selling your home may seem straightforward, but it involves significant legal and financial obligations. From accepting an offer to delivering clear title and receiving sale proceeds, every step of the process should be handled with care. An experienced real estate lawyer such as Neil Sullivan ensures your sale closes properly and on time, without unexpected issues or legal exposure.
Legal Support from Contract to Closing
We act for residential sellers in all types of real estate transactions. Once you’ve accepted an offer, we review the agreement of purchase and sale, order and review title searches, address any outstanding encumbrances or obligations, and prepare the necessary closing documents. We also communicate directly with the buyer’s lawyer, your realtor, and your lender (if applicable) to ensure a seamless process.
Ensuring a Smooth Closing
Our role is to protect your interests by ensuring that your obligations under the agreement are met, that any existing mortgages or liens are discharged, and that funds are received and distributed properly. We also assist with adjustments for property taxes, condominium or lot fees and other closing costs, so that there are no surprises on the day of closing.
Dealing with Homestead Rights and Joint Ownership
In Manitoba, special laws apply to matrimonial homes and jointly owned properties. If you are married, your spouse’s consent may be required to complete the sale—even if they are not on title. We provide advice on homestead rights and ensure that all necessary consents and releases are properly obtained.