First-Time Home Buyer's Legal Checklist in Winnipeg

Step 1: Hire a Real Estate Lawyer Before You Make an Offer

Most first-time buyers engage a lawyer only after an offer is accepted. A real estate lawyer can review the Agreement of Purchase and Sale before you sign, advise on conditions, and flag problematic clauses.

Step 2: Understand the Agreement of Purchase and Sale

The Agreement of Purchase and Sale is a binding legal contract. Before signing, confirm you have a financing condition, a home inspection condition, and a review of title clause.

Step 3: Conduct a Title Search

Your real estate lawyer will conduct a thorough title search to confirm the seller owns the property and there are no outstanding mortgages, judgments, or liens.

Step 4: Secure Title Insurance

Title insurance protects you against title defects discovered after closing. In Manitoba, it typically costs a one-time premium of $200 to $400 and is almost always recommended.

Step 5: Review the Property Survey

A Real Property Report shows the property boundaries and the location of all structures. Your lawyer will review it to confirm no encroachments or zoning violations exist.

Step 6: Understand Your Closing Costs

In addition to your down payment, budget for legal fees of $1,200 to $1,800, Land Transfer Tax, title insurance, home inspection, and property tax adjustments.

Step 7: Closing Day

On closing day, your lawyer receives mortgage funds, pays out the existing mortgage, registers the transfer of title in your name, and releases keys to you.

Step 8: After Closing

After you receive your keys, change the locks, update your address with Service Canada and CRA, and keep your closing documents in a safe place indefinitely.

This article is for general informational purposes only. For legal advice specific to your real estate transaction, contact Ellan Law Corporation at 431-458-3526.