- Real Estate Law Experts
Vancouver Real Estate Conveyancing Lawyer
Expert legal guidance for residential and commercial property transactions in British Columbia
- Real Estate Law Experts
Experienced Real Estate Lawyers on Your Side
At Horricks Law, we understand the complexity of real estate law and strive to make your transition into home ownership as smooth as possible. Our experienced real estate conveyancing lawyers will guide you through each step of the process – from reviewing the Contract of Purchase and Sale to all documents necessary to close the transaction.
We stay up-to-date on provincial laws so that we can provide our clients with sound legal advice throughout the process. In British Columbia, we ensure that you’re aware of what’s required to purchase or sell a property legally, including full disclosure of any material facts related to the title or other issues affecting the home.
Expert Guidance
Professional legal support
Full Protection
Secure transactions
Our Services Include
- Contract review and negotiation
- Title searches and verification
- Property transfer documentation
- Zoning and tax compliance
- Closing and registration
What is Conveyancing?
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring ownership of real estate from one party to another. It involves a series of steps and documents, all of which must be completed according to both provincial and municipal laws in order for the transfer to be valid.
Throughout this process, our Vancouver conveyancers provide comprehensive advice on various matters. We check that there are no mortgages or other encumbrances on the property, verify land titles, and ensure that any outstanding debts have been cleared prior to transfer.
Conveyancing is an important step in any major real estate transaction, and it is essential to understand the process in order to protect your rights.
Legal Documentation
Complete and accurate paperwork
Title Verification
Thorough property checks
- Real Estate Law Experts
Residential Conveyancing
Professional legal services for transferring property ownership in British Columbia
Residential conveyancing is the process by which registered legal title to real property (land and dwellings) is transferred from the existing owner, the vendor, to the new owner, the purchaser. Records of ownership are registered and stored in the Land Title and Survey Authority of British Columbia (LTSA of BC).
Although I can represent both the purchaser and vendor of the same property, customarily each party will retain their own lawyer or notary public to coordinate and complete all aspects of the transaction.
Understanding the Process
In the world of residential conveyancing, the purchaser's lawyer customarily prepares all the paperwork and the vendor's lawyer will review the paperwork to ensure accuracy, as well as discharge the vendor's mortgage (if applicable).
As a result, my legal fees are usually slightly higher when representing purchasers than vendors.
Typical Disbursements in a Simple Conveyance
The cost of disbursements (fees paid to third parties to complete the transfer) will be greater for purchasers than for vendors. Here’s what you should expect:
- LTSA of BC search and registration fees
- City of Vancouver property tax record fees
- Strata fees for Form F documentation, entrance and exit fees (for condos only)
- Purchase Transfer Tax (calculated at 1% of first $200,000.00 plus 2% on remainder)
- Courier fees (moving documents to and from LTSA of BC)
Property Transfer Tax Exemptions
Ordinary purchasers must meet all the following conditions for exemption from the PTT:
- Resident of British Columbia for twelve months
- Property is a principal residence
- Purchasing first property ever
- Using high-ratio (70%+) mortgage financing from a public financial institution
- Purchase price less than $325,000.00 for Greater Vancouver Area
- For buyer
Purchasing Property
Two critical stages to protect your investment
Stage 1: Title Protection
Ensuring clean property ownership
Ensure the purchaser obtains title to the property “free and clear” of all encumbrances and legal charges.
Protected Against:
- Bank claims
- Unpaid construction workers
- Secured creditors
- Judgment creditors
- Former spouses of the vendor
Stage 2: Financial Calculations
Accurate fund distribution
Calculate the final amount needed and determine proper fund distribution.
Financial Adjustments For:
- Property taxes
- Strata fees
- Vendor residency status
- Contract conditions
- Real estate commissions
What Happens After Registration?
Once these issues have been investigated and clarified, I prepare a number of legal forms for you and the vendor to review and sign in the presence of a lawyer or notary public, and then register these documents in the LTSA of BC.
In the event you are financing the purchase with a mortgage, all mortgage documents are also drafted and registered at this time.
Upon completion, I apply for a State of Title Certificate to be retained by you as final proof of your ownership of the property.
Need Help with Your Property Purchase?
Let us guide you through every step of the purchasing process to ensure a smooth and secure transaction.
- For Sellers
Selling Property
Two essential stages for successful property sales
Stage 1: Document Review and Execution
Review all paperwork prepared by the purchaser’s lawyer to ensure accuracy, witness and notarize signatures, and return documents for registration.
Accuracy of calculations
Documentation completion
Signature notarization
Stage 2: Fund Distribution and Mortgage Discharge
Receive and disburse purchase money, discharge mortgages, and release remaining funds to you.
Bank has up to 60 days to return discharge
Interest ends on payment receipt day
Discharge registered in LTSA of BC
Complex Conveyances
More complex issues arise with new or substantially renovated properties, as well as properties with charges on title, such as Builders Liens or spousal property interests.
Full Protection
Complete legal protection throughout the selling process
Timely Service
Efficient handling of all documentation and deadlines
Accurate Accounting
Precise financial calculations and fund distribution
Ready to Sell Your Property?
Get expert legal support for your property sale. We conduct all varieties of residential conveyances.
- Why Choose Us
Why Should You Hire a Real Estate Lawyer in Vancouver?
Buying or selling a home is one of the most important financial decisions you will make in your lifetime. Whether you are purchasing your first home or selling your current property, you need an experienced real estate lawyer to guide you through the process.
From property searches to closing the deal, our lawyers will be there every step of the way to ensure a smooth transaction.
Legal Expertise
Navigate BC real estate laws
Legal Expertise
Navigate BC real estate laws
Peace of Mind
Protect your investment
Full Protection
Comprehensive legal coverage
What Out Clients Say
Ready to Get Started?
Contact Horricks Law today for expert guidance on your real estate transaction