
Real estate law: Ontario
Title transfers
Property ownership sometimes needs to change because of family arrangements, estate planning, relationship changes, or changes in who should be registered on title. We help manage the legal process and documentation required for these transfers.
When property ownership changes, details matter
A change to property ownership involves more than updating a name on a document. The legal and financial implications need to be reviewed carefully before the transfer is registered.
We review the circumstances, title, applicable documentation, and registration requirements to help ensure the transfer is handled properly.
Common reasons for a title transfer
Family arrangements
Changing ownership between family members or restructuring how property is held.
Estate planning
Updating property ownership as part of an estate planning strategy.
Relationship changes
Addressing ownership changes following changes in a relationship.
Adding or removing an owner
Adding a person to title or removing a registered owner when appropriate.
What we handle
From reviewing your circumstances to completing registration, we manage the legal details of your transfer.
Transfer documents
Preparation of the required documents and registration of the ownership transfer.
Land transfer tax
Review of applicable land transfer tax considerations and potential exemptions.
Title review
Review of the property's title and registered interests before completing the transfer.
Survivorship
Assistance with survivorship applications when applicable.
Ownership structure
Assistance with changing or severing ownership structures where applicable.
The transfer process
We coordinate the legal work behind the scenes.
Step 1
Understand the transfer
We review why the transfer is being made and identify the parties and property involved.
Step 2
Review the property
We conduct the necessary title review and identify relevant registered interests.
Step 3
Prepare the transfer
We prepare the required documentation and address applicable tax and registration considerations.
Step 4
Complete the transfer
We coordinate registration and provide the necessary reporting and final documentation.
Common questions
When do people transfer title?
Common reasons include adding or removing a spouse or family member, transfers within a family, estate-related transfers, and changing how a property is held.
Will a title transfer affect my mortgage?
It can. Your lender may need to be told or to approve a change, and land transfer tax may apply in some cases. Your lawyer reviews this before anything is signed.
Do I have to pay land transfer tax?
Sometimes. Whether tax is due depends on the type of transfer and any exemptions that apply, so it should be checked for your situation before you go ahead.
What do I need to get started?
Details of the property and how it is currently held, identification for everyone involved, and information about any mortgage. Gurpreet will tell you exactly what he needs.
Why professional guidance matters
Title changes can involve legal documents, ownership structure, registration requirements, and financial considerations. Getting the process organized before registration can help avoid unnecessary complications later.
Careful review
Title and circumstances are reviewed before anything is registered.
Clear documentation
The paperwork is prepared so everyone understands it.
Proper registration
The transfer is registered correctly and reported to you.

Meet Gurpreet
Barrister & Solicitor, Notary Public, Mahal Law Professional Corporation
Gurpreet Singh Mahal is the principal lawyer at Mahal Law Professional Corporation, serving clients across Ontario, including Brampton, the Greater Toronto Area, and Ottawa.
Read Gurpreet's full profile
Discuss your transfer
Share a few details and we'll call you to talk it through. The first conversation is free.
- Call
- 613-306-9900
- Office hours
- Monday to Friday9:00 AM to 6:00 PMSaturday10:00 AM to 2:00 PMSundayClosed
- Visit
- 101-14 Chamberlain Ave
Ottawa, OntarioGet directions (opens Google Maps in a new tab)
