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First-Time Homebuyer Closing Checklist for Ontario
A step-by-step checklist for first-time buyers in Ontario, from accepted offer to keys in hand, including closing costs, land transfer tax and what to bring.
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Practice area
Civil Litigation Lawyer in Mississauga
Disputes are stressful, expensive and time-consuming. We give candid advice about the strengths and risks of your position and the likely costs, and we look for practical resolutions that make sense for your situation.
When a dispute cannot be resolved by agreement, we take the necessary steps to protect your interests in court.
How we help
Civil Litigation services
Real estate disputes
Failed closings, deposit disputes, misrepresentation and other property-related claims.
Debt recovery
Demand letters, claims and enforcement of judgments for unpaid amounts.
Mortgage enforcement
Advising lenders and borrowers on default, power of sale and related proceedings.
Construction liens
Preserving and perfecting liens, and lien-related litigation under Ontario's Construction Act.
Small Claims Court
Starting, defending and settling Small Claims Court actions.
Act early: limitation periods
In Ontario, most civil claims must be started within two years of the day the claim was discovered, and many claims are barred entirely after fifteen years. Some claims have much shorter deadlines. If you think you have a claim, or that a claim may be made against you, get advice promptly.
Small Claims Court and debt recovery
Ontario's Small Claims Court hears claims for money or the return of property up to a monetary limit set by regulation, currently $50,000. Its procedures are simpler and faster than the Superior Court of Justice, which hears larger claims.
Recovering a debt often begins with a formal demand letter. If that does not resolve matters, we start a claim and, if judgment is obtained and not paid, use enforcement tools such as garnishment or a writ of seizure and sale.
Mortgage enforcement
When a mortgage is in default, a lender may have the right to sell the property under a power of sale after giving the required notice, or to seek possession through the courts. Borrowers have rights during this process, including the right to bring the mortgage into good standing in certain circumstances. We advise both lenders and borrowers on the timelines and options.
Construction liens
Contractors, subcontractors and suppliers who are not paid for work or materials on an Ontario property may be able to register a lien under the Construction Act. Lien rights are subject to short, strict deadlines to preserve the lien and then to perfect it by starting a court action. Missing a deadline can mean losing the lien entirely.
We also act for owners and contractors responding to liens, including steps to vacate a lien from title by posting security.
What to expect
How your matter will proceed
Step 1: Case assessment
We review the facts and documents, identify deadlines and give you a candid assessment and cost estimate.
Step 2: Demand and negotiation
Many disputes resolve at this stage with a well-supported demand or response.
Step 3: Court proceedings
If needed, we prepare and file pleadings, exchange documents and attend settlement conferences.
Step 4: Resolution or enforcement
We work towards settlement or judgment and, where necessary, enforce the result.
What to bring to a litigation consultation
- Any contracts, invoices, receipts or agreements related to the dispute
- Letters, emails and text messages with the other party
- A short timeline of key events and dates
- Photographs or other evidence, if relevant
- Any court documents you have received or filed
Questions
Civil Litigation FAQ
How long do I have to start a lawsuit?
Generally two years from when you discovered the claim, although some claims have shorter deadlines. Contact us as soon as possible so your rights are protected.
What is the Small Claims Court limit?
Claims up to $50,000 can be brought in Ontario's Small Claims Court. Larger claims proceed in the Superior Court of Justice.
Can I recover my legal costs if I win?
The court may order the unsuccessful party to pay part of the successful party's legal costs, but full recovery is uncommon. We discuss realistic expectations about costs at the outset.
What happens if the other side does not pay a judgment?
There are enforcement tools available, such as garnishing wages or bank accounts and registering a writ against property. We can advise on the most effective approach.
Should I send a demand letter first?
Often, yes. A clear demand letter from a lawyer resolves many disputes without litigation and documents your position if the matter goes to court.
Learn more
Related resources
Related practice areas
Other ways we can help
Talk to a lawyer about your civil litigation matter
Book a consultation with Baljit Singh Sandhu at our Mississauga office. We will listen, explain your options in plain language, and discuss fees before any work begins.