Ontario Real Estate, Wills & Estate Law Blog

Stay informed with practical legal insights from McMurter & Associates. Our blog explores Ontario real estate law, buying and selling property, wills, estate planning, probate, powers of attorney and other issues affecting individuals, families and real estate professionals. These articles provide general information; for advice about your specific circumstances, contact one of our lawyers in Whitby.

Closing Costs Breakdown for Ontario Real Estate Transactions

Posted by McMurter & Associates on 23 April 2025
Buying your first home is a major milestone — and while saving for your down payment is likely top of mind, it’s important to plan for additional expenses known as closing costs. These costs can add up quickly and often catch first-time buyers off guard, but being prepared can help ...
Posted in:First-Time Home Buyer Legal Guides | McMurter & AssociatesReal Estate Law Guides | McMurter & Associates, Whitby  

The Role of a Real Estate Lawyer in Refinancing Your Home

Posted by McMurter & Associates on 1 April 2025
Lower interest rates, debt consolidation, and accessing home equity are common reasons homeowners choose to refinance their mortgages. A real estate lawyer plays a key role in this process, ensuring all legal aspects are handled properly.However, we’re not here to determine whether re...
Posted in:Refinancing in Ontario | McMurter & Associates  

Ontario Zoning By-Laws Explained: What to Know Before You Buy, Renovate, or Invest

Posted by McMurter & Associates on 4 March 2025
The short answer: Zoning by-laws are municipal rules that control how land can be used in Ontario, such as residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural use, along with building types, lot sizes, heights, parking, and setbacks. If your plans don't comply, you may be able to apply for a mino...
Posted in:Real Estate Law Guides | McMurter & Associates, Whitby  

The Biggest Estate Planning Mistakes in Ontario (and How to Avoid Them)

Posted by McMurter & Associates on 19 February 2025
The short answer: The most common estate planning mistakes in Ontario are not having a will, not updating it after major life changes, failing to name beneficiaries on eligible accounts, not planning for incapacity with a power of attorney, and not talking to family about your plan. Avoiding them...
Posted in:Wills & Estates  

Notary Services Can Simplify Your Life

Posted by McMurter & Associates on 26 December 2024
In Ontario, notary services can streamline many of your legal and official document needs. Under Ontario law, only notary publics are authorized to perform affirmations, witness signatures, and certify that a document is a true copy.A notary public ensures that all legal processes comply with the...
Posted in:Notary Public Services | McMurter & Associates  

McMurter & Associates is located in Whitby, Ontario, and serves the communities of Oshawa, Ajax, Pickering, Clarington, Newcastle, Bowmanville, Courtice, Whitchurch-Stouffville and municipalities throughout Durham Region.