Real Estate Lawyer Fees in Ontario: What to Expect

Why You Need a Real Estate Lawyer

In Ontario, a licensed lawyer must handle the closing of any real estate transaction. Your lawyer protects your interests, conducts necessary searches, prepares legal documents, and ensures the transfer of title is properly completed. This is not optional — it is a legal requirement.

Typical Lawyer Fees for Buyers

• $900–$1,500 for a straightforward purchase (no mortgage)
• $1,200–$2,000 for a purchase with a mortgage
• Higher fees for complex transactions, new builds, or condominiums

Disbursements (Searches and Registration Costs)

• Title search and off-title searches: $200–$400
• Title insurance (lender's policy): $200–$400; (owner's policy): $150–$350
• Land transfer registration: $75–$150
• Mortgage registration: $75–$150
• Government search fees (execution, tax, zoning): $100–$250

Total disbursements typically range from $500–$1,200.

Typical Lawyer Fees for Sellers

Selling a home requires less legal work. Legal fees for sellers are typically $600–$1,200 plus disbursements of $200–$500.

Land Transfer Tax

Land transfer tax (LTT) is a significant closing cost paid by buyers. Ontario LTT ranges from 0.5% to 2.5% of the purchase price. City of Toronto buyers pay an additional municipal LTT. First-time buyers are eligible for a partial rebate of both.