Frequently asked questions

WHAT IS INCLUDED AND EXCLUDED IN THE ILA PRICING?

Our flat fee of $599 + HST for Independent Legal Advice (ILA) includes everything needed to ensure a smooth, compliant, and stress-free signing process - without hidden costs or surprises.

This fee includes:

  • Review of legal documents provided by the lender or the lawyer representing the party initiating the title transfer.

  • Verification of identification documents, as required by the Law Society of Ontario and the policies of your mortgage lender.

  • One virtual or in-person signing appointment with a licensed Ontario lawyer.

  • Execution and signing of all required ILA documents.

  • Couriering of signed documents, if required, to the lender or other lawyer (if pre-paid Waybill is provided in document package).

  • Standard office disbursements, including photocopying, printing, scanning and faxing.

  • Routine correspondence with you and the lender or opposing lawyer to ensure everything is completed accurately and on time.

Please note, this flat fee applies to a standard ILA transaction. Any additional legal work, such as:

  • Registering or discharging a mortgage;

  • Drafting transfer of title documents;

  • Ordering an information statement and/or discharge statement from an existing lender or creditor;

  • Conducting a title search; or

  • Communicating with third parties beyond the lender and/or opposing counsel

may be subject to additional legal fees, which will be discussed further in our retainer agreement. The above is not an exhaustive list.

WHAT IS INCLUDED AND EXCLUDED IN THE ILR PRICING?

Our Independent Legal Representation (ILR) service is offered at a flat fee of $1,700 + HST, designed to give clients clarity, confidence, and full legal support throughout the process.

This fee includes:

  • Opening and managing a client file in our secure system.

  • Verification of client identification, in accordance with legal and regulatory requirements.

  • Review of mortgage instructions provided by the lender.

  • Requesting and obtaining an information and/or discharge statement from an existing lender or creditor.

  • Review of title search and review of writ search, to identify any issues or encumbrances.

  • Corresponding with your home insurer to obtain an updated insurance binder.

  • One virtual or in-person signing appointment with a licensed real estate lawyer.

  • Execution and signing of all required documents.

  • Preparation and registration of a new mortgage or title transfer.

  • Standard office disbursements, such as printing, photocopying, scanning and faxing.

  • Communicating with your lender and submitting all required documents to ensure a smooth and timely closing.

Please note, while most standard transactions are fully covered by the flat fee, some services may require additional charges, including but not limited to:

  • PPSA searches;

  • Debt payouts beyond one mortgage discharge;

  • Courier or rush delivery fees;

  • Review of Status Certificate (if applicable);

  • Additional third-party correspondence or legal complexities outside the typical scope of service.

WHY IS INDEPENDENT LEGAL ADVICE (ILA) NEEDED FOR TRANSFERS OF TITLE?

In Ontario, Independent Legal Advice (ILA) is often required during title transfer transactions - especially when a property is being transferred between family members or transferred for little to no money (i.e., gifting a home to a child). These types of transfers can have significant legal and financial consequences, including triggering tax, affecting existing mortgages, or creating legal rights and obligations that the person receiving ownership of the property may not fully understand. ILA helps reduce legal risk, protect vulnerable parties, and avoid disputes down the road - ensuring the person signing off on the transfer fully understands their rights, and is doing so freely and voluntarily.

At ILATODAY.ca, we take the time to explain these transactions in plain language, so you can feel confident, protected and in control of your decision.

WHY IS ILA NEEDED FOR A REFINANCE?

ILA may be required during a refinance when someone is being added to or removed from the mortgage or title of the property, or if only one borrower is listed but others live in the home being refinanced. Mortgage lenders want to ensure everyone affected understands the terms and risks, and is signing voluntarily.

Unsure if you need ILA? Contact us.

WHY IS ILA NEEDED FOR A REVERSE MORTGAGE?

Reverse mortgages are unique and often involve a person’s most valuable asset - their home. Lenders require ILA to confirm the homeowner clearly understands the loan terms, repayment conditions, and long-term implications.

INTERESTED IN JOINING OUR FIRM?

If you are a licensed lawyer or law clerk in Ontario with experience in real estate law and a commitment to clear, client-focused service, we’d love to hear from you! To explore joining our growing network of legal professionals, please contact us directly to start a conversation.

You can reach us by phone, e-mail, or through our contact form.