Toronto Star Column Index
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2019 Toronto Star Property Law Column
- 2019-03-15 A co-housing agreement can make living arrangements easier for homeowners
- 2019-02-15 Expert witness's knowledge of typography proves trust papers forged
- 2019-02-01 This property owners’ fight for land severance plan was needlessly hard
- 2019-01-18 ‘Idiotic’ Toronto policy stymies mayor’s affordable housing plan
- 2019-01-04 In a property deal, phrases like ‘to be verified’ can be costly — over $100K in this case
2018 Toronto Star Property Law Columns
- 2018-12-21 Convert your thinking on property measurements
- 2018-12-07 Property deposits are forfeited, even if sale doesn’t go through
- 2018-11-23 Homebuyers should be very careful when reading property purchase agreements
- 2018-11-09 So you’re having an open house. Remember to tell your realtor sex is not OK
- 2018-09-28 Clearing the smoke on condo no-smoking rules before cannabis legalization
- 2018-09-14 Make an offer, but beware — in an uncertain market, property law can hurt you
- 2018-08-31 Cottage purchasers need to know land boundaries of lakefront property
- 2018-08-17 Do the homeowners or photographers own the rights to photos of the property?
- 2018-08-03 Banning incentives for real estate lawyers in property deals doesn’t serve public
- 2018-07-20 This retired judge defended homeowners from abusive insurance companies
- 2018-07-06 Insurance covers sale of badly built property, court says
- 2018-06-23 How a fight between condo board and homeowner over a flower box ballooned to a $109,000 court bill
- 2018-06-09 Court holds buyer to contract after property found to be former grow-op
- 2018-05-26 This Ontario Court of Appeal decision is expected to impact property sales
- 2018-05-18 Homeowners’ $100K dispute over inaccurate lot measurements proves importance of land surveys
- 2018-04-28 How 22 Toronto homeowners ended up in condos they don’t own
- 2018-04-14 Homeowners spend $50,000 fighting over small strip of land between houses
- 2018-03-31 Homeowners should never sign a Seller Property Information Statement
- 2018-03-17 What do you do when your condo development has been destroyed by fire?
- 2018-03-03 Court rejects elderly father’s bid to remove son from property title
- 2018-02-17 Homeowner tears strip (of land) off neighbour.
- 2018-02-03 Homeowners should always get neighbours’ permission before taking down boundary trees
- 2018-01-20 Who pays when you slip and fall on someone else’s property?
- 2018-01-06 Property buyers should be aware of real estate lawyers' legal standards
2017 Toronto Star Property Law Columns
- 2017-12-23 Adding relative’s name on a property title can backfire
- 2017-12-09 Can property deed be registered after death to avoid probate fee?
- 2017-11-11 City should scrap right-of-entry permits
- 2017-10-28 Government has no excuse for delaying consumer protection sections of new Condominium Act
- 2017-10-14 Delayed action on consumer protection for homeowners a sad reflection on provincial government
- 2017-09-30 Condo corporations need to prepare plans to deal with marijuana use before it becomes a problem
- 2017-09-09 Agents must review home inspections with purchasers
- 2017-08-26 When a property survey is more important than the deed
- 2017-08-12 Buyer paid for property he did not get
- 2017-07-29 Plumbing bill quarrel becomes pricey court action
- 2017-07-15 Alberta condo sale complicated by Fort McMurray wildfire
- 2017-07-01 Ontario court rules homeowners are not obligated to pay park maintenance fees
- 2017-06-17 ‘Escalation’ clause ignites privacy, ethics code concerns: Property Law
- 2017-06-03 ‘Detached’ home for sale is actually linked to property next door
- 2017-05-20 Real estate tax demands lawyers verify the unverifiable
- 2017-04-22 Homeowners fight fee imposed under 1891 deed
- 2017-04-08 Contract Delay Springs Tax Trap
- 2017-03-25 Legal fight over Toronto’s Trump Tower is far from over.
- 2017-03-11 Insurance company comprehensively beaten: Property Law
- 2017-02-25 Sellers beware if information is not correct
- 2017-02-11 $2 million in water damage not covered by insurance
- 2017-01-28 Devious tenants must be stopped from gaming system
- 2017-01-14 Kitec plumbing in condos should be revealed
2016 Toronto Star Property Law Columns
- 2016-12-31 Ontario court upholds condo rule banning short-term rentals
- 2016-12-17 Home inspections are your best friend: Property Law
- 2016-12-03 Tax burden of housing sector must be shared by all: Bob Aaron
- 2016-11-19 Supreme Court upholds title-insurance victory
- 2016-10-22 Lawyers selling homes could upset the realty apple cart: Bob Aaron
- 2016-10-08 Make sure home seller’s promises are met before closing
- 2016-09-24 Be wary of buying illegally built homes
- 2016-09-10 Tarion needs to increase homebuyers deposit protection
- 2016-08-27 Extravagant fees crush legal basement apartments
- 2016-07-30 Tenants shouldn’t be able to ‘game the system’
- 2016-07-16 Dangerous real-estate document a path to court
- 2016-07-02 EasyFund could have difficulty getting off the ground
- 2016-06-18 Builder bankruptcy reveals warranty shortcomings
- 2016-06-04 Tips to reduce, postpone or avoid probate taxes
- 2016-05-21 Get a survey even if your agent says no
- 2016-05-07 No need for third-party hand in closing funds
- 2016-04-23 Regulating Ontario’s home inspectors is taking too long
- 2016-04-09 Be wary of rebate rules before buying a home
- 2016-03-26 Fee for land transfer registration amounts to tax on a tax
- 2016-03-12 Finders keepers’ law not always a golden ticket
- 2016-02-27 Protecting condo buyers when materials, expenses change in final sale agreements
- 2016-02-13 Beware of overcharges during interim occupancy period
- 2016-02-01 Late mortgage payment charges contrary to Interest Act, court rules
- 2016-01-16 Let’s name a lane or two after Wayne and Shuster
2015 Toronto Star Property Law Columns
- 2015-12-15 Title insurance must cover post-closing work orders
- 2015-12-04 New home owners need these protections
- 2015-11-14 Buyers can cancel property sale over misleading information
- 2015-10-31 Here’s What to Ask Your Real Estate Lawyer
- 2015-10-03 Missing the boat on waterfront laws
- 2015-09-19 Judge says tragedy of case stems from buyers’ improperly aimed lawsuit
- 2015-08-22 Home buyer’s contract delivered empty promises
- 2015-08-17 Condo’s pet restriction muzzles couple’s Human Rights claim
- 2015-07-10 New home HST rebate endangered by incomplete details
- 2015-06-26 Electronic signatures legal in real estate deals staring July 1, 2015
- 2015-05-15 Condo Act reform may cause more trouble than it solves
- 2015-04-17 Honouring the end of real-estate racism in Canada
- 2015-04-03 Right-of-way ruling upheld in neighbour dispute
- 2015-03-20 Court ruling opens loophole for probate tax
- 2015-03-06 Kitec plumbing in your home will cost you
- 2015-02-20 Homeowners’ title insurance can differ from one policy to another
- 2015-02-06 What if something bad happened in the home
- 2015-01-09 Verify your correct unit listed in offer, deed
2014 Toronto Star Columns
- 2014-12-26 Ghosts among reasons to scare up legal advice
- 2014-12-13 Court requires full disclosure in condo status certificate
- 2014-11-15 Builder's board can legally limit right to sue
- 2014-11-12 New tax scrutiny for inherited real estate
- 2014-11-01 New-home buyers need better protection
- 2014-10-04 Agents on the hook for illegal in-law suites
- 2014-09-20 Will discipline hearing end risky SPIS form?
- 2014-09-06 Condo board fined for defying unit owners and court ruling
- 2014-08-09 'Use it or lose it' under the Land Titles system
- 2014-07-26 Sellers' form still troubling the real estate industry
- 2014-07-12 More to a tree trunk than meets the eye
- 2014-06-28 Know your cottage's shore road allowance
- 2014-06-14 Never buy a resale condo without reviewing the status certificate
- 2014-05-30 Court rules against condo with smoking cigar
- 2014-05-17 Get your new room measurements in writing
- 2014-05-03 Get your renovation deals in a contract
- 2014-04-19 Floor plans can be your best defence
- 2014-04-05 Renovations may hide problems from home buyers
- 2014-03-22 Land transfer tax should be an election issue
- 2014-03-08 Carbon monoxide, smoke detectors need new batteries
- 2014-02-08 Take good care of the ones you love
- 2014-02-02 Failed property sale by email a ‘poster child’ case, judge says
- 2014-01-25 Electronic signature decision will look to Judge Sydney Robins
- 2014-01-11 Court finds agent must be paid for doing job
2013 Toronto Star Columns
- 2013-12-21 Land survey trumps all documents in a house purchase
- 2013-12-07 HST rebate rules don't include all your relatives
- 2013-11-23 Tarion: Buyers may not be able to sue for claims exceeding warranty limits
- 2013-11-09 Condo Act review promises major change in Ontario
- 2013-10-26 Does century-old murder still haunt Massey house?
- 2013-09-14 Homeowner in deep end thanks to old survey
- 2013-08-17 Court finds open building permit is fatal title flaw
- 2013-08-03 Floor-by-floor sales venture would work better as a condo property
- 2013-07-20 Cellar flood among wave of lawsuits from disclosure form
- 2013-07-06 New home owners dig into their legal rights and obligations about backyard burial
- 2013-06-22 Toronto condo on Leaside street with name that had lofty beginning
- 2013-06-08 Dance studio drove woman out of condo into court
- 2013-05-25 Some title insurance is better than others
- 2013-05-11 Beware sending a real estate deal off the rails
- 2013-04-27 Problems with land titles just got clearer
- 2013-04-13 Should murder or suicide be disclosed?
- 2013-03-30 Bizarre form warns against signing Seller Property Information Statement
- 2013-03-16 Condo board pays price for power play
- 2013-03-02 Real estate lawyers do not "waste" client's money
- 2013-02-16 Homeownership is not always about crunching numbers
- 2013-02-02 New research tool invaluable to home buyers
- 2013-01-19 Innocent landowners responsible for environmental cleanup, court rules
- 2013-01-05 Disclosure statement meant buyers recovered damages, but listing agent escaped liability
2012 Toronto Star Columns
- 2012-12-22 Who has the authority to correct land registry errors?
- 2012-11-24 Court rules real estate agent isn’t responsible for home inspection
- 2012-10-27 When your house belongs to your neighbour
- 2012-10-13 Seasoned real estate lawyers best help for home contracts
- 2012-09-29 Higher property assessment doesn’t necessarily mean higher taxes
- 2012-09-15 Beware of the 'rogue builders'
- 2012-09-01 Case highlights flaws in landlord, tenant rules
- 2012-08-18 Busting the myths about the Seller Property Information Statement
- 2012-08-04 Condo Act doesn't need major revamp
- 2012-07-21 Smoking issues plague condo corporations
- 2012-07-07 Tarion changes are good for consumers
- 2012-06-23 Boundary dispute a boon for lawyers
- 2012-06-09 Families, students hurt by municipal licensing bylaws
- 2012-05-26 SPIS information statements dangerous for all
- 2012-05-12 The parrot is really a red herring
- 2012-04-28 Buying a cottage unlike other real estate transactions
- 2012-04-14 TREB's fear-mongering hurts its arguments against the Competition Bureau
- 2012-03-31 Basement apartments are a minefield for the uninformed
- 2012-03-03 Fight over grading issues ends in court
- 2012-02-18 Rabbi W. Gunther Plaut was a human rights advocate
- 2012-02-04 Badly placed fences make angry neighbours
- 2012-01-21 Interesting history of Romney cottage compound
- 2012-01-07 Enforcement of condo declaration is a board's duty
2011 Toronto Star Columns
- 2011-12-24 Independent legal advice crucial in title insurance purchase
- 2011-12-10 When a detached home is not a detached home
- 2011-11-26 Revised purchase agreement could ease "sticker shock"
- 2011-11-12 Manitoba simplifies seller disclosure form
- 2011-10-29 Turf war over who names the neighbourhoods
- 2011-10-15 Document your possessions in the event insurance claim is necessary
- 2011-10-01 Whoever forms next government must protect property rights
- 2011-09-17 Is construction crane 'trespassing?'
- 2011-09-03 The importance of reviewing condo floor plans
- 2011-08-20 It's difficult to sell pre-registration condo units
- 2011-08-06 Title insurance? Check. Land survey? Double check.
- 2011-07-23 Rent-to-own deals can be risky business
- 2011-07-09 Tarion registration is not an option for homebuilders
- 2011-06-25 Homeowners in Cartier deserve better treatment
- 2011-06-11 Agent's responsibility doesn't end with advice
- 2011-05-28 Use SPIS forms at your own peril - Krawchuk v. Sherbak
- 2011-05-14 Court will decide about "latent defects"
- 2011-04-30 Title insurers come under fire in Quebec
- 2011-04-16 Shocked by stories of the "neighbours from hell"
- 2011-04-02 In U.K., 1 in 10 move due to "nasty neighbours"
- 2011-03-19 Builder, purchasers fight over increase in closing charges
- 2011-03-05 Maple Leaf Square - Estimating unassessed taxes a tricky business
- 2011-02-19 Good fences torn down make bad neighbours
- 2011-02-05 Floor plans are most important document in buying a condo
- 2011-01-08 Supreme Court rules hydro usage not protected by Charter rights
2010 Toronto Star Columns
- 2010-12-24 Credit union seeks compensation due to 'Oklahoma' fraud
- 2010-12-11 Court of appeal ruling 'absolutely correct'
- 2010-11-27 Videos help people with their legal needs
- 2010-11-13 Disclosure form is a danger to buyers and sellers
- 2010-10-30 Two plots and one man's case of mistaken identity
- 2010-10-16 OREA forms continue to confuse lawyers and consumers
- 2010-10-02 OREA is up to date with 1980s technology
- 2010-09-18 Undisclosed costs can really add up
- 2010-09-04 City bylaw leaves permits up to homeowners
- 2010-08-21 Mortgage fraud fallout working way through courts
- 2010-08-07 Lawyer not obligated to negotiate better purchase agreement
- 2010-07-24 Toronto's building department operations are neither open nor transparent
- 2010-07-10 RECO decision heralds new rules about basement apartments
- 2010-06-26 Case dismissed against sellers of house with hidden defects
- 2010-06-12 Asbestos little-understood issue in real estate industry
- 2010-05-29 Monopoly of land registration system inappropriate
- 2010-05-15 Attached religious object likely should have stayed with house
- 2010-05-01 Land survey most important document in real estate transaction
- 2010-04-17 City takes dim view of junked car 'planter'
- 2010-04-03 Lender didn't have right to add credit card balance to mortgage
- 2010-03-20 Developer-imposed purchase agreements challenged
- 2010-03-06 Victory for non-smoking condo couple in B.C.
- 2010-02-20 Buyers overpay builder for estimated taxes
- 2010-02-06 Owners no longer in hot water over outdoor tub
- 2010-01-23 Make indoor air quality test a standard part of real estate purchases
- 2010-01-09 ARB decision on wind power noise sets precedent
- 2010-01-02 Title insurer not obligated to cover all risks
2009 Toronto Star Columns
- 2009-12-26 Amend code to protect innocent neighbours
- 2009-12-19 Suddenly couple's chimney is illegal
- 2009-12-12 Will cheaper access to justice mean more litigation?
- 2009-11-28 Will kits can create recipe for disaster
- 2009-11-21 Court ruling rattles home inspectors
- 2009-11-14 Putting property in children's names is risky
- 2009-11-07 Buyers hit with big bills for surprise adjustments
- 2009-10-31 Rules on terminating a deal all over the map
- 2009-10-24 Honesty won't resolve disclosure form issues
- 2009-10-17 Ontario a step closer to mandatory energy audits
- 2009-10-10 Privacy at home focus of much court debate
- 2009-10-03 Devil is in the details
- 2009-09-26 Real estate agents are divided over disclosure form
- 2009-09-19 New right-of-entry bylaw is overkill
- 2009-09-12 Disclosure document is an invitation to litigation
- 2009-09-05 Buyers, check condo status certificates carefully
- 2009-08-29 Historic house turns into 'renovation from hell'
- 2009-08-22 Insist on fireplace inspection when purchasing home
- 2009-08-15 Sellers statement often results in expensive court proceedings
- 2009-08-08 Privacy and personal photos at heart of case
- 2009-08-01 A street by any other name is just as sweet
- 2009-07-25 'Tortuous' property law section needs legislative adjustment
- 2009-07-18 Have mortgage financing in place prior to closing
- 2009-07-11 Buying inducements must be disclosed
- 2009-07-04 Straw homebuyer scheme is illegal
- 2009-06-27 Is green roof bylaw valid or a cash grab?
- 2009-06-20 Chinese drywall creating crisis
- 2009-06-13 Case must be strong if you decide to sue lawyer
- 2009-06-06 How to create a legal second suite
- 2009-05-30 Loss of part of deposit teaches a hard lesson
- 2009-05-23 Court rules against aboriginal land claim
- 2009-05-16 Mark Freedman wrote the book on condo law
- 2009-05-02 HST will box home buyers, builders into bizarre deals
- 2009-04-25 Builders should be upfront about extra condo charges
- 2009-04-18 Seek professional advice to keep cottage in the family
- 2009-04-11 When it comes to surveys, size matters
- 2009-04-04 Purchase offer should ask that the advertised square footage be warranted
- 2009-03-28 Thumbs down on offensive Illinois law
- 2009-03-21 Perhaps Health Canada should review UFFI ban
- 2009-03-14 Legislation carries some scary powers
- 2009-03-07 Bill 150 targets long-suffering homeowner
- 2009-02-28 Don't take law into own hands over fence dispute
- 2009-02-21 Harmonized tax would hit renovations, resales
- 2009-02-14 Licensed home inspectors make perfect sense
- 2009-01-31 Beware of mortgage tax deduction claims
- 2009-01-24 Review survey before signing any agreement
- 2009-01-17 Should suicide have been disclosed to homebuyer?
- 2009-01-10 Signing disclosure form requires legal assistance
- 2009-01-03 Deck building litigation was needless waste of time
2014 Toronto Star Property Law Columns
CBC RADIO ONE The
Current April 4,
2014 -
How a long cruel winter is driving some people into a snow rage...
Piya Chattopadhyay interviews Bob Aaron at 6:07
2013 Toronto Star Property Law Columns
CBC MARKETPLACE - YOU'RE NOT COVERED - Tom Harrington (guest appearance: Bob Aaron)
SELLER PROPERTY INFORMATION STATEMENT - UPDATE 2011- 2013
2012 Toronto Star Title Page Columns
2011 Toronto Star Title Page Columns
2010 Toronto Star Title Page Columns
CBC MARKETPLACE - ROAD TO RICH DAD - Erica Johnson (guest appearance: Bob Aaron)
CLICK ON: http://www.cbc.ca/player/Shows/Shows/Marketplace/Season+37/ID/1404614484/2009 Toronto Star Title Page Columns
CBC MARKETPLACE - NEW HOME NIGHTMARES - Wendy Mesley (with Mike Holmes and Bob Aaron)
CLICK ON: http://www.cbc.ca/player/Shows/Shows/Marketplace/Season+36/ID/1354322711/2008 Toronto Star Columns and other links
CBC MARKETPLACE - THE CONDO CRUNCH - Wendy Mesley (with Bob Aaron)
CLICK ON: http://www.cbc.ca/player/News/TV+Shows/Marketplace/ID/1581783343/?page=6
- 2008-12-27 Consumer protection common theme in 2008
- 2008-12-20 Court is an expensive way to deal with a noise complaint issue
- 2008-12-13 Star columnist appointed to Tarion board
- 2008-12-13 In litigation cases, often only the lawyers win
- 2008-12-06 Buyer gets frosty welcome
- 2008-11-29 Fraudster's house 'sale' ends up costing bank
- 2008-11-22 Lawyers may kill deals not in client's best interest
- 2008-11-15 Tarion softens approach on vendors who sell newly built homes
- 2008-11-08 Known dangerous defects must be disclosed by vendor
- 2008-11-01 Agents should never brush off the need for a survey
- 2008-10-25 When it comes to property's paranormal history, it's buyer beware
- 2008-10-18 Nail down right-of-access before purchase
- 2008-10-11 Health card acceptable for voting but not for mortgage
- 2008-10-04 Always review purchase agreements with a lawyer
- 2008-09-27 Brother messes up with email scam
- 2008-09-20 Not a good idea to interfere with right-of-way
- 2008-09-13 Oil storage tank leak a cautionary tale
- 2008-09-06 Bylaw sinks pirate ship playhouse
- 2008-08-30 Foreclosure tale is coyote ugly
- 2008-08-23 Presence of asbestos kills home purchase
- 2008-08-16 Mortgage fraud scheme manipulated 'puppet' purchasers
- 2008-08-09 Putting oil in wrong tank adds fuel to this warning
- 2008-08-02 Clients will suffer if articling program is abolished
- 2008-07-26 Vendors take risk signing SPIS form
- 2008-07-19 Family feud sparked over ownership of cottages
- 2008-07-12 New delayed occupancy warranty benefits consumers
- 2008-07-05 Closing dates you can take to the bank
- 2008-06-28 SPIS form could spell rocky legal ride for buyers
- 2008-06-21 Long-suffering homeowners need cement case resolution
- 2008-06-14 Good renovation advice available to both owner and contractor
- 2008-06-07 Cheque scam threatens to slow down real estate transactions
- 2008-05-31 Check the noise level before you purchase
- 2008-05-24 Before buying check survey for boundaries
- 2008-05-17 Buyer soaked with vendor's final water bill
- 2008-05-10 Good fences make good neighbours but bad lawsuits
- 2008-05-03 Road access critical when buying a cottage
- 2008-04-26 Supreme Court rules on joint name transfer issue
- 2008-04-19 Buyer pays price for jilting agent
- 2008-04-12 Beware if you're purchasing new to flip
- 2008-04-05 Reno contracts should never be taken lightly
- 2008-03-29 A little info, a lot of trouble
- 2008-03-22 Power of attorney under scrutiny
- 2008-03-15 Seek advice before making mortgage manoeuvre
- 2008-03-08 Landlords can keep properties smoke-free
- 2008-03-01 When your lakeside lot starts to grow
- 2008-02-23- New condo delayed-closing rules coming
- 2008-02-16- Furnace in a closet voids condo sale
- 2008-02-09- House must be completely empty when sale closes
- 2008-02-09- Direct Energy maintenance plan leaves me in the cold
- 2008-02-02- Tarion proposals should help buyers in delayed closings
- 2008-01-26- Is secrecy a major structural defect in buyer protection?
- 2008-01-19- Lack of contract invites heartbreak
- 2008-01-05- House fraud decision rocks industry
2007 Toronto Star Columns
TORONTO POLICE SERVICE 2007 GROW-OPS
TORONTO POLICE SERVICE 2003-2006 GROW-OPS (16 MB download)
- 2007-12-22 - As if lawyers need extra work
- 2007-12-15 - Document your insured possessions
- 2007-12-08 - Time to repeal outdated law
- 2007-12-01 - 'Arrogant' bank chastised by judge
- 2007-11-24 - We need an open, comprehensive grow-op list
- 2007-11-17 - 'Miller bite' hangover probably won't drive buyers out of the city
- 2007-11-10 - Is it right for agents to turn a blind eye to signs of grow-op?
- 2007-11-03 - Federal tax cut already in effect
- 2007-11-03 - Buyer beware if you want that GST rebate
- 2007-10-27 - Troubled house worthless, assessor rules
- 2007-10-20 - 'Effluent society' can't afford to flush 'n' forget
- 2007-10-13 - The worth of an e-mailed signature lost in legislation
- 2007-10-06 - It's best not to combine mortgage, line of credit
- 2007-09-29 - Renovation project calls for written deal
- 2007-09-22 - Be careful when buying a house once heated with oil
- 2007-09-15 - Bench can honour our past, add to community's future
- 2007-09-08 - Signing SPIS form remains a huge risk
- 2007-09-01 - Title insurance policies can differ
- 2007-08-25 - Probate not necessary to sell house in most cases
- 2007-08-18 - Relying on municipal records too risky
- 2007-08-11 - Lack of land survey led to lot-size mistake
- 2007-08-04 - Neighbours in talks after mutual driveway dispute
- 2007-07-28 - Have your lawyer review purchase agreement before you sign anything
- 2007-07-21 - UFFI clause has outlived its purpose
- 2007-07-14 - Ruling may have major impact on TARION
- 2007-07-07 - Old fence makes for warring neighbours
- 2007-06-30 - Vendor who signs SPIS invites future litigation
- 2007-06-23 - City axe threatens golden goose
- 2007-06-16 - Warranty plan could be election issue
- 2007-06-09 - Should vendor disclose a property's past?
- 2007-05-26 - Creative taxes answer to city's budget woes
- 2007-05-19 - Tarion warranty fails to protect consumers
- 2007-05-12 - When selling home, truth is the best policy
- 2007-05-05 - Easement dispute points to value of survey
- 2007-04-28 - Who's liable for house defects?
- 2007-04-21 - Paralegal licensing is good news
- 2007-04-14 - Don't buy without a home inspection
- 2007-04-07 - No protection for conversion projects
- 2007-03-31 - Bank takes a hard hit with condo parking space fraud
- 2007-03-24 - City land transfer tax a bad idea
- 2007-03-17 - Advocacy group dissatisfied with Tarion
- 2007-03-10 - Condo battle ends after 14 years
- 2007-03-03 - Real estate commissions must be paid
- 2007-02-24 - Bylaw breach turns costly
- 2007-02-17 - Warranty does not eliminate client's rights
- 2007-02-10 - Buyers protected - Court backs purchasers in delayed closings
- 2007-02-03 - Buyer pays for pouncing on seller's error
- 2007-01-27 - GST reduction rebates are hefty on home sales
- 2007-01-20 - A survey can save you major hassles: Stewart Title responds
- 2007-01-13 - Neighbours draw line over repairs
- 2007-01-06 - Some U.S. title insurers seek to avoid paying claims
2006 Toronto Star Columns
- 2006-12-30 - In 2006, title fraud top real estate story
- 2006-12-23 - 'Tis the season when many of us bless our homes
- 2006-12-16 - Your castle isn't always a fortress
- 2006-12-09 - Buyer beware when it comes to deposits
- 2006-12-02 - Real estate deals don't belong in court
- 2006-11-25 - Beware the tiny, turgid prose of the offer
- 2006-11-18 - Sister's signature forged in sale
- 2006-11-11 - Fraud victims deserve quicker compensation
- 2006-11-04 - Disclosure: It's seller beware
- 2006-10-28 - Title fraud bill faces troubled future
- 2006-10-21 - Beware of signing disclosure forms
- 2006-10-14 - Make land survey part of any deal
- 2006-10-07 - Title theft issue strikes emotional chord
- 2006-09-30 - No correct answer or easy solution to title fraud dilemma
- 2006-09-23 - A moving experience: Couple picked up and left
- 2006-09-16 - Draft fraud law ignores innocent buyer
- 2006-09-09 - 'Tainted' houses can be 'scary,' complex issue
- 2006-09-02 - Fraud, forgery alleged in mortgage scheme
- 2006-08-26 - Independent legal advice is for real
- 2006-08-19 - Greedy consumers fueled mortgage scam
- 2006-08-12 - Parental gift up for grabs in divorce
- 2006-08-05 - Be careful buying nearly new home
- 2006-07-29 - Why risk court appeal? Just change the law
- 2006-07-22 - Leaky condo lawsuit offers lessons for all
- 2006-07-15 - Results can be costly if contract is not specific
- 2006-07-08 - Take smoking ban inside the home
- 2006-07-01 - Lawyers play key role in buyer protection
- 2006-06-24 - Condo buyers' class action suit bears watching
- 2006-06-17 - Learn about future use of nearby land
- 2006-06-10 - Toronto subject to native land claim
- Indian Claims Commission - Toronto Purchase Inquiry
- 2006-06-03 - Top 10 things to beware of when buying resale
- 2006-05-27 - Tough to reconcile Caledonia land dispute
- 2006-05-20 - Ministry's 'clarification' a tax grab
- 2006-05-13 - How new GST will affect homebuyers
- 2006-05-06 - Ontario hikes land transfer tax on new houses
- 2006-04-29 - Finders not keepers in real estate deals
- 2006-04-22 - House title thieves can wreak havoc
- 2006-04-15 - Learn all facets of title insurance
- 2006-04-08 - Tax records don't always reflect reality
- York Region Police 2002 - 2005 Grow-Ops
- Toronto Police Service - 2005-6 Scarborough grow houses (pdf download)
- Durham Region Police 2006 Grow-Ops (pdf download)
- 2006-04-01 - Ruling may force police to list grow houses
- 2006-03-25 - Litigation can prove a costly nightmare
- 2006-03-18 - Scarborough grow houses listed on line
- 2006-03-11 - Make sure dimensions of lot are specified
- 2006-03-04 - Get expert advice for estate planning
- 2006-02-25 - Closing date extension request denied
- 2006-02-18 - What do you do if you find a bag of cash?
- 2006-02-11 - Use RRSP funds now to reduce mortgage
- 2006-02-04 - Time-shares: Don't buy under pressure
- 2006-01-28 - Some noisy neighbours should just pipe down
- 2006-01-28 - Assemble your own 'dream team'
- 2006-01-21 - Act brings major changes to real estate industry
- 2006-01-14 - Lawyer disbarred for role in mortgage scheme
- 2006-01-07 - In real estate, time truly is of the essence
2005 Toronto Star Columns
- 2005-12-31 - Proposed bill concerns TREB, GTHBA boards
- 2005-12-24 - Seller on hook for damage between deal signing, closing
- 2005-12-17 - Developer truly was a 'giant' in the building trade
- 2005-12-10 - Mortgage fraud persists with cash-back schemes
- 2005-12-03 - Truly innocent people may lose homes to fraud
- 2005-11-26 - Check to see if home is under warranty
- 2005-11-19 - Survey can thwart real estate fraud
- 2005-11-12 - Check sealed areas during home inspection
- 2005-11-05 - Reviewing survey a must in any transaction
- 2005-10-29 - Check condo deed's unit number with plans
- 2005-10-22 - Caring broker may get you broader coverage
- 2005-10-15 - Zoning bylaw clashes with Charter rights
- 2005-10-08 - Check mover's insurance before leaving for new home
- 2005-10-01 - Storm warning: You may not be covered for losses
- 2005-09-24 - Know the facts about extension provisions
- 2005-09-17 - Get it all in writing if building a home
- 2005-09-10 - Be careful using RRSP to buy home
- 2005-09-03 - Should sex offender registries be accessible?
- 2005-08-27 - Hollywood star's court win a victory for homeowners
- 2005-08-20 - 'Poorly built house' case ends after lengthy fight
- 2005-08-13 - Energy efficient homes may be eligible for CMHC mortgage refunds
- 2005-08-06 - No penalties for late closing if buyer agrees to new deadline
- 2005-07-30 - Readers say marijuana growing concern
- 2005-07-23 - Buyers unaware of endangered birds
- 2005-07-16 - Get advice about down payment gifts
- 2005-07-09 - Grow house disclosure is critical
- 2005-07-02 - Be wise: Get a will to avoid problems
- 2005-06-25 - Toxic mould in homes becoming a hot issue
- 2005-06-18 - New law improves time-share safeguards
- 2005-06-11 - Get legal advice if no occupancy permit on closing day
- 2005-06-04 - It's difficult to detect bogus ID
- 2005-05-28 - Buyers told it's illegal if they occupy home
- 2005-05-21 - Avoid a feud: treat cottage like a business
- 2005-05-14 - BANANA has appeal
- 2005-05-07 - Home completion delays a sign of the times
- 2005-04-30 - New model homes may not be covered by Tarion
- 2005-04-23 - Can new home GST also apply to renos?
- 2005-04-16 - Read warning clauses carefully
- 2005-04-09 - Real estate fraud continues to grow
- 2005-04-02 - Issues to consider before signing purchase agreement
- 2005-03-26 - Who owns the air above our homes?
- 2005-03-19 - Tracking down a home's history
- 2005-03-12 - Electricity liability can be shocking
- 2005-03-05 - Zany bogus scams don't fool insurers
- 2005-02-26 - Disclosing defects to buyers a problem area
- 2005-02-19 - Co-ownership deals offer special set of challenges
- 2005-02-12 - Disputed land sliver cost couple $42, 000
- 2005-02-05 - Illegal basement flat proves costly mistake
- 2005-01-29 - Basement suites must meet requirements
- 2005-01-22 - Dream house nightmare
- 2005-01-15 - Broker may find a better mortgage deal
- 2005-01-08 - Desperately seeking peace and quiet
- 2005-01-01 - A few ideas for the Minister
2004 Columns
- 2004-12-24 - Is it legal to deck the lights?
- 2004-12-18 - Frisky neighbours keep couple awake
- 2004-12-11 - Be ready for the unexpected in real estate deals
- 2004-12-04 - Forgotten oil tanks can prove expensive
- 2004-11-27 - Hazard land brings grief
- 2004-11-20 - Search heats up home privacy concerns
- 2004-11-13 - Wife's forgery puts home at risk
- 2004-11-06 - Resale home inspection a smart move
- 2004-10-30 - Readers weigh in on disclosure statements
- 2004-10-23 - Laurels to paralegal report; e-learning darts
- 2004-10-16 - Staying silent in home sale may equal fraud
- 2004-10-09 - Heed power of attorney
- 2004-10-02 - Builders must fulfill their promises
- 2004-10-02 - Books to crack for condo owners
- 2004-09-25 - Follow checklist to avoid surprises
- 2004-09-18 - Real estate agent fined for overlooking survey
- 2004-09-11 - Fractional structure much better approach than typical timeshare
- 2004-09-11 - Arrange own mortgage insurance
- 2004-09-04 - Weed-like tree at root of neighbours' quarrel
- 2004-08-28 - Wrong brick colour used for couple's dream home
- 2004-08-21 - Ruling will spur credit agencies to fix errors quickly
- 2004-08-14 - Even amateur builders may be liable
- 2004-08-07 - Paperwork may be lacking in cottage sales
- 2004-07-31 - Tall tales for insurance adjusters
- 2004-07-24 - Buyers back out after plan altered
- 2004-07-17 - Religious freedom trumps condo rules
- 2004-07-10 - Winds of change at warranty board
- 2004-07-03 - When full disclosure could mean no sales
- 2004-06-26 - Lawsuits could mean mortgage refunds
- 2004-06-19 - No clear winners in this builder-owner wrangle
- 2004-06-12 - Marijuana grow-ops slash value of real estate
- 2004-06-05 - No simple answer to disclosure of defects
- 2004-05-29 - New product protects houses from title fraud
- 2004-05-22 - New type of ownership better than some
- 2004-05-15 - Warranty will cover some mould damage
- 2004-05-08 - Include floor plan in offer to avoid surprises
- 2004-05-01 - Reserve fund studies are due Tuesday
- 2004-05-01 - Warranty program needs more scope
- 2004-04-17 - Seller's bills can haunt new owner
- 2004-04-10 - House size not guaranteed to buyers
- 2004-04-03 - Columnist helps nab fraud suspect
- 2004-03-27 - It's true: Some fences make very bad neighbours
- 2004-03-20 - Interest rates, closing delays among buyers' top concerns
- 2004-03-13 - No stigma attached to nothing-down deal
- 2004-03-06 - Protection needed for small investors
- 2004-02-28 - Time is running out on Ontario squatters' rights
- 2004-02-21 - ONHWP has obligation to publish claims on Web site
- 2004-02-14 - Selling unregistered condos can be complex
- 2004-02-07 - Home truths aren't always so simple
- Lawrence Bremner: Seller's Property Disclosure Statement
- 2004-01-31 - Lawyers should handle real estate deals
- 2004-01-24 - Court upholds city ban on pesticides
- 2004-01-17 - Amazing grace period spells grief for buyers
- 2004-01-10 - Lawyer suspended for role in house flips
- 2004-01-03 - New type of property fraud is shocking
2003 Toronto Star Columns
- 2003-12-27 - You can never have too much insurance
- 2003-12-20 - Look out for suspicious clauses
- 2003-12-13 - Power failure can pull plug on real estate deals
- 2003-12-06 - Electronic registration means more paper
- 2003-11-29 - Lawyer Robinette played key civil rights role
- 2003-11-22 - Arranging a mortgage? Bring some photo I.D.
- 2003-11-15 - Best to arrange your own mortgage insurance
- 2003-11-08 - Don't stick tenants with hefty tax bills
- 2003-11-01 - Fur flies in courts over pet ban
- 2003-10-25 - Politicians, not courts, must stop island airport plan
- 2003-10-18 - Can unhappy buyers post signs?
- 2003-10-11 - ONHWP's $100,000 limit should be raised
- 2003-10-04 - Property 'flip' lands lawyer in hot water
- 2003-09-27 - Appliance switch was costly for vendor
- 2003-09-20 - Ask, and you shall avert disappointment
- 2003-09-13 - Time for politicians to step up to the plate
- 2003-09-06 - It's not a sin to keep your SIN private
- 2003-08-30 - A book for dummies, or by dummies?
- 2003-08-23 - Homes' in-law suites can be risky bet
- 2003-08-16 - Deed forgery far too easy
- 2003-08-09 - Buyers had recourse for altered floor plan
- 2003-08-02 - Mortgage fraud victims can also lose homes
- 2003-07-26 - Beware of extra costs for mortgage paperwork
- 2003-07-19 - Do neighbours have right to natural light?
- 2003-07-12 - The perils of buying a vendor-built home
- 2003-07-05 - Ontario buyers deserve same rights as British
- 2003-06-28 - No flying maple leaves in Markham on Canada Day
- 2003-06-21 - No gazumping, please, we're Canadian
- 2003-06-14 - Choose title insurance firm carefully
- 2003-06-07 - Infrared camera ruled an invasion of privacy
- 2003-05-31 - Law Society boots lawyer in property flip scam
- 2003-05-24 - Deductions not fair and not necessary
- 2003-05-17 - Squatter's rights no defence
- 2003-05-10 - Home inspector warned of moisture in basement
- 2003-05-03 - Movers liable for losing couple's possessions
- 2003-04-26 - Vendors didn't reveal facts about nude beach
- 2003-04-19 - Danger seen in popular home insulation product
- Link to CBC The National documentary on "Deadly Dust"
- 2003-04-12 - Be your own real estate agent at new Internet site
- 2003-04-05 - Buyers need protection from delayed closings
- 2003-03-29 - Just what do timeshare owners actually own?
- 2003-03-22 - Legal wrangles continue in cement case
- 2003-03-15 - Class action nixed in alleged price-fixing case
- 2003-03-08 - Adopting condo model for new homes won't work
- 2003-03-01 - Family compensated in mortgage fraud case
- 2003-02-22 - Real estate agents must exercise care
- 2003-02-15 - Do you know where you live?
- 2003-02-08 - Courts pave way for the greening of our lawns
- 2003-02-01 - Smart investors skip RRSPs to pay down mortgage now
- 2003-01-25 - Column on warranty program hits nerve
- 2003-01-18 - Does ONHWP really protect homebuyers?
- 2003-01-11 - Victims of a mortgage fraud
- 2003-01-04 - It's never too early to prepare your will
2002 Columns
- 2002-12-28 - Don't let house insurance take a holiday
- 2002-12-21 - Unfinished work causes nightmares on moving day
- 2002-12-14 - Getting to the root of property damage
- 2002-12-07 - Standard contracts offer builder leeway to make changes
- 2002-11-30 - Homebuyers beware of old fuel oil tanks
- 2002-11-23 - Insurance firms guard themselves from terrorism
- 2002-11-16 - Pointing out 'Hudak's folly'
- 2002-11-09 - Common sense can help protect your identity
- "Identity Theft - Who's Using Your Name" by Ontario Privacy Commissioner Ann Cavoukian (from www.ipc.on.ca)
- 2002-11-02 - Taxpayers on hook for leaky condo
- 2002-10-26 - Mike Myers Dr. an evil idea
- 2002-10-19 - The two-car garage that wasn't
- 2002-10-12 - Misery loves company in real estate lawsuits
- 2002-10-05 - Country dream washed away
- 2002-09-28 - How homebuyer protection could be improved
- 2002-09-21 - Owner had to make a stink about basement
- 2002-09-14 - eBay clicks with real estate
- 2002-09-07 - Home warranty program behind the times
- 2002-08-31 - Residents heated up over transformer boxes
- 2002-08-24 - In praise of caring builders
- 2002-08-17 - Why should buyer have to wait for service?
- 2002-08-10 - There's no place for racism in real estate
- 2002-08-03 - Don't be rattled by fixtures vs. chattels
- 2002-07-27 - Study shows mortgage renewers a loyal bunch
- 2002-07-20 - Squeaky wheels get after-sales results
- 2002-07-13 - Controversial Ottawa house has new owner
- 2002-07-06 - Homeowner lost legal suit over mould
- 2002-06-29 - Agents, brokers face fines in double-offer sale scheme
- 2002-06-22 - Loyalty programs could be illegal
- 2002-06-08 - Cottage purchases deserve due diligence
- 2002-06-06 - Ask a Lawyer
- 2002-05-25 - Paralegal proposal a recipe for havoc
- 2002-05-18 - Lawyers governing paralegals: recipe for disaster
- 2002-05-04 - Builder offers can conceal surprises
- 2002-04-20 - Tenant-homeowner tax inequity must stop
- 2002-04-13 - Fraudulent title transfer takes costly toll
- 2002-04-06 - Oklahoma flip tosses lawyer
- 2002-03-23 - New York real estate still strong after Sept. 11
- 2002-03-16 - Nightmare ending for victims of fraud
- 2002-03-09 - Title fraud costs taxpayers
- 2002-03-02 - Inspect home before listing to correct any minor flaws
- 2002-02-23 - Property title fraud strikes a nerve
- 2002-02-16 - Home office tax breaks
- 2002-02-09 - Stolen Dreams
- 2002-02-02 - Recent decision does little to dissuade dishonest realtors
- 2002-01-26 - Home insurance policy not all that reassuring
- 2002-01-19 - Living in Shuster's house
- 2002-01-12 - Couple wins fight over new house
- 2002-01-05 - Woman loses squatter's rights' case
2001 Columns
- 2001-12-29 - Tory bill takes aim at consumers
- 2001-12-22 - The War and Peace of condo literature
- 2001-12-18 - New form gives buyers protection
- 2001-12-08 - Making noise about noise
- 2001-12-01 - Building a litany of broken promises
- 2001-11-24 - No will? Get one now!
- 2001-11-17 - What recourse do St. Clair W. homebuyers have?
- 2001-11-10 - Making the GST work better for homebuyers
- 2001-11-03 - Getting to the root of a cellar flood
- 2001-10-27 - Murder, mayhem and ghosts
- 2001-10-20 - Is there a deal or not? Case is a tricky one
- 2001-10-13 - Why bar lawyers from real estate transactions?
- 2001-09-29 - Challenge to the low-flush commode
- 2001-09-22 - Flood of reaction greets call to regulate salespeople
- 2001-09-22 - Condo Act guide is user friendly
- 2001-09-15 - Big win for B.C. condo owners
- 2001-09-08 - Look before you waive a contract condition
- 2001-09-01 - This odour problem 'mushroomed'
- 2001-08-25 - Class action suits expected to multiply
- 2001-08-18 - What lies beyond your walls?
- 2001-08-11 - Wild West tactics must be corralled
- 2001-08-04 - Draft real estate law flawed
- 2001-07-28 - No beach party for Lake Erie residents
- 2001-07-21 - Lessons for buyers from project fire
- 2001-07-14 - Final chapter written in `infamous cement case'
- 2001-07-07 - Liberty Walk buyers won't have to pay more
- 2001-06-30 - 'Lawsuit, shmawsuit': Yiddish livens up courtroom
- 2001-06-23 - City takes hit for shoddy Reno
- 2001-06-16 - Do we want to be like our southern neighbour?
- 2001-06-16 - Pizza person shut out
- 2001-06-09 - Wife may be on hook for co-signing loan
- 2001-06-02 - Ottawa to force lawyers to snitch on clients
- 2001-05-26 - Erotic affair with the home
- 2001-05-19 - Pre-sale inspections smooth path for buyer and seller
- 2001-05-12 - Did you buy at site of fire?
- 2001-05-05 - Possession counts when finders aren't keepers
- 2001-04-28 - Gretzky: he sues, he misses
- 2001-04-21 - What if Ontario residents don't have proper title to their lands?
- 2001-04-14 - Insulation foam doesn't deserve to be banned
- 2001-04-07 - Small-town lawyer has some big ideas
- 2001-04-04 - Squatter's rights a tricky issue
- 2001-03-24 - Unfortunate ruling for home-buying public
- 2001-03-17 - Using kit to write will can be risky
- 2001-03-10 - Condo or co-op?
- 2001-03-03 - Why racist restrictions no longer apply in land deals
- 2001-02-24 - Beware the 'Oklahoma' swindle
- 2001-02-17 - Cement case hard to work out
- 2001-02-08 - Should homeowner pay off mortgage or invest in RRSP?
- 2001-02-02 - Who's liable if dog bites?
- 2001-01-26 - 'Oklahoma swindle' is just plain real estate fraud
- 2001-01-18 - In pursuance of plain English, forthwith
- 2001-01-11 - What if your house was sold out from under you?
- 2001-01-04 - Why condo cash deal caused concern
2000 Toronto Star Columns
- 2000-12-28 - Don't take your home insurance for granted
- 2000-12-21 - Municipality liable for faulty construction
- 2000-12-14 - Homeowners not liable for sidewalk mishaps
- 2000-12-07 - Time real estate industry started e-mailing offers
- 2000-11-30 - There's no turning back on plan to automate land registry
- 2000-11-23 - Not all title insurers are alike
- 2000-11-18 - Why you should get title insurance
- 2000-11-10 - Make sure your lawyer's on the e-train
- 2000-11-05 - Province draws line on sloppy documentation
- 2000-10-28 - Spectre of tainted houses raised
- 2000-10-20 - Co-owning a house? Get a written agreement
- 2000-10-14 - Love is blind - that's why there's legal advice
- 2000-10-07 - Inspectors don't cover environmental hazards
- 2000-09-30 - Real estate body insults its members
- 2000-09-30 - When parents help their kids buy a home
- 2000-09-23 - Paralegal ruling will have far-reaching result
- 2000-09-16 - White paper proposals target real estate fraud
- 2000-09-09 - Proposal would protect consumers
- 2000-09-02 - Thinking of buying a time-share?
- 2000-08-26 - Builders, vendors ignore feng shui at their peril
- 2000-08-19 - Vendor mortgage issue draws reactions
- 2000-08-05 - Seller's existing mortgage can be superb marketing tool
- 2000-07-29 - City's gouging home buyers with hefty fee hike
- 2000-07-22 - Hallelujah! Land Transfer Tax refund here to stay
- 2000-07-15 - Purchaser cancels deal and gets deposit back
- 2000-07-08 - Up-to-date survey is vital
- 2000-07-01 - Proceed with caution with clauses found on contract's 'extras'
- 2000-06-24 - Those 'extras' certainly add up
- 2000-06-17 - Paralegal proposals a recipe for havoc
- 2000-06-10 - No-fee mortgage marketing plan has costs
- 2000-06-03 - Be cautious when buying property with a partner
- 2000-05-27 - Don't be insulted if lawyer asks for ID
- 2000-05-20 - Trouble Free?
Bob Aaron is a Toronto real estate lawyer and frequent speaker to groups of home buyers and real estate agents.
He can be reached by email at bob@aaron.ca, phone 416-364-9366 or fax 416-364-3818.
Visit the Toronto Star column archives at http://aaron.ca/toronto-star-columns.cfm for articles on this and other topics.
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