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Pre-Sale Condo Purchases in British Columbia: Key Legal Protections for Buyers

Real Estate Law /

Buying a home that doesn’t exist yet can be a daunting prospect. A “pre-sale” purchase involves entering into a contract to buy a strata lot—usually a condo or townhouse—before construction is complete. In British Columbia, this process is heavily regulated by the Real Estate Development Marketing Act (REDMA) to ensure a fair playing field between […]

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Joint Tenancy vs. Tenants-in-Common in BC: What Property Buyers Need to Know

Real Estate Law /

When you buy property in British Columbia with another person—whether it’s a spouse, a business partner, or a family member—you have to make a critical legal decision: how will you hold the title? In BC, co-owners generally take title in one of two ways: as Joint Tenants or as Tenants-in-Common. While these terms sound similar,

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Understanding Title Searches in British Columbia: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

Real Estate Law /

A title search is the cornerstone of due diligence in any British Columbia real estate transaction. Obtained from the Land Title and Survey Authority (LTSA), this document is more than just a confirmation of ownership—it is a comprehensive roadmap of the legal interests that benefit or burden a property. Whether you are purchasing a family

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Understanding Holdbacks in British Columbia Real Estate Transactions

Real Estate Law /

In the high-stakes world of real estate, issues sometimes arise that cannot be fully resolved by the closing date. Rather than delaying the entire transaction, parties often use a holdback—a portion of the sale proceeds withheld in trust and released only when specific conditions are met. In British Columbia, holdbacks are a vital tool for

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The Importance of Title Insurance in Real Estate Transactions

Real Estate Law /

Title insurance has become an essential component of real estate transactions in British Columbia and across Canada. While the Land Title Act (BC) and the Torrens system provide significant protections for registered owners, title insurance offers an additional layer of security for both purchasers and lenders. This article examines the role and importance of title

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Buyer Rights When a Material Latent Defect Is Discovered After Completion in British Columbia

Real Estate Law /

In British Columbia, discovering a material latent defect after the completion of a property purchase can be distressing for buyers. However, the law provides certain protections and remedies, which depend on the nature of the defect, the conduct of the seller, and the terms of the contract. What Is a Material Latent Defect? A latent defect is

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Regulation of Real Estate Licensee Duties under the Real Estate Services Act (BC)

Real Estate Law /

In British Columbia, the conduct of real estate licensees—including realtors, brokers, and property managers—is governed by the Real Estate Services Act, SBC 2004, c 42 (RESA), the Real Estate Services Rules, and the Real Estate Services Regulation. The BC Financial Services Authority (BCFSA) is the regulatory body responsible for oversight and enforcement. 1. Duty to Act Honestly and

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Legal Title vs. Equitable Title

Real Estate Law /

Legal Title vs. Equitable Title in British Columbia Real Estate Transactions When buying or selling real estate in British Columbia, two key concepts frequently arise: legal title and equitable title. While closely related, understanding the distinction is essential for anyone involved in a real estate transaction. Legal Title Legal title refers to the official ownership of a property as

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Melissa has 8+ years of combined Commercial, Business and Contract Law experience as In-House Counsel in manufacturing, health, real estate development, and broadcast communication industries. She is instrumental in developing strategies to minimize legal risk and ensure regulatory compliance.

She has 6+ years of Human Resources Management experience and a Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) designation. Her practice includes Family Law, Civil Litigation, Wills & Estates and Real Estate & Conveyancing.

For fun, she visits ancient sites and ruins and belts out popular Broadway tunes.

northam law corporation

Northam Law is a boutique law firm offering advisory services in Real Estate Law and Conveyancing, Business Law, and Human Resources. Our practice areas also include Wills & Estates and Family Law. Notarization services are also available.

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  • 2281 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC V6J 3H9
  • (604)-630-2350
  • (604) 901-3317
  • melissa@northam-law.com
  • 9AM to 5PM Mon - Fri (PST)

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