Deed

Understand what a deed is in Canadian real estate, how it proves ownership, and its role in completing legal property transfers.

Deed

May 22, 2025


What is a Deed?

A deed is a legal document that transfers ownership of real estate from one party to another and is registered in the provincial land title system.

Why Deeds Matter in Real Estate

In Canadian real estate, the deed confirms legal ownership and includes details like the buyer’s and seller’s names, the property description, and the date of transfer.


Deeds are important because they:
  • Legally recognize the new owner
  • Enable property tax billing and title insurance
  • Are used in court to establish rightful ownership


A lawyer or notary handles the deed as part of the closing process. Once signed and registered, the deed becomes part of the public land registry.


Understanding the role of the deed ensures that buyers can verify ownership rights, access legal remedies, and meet requirements for title transfer and financing.

Example of a Deed in Action

At closing, the seller signs the deed transferring ownership to the buyer, and the lawyer registers it with the provincial land titles office.

Key Takeaways

  • Legal document that proves ownership.
  • Required for title transfer.
  • Registered in public land system.
  • Handled by legal professionals.
  • Central to buying and selling real estate.

Related Terms

Additional Terms

Sale and Investment Solicitation Process (SISP)

A Sale and Investment Solicitation Process (SISP) is a formal court-supervised method of marketing, selling, or refinancing distressed assets during. more

Retail Zoning

Retail zoning is a land use designation that permits commercial activities such as stores, restaurants, and service-based businesses to operate in. more

Ingress and Egress

Ingress and egress refer to the legal rights of access into (ingress) and out of (egress) a property, particularly important in commercial real. more

Housing Supply

Housing supply refers to the total number of homes — both for sale and under construction — available to meet the housing needs of a population in a. more

Housing Inventory

Housing inventory refers to the total number of homes available for sale in a specific real estate market at a given time.. more

Gentrification

Gentrification is the process by which a traditionally lower-income neighbourhood undergoes revitalization and attracts higher-income residents,. more

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