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

Budgeting

Budgeting in real estate refers to the process of forecasting and managing income and expenses associated with owning, operating, or developing a property.. more

Tenant Improvements

Tenant improvements refer to custom modifications or build-outs made to a leased space to suit the tenant’s operational needs, often negotiated as. more

Highest and Best Use

Highest and best use refers to the reasonably probable use of a property that results in the highest value, provided it is legally permissible,. more

Gross Lease

A gross lease is a commercial lease where the tenant pays a fixed rent, and the landlord covers most or all operating expenses such as property. more

Brownfield

A brownfield is a property that was previously used for industrial or commercial purposes and is now vacant or underused, often requiring. more

Record of Site Condition (RSC)

A Record of Site Condition (RSC) is a formal document filed with a provincial environmental authority certifying that a property meets required. more

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