The Truth About Edmonton Real Estate Lawyers (From Someone Who Was One)
The Truth About Edmonton Real Estate Lawyers (From Someone Who Was One)
By Ibrahim AlGendy | The Counselor
Real estate deals involve a lot of people — but no one is more misunderstood than the lawyer. Clients often ask me: “What exactly does the lawyer do?” And having been on both sides of the table — as a former commercial lawyer and now a Realtor — I can tell you: it's more (and less) than you think.
So... What Do Real Estate Lawyers Actually Do?
In Alberta, lawyers handle all the legal mechanics behind the scenes once a purchase or sale is firm. That includes:
- Reviewing and registering the transfer of title
- Confirming payouts and discharges of any existing mortgages
- Handling trust funds, property tax adjustments, and legal disbursements
- Ensuring everything closes according to the Real Estate Purchase Contract
Think of them as the air traffic control tower — you don’t see them, but they’re landing the deal safely.
What They Don’t Do
This is where the confusion comes in. Your lawyer does NOT:
- Negotiate the price or terms of your offer
- Advise you on condo documents, condition waivers, or inspection clauses
- Fix issues with RPRs, dower rights, or property defects — unless hired for that separately
That’s my lane — as your Realtor, I’m involved much earlier and guide you through the emotional, strategic, and legal prep. By the time your lawyer receives the deal, most choices are already made.
When Should You Call the Lawyer?
You don’t need a lawyer on Day 1 — but you do need the right one **before possession**. I always connect my clients with trusted real estate lawyers who communicate clearly, act fast, and charge fair fees.
Bonus: I’ll send your lawyer all the documents they need to make closing easy.
Final Counsel: Lawyers play a critical role — but only if you’ve set the deal up right. That’s why I’m here: to make sure what lands on the lawyer’s desk is airtight, fair, and on your terms.
Real estate is a team sport. Let’s do it right.
— The Counselor
