3 Legal Mistakes Edmonton Home Sellers Make (and How to Avoid Them)
3 Legal Mistakes Edmonton Home Sellers Make (and How to Avoid Them)
By Ibrahim AlGendy | The Counselor
Selling a home can be exciting — but legal mistakes can turn it into a headache fast. And as someone who used to sit on the legal side of the table, I’ve seen the same issues cause deals to collapse or get delayed again and again.
If you’re selling in Edmonton, here are 3 legal landmines to avoid — and how to stay protected.
1. Skipping or Ignoring the Real Property Report (RPR)
One of the most common mistakes? Sellers don’t have a current RPR with compliance — or assume an old one is "good enough."
If you’ve added a deck, fence, shed, or garage — even slightly — your RPR might be out of date. That delay could stall your closing or even cost you the deal.
2. Overlooking Dower Rights
If you’re legally married and your spouse is on title (or even if they’re not), dower consent may be required. I’ve seen this get missed entirely — and surprise the seller right before closing. Bad timing.
We always review title together before listing so you’re not blindsided later.
3. Not Disclosing Known Issues
Trying to hide defects — like a leaky basement or past roof damage — is not only unethical, it’s risky. In Alberta, you’re legally obligated to disclose material latent defects.
If a buyer finds something after closing that you knowingly withheld, they could sue — and they’d have a case.
Final Counsel: Selling smart means selling clean — legally and financially. As a former lawyer, I make sure my sellers aren’t just listing homes — they’re closing with confidence.
If you're thinking about selling, I’ll make sure nothing catches you off guard.
— The Counselor
