legal matters

A neighbourhood practice helping you with Wills, Powers of Attorney, Residential Real Estate and Mortgages, Estate Administration

David Reid Simpson

David Reid Simpson practices law in the heart of Westdale Village, Hamilton. He grew up in the neighbourhood attending what was then George R. Allan School, Dalewood School, Westdale Secondary School and McMaster University. He graduated from Osgoode Hall Law School and has been practicing now for over 23 years.

James Reid Simpson

James Reid Simpson,Q.C., also attended the same schools as his son (except for Dalewood) and has been a lawyer in Westdale for over 58 years.

Q I am working with a real estate agent, but should I have a lawyer check over the offer before it is firm?

A Often lawyers get real estate deals at the point where they are already firm deals. As such there is little we can do to negotiate changes. As well, in today’s hot market, there can be time pressures to get an offer in and to have it contain as few conditions as possible. An experienced real estate agent is a big help in guiding you through the process, but a real estate lawyer can also add extra eyes to catch potential problems and issues. Some buyers accordingly make it a condition that their lawyer review and approve the agreement before it becomes binding. This review can usually be done quite quickly so it will not hold up the process. Often there will be a concurrent condition to secure financing or to arrange a home inspection. Even something as seemingly small as taking over the hot water rental can have big consequences if the vendor has signed up for a terrible locked-in plan. Buying a house is a big move, so proceed with care!