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For many Executors in Ontario, the family home is the single most valuable asset in the estate. It is also the asset that most frequently triggers the requirement to apply for probate—a court process now formally known as a Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee.

In Ontario, probate is the judicial stamp of approval that confirms your authority to act as an executor. However, it comes with a price tag. The Estate Administration Tax (EAT) is charged at roughly 1.5% of the estate’s total value. On a typical Toronto home worth $1.5 million, that tax bill alone is nearly $22,000.

But there is a specific exception rooted in Ontario’s history that might allow you to bypass this requirement entirely. It is called the First Dealings Exemption, and understanding it could save your estate significant time and money.

If you are planning to enter the Ontario real estate market in 2026, you are stepping into a landscape that looks very different from just two years ago. With inventory levels up and prices stabilizing, buyers finally have some leverage. But new government incentives and stricter tax rules mean the paperwork has arguably never been more complex.

Here are the three critical updates every 2026 buyer needs to know to protect their wallet on closing day.

One of the most important decisions you’ll make when preparing your will is choosing your executor—the person responsible for carrying out your final wishes and administering your estate after your death.

Many people put less thought into this than they should, often defaulting to a spouse or eldest child. But the choice deserves careful consideration. Your executor will be responsible for tasks that can be time-consuming, emotionally demanding, and legally complex.

Here are five key factors to keep in mind when choosing an executor in Ontario:

When it comes to purchasing or selling property in Toronto, having the right team in your corner can make all the difference. Among that team, legal counsel plays a critical yet often underappreciated role. In this post, we’ll break down the responsibilities, value, and benefits that a real estate lawyer brings to the table, ensuring that every real estate transaction is smooth, secure, and in your best interest.

Navigating the probate process can feel overwhelming during an already challenging time. Whether you’re an executor supporting a loved one's final wishes or a beneficiary looking to understand your rights, this guide may help to demystify the steps involved and make the process more transparent.