Toronto Star Column Index

2013 Toronto Star Title Page Columns

2013-06-08 Dance studio drove woman out of condo into court
2013-05-25 Some title insurance is better than others
2013-05-11 Beware sending a real estate deal off the rails
2013-04-27 Problems with land titles just got clearer
2013-04-13 Should murder or suicide be disclosed?
2013-03-30 Bizarre form warns against signing SPIS disclosure statement
2013-03-16 Condo board pays price for power play
2013-03-02 Real estate lawyers do not 'waste' client's money
2013-02-16 Home ownership is not always about crunching the numbers
2013-02-02 New research tool invaluable to home buyers
2013-01-19 Landowners responsible for environmental cleanup, court rules
2013-01-05 Disclosure statement meant buyers recovered damages, but listing agent escaped liability

2012 Toronto Star Title Page Columns

2012-12-22 Who has the authority to correct land registry errors
2012-12-08 Title insurance really isn't optional
2012-11-24 Court rules real estate agent isn’t responsible for home inspection
2012-11-10 Condo boards cannot ignore democratic process
2012-10-27 When your house really belongs to your neighbour
2012-10-13 Seasoned real estate lawyers best help for home contracts
2012-09-29 Higher property assessment doesn’t necessarily mean higher taxes
2012-09-15 Beware of the 'rogue builders'
2012-09-01 Case highlights flaws in landlord, tenant rules
2012-08-18 Busting the myths about the Seller Property Information Statement
2012-08-04 Condo Act doesn't need major revamp
2012-07-21 Smoking issues plague condo corporations
2012-07-07 Tarion changes are good for consumers
2012-06-23 Boundary dispute a boon for lawyers
2012-06-09 Low income families, students being hurt by licensing requirements
2012-05-26 Information statements dangerous for all
2012-05-12 The parrot is really a red herring
2012-04-28 Buying a cottage unlike other real estate transactions
2012-04-14 TREB's fear-mongering hurts its arguments against the Competition Bureau
2012-03-31 Basement apartments are a minefield for the uninformed
2012-03-17 Basement apartments must comply with Code
2012-03-03 Fight over grading issues ends in court
2012-02-18 Rabbi W. Gunther Plaut was a human rights advocate
2012-02-04 Badly placed fences make angry neighbours
2012-01-21 Interesting history of Romney cottage compound
2012-01-07 Enforcement of declaration is a board's duty

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2011 Toronto Star Title Page Columns

SELLER PROPERTY INFORMATION STATEMENT - All the Ontario cases 1997-2010
2011-12-24 Independent legal advice crucial in title insurance purchase
2011-12-10 When a detached home is not a detached home
2011-11-26 Revised purchase agreement could ease "sticker shock"
2011-11-12 Manitoba simplifies seller disclosure form
2011-10-29 Turf war over who names the neighbourhoods
2011-10-15 Document your possessions in event insurance claim is necessary
2011-10-01 Whoever forms government must protect property rights
2011-09-17 Is construction crane 'trespassing?'
2011-09-03 The importance of reviewing condo floor plans
2011-08-20 It's difficult to sell pre-registration condo units
2011-08-06 Title insurance? Check. Land survey? Double check
2011-07-23 Rent-to-own deals can be risky business
2011-07-09 Tarion registration is not an option for homebuilders
2011-06-25 Homeowners in Cartier deserve better treatment
2011-06-11 Agent's responsibility doesn’t end with advice
2011-05-28 Use SPIS forms at your own peril
2011-05-14 Court will decide about latent defect
2011-04-30 Title insurers come under fire in Quebec
2011-04-16 Shocked by stories of the "neighbours from hell"
2011-04-02 In U.K., 1 in 10 move due to "nasty neighbours"
2011-03-19 Builder, purchasers fight over increase in closing charges
2011-03-05 Estimating unassessed taxes a tricky business
2011-02-19 Good fences torn down make bad neighbours
2011-02-05 Floor plans are the most important document in buying a condo
2011-01-22 SPIS forms are ticking time bombs
2011-01-08 Supreme Court rules hydro usage not protected by Charter rights

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2010 Toronto Star Title Page Columns

CBC MARKETPLACE - ROAD TO RICH DAD - Erica Johnson (guest appearance: Bob Aaron)

2010-12-24 Credit union seeks compensation due to 'Oklahoma' fraud
2010-12-11 Court of appeal ruling 'absolutely correct'
2010-11-27 Law Society videos help people with their legal needs
2010-11-13 Disclosure form is a danger to buyers and sellers
2010-10-30 Two plots and one man's case of mistaken identity
2010-10-16 OREA forms continue to confuse lawyers and consumers
2010-10-02 OREA is up to date with 1980s technology
2010-09-18 Undisclosed costs can really add up
2010-09-04 City bylaw leaves permits up to homeowners
2010-08-21 Mortgage fraud fallout working way through courts
2010-08-07 Lawyer not obligated to negotiate better purchase agreement
2010-07-24 Toronto's building department operations are neither open nor transparent
2010-07-10 RECO decision heralds new rules about basement apartments
2010-06-26 Case dismissed against sellers of house with hidden defects
2010-06-12 Asbestos little-understood issue in real estate industry
2010-05-29 Monopoly of land registration system inappropriate
2010-05-15 Attached religious object likely should have stayed with house
2010-05-01 Land survey most important document in real estate transaction
2010-04-17 City takes dim view of junked car 'planter'
2010-04-03 Lender didn't have right to add credit card balance to mortgage
2010-03-20 Developer-imposed purchase agreements challenged
2010-03-06 Victory for non-smoking condo couple in B.C.
2010-02-20 Buyers overpay builder for estimated taxes
2010-02-06 Owners no longer in hot water over outdoor tub
2010-01-23 Make indoor air quality test a standard part of real estate purchases
2010-01-09 ARB ruling on wind power noise sets precedent
2010-01-02 Title insurer not obligated to cover all risks

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2009 Toronto Star Title Page Columns

CBC MARKETPLACE - NEW HOME NIGHTMARES - Wendy Mesley (with Mike Holmes and Bob Aaron)

2009-12-26 Amend code to protect innocent neighbours
2009-12-19 Suddenly couple's chimney is illegal
2009-12-12 Will cheaper access to justice mean more litigation?
2009-11-28 Will kits can create recipe for disaster
2009-11-21 Court ruling rattles home inspectors
2009-11-14 Putting property into children's names is risky
2009-11-07 Buyers hit with big bills for surprise adjustments
2009-10-31 Rules on terminating a deal all over the map
2009-10-24 The Great SPIS Myth - Honesty won't resolve disclosure form issues
2009-10-17 Ontario a step closer to mandatory energy audits
2009-10-10 Privacy at home focus of much court debate
2009-10-03 Devil is in the details
2009-09-26 Real estate agents are divided over disclosure form
2009-09-19 New right-of-entry bylaw is overkill
2009-09-12 Disclosure document is an invitation to litigation
2009-09-05 Buyers, check condo status certificates carefully
2009-08-29 Historic house turns into 'renovation from hell'
2009-08-22 Insist on fireplace inspection when purchasing home
2009-08-15 Sellers statement often results in expensive court proceedings
2009-08-08 Privacy and personal photos at heart of case
2009-08-01 A street by any other name is just as sweet
2009-07-25 'Tortuous' property law section needs legislative adjustment
2009-07-18 Have mortgage financing in place prior to closing
2009-07-11 Buying inducements must be disclosed
2009-07-04 Straw homebuyer scheme is illegal
2009-06-27 Is green roof bylaw valid or a cash grab?
2009-06-20 Chinese drywall creating crisis
2009-06-13 Case must be strong if you decide to sue lawyer
2009-06-06 How to create a legal second suite
2009-05-30 Loss of part of deposit teaches a hard lesson
2009-05-23 Court rules against aboriginal land claim
2009-05-16 Mark Freedman wrote the book on condo law
2009-05-09 Cottage deals need special expertise
2009-05-02 HST will box home buyers, builders into bizarre deals
2009-04-25 Builders should be upfront about extra condo charges
2009-04-18 Seek professional advice to keep cottage in the family
2009-04-11 When it comes to survey, size matters
2009-04-04 Advertised house came up short
2009-03-28 Thumbs down on offensive Illinois law
2009-03-21 Perhaps Health Canada should review UFFI ban
2009-03-14 Legislation carries some scary powers
2009-03-07 Bill 150 targets long-suffering homeowner
2009-02-28 Don't take law into own hands over fence dispute
2009-02-21 Harmonized tax would hit renovations, resales
2009-02-14 Licensed home inspectors make perfect sense
2009-01-31 Beware of mortgage tax deduction claims
2009-01-24 Review survey before signing any agreement
2009-01-17 Should suicide have been disclosed to homebuyer?
2009-01-10 Signing disclosure form requires legal assistance
2009-01-03 Deck building litigation was needless waste of time

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2008 Toronto Star Columns and other links

CBC MARKETPLACE - THE CONDO CRUNCH - Wendy Mesley (with Bob Aaron)

2008-12-27 Consumer protection common theme in 2008
2008-12-20 Court is an expensive way to deal with a noise complaint issue
2008-12-13 Star columnist appointed to Tarion board
2008-12-13 In litigation cases, often only the lawyers win
2008-12-06 Buyer gets frosty welcome
2008-11-29 Fraudster's house 'sale' ends up costing bank
2008-11-22 Lawyers may kill deals not in client's best interest
2008-11-15 Tarion softens approach on vendors who sell newly built homes
2008-11-08 Known dangerous defects must be disclosed by vendor
2008-11-01 Agents should never brush off the need for a survey
2008-10-25 When it comes to property's paranormal history, it's buyer beware
2008-10-18 Nail down right-of-access before purchase
2008-10-11 Health card acceptable for voting but not for mortgage
2008-10-04 Always review purchase agreements with a lawyer
2008-09-27 Brother messes up with email scam
2008-09-20 Not a good idea to interfere with right-of-way
2008-09-13 Oil storage tank leak a cautionary tale
2008-09-06 Bylaw sinks pirate ship playhouse
2008-08-30 Foreclosure tale is coyote ugly
2008-08-23 Presence of asbestos kills home purchase
2008-08-16 Mortgage fraud scheme manipulated 'puppet' purchasers
2008-08-09 Putting oil in wrong tank adds fuel to this warning
2008-08-02 Clients will suffer if articling program is abolished
2008-07-26 Vendors take risk signing SPIS form
2008-07-19 Family feud sparked over ownership of cottages
2008-07-12 New delayed occupancy warranty benefits consumers
2008-07-05 Closing dates you can take to the bank
2008-06-28 SPIS form could spell rocky legal ride for buyers
2008-06-21 Long-suffering homeowners need cement case resolution
2008-06-14 Good renovation advice available to both owner and contractor
2008-06-07 Cheque scam threatens to slow down real estate transactions
2008-05-31 Check the noise level before you purchase
2008-05-24 Before buying check survey for boundaries
2008-05-17 Buyer soaked with vendor's final water bill
2008-05-10 Good fences make good neighbours but bad lawsuits
2008-05-03 Road access critical when buying a cottage
2008-04-26 Supreme Court rules on joint name transfer issue
2008-04-19 Buyer pays price for jilting agent
2008-04-12 Beware if you're purchasing new to flip
2008-04-05 Reno contracts should never be taken lightly
2008-03-29 A little info, a lot of trouble
2008-03-22 Power of attorney under scrutiny
2008-03-15 Seek advice before making mortgage manoeuvre
2008-03-08 Landlords can keep properties smoke-free
2008-03-01 When your lakeside lot starts to grow
2008-02-23- New condo delayed-closing rules coming
2008-02-16- Furnace in a closet voids condo sale
2008-02-09- House must be completely empty when sale closes
2008-02-09- Direct Energy maintenance plan leaves me in the cold
2008-02-02- Tarion proposals should help buyers in delayed closings
2008-01-26- Is secrecy a major structural defect in buyer protection?
2008-01-19- Lack of contract invites heartbreak
2008-01-05- House fraud decision rocks industry

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2007 Toronto Star Columns

TORONTO POLICE SERVICE 2007 GROW-OPS

TORONTO POLICE SERVICE 2003-2006 GROW-OPS (16 MB download)

2007-12-22 - As if lawyers need extra work
2007-12-15 - Document your insured possessions
2007-12-08 - Time to repeal outdated law
2007-12-01 - 'Arrogant' bank chastised by judge
2007-11-24 - We need an open, comprehensive grow-op list
2007-11-17 - 'Miller bite' hangover probably won't drive buyers out of the city
2007-11-10 - Is it right for agents to turn a blind eye to signs of grow-op?
2007-11-03 - Federal tax cut already in effect
2007-11-03 - Buyer beware if you want that GST rebate
2007-10-27 - Troubled house worthless, assessor rules
2007-10-20 - 'Effluent society' can't afford to flush 'n' forget
2007-10-13 - The worth of an e-mailed signature lost in legislation
2007-10-06 - It's best not to combine mortgage, line of credit
2007-09-29 - Renovation project calls for written deal
2007-09-22 - Be careful when buying a house once heated with oil
2007-09-15 - Bench can honour our past, add to community's future
2007-09-08 - Signing SPIS form remains a huge risk
2007-09-01 - Title insurance policies can differ
2007-08-25 - Probate not necessary to sell house in most cases
2007-08-18 - Relying on municipal records too risky
2007-08-11 - Lack of land survey led to lot-size mistake
2007-08-04 - Neighbours in talks after mutual driveway dispute
2007-07-28 - Have your lawyer review purchase agreement before you sign anything
2007-07-21 - UFFI clause has outlived its purpose
2007-07-14 - Ruling may have major impact on TARION
2007-07-07 - Old fence makes for warring neighbours
2007-06-30 - Vendor who signs SPIS invites future litigation
2007-06-23 - City axe threatens golden goose
2007-06-16 - Warranty plan could be election issue
2007-06-09 - Should vendor disclose a property's past?
2007-05-26 - Creative taxes answer to city's budget woes
2007-05-19 - Tarion warranty fails to protect consumers
2007-05-12 - When selling home, truth is the best policy
2007-05-05 - Easement dispute points to value of survey
2007-04-28 - Who's liable for house defects?
2007-04-21 - Paralegal licensing is good news
2007-04-14 - Don't buy without a home inspection
2007-04-07 - No protection for conversion projects
2007-03-31 - Bank takes a hard hit with condo parking space fraud
2007-03-24 - City land transfer tax a bad idea
2007-03-17 - Advocacy group dissatisfied with Tarion
2007-03-10 - Condo battle ends after 14 years
2007-03-03 - Real estate commissions must be paid
2007-02-24 - Bylaw breach turns costly
2007-02-17 - Warranty does not eliminate client's rights
2007-02-10 - Buyers protected - Court backs purchasers in delayed closings
2007-02-03 - Buyer pays for pouncing on seller's error
2007-01-27 - GST reduction rebates are hefty on home sales
2007-01-20 - A survey can save you major hassles: Stewart Title responds
2007-01-13 - Neighbours draw line over repairs
2007-01-06 - Some U.S. title insurers seek to avoid paying claims

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2006 Toronto Star Columns

2006-12-30 - In 2006, title fraud top real estate story
2006-12-23 - 'Tis the season when many of us bless our homes
2006-12-16 - Your castle isn't always a fortress
2006-12-09 - Buyer beware when it comes to deposits
2006-12-02 - Real estate deals don't belong in court
2006-11-25 - Beware the tiny, turgid prose of the offer
2006-11-18 - Sister's signature forged in sale
2006-11-11 - Fraud victims deserve quicker compensation
2006-11-04 - Disclosure: It's seller beware
2006-10-28 - Title fraud bill faces troubled future
2006-10-21 - Beware of signing disclosure forms
2006-10-14 - Make land survey part of any deal
2006-10-07 - Title theft issue strikes emotional chord
2006-09-30 - No correct answer or easy solution to title fraud dilemma
2006-09-23 - A moving experience: Couple picked up and left
2006-09-16 - Draft fraud law ignores innocent buyer
2006-09-09 - 'Tainted' houses can be 'scary,' complex issue
2006-09-02 - Fraud, forgery alleged in mortgage scheme
2006-08-26 - Independent legal advice is for real
2006-08-19 - Greedy consumers fueled mortgage scam
2006-08-12 - Parental gift up for grabs in divorce
2006-08-05 - Be careful buying nearly new home
2006-07-29 - Why risk court appeal? Just change the law
2006-07-22 - Leaky condo lawsuit offers lessons for all
2006-07-15 - Results can be costly if contract is not specific
2006-07-08 - Take smoking ban inside the home
2006-07-01 - Lawyers play key role in buyer protection
2006-06-24 - Condo buyers' class action suit bears watching
2006-06-17 - Learn about future use of nearby land
2006-06-10 - Toronto subject to native land claim
Indian Claims Commission - Toronto Purchase Inquiry
2006-06-03 - Top 10 things to beware of when buying resale
2006-05-27 - Tough to reconcile Caledonia land dispute
2006-05-20 - Ministry's 'clarification' a tax grab
2006-05-13 - How new GST will affect homebuyers
2006-05-06 - Ontario hikes land transfer tax on new houses
2006-04-29 - Finders not keepers in real estate deals
2006-04-22 - House title thieves can wreak havoc
2006-04-15 - Learn all facets of title insurance
2006-04-08 - Tax records don't always reflect reality
York Region Police 2002 - 2005 Grow-Ops
Toronto Police Service - 2005-6 Scarborough grow houses (pdf download)
Durham Region Police 2006 Grow-Ops (pdf download)
2006-04-01 - Ruling may force police to list grow houses
2006-03-25 - Litigation can prove a costly nightmare
2006-03-18 - Scarborough grow houses listed on line
2006-03-11 - Make sure dimensions of lot are specified
2006-03-04 - Get expert advice for estate planning
2006-02-25 - Closing date extension request denied
2006-02-18 - What do you do if you find a bag of cash?
2006-02-11 - Use RRSP funds now to reduce mortgage
2006-02-04 - Time-shares: Don't buy under pressure
2006-01-28 - Some noisy neighbours should just pipe down
2006-01-28 - Assemble your own 'dream team'
2006-01-21 - Act brings major changes to real estate industry
2006-01-14 - Lawyer disbarred for role in mortgage scheme
2006-01-07 - In real estate, time truly is of the essence

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2005 Toronto Star Columns

2005-12-31 - Proposed bill concerns TREB, GTHBA boards
2005-12-24 - Seller on hook for damage between deal signing, closing
2005-12-17 - Developer truly was a 'giant' in the building trade
2005-12-10 - Mortgage fraud persists with cash-back schemes
2005-12-03 - Truly innocent people may lose homes to fraud
2005-11-26 - Check to see if home is under warranty
2005-11-19 - Survey can thwart real estate fraud
2005-11-12 - Check sealed areas during home inspection
2005-11-05 - Reviewing survey a must in any transaction
2005-10-29 - Check condo deed's unit number with plans
2005-10-22 - Caring broker may get you broader coverage
2005-10-15 - Zoning bylaw clashes with Charter rights
2005-10-08 - Check mover's insurance before leaving for new home
2005-10-01 - Storm warning: You may not be covered for losses
2005-09-24 - Know the facts about extension provisions
2005-09-17 - Get it all in writing if building a home
2005-09-10 - Be careful using RRSP to buy home
2005-09-03 - Should sex offender registries be accessible?
2005-08-27 - Hollywood star's court win a victory for homeowners
2005-08-20 - 'Poorly built house' case ends after lengthy fight
2005-08-13 - Energy efficient homes may be eligible for CMHC mortgage refunds
2005-08-06 - No penalties for late closing if buyer agrees to new deadline
2005-07-30 - Readers say marijuana growing concern
2005-07-23 - Buyers unaware of endangered birds
2005-07-16 - Get advice about down payment gifts
2005-07-09 - Grow house disclosure is critical
2005-07-02 - Be wise: Get a will to avoid problems
2005-06-25 - Toxic mould in homes becoming a hot issue
2005-06-18 - New law improves time-share safeguards
2005-06-11 - Get legal advice if no occupancy permit on closing day
2005-06-04 - It's difficult to detect bogus ID
2005-05-28 - Buyers told it's illegal if they occupy home
2005-05-21 - Avoid a feud: treat cottage like a business
2005-05-14 - BANANA has appeal
2005-05-07 - Home completion delays a sign of the times
2005-04-30 - New model homes may not be covered by Tarion
2005-04-23 - Can new home GST also apply to renos?
2005-04-16 - Read warning clauses carefully
2005-04-09 - Real estate fraud continues to grow
2005-04-02 - Issues to consider before signing purchase agreement
2005-03-26 - Who owns the air above our homes?
2005-03-19 - Tracking down a home's history
2005-03-12 - Electricity liability can be shocking
2005-03-05 - Zany bogus scams don't fool insurers
2005-02-26 - Disclosing defects to buyers a problem area
2005-02-19 - Co-ownership deals offer special set of challenges
2005-02-12 - Disputed land sliver cost couple $42, 000
2005-02-05 - Illegal basement flat proves costly mistake
2005-01-29 - Basement suites must meet requirements
2005-01-22 - Dream house nightmare
2005-01-15 - Broker may find a better mortgage deal
2005-01-08 - Desperately seeking peace and quiet
2005-01-01 - A few ideas for the Minister

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2004 Columns

2004-12-24 - Is it legal to deck the lights?
2004-12-18 - Frisky neighbours keep couple awake
2004-12-11 - Be ready for the unexpected in real estate deals
2004-12-04 - Forgotten oil tanks can prove expensive
2004-11-27 - Hazard land brings grief
2004-11-20 - Search heats up home privacy concerns
2004-11-13 - Wife's forgery puts home at risk
2004-11-06 - Resale home inspection a smart move
2004-10-30 - Readers weigh in on disclosure statements
2004-10-23 - Laurels to paralegal report; e-learning darts
2004-10-16 - Staying silent in home sale may equal fraud
2004-10-09 - Heed power of attorney
2004-10-02 - Builders must fulfill their promises
2004-10-02 - Books to crack for condo owners
2004-09-25 - Follow checklist to avoid surprises
2004-09-18 - Real estate agent fined for overlooking survey
2004-09-11 - Fractional structure much better approach than typical timeshare
2004-09-11 - Arrange own mortgage insurance
2004-09-04 - Weed-like tree at root of neighbours' quarrel
2004-08-28 - Wrong brick colour used for couple's dream home
2004-08-21 - Ruling will spur credit agencies to fix errors quickly
2004-08-14 - Even amateur builders may be liable
2004-08-07 - Paperwork may be lacking in cottage sales
2004-07-31 - Tall tales for insurance adjusters
2004-07-24 - Buyers back out after plan altered
2004-07-17 - Religious freedom trumps condo rules
2004-07-10 - Winds of change at warranty board
2004-07-03 - When full disclosure could mean no sales
2004-06-26 - Lawsuits could mean mortgage refunds
2004-06-19 - No clear winners in this builder-owner wrangle
2004-06-12 - Marijuana grow-ops slash value of real estate
2004-06-05 - No simple answer to disclosure of defects
2004-05-29 - New product protects houses from title fraud
2004-05-22 - New type of ownership better than some
2004-05-15 - Warranty will cover some mould damage
2004-05-08 - Include floor plan in offer to avoid surprises
2004-05-01 - Reserve fund studies are due Tuesday
2004-05-01 - Warranty program needs more scope
2004-04-17 - Seller's bills can haunt new owner
2004-04-10 - House size not guaranteed to buyers
2004-04-03 - Columnist helps nab fraud suspect
2004-03-27 - It's true: Some fences make very bad neighbours
2004-03-20 - Interest rates, closing delays among buyers' top concerns
2004-03-13 - No stigma attached to nothing-down deal
2004-03-06 - Protection needed for small investors
2004-02-28 - Time is running out on Ontario squatters' rights
2004-02-21 - ONHWP has obligation to publish claims on Web site
2004-02-14 - Selling unregistered condos can be complex
2004-02-07 - Home truths aren't always so simple
Lawrence Bremner: Seller's Property Disclosure Statement
2004-01-31 - Lawyers should handle real estate deals
2004-01-24 - Court upholds city ban on pesticides
2004-01-17 - Amazing grace period spells grief for buyers
2004-01-10 - Lawyer suspended for role in house flips
2004-01-03 - New type of property fraud is shocking

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2003 Toronto Star Columns

2003-12-27 - You can never have too much insurance
2003-12-20 - Look out for suspicious clauses
2003-12-13 - Power failure can pull plug on real estate deals
2003-12-06 - Electronic registration means more paper
2003-11-29 - Lawyer Robinette played key civil rights role
2003-11-22 - Arranging a mortgage? Bring some photo I.D.
2003-11-15 - Best to arrange your own mortgage insurance
2003-11-08 - Don't stick tenants with hefty tax bills
2003-11-01 - Fur flies in courts over pet ban
2003-10-25 - Politicians, not courts, must stop island airport plan
2003-10-18 - Can unhappy buyers post signs?
2003-10-11 - ONHWP's $100,000 limit should be raised
2003-10-04 - Property 'flip' lands lawyer in hot water
2003-09-27 - Appliance switch was costly for vendor
2003-09-20 - Ask, and you shall avert disappointment
2003-09-13 - Time for politicians to step up to the plate
2003-09-06 - It's not a sin to keep your SIN private
2003-08-30 - A book for dummies, or by dummies?
2003-08-23 - Homes' in-law suites can be risky bet
2003-08-16 - Deed forgery far too easy
2003-08-09 - Buyers had recourse for altered floor plan
2003-08-02 - Mortgage fraud victims can also lose homes
2003-07-26 - Beware of extra costs for mortgage paperwork
2003-07-19 - Do neighbours have right to natural light?
2003-07-12 - The perils of buying a vendor-built home
2003-07-05 - Ontario buyers deserve same rights as British
2003-06-28 - No flying maple leaves in Markham on Canada Day
2003-06-21 - No gazumping, please, we're Canadian
2003-06-14 - Choose title insurance firm carefully
2003-06-07 - Infrared camera ruled an invasion of privacy
2003-05-31 - Law Society boots lawyer in property flip scam
2003-05-24 - Deductions not fair and not necessary
2003-05-17 - Squatter's rights no defence
2003-05-10 - Home inspector warned of moisture in basement
2003-05-03 - Movers liable for losing couple's possessions
2003-04-26 - Vendors didn't reveal facts about nude beach
2003-04-19 - Danger seen in popular home insulation product
Link to CBC The National documentary on "Deadly Dust"
2003-04-12 - Be your own real estate agent at new Internet site
2003-04-05 - Buyers need protection from delayed closings
2003-03-29 - Just what do timeshare owners actually own?
2003-03-22 - Legal wrangles continue in cement case
2003-03-15 - Class action nixed in alleged price-fixing case
2003-03-08 - Adopting condo model for new homes won't work
2003-03-01 - Family compensated in mortgage fraud case
2003-02-22 - Real estate agents must exercise care
2003-02-15 - Do you know where you live?
2003-02-08 - Courts pave way for the greening of our lawns
2003-02-01 - Smart investors skip RRSPs to pay down mortgage now
2003-01-25 - Column on warranty program hits nerve
2003-01-18 - Does ONHWP really protect homebuyers?
2003-01-11 - Victims of a mortgage fraud
2003-01-04 - It's never too early to prepare your will

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2002 Columns

2002-12-28 - Don't let house insurance take a holiday
2002-12-21 - Unfinished work causes nightmares on moving day
2002-12-14 - Getting to the root of property damage
2002-12-07 - Standard contracts offer builder leeway to make changes
2002-11-30 - Homebuyers beware of old fuel oil tanks
2002-11-23 - Insurance firms guard themselves from terrorism
2002-11-16 - Pointing out 'Hudak's folly'
2002-11-09 - Common sense can help protect your identity
"Identity Theft - Who's Using Your Name" by Ontario Privacy Commissioner Ann Cavoukian (from www.ipc.on.ca)
2002-11-02 - Taxpayers on hook for leaky condo
2002-10-26 - Mike Myers Dr. an evil idea
2002-10-19 - The two-car garage that wasn't
2002-10-12 - Misery loves company in real estate lawsuits
2002-10-05 - Country dream washed away
2002-09-28 - How homebuyer protection could be improved
2002-09-21 - Owner had to make a stink about basement
2002-09-14 - eBay clicks with real estate
2002-09-07 - Home warranty program behind the times
2002-08-31 - Residents heated up over transformer boxes
2002-08-24 - In praise of caring builders
2002-08-17 - Why should buyer have to wait for service?
2002-08-10 - There's no place for racism in real estate
2002-08-03 - Don't be rattled by fixtures vs. chattels
2002-07-27 - Study shows mortgage renewers a loyal bunch
2002-07-20 - Squeaky wheels get after-sales results
2002-07-13 - Controversial Ottawa house has new owner
2002-07-06 - Homeowner lost legal suit over mould
2002-06-29 - Agents, brokers face fines in double-offer sale scheme
2002-06-22 - Loyalty programs could be illegal
2002-06-08 - Cottage purchases deserve due diligence
2002-06-06 - Ask a Lawyer
2002-05-25 - Paralegal proposal a recipe for havoc
2002-05-18 - Lawyers governing paralegals: recipe for disaster
2002-05-04 - Builder offers can conceal surprises
2002-04-20 - Tenant-homeowner tax inequity must stop
2002-04-13 - Fraudulent title transfer takes costly toll
2002-04-06 - Oklahoma flip tosses lawyer
2002-03-23 - New York real estate still strong after Sept. 11
2002-03-16 - Nightmare ending for victims of fraud
2002-03-09 - Title fraud costs taxpayers
2002-03-02 - Inspect home before listing to correct any minor flaws
2002-02-23 - Property title fraud strikes a nerve
2002-02-16 - Home office tax breaks
2002-02-09 - Stolen Dreams
2002-02-02 - Recent decision does little to dissuade dishonest realtors
2002-01-26 - Home insurance policy not all that reassuring
2002-01-19 - Living in Shuster's house
2002-01-12 - Couple wins fight over new house
2002-01-05 - Woman loses squatter's rights' case

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2001 Columns

2001-12-29 - Tory bill takes aim at consumers
2001-12-22 - The War and Peace of condo literature
2001-12-18 - New form gives buyers protection
2001-12-08 - Making noise about noise
2001-12-01 - Building a litany of broken promises
2001-11-24 - No will? Get one now!
2001-11-17 - What recourse do St. Clair W. homebuyers have?
2001-11-10 - Making the GST work better for homebuyers
2001-11-03 - Getting to the root of a cellar flood
2001-10-27 - Murder, mayhem and ghosts
2001-10-20 - Is there a deal or not? Case is a tricky one
2001-10-13 - Why bar lawyers from real estate transactions?
2001-09-29 - Challenge to the low-flush commode
2001-09-22 - Flood of reaction greets call to regulate salespeople
2001-09-22 - Condo Act guide is user friendly
2001-09-15 - Big win for B.C. condo owners
2001-09-08 - Look before you waive a contract condition
2001-09-01 - This odour problem 'mushroomed'
2001-08-25 - Class action suits expected to multiply
2001-08-18 - What lies beyond your walls?
2001-08-11 - Wild West tactics must be corralled
2001-08-04 - Draft real estate law flawed
2001-07-28 - No beach party for Lake Erie residents
2001-07-21 - Lessons for buyers from project fire
2001-07-14 - Final chapter written in `infamous cement case'
2001-07-07 - Liberty Walk buyers won't have to pay more
2001-06-30 - 'Lawsuit, shmawsuit': Yiddish livens up courtroom
2001-06-23 - City takes hit for shoddy Reno
2001-06-16 - Do we want to be like our southern neighbour?
2001-06-16 - Pizza person shut out
2001-06-09 - Wife may be on hook for co-signing loan
2001-06-02 - Ottawa to force lawyers to snitch on clients
2001-05-26 - Erotic affair with the home
2001-05-19 - Pre-sale inspections smooth path for buyer and seller
2001-05-12 - Did you buy at site of fire?
2001-05-05 - Possession counts when finders aren't keepers
2001-04-28 - Gretzky: he sues, he misses
2001-04-21 - What if Ontario residents don't have proper title to their lands?
2001-04-14 - Insulation foam doesn't deserve to be banned
2001-04-07 - Small-town lawyer has some big ideas
2001-04-04 - Squatter's rights a tricky issue
2001-03-24 - Unfortunate ruling for home-buying public
2001-03-17 - Using kit to write will can be risky
2001-03-10 - Condo or co-op?
2001-03-03 - Why racist restrictions no longer apply in land deals
2001-02-24 - Beware the 'Oklahoma' swindle
2001-02-17 - Cement case hard to work out
2001-02-08 - Should homeowner pay off mortgage or invest in RRSP?
2001-02-02 - Who's liable if dog bites?
2001-01-26 - 'Oklahoma swindle' is just plain real estate fraud
2001-01-18 - In pursuance of plain English, forthwith
2001-01-11 - What if your house was sold out from under you?
2001-01-04 - Why condo cash deal caused concern

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2000 Toronto Star Columns

2000-12-28 - Don't take your home insurance for granted
2000-12-21 - Municipality liable for faulty construction
2000-12-14 - Homeowners not liable for sidewalk mishaps
2000-12-07 - Time real estate industry started e-mailing offers
2000-11-30 - There's no turning back on plan to automate land registry
2000-11-23 - Not all title insurers are alike
2000-11-18 - Why you should get title insurance
2000-11-10 - Make sure your lawyer's on the e-train
2000-11-05 - Province draws line on sloppy documentation
2000-10-28 - Spectre of tainted houses raised
2000-10-20 - Co-owning a house? Get a written agreement
2000-10-14 - Love is blind - that's why there's legal advice
2000-10-07 - Inspectors don't cover environmental hazards
2000-09-30 - Real estate body insults its members
2000-09-30 - When parents help their kids buy a home
2000-09-23 - Paralegal ruling will have far-reaching result
2000-09-16 - White paper proposals target real estate fraud
2000-09-09 - Proposal would protect consumers
2000-09-02 - Thinking of buying a time-share?
2000-08-26 - Builders, vendors ignore feng shui at their peril
2000-08-19 - Vendor mortgage issue draws reactions
2000-08-05 - Seller's existing mortgage can be superb marketing tool
2000-07-29 - City's gouging home buyers with hefty fee hike
2000-07-22 - Hallelujah! Land Transfer Tax refund here to stay
2000-07-15 - Purchaser cancels deal and gets deposit back
2000-07-08 - Up-to-date survey is vital
2000-07-01 - Proceed with caution with clauses found on contract's 'extras'
2000-06-24 - Those 'extras' certainly add up
2000-06-17 - Paralegal proposals a recipe for havoc
2000-06-10 - No-fee mortgage marketing plan has costs
2000-06-03 - Be cautious when buying property with a partner
2000-05-27 - Don't be insulted if lawyer asks for ID
2000-05-20 - Trouble Free?

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Bob Aaron is a Toronto real estate lawyer. He can be reached by email at bob@aaron.ca, phone 416-364-9366 or fax 416-364-3818.
Visit the Toronto Star column archives at http://www.aaron.ca/columns for articles on this and other topics or his main webpage at www.aaron.ca.

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