Sep 6, 2023
Changing ownership of a piece of land or property in Alberta involves a precise and regulated process known as a land title transfer. Whether you’re transferring property between family members, removing a co-signer, or making changes due to marriage or divorce, understanding the steps involved in this land transfer process is crucial. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the essential aspects of land title transfers in Alberta, helping you navigate the intricacies and ensuring a smooth transition of ownership.
Step 1: Fill Out the Required Form for land title ownership transfer
The journey to changing land title ownership (transfer of land) in Alberta begins with paperwork. You must complete the necessary forms to initiate the transfer. These documents provide crucial information about the property and the individuals involved in the transfer.
Step 2: Submit the Form and Documents
Once the forms are filled out correctly, it’s time to submit them along with any supporting documents to the appropriate authorities. These documents will be reviewed and processed to ensure the transfer complies with all legal requirements.
The cost of transferring land title in Alberta is governed by the Land Titles Act and is regulated by the Alberta Land Titles Office. While some refer to this transfer of land process as changing names on the title, it is essential to distinguish between a simple name change and a complete land title transfer.
Changing a name on a property title or performing a land title transfer differs significantly from the complex procedures involved in buying or selling land. Buying or selling property typically includes numerous additional steps and considerations:
In contrast, a land title transfer typically involves the direct transfer of ownership rights between individuals, often without an exchange of money. This process is commonly used for scenarios like removing a co-signer, adding family members, or adjusting ownership rights within a family unit.
At Passgo, we are committed to providing transparent and reasonable flat-rate fees for land title transfers in Alberta. Our comprehensive fee covers various essential services, including:
The cost of transferring land title in Alberta is directly linked to the property’s value. The following table provides an overview of the fees associated with land title transfers:
While our flat-rate fee is comprehensive, some situations may incur additional costs. It’s essential to consult with us to determine if any extra fees apply. Examples of scenarios that might increase the cost of transferring land in Alberta include:
Whether you’re adding, changing, or removing a name from the title in Alberta, the associated land title transfer costs remain the same. The fees for transferring land title in Alberta do not increase with multiple name changes in a single transfer.
Most mortgage companies include a “due on sale” clause in their mortgage agreements. If you have a mortgage on your property and intend to change the names on the title, it’s vital to obtain permission from your lender beforehand. Failing to do so could lead to your lender calling in the mortgage loan, potentially resulting in financial penalties.
When it comes to changing names on property titles or transferring land ownership, it’s advisable to seek legal assistance. At Passgo, we offer efficient and cost-effective services to help facilitate these processes. We can often prepare transfer documents for new land ownership on the same day or the next day if needed.
Changing land title (transfer of land) ownership can be driven by various reasons, and when you engage Calgary lawyers for this process, they follow a structured approach:
It’s essential to recognize that transferring land in Alberta differs significantly from the complexities of buying or selling real estate. A transfer of title is generally less intricate and less expensive. It primarily involves changing names on the title without requiring a monetary exchange. This process is often used for scenarios like adding family members to the title or removing ex-spouses or co-signers.
If your property has an existing mortgage, and you intend to add or remove a name from the property title, it’s crucial to obtain approval from your lender. Many mortgage agreements include a “due on sale” clause, which necessitates the lender’s consent for any land title transfers (land transfer). Failure to secure this approval may result in mortgage contract breaches and associated penalties, including the potential demand for immediate loan repayment.
If your objective is solely to update a name on the land title due to reasons such as correcting typos, adding a middle name, or reflecting a new last name after marriage, this process is generally simpler and more cost-effective.
At Passgo Real Estate Law, we prioritize client satisfaction and provide practical and honest guidance for transferring land titles in Alberta. Our efficient preparation of transfer documents and prompt registration services ensure a seamless process. We offer reasonable legal fees with flat rates for land title transfers, ensuring transparency in cost expectations.
Hi! I’m Erin Crocker. I’m a real estate lawyer with over 10 years of experience in Alberta and British Columbia real estate law. I love technology and efficiency. I’m on a mission to create a modern, digital closing experience for buyers and sellers through technology, transparency and sharing knowledge.
