Whether you own a cottage, a family home, or any other high-value asset, working with an experienced estate lawyer to craft clear, specific, and regularly updated instructions is not just good practice — it is essential. 22 Mar

Why Cottage Estates Are a Breeding Ground for Family Conflict

It’s a common misconception that debt disappears when someone dies — but this isn’t usually the case, especially when inheriting a house with debt. While you may not be personally responsible for a decedent’s loans, the debt must still be addressed, or the house risks foreclosure. 11 Mar

Inheriting a House with Debt: Understanding Your Options

Selling or transferring an inherited cottage in Canada often triggers capital gains tax, even though Canada does not have an inheritance tax. If you are administering an estate or planning a future transfer, early tax clarity can prevent costly mistakes later. 12 Jan

Selling or Transferring an Inherited Cottage in Canada

Ever thought about gifting a property to your children? I recently had this very discussion with my own aging parents. This resulted in some important discussions about our family home, their goals and consideration for the tax outcomes of any decisions made... 04 Dec

Transferring the Family Home: Considerations for Canadians

Transferring property to heirs "inter vivos" offers emotional benefits and potential probate fee reduction, but can trigger an immediate capital gains tax liability and means a loss of control and potential exposure to your heir's creditors.  02 Dec

Gifting Property to Your Heirs “Inter Vivos”: Pros and Cons

While a trust can be an effective way to manage and transfer ownership of the family cottage, it requires careful planning to get it right. 19 Sep

Trust Planning for The Family Cottage: Key Considerations

The decision of how to divide inherited property between siblings can be a complex one. In this article, Keystone explores how to divide inherited property between siblings fairly, and common disputes and solutions when inheriting a house with siblings. 12 Sep

Inheriting a House with Siblings: Not as Straightforward as it Seems

The right planning can ensure you pass down your home without your kids facing large tax liabilities. Here's a simple guide to how it works... 10 Sep

How to Leave Property to Your Kids Tax-Free

It is important to understand the limited purpose and necessity behind 'Net Family Property' clauses. They are not a catchall for sheltering and protecting the inheritance of a divorcing beneficiary, although they usually have the appearance of trying to achieve this objective. 12 Aug

Understanding the ‘Net Family Property’ Exclusion Clause: Ontario

Are you planning to leave real estate to a loved one under your Will? Do you want that property to be transferred free of debt or other claims? Language matters! 08 Aug

Navigating Bequests of Real Estate: Language Matters!

Leaving a cherished family home to your children might seem like a loving and generous gesture, but —without proper planning— it can quickly become a source of conflict and stress. 01 Jul

Leaving Property to Multiple Heirs: a Recipe for Family Conflict

This article will provide a comprehensive overview of capital gains on inherited property in Canada, explain who pays the tax, explore strategies to reduce or avoid it, and answer frequently asked questions to ensure you have a clear understanding of your obligations and options. 24 Jun

How to Avoid Paying Capital Gains Tax on Inherited Property in Canada