By Karim Eshqoor, BBA, LLB, LLM · Barrister & Solicitor (LSO #83032R) · Barbarian Law® · October 2026
A refinance replaces the mortgage on a home you already own, or adds a new one. The lawyer searches title, registers the new mortgage, uses the new loan to pay out the old one and sends you the balance. At Barbarian Law® a refinance is $1,500 + HST with the title search, execution searches and closing software included; registration and title insurance are at cost.
What does a lawyer do on a refinance?
- Reviews the lender’s instructions and your mortgage commitment.
- Searches title and executions, to confirm you own the property and nothing is registered against it or you that the lender doesn’t know about.
- Orders payout statements for the existing mortgage and any other debts the lender wants paid from the new loan.
- Arranges the lender’s title insurance where the lender requires it.
- Meets you to sign the new mortgage, the lender’s documents and a direction on where the money goes.
- Registers the new mortgage, receives the funds, pays out the old mortgage and other debts, and sends you the balance.
- Reports to you and the lender, and follows up until the old mortgage is discharged from title.
Does my spouse have to sign?
If the property is your matrimonial home and your spouse isn’t on title, usually yes. A spouse can’t encumber an interest in a matrimonial home unless the other spouse joins in or consents, subject to narrow exceptions (Family Law Act, s. 21(1)). A new mortgage is an encumbrance, so lenders ask for the consent.
How long does a refinance take?
Usually one to two weeks from the day the lender’s instructions arrive. Payout statements from the old lender and the new lender’s own sign-off set the pace, so send the commitment as soon as you have it.
What does a refinance cost?
Refinance at Barbarian Law®
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Mortgage refinance: legal fee, title search, execution searches, closing software | $1,500 + HST |
| Each additional mortgage or charge discharged | $150 + HST |
| Paying out other debts (credit card, car loan, line of credit) | Quoted in writing |
| Registering the new mortgage (from November 2, 2026) | $86.42 per document, at cost |
| Lender’s title insurance, where required | Premium at cost |
Prices exclude HST and disbursements. Hourly work is billed against a written estimate you approve before work begins.
There’s no deposit or retainer. The fee is paid on closing, with up to 30 days if you need more time, and you get it in writing before any work starts.
What if the new lender is a private lender?
The steps are the same, but the terms deserve a closer read: the interest rate, fees taken off the advance, the term and what happens at renewal. A private lender may also require independent legal advice for a guarantor or co-borrower ($500 + HST). See private vs. bank mortgages and our page for private mortgage borrowers.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a refinance lawyer cost in Ontario?
At Barbarian Law®, $1,500 + HST, searches and closing software included. Registration and title insurance are extra, at cost.
Do I need title insurance to refinance?
Many lenders require a lender’s policy. If yours does, the premium is passed through at cost.
Does my spouse need to sign?
If it’s your matrimonial home and your spouse isn’t on title, their consent is usually needed (Family Law Act, s. 21(1)).
When do I pay the legal fee?
On closing. No deposit, no retainer.
Where Art Meets Corporate Interest.
Refinancing? Send the commitment.
Send the lender’s commitment and you’ll have the fee and disbursements in writing within one business day.
This article is general information about Ontario law, not legal advice, and reading it does not create a lawyer-client relationship. Every situation is different; speak with a lawyer about yours.
