Karim Eshqoor

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 closing software included; the title search, execution searches, registration and title insurance are at cost.

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.

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.

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.