What is the lawyer’s role in Nova Scotia real estate closings?

• A. Marketing the property to potential buyers.
• B. Negotiating the purchase price with the buyer.
• C. Handling title transfer, preparing closing documents, and disbursing funds.
• D. Handling property inspections and appraisal.

Answer: (C)

The main idea being tested is that in Nova Scotia, the lawyer acts as the settlement agent who manages the legal transfer of ownership and the closing process. This means the lawyer reviews and finalizes the purchase agreement, conducts the title review to ensure the seller can convey good title, prepares and executes closing documents (such as the deed and any mortgage or discharge of prior liens), and handles the disbursement of funds. They coordinate paying off existing mortgages, distributing proceeds to the seller, and covering adjustments for taxes, utilities, and other costs, then registering the deed and related documents at the land titles office so the title officially passes to the buyer. These tasks are the lawyer’s primary function during a closing. Marketing the property, negotiating the price, and arranging inspections or appraisals are done by real estate agents, buyers, lenders, or inspectors, not by the closing lawyer.