When purchasing (or otherwise acquiring) real property, it is important to consider the best way to have your name shown on title.  We frequently come across individuals who have multiple names (or variations thereof) shown on their identification and how their name shows on title can cause complications down the road.

When the time comes to transfer or refinance a property, it is always easiest if the name showing for the party on title matches their identification. Both lenders and legal professionals are very conscious of names to ensure they are dealing with the appropriate parties for the property.  Accordingly, having the names on title match the ID held by the individual owners can help simplify many steps in the process.

This becomes an even more important consideration when a transfer is to be done by an individual using either a power of attorney or pursuant to a grant of probate and the individual is not able to provide any further confirmation on their name.  The Land Title Registry, understandably, has certain requirements in place to help ensure only the appropriate people are transferring properties and when there are unmatching names, it can make this process more complicated.

The simplest route, we have found, is to ensure your estate planning documents include your full legal name and that your title registrations are consistent.  This helps simplify the process when the time comes to have processes with respect to the property undertaken, particularly if you are not able to do so yourself.

Author: Una Gabie

This information is general in nature only. You should consult a lawyer before acting on any of this information. This information should not be considered as legal advice. To learn more about your legal needs, please contact our office at (250)448-2637 or any of our lawyers practicing in the area of real estate law at the following: