Fast Track Grant Approval

Grant application approval

In our recent bLAWg post, we shed light on the typical time frame for a Grant of Probate or Administration approval. However, you may find yourself in a situation that calls for a quicker turnaround. Here’s how you can help expedite the process to fast track the grant approval:

  1. Enlist the right expertise: Choosing an experienced firm is key. Interpretations of the Wills and Succession Act (Alberta) and Surrogate Rules (Alberta) are ever-evolving, even if the regulations themselves don’t change. Outdated techniques may not be applicable today. At Summit Legal Group, we stay abreast of these changes and are consistently in touch with the Surrogate section of the Court to ensure our applications align with the current expectations.
  2. Full disclosure is the best approach: Before we start, we circulate a comprehensive questionnaire to the proposed executor. This information gathering is crucial as minor mistakes can lead the court to reject it. Simple errors such as such as misspelled names or incorrect addresses can cause delays. The application is sent back to us for revisions before we can resubmit the application to the court. Plus, we can only guide you based on the information you provide. Therefore being as thorough as possible in your responses allows us to assist you better.
  3. Ensure you have a valid will: Make sure you and your loved ones have valid wills. As we’ve highlighted before, grants eligible for electronic submission can often be approved in a matter of weeks, instead of months.

Don’t let the process of obtaining a grant slow you down. Reach out to Summit Legal Group’s team of skilled Estate professionals today for efficient and cost-effective Estate solutions. Let us help you navigate this journey with speed and precision with the hopes to fast track the grant approval process.

Craig Gorham
Certified Executor Advisor

AUTHOR

Craig Gorham is a Certified Executor Advisor at Summit Legal Group, guiding clients through the Estate Administration process with compassion, empathy and a wealth of specialized knowledge. You can reach Craig directly at 587-393-2069 or craig@summitlegalgroup.ca.

Avoid the Risks: Pros and Cons of Buying and Selling a House on the Same Day

Buying and selling a house or property on the same day can seem like a convenient and hassle-free approach, right? In a perfect world, it makes sense. However, if you’re considering simultaneous closings, there are a few things to keep in mind. While there are certainly benefits that come along with simultaneous closings, there are also some potential risks and pitfalls that can make the process less than ideal.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of simultaneous closings when purchasing or selling a home. We’ll take a closer look at the benefits and drawbacks of this approach. Then you can better understand what you’re getting yourself into and make an informed decision that’s right for you.

Pros of Simultaneous Closings:

One of the biggest benefits of simultaneous closings is that it can be more convenient and cost-effective than traditional sales. For example, if you’re purchasing a new home and want to sell your current one, simultaneous closings can help you avoid paying two mortgages at once. Additionally, you’ll will have one mortgage payment after both transactions closing, which can save you a lot of money in the long run.

Another pro of simultaneous closings is that it can save you time. Instead of dragging out the process over several weeks or months, you can complete both transactions on the same day. This can be especially advantageous for people who are in a hurry to move and don’t want to wait around for a buyer or a seller to come through.

Cons of Simultaneous Closings:

One of the biggest drawbacks of simultaneous closings is that they require a significant amount of coordination and timing. Any unforeseen circumstance in legal or financial issues can cause significant delays and impact the transaction closing on time. There is just no margin for error.

Additionally, there are certain situations where simultaneous closings may not be possible. For example, if the buyer needs to secure financing, but the sale of their own home is not yet final, they may not be able to close on their new property until the old one is sold. If either transaction falls through, everything else falls through with it – leaving you back at square one.

Another potential drawback of simultaneous closings is that they can be more stressful and overwhelming than traditional sales. You’re dealing with two properties, two sets of negotiations, two sets of paperwork, and two separate closing procedures. This can be a lot to handle, especially if you’re unfamiliar with handling complex real estate transactions.

One of the most common risks for delays is obtaining funds from the buyers’ lender, which could result in the delay of a few hours or even a whole day.

Or, failure to obtain proof of insurance required by the lender could result in a delay in closing the sale.

Other possible risks could include issues with property inspections, appraisals, or with the title clearance, which could also cause delays.

This can lead to a chaotic situation where agreements need to be made quickly, which can cause anxiety and stress for buyers and sellers.

Our recommendations?

  • Avoid having your purchase and sale transactions close on the same day if possible.
  • Minimize potential disruptions by arranging any third-party services such as cleaners or movers on any day except possession day.
  • Have a contingency plan in case the closing is delayed.  
  • Have a backup living arrangement or storage unit for your belongings.

While simultaneous closings can be beneficial under the right circumstances, they’re not always the best or safest option. Take the time to weigh the pros and cons of this approach, so you can make an informed decision that’s right for your situation.

Ultimately, if you’re considering simultaneous closings, it’s always a good idea to consult with a qualified real estate lawyer so that they can help you understand the specific steps, risks, and timing demands involved. With expert guidance and planning, you can mitigate risks and increase the chances of a successful and complication-free simultaneous closing.