assignment sale mortgage

Purchasing and Mortgaging a Property via an Assignment

(Jan 8, 2021) Whether you’re looking to buy or sell a property, real estate assignments are worth looking into. Read on (or listen) to learn the key points of this unique pathway and understand the mortgage qualification guidelines to complete the transaction.

What is a real estate assignment contract?

Before I get in to the process of how to qualify for a mortgage when assigning a real estate contract, lets first unravel what a real estate assignment is. A real estate assignment is a transaction similar to that of a standard real estate transaction, except rather than being referred to as a buyer and a seller, in an assignment they are referred to as an Assignor and Assignee , the assignor being the seller and the Assignee, the buyer. The main distinction of an assignment contract is the subject item of the assignment.  Rather than being the property itself, the transactional item in an assignment contract is the RIGHT to PURCHASE – the property.  Hence, the original terms and conditions of the original purchase contract remain intact .  The only changes are in ownership and negotiable price .

Why would someone want to purchase a property via an assignment?

• its a way to get into a new property without waiting for a long period of time (typically, assignments are permitted by the builders when the property is nearing completion)
• depending on how far along the process is, you could possibly be involved in choosing the finishes of the property (but consider this a bonus as most of the time, the finishes and customizations have already been chosen or decided upon earlier on)
• Assignable properties are usually a bit tougher to find as they do not have the same marketing allowances as do standard properties.  Therefore, less exposure to potential buyers (this could possibly result in lower pricing )
• There could be some current owners who are looking to get out of their purchase obligation (for whatever reason) and as a result have priced their property lower than comparable’s nearby.  This is even more pronounced today with the pandemic and its varying impact on pre-sale contract holders who may be in scenarios where they need to bail on their purchase obligations.

What should I expect when qualifying for a mortgage for an assignment purchase?

• first of all, not all lenders are on board with assignment purchases.  But the ones that ARE have all the same features and conditions you would expect for a standard mortgage qualification.  You will receive the same interest rate as though you were qualifying for a regular real estate transaction.  Also, the income qualification and credit score requirements all remain the same .
• there will likely be additional documentation that will be required pertaining to the purchase contract and the newly drafted assignment contract (i.e. amendments, addendums, builder disclosures that include their terms & conditions pertaining to the assignment, and so on)
• some lenders will finance only on the original purchase price (which may be a deal breaker for many), but most will finance on the newly negotiated assignment price
• And finally, depending on your loan to value ratio, appraisals will be required on a case by case scenario…and that’s it!

Some other things to be aware of:

• Align yourself with a complete real estate team that is familiar with assignment contracts and purchases (realtor, solicitor, mortgage broker ).  A multi-member support team will enhance the due diligence, further protecting you from any unexpected twists that may arise after you release conditions on the deal
• Don’t assume that all pre-sale condos are assignable … many are not .  And even for those that are, be aware of any unique assignment terms or fees of the builder.  An experienced realtor will be able to identify any challenges or issues early on, rather than later (when it’s too late!)
• An assignment cannot proceed without the written consent and/or permission of the seller (for resale homes) or builder (for pre-sale condos)
• For resale home assignments the seller is entitled to 50% of the profit .  For pre-sale assignments, builders charge a fee in the range of 1% and as high as 5%

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GTA-Homes » Real Estate Info » Assignments

• Assignments

An Assignment Sale in the Pre-Construction Market

Simply put, an assignment sale is the sale - or an "assignment" of a contract to purchase a pre-construction condominium suite. An assignment sale is usually applied to the pre-construction condominium that has not been registered yet, so no one can take ownership of the unit itself. Only the contract can be sold.

When you purchase a pre-construction condominium unit, you will be given an assignment clause/right in the form of a contract. You can choose to sell your assignment before the condominium is even built.

• Assignee/Buyer is not buying a property from Assignor – Assignee is buying the “right” to acquire property from a 3rd party (usually a builder)
• Assignor assigns its interest and rights in the Original Agreement with the Builder (or original seller)
• Assignor assigns to the Assignee its interest in the original “deposit”
• Assignee “assumes” and agrees to perform all of the Assignor’s obligations under the Original Agreement

Once the building has been constructed and registered by the city, the ownership will be transferred to the buyer. Until then, it’s just the sale of a contract, but as you will see, there are many advantages to these kinds of sales for both the buyer and seller.

In this article, you will learn more about assignment sales, why they are used, the process of this transaction and how it can be transferred.

This way, you will be able to determine if an assignment sale is right for you. We at GTA-Homes strive to provide our clients with the knowledge of the pre-construction market, so that they can make a more informed choice when it comes to investing in their future.

An assignment sale can be mutually beneficial for both the buyer and the seller.

See all assignment listings, what you'll learn....

• What Is an Assignment Sale?

An Example of an Assignment Sale

• Buying an Assignment

Selling an Assignment

Assignments faq.

The Details of an Assignment Sale

What Is an Assignment Sale? Why Do These Kinds of Sales Happen?

There are many reasons why someone might want to sell the rights to their unit before it’s been built. For example, someone may have bought a suite that’s three years away from being completed, but recently had to relocate for a job. This buyer may need to sell their agreement to afford a property in their new city. Another common reason is that a buyer began the purchase process when they were single but during the pre-construction process they married or are now expecting a child. Suddenly they’ve discovered that the pre-construction one-bedroom suite they bought is not big enough for a growing family.

The “ assignment clause ” in the purchase agreement comes in handy when these things happen. It allows the original buyer to pass the contract onto somebody else without accruing financial penalties.

These types of transactions are common and fully legal, but whether you are the buyer or the seller, it’s important to work with both an experienced realtor and lawyer who know how to protect your interests.

These deals are more complex than a conventional resale and involve three parties: the developer, the assignor and the assignee. It’s a two-stage process that involves both interim occupancy and the final closing.

This is just the basics of an assignment deal. There are more details regarding mortgage rules, and other contract details. Keep reading to learn more! Or you can always reach out to talk with one of our agents. We love to talk condos! This is just a general overview, but each arrangement is unique with its own rules, terms, and conditions.

We advise everybody who is thinking of buying or selling a pre-construction assignment to seek advice from a real estate agent, lawyer and tax accountant. Contacting an agent is important because assignors may have to pay a fair amount of tax on any profits they received from the completed sale

Most builders allow assignment sales and you will often see these listings on REALTOR.ca. However, there are some rules in the original purchase agreement that must be followed. They are also more complicated than a regular sale because a mortgage cannot be obtained on the closing of the transaction, only once the building has been registered. Other issues such as occupancy, reimbursement of the seller’s deposits and more must be taken into account.

In 2017, John Smith buys a pre-construction condominium suite from ABC Developments for $400,000 with a total down payment of 20%, equalling $80,000. The project is set to be completed in 2022.

In 2021, John discovered he will be relocated to a new city. He can’t afford to buy a new home while holding onto his pre-construction condo.

Fortunately for John, the assignment clause allows him to sell the contract for his unit before the building is completed and registered!

John has decided to sell the contract to his unit to Jane Doe. Due to the changes in the market, he was able to sell the contract for $500,000.

Assignment Purchase:

• Assignment Agreement: $500,000
• Original Purchaser (Assignor) = John Smith
• New Purchaser (Assignee) = Jane Doe
• Vendor (Builder) = ABC Developments

Assignment Purchase Price by John Smith to Jane Doe = $180,000, due immediately. This includes a deposit of $80,000 + profit $100,000. The amount and timeframe for this payment can also be negotiated.

• In 2022 when the building is complete and ready for interim occupancy, Jane Doe will move into the unit during the occupancy period. At this point she will begin paying occupancy fees to the developer. These fees take the place of mortgage payments and condo fees until the building can be registered.
• Interim occupancy happens when the city has designated the property as safe to live in. The building will be officially registered once the municipality does a final inspection. Jane Doe can occupy her suite in the meantime until the building is officially registered.

Assignment Details:

• When the building is officially registered by the city, the official title transfer takes place between the developer and the new purchaser. Jane Doe can finally register a mortgage and start paying her mortgage payments and condominium fees.
• Funds required to complete the sale by Jane Doe to the builder = $320,000
• Jane Doe now has all the rights to the property, just like any homeowner. Any future re-sale of the property will consist of a regular real estate transaction.

Is It Worth It to Buy an Assignment?

Assignment purchases can actually give you some of the best deals in the GTA condo market because fewer people typically seek out these types of sales. In addition to fewer buyers, many real estate agents aren’t familiar with the structure of an assignment sale and often won’t bother to advertise these listings. Even lawyers may not know the ins and outs of an assignment sale.

The high demand in the resale market can potentially force buyers into bidding wars, which can cause people to overpay for their suite. Buying a contract through assignment gives you the opportunity to avoid excessive competition and often means you pay much less than you would for a resale unit.

The assignment condo market can be mutually beneficial for both the buyer and the seller. The seller can list their unit without having to wait until the building is completed, and the buyer can save time and potentially thousands of dollars.

Another advantage to buying an assignment agreement is that you will get a brand-new unit that automatically comes with the seven-year Tarion Warranty Program. Let’s not forget that you’ll likely move into the unit sooner instead of waiting the usual 3 to 4 years for the building to be completed!

Let’s Recap Some of the Advantages for Buyers:

• Options: More choices when there’s a shortage of listings in the market.
• Less Competition: Fewer people look at these types of listings.
• Peace of Mind: Fewer people looking at these sales means there’s less of a chance for a bidding war. You can avoid bidding wars and paying more than you can afford just to outbid another buyer.
• You Become A VIP: You will likely inherit VIP incentives like the seven-year Tarion Warranty Program and other incentives from the builder such as credits, upgrades, capped developing charges and much more.
• More Choices: Depending on how far along construction is, you may still be able to select your own finishes, colors and upgrades.
• Negotiate: Sellers usually need to sell because they need to drop their equity. This can give you leverage for prices, deposits, and closing dates.
• Brand New Suite: You will get your unit much faster instead of waiting 2-3 years like in a typical pre-construction contract. Oftentimes the occupancy date is just a couple of months away.
• Taxes: You may also benefit from saving on taxes like GST and HST.

We love to chat about the assignment sale market, so don’t wait, give us a call and let’s find you a great deal.

Traditionally, owners who wanted to sell their pre-construction units had to wait months or years for the final closing date to officially put their suite up for sale. By this time, they could have already put significant funds into occupancy fees and closing costs.

Assignments sales is not a new strategy in Canada, but compared to other countries where condos have been around much longer, the process is not always well understood by sellers, buyers, agents, lawyers, and even lenders. Sellers who have been taking the time to learn about assignments have been reaping the rewards by saving time and maximizing their profits.

These transactions are becoming increasingly popular. Think of it as a sort of condo flipping. Sellers can transfer their property rights during or before interim occupancy and avoid paying hefty carrying and closing costs, which helps them get their deposits back.

Most builders allow assignment sales, although they often have certain rules that must be followed. Even with strict rules in place, however, there are options available for you.

Let’s Take a Look at the Advantages for Sellers:

• Insurance Policy: In the event that your situation changes and you no longer need your unit, you are able to sell your assignment and pull out your equity.
• No Carrying Costs: You can avoid paying monthly fees like occupancy fees that can sometimes last for up to two years.
• No Closing Costs: You don’t need to take out a mortgage or incur any other closing costs.

What is an Assignment Sale?

It is the sale of a contract to purchase a pre-construction unit. This means, instead of selling an already built unit, what’s being sold is the contract or right to acquire the property upon completion. The original purchaser (the "assignor") of a property sells their obligations under the original contract to a new purchaser (the "assignee").

The assignee will generally assume all of the assignor's duties and obligations, such as interest payments, taxes, and maintenance fees during interim occupancy. Upon completion, the assignee is granted the title to the real property and will incur all final closing costs.

Can any kind of purchase agreement involving a real estate transaction be assigned?

Under normal circumstances, any purchase agreement can be assigned, providing the agreement doesn’t prohibit it.

Is an Assignment legal?

It is legally permitted unless prohibited in writing in the original agreement of purchase and sale. In some cases, the developer may charge the assignor a fee for this kind of sale.

Is it necessary to get permission from the developer to assign the contract?

That depends. You need to consult your purchase agreement to get the specifics. Generally developers will not permit an assignment sale without their consent, which means you’ll need to consult with them and a legal representative. There have been incidents where an unauthorized assignment sale has resulted in the original agreement being terminated, and the deposit withheld!

Is there a standard legal form for these types of sales?

Yes, there are two: OREA Form 150 Assignment of Agreement of Purchase and Sale Condominium and OREA Form 145 Assignment of Agreement of Purchase and Sale (including applicable schedules.) In most cases, the developer will have their own form as well.

Will either the assignor or assignee’s lawyer services be adequate?

It is essential that the assignor and assignee each retain a lawyer with expertise in this area of real estate.

Can the assignor’s realtor market the assignment listing on MLS or REALTOR.ca?

Sometimes. Double check with your builder, as it depends on whether they permit advertising.

What happens if the construction, occupancy, closing, or unit transfer date is delayed?

In the event of a delay, the agreement is still valid. This means the assignee has agreed to take on the agreement and all responsibilities associated with it, including delayed construction or occupancy.

What if the assignee doesn't close?

This is no different than any other property sale, meaning the assignor, in most cases, is not released from the obligations under their original purchase agreement. In this situation, both the assignor and assignee will be liable.

What is the cost of assigning an Agreement of Purchase and Sale?

If the developer consents to the arrangement, there will generally be an administration fee and legal fees. These fees will vary. Consult the original purchase agreement and the developer for specific information.

When does the assignor get their money?

This generally depends on the closing date and the terms of the agreement that the assignor and assignee agreed on. Usually the assignor is paid when:

• the assignee takes possession or,
• when the developer approves the process, if applicable or,
• when the assignee obtains legal title

Who gets the interest, if any, payable by the builder on the original deposits?

Unless otherwise specified, the interest is likely to be paid to the assignor.

Who pays the interim occupancy costs?

Once the assignment is finalized, the assignee will typically pay occupancy costs.

What closing fees are payable?

After the condominium is registered, the builder transfers the ownership title to the assignee. The assignee pays the balance to the builder and any amount still owed to the assignor. Some of the costs the assignor may pay include:

• Estimated property taxes for up to 2 years
• Hydro/water/gas meter installation and connection charges (approx. $500–$700 per meter)
• Development charges/levies (potentially thousands of dollars)
• Tarion New Home Warranty (ranging from $600–$1,900. See Tarion website for fee structure)
• Discharge of builder’s mortgages (approx. $200–$300 per mortgage)
• Builder’s lawyer’s Law Society charge (approx. $70)
• Two months of occupancy fees for reserve fund
• Other amounts set out in the Agreement of Purchase and Sale

These costs are typically not financed with a mortgage. The assignee is responsible for the following additional fees:

• Legal fees and disbursements
• Land transfer tax (provincial and municipal)
• GST/HST rebate
• Municipal levies

If you’re interested in either buying or selling an assignment, you need a realtor who is experienced in finding, negotiating and drawing up the offer for these types of sales. This means you’ve come to the right place! We have a wealth of expertise, knowledge and resources when it comes to assignment sales and we would be more than happy to discuss the idea with you.

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What you need to know about buying an assignment condo

An assignment sale isn’t a typical real estate transaction and there are many important factors you need to know before buying an assignment condo. Regardless of the market conditions, assignment condos are usually difficult to sell, in part because they have much higher upfront requirements than regular sales. For the same reason, it presents a great opportunity for a buyer to purchase without facing overwhelming competition. Below is what you need to know about buying an assignment condo.

What is an assignment sale?

An assignment sale is a transaction in which a buyer (the “Assignor”) has purchased a property and then sells their interest in that property to another buyer (the “Assignee”) prior to the property closing. Essentially, the Assignor is not actually selling the property; they are selling their contract along with the rights and obligations of the original agreement with the Builder or original seller. While it is possible to have an assignment sale of a pre-construction house or a resale property, assignment sales in Toronto are most common in pre-construction condos.

The assignor is the original buyer of the condo unit in the pre-construction phase. In an assignment sale, the assignor is the seller.

The assignee is the buyer of the assignment condo and takes over all rights and responsibilities of the original contract.

Cons of buying an assignment condo

• You, as the buyer (assignee), require a substantial amount of cash in order to buy an assignment condo. Typically in the range of 30% to 40% of the purchase price, see the cost breakdown below for details.
• You may be approved for a mortgage when you make the purchase of an assignment condo, but the transaction closes much later. While you can occupy your unit prior to the final closing in the interim occupancy phase, you only get your final mortgage approval at the final closing. The interim occupancy phase may last for many months and requires you to pay the interim occupancy fee ( Tarion provides a great explanation on interim occupancy ). If your financial circumstances change in this period you could have a hard time getting a mortgage.
• Usually, there is only one assignment sale permitted. So you cannot resell the condo until the final closing and registration of the building.

Pros of buying an assignment condo

• You can buy a brand-new condo without having to wait many years for it to complete.
• There is usually a good amount of inventory to choose from and you can get a better price than comparable resale properties. This is especially important if the market is super hot, as there is less competition.
• You don’t have to worry about a project being canceled, leaving you out to dry. Once assignments are allowed by the builder, the building is usually already well underway.

Looking to buy an assignment condo?

Get in touch for a free NO OBLIGATION consultation and see why others have put their trust in me . Don’t like forms? Call or text me at 647-830-5210 or email me at [email protected].

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Costs Breakdown

Payment terms vary from one agreement to the next but the chart below will give you some insight.

Assignments and renting

If you are buying an assignment condo in order to rent it out be sure to mention that to your lawyer. The builder’s contract may have very specific conditions concerning when and if you can rent the unit out during the interim occupancy period. Also, the builder may not qualify for a portion of the HST rebate if you’re an investor. However, subject to certain limitations the assignee may qualify for an HST rebate after closing. To get exact details on this I would strongly recommend speaking to a lawyer and an accountant before you start searching for assignment condos.

All assignment sales should be conditional upon your lawyer reviewing the entire assignment agreement. Part of that will be all of the contents and disclosures of the original agreement of purchase and sale between the Assignor and the builder.

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• Assignment of Mortgage

Lenders or holders of mortgages often assign them to other lenders. The person or entity that receives the assignment will step into the place of the original lender. An assignment of mortgage should be in the appropriate format to provide notice to others. It should describe the property so that everyone understands which piece of property is attached to the assignment. It should also include the names of the various parties, contact information, and the date of the assignment. When a lender assigns a mortgage to another lender, the document will need to state the identity of the borrower. If a borrower assumes a mortgage, it should identify the lender.

Mortgages are often transferred to other lenders several times before being paid off. Lenders do not need to notify borrowers when selling a mortgage. Borrowers do not have a say in whether the mortgage is sold to another lender. However, the new lender is supposed to notify the borrower of the sale and give the borrower information on how to pay the new lender. In some cases, a borrower can try to renegotiate the terms of the loan, or, if the borrower does not want to continue with the new lender on the loan, the borrower can apply for a new mortgage to pay off the sold loan. When a new borrower assumes a mortgage, however, they must show that they have the financial ability to pay off the mortgage and that they understand the terms of the obligation that they have undertaken.

In Massachusetts, unlike some other jurisdictions, an assignment or mortgage must be in writing and then filed in the Registry of Deeds. A blank assignment is invalid. This is an important point because under case law, if the assignment is blank, a foreclosure sale related to the mortgage will be void. A foreclosing entity must obtain an assignment of mortgage in order to foreclose.

Once a mortgage has been paid, the holder should record a satisfaction in the proper written format to give notice to others that it no longer has a lien on the property.

Our Boston real estate attorneys can help you understand the requirements related to an assignment of mortgage and the consequences of assuming or assigning a mortgage. Our firm also advises and represents sellers, lenders, buyers, and associations in Cambridge, Andover, and Quincy, among other Massachusetts communities. Contact Pulgini & Norton at 781-843-2200 or through our online form for a free consultation with a home mortgage attorney.

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Home » Real Estate News » Real Estate Guide » Assignment Sales

Fundamental Difference Between a Resale vs Assignment Sales

June 21st, 2023 8 min read -->

A resale is a transaction where the buyer purchases a property from the original owner. The property is already completed and ready to move into. On the other hand, an assignment sale is a transaction where the buyer purchases the rights to a property from the original owner. The property is under construction and is still being prepared to move into. Here is a table that summarises the key differences between Resale vs Assignment Sales

Table of Contents

What are the Pros and Cons of an Assignment Sale?

Assignment sales, also known as contract assignments or flipping contracts, are common in the real estate market. In an assignment sale, a buyer who has entered into a purchase agreement with a seller transfers their rights and obligations under the contract to a third party before the completion of the sale. While assignment sales can offer certain advantages, they also have potential drawbacks. Let’s explore the pros and cons of Assignment Sales: 

Pros of Assignment Sales 

• One of the primary advantages of assignment sales is the potential for a significant profit. Assignors can secure a property at a lower price and then sell their contract to a new buyer at a higher price, capitalising on market appreciation or favourable negotiation.
• Assignment sales allow buyers to secure a property without obtaining a mortgage or making a down payment upfront. This flexibility can benefit investors or buyers who may need more immediate access to funds but want to secure a property at a particular price.
• Assignors can avoid the financial risks of property ownership, such as mortgage payments, property taxes, and maintenance costs. If the market conditions change or the buyer’s circumstances alter, they can sell the contract to another party without taking on these financial burdens.
• Assignment sales provide a quick exit strategy for buyers who may change their minds or encounter unforeseen circumstances that prevent them from completing the purchase. By assigning the contract to another buyer, they can exit the transaction without the complications of selling the property on the open market.

Cons of Assignment Sales

• Assignment sales involve intricate legal processes and require the involvement of multiple parties, including the original buyer, the assignee, the seller, and sometimes even lenders. The complexity can lead to challenges, delays, and increased legal expenses.
• The success of an assignment sale depends on the consent of the original seller. Some sellers may not permit or may have restrictions on assignment sales, limiting the pool of potential properties available for assignment.
• As an assignor, you relinquish control over the property and the final sale process once you transfer the contract to the assignee. This lack of control can be frustrating if the assignee’s actions or decisions affect the property negatively or lead to complications.
• In a declining market, an assignor may need help finding a buyer willing to pay the assigned price. This can result in financial loss if the assignor cannot sell the contract or need to sell it at a lower price than they initially anticipated.
• Some critics argue that assignment sales contribute to housing speculation and affordability issues, as they can drive up prices and limit housing supply. This perception can lead to negative public sentiment and potential regulatory scrutiny in some markets.

Assignment Sales for Sellers: What are its Advantages? 

• Higher Selling Price : In an assignment sale, sellers can sell their property more elevated than the original purchase price. Assignors, who act as intermediaries, often negotiate a higher price with the new buyer due to market appreciation, renovations, or other factors. This allows sellers to maximise their profit and earn more than anticipated.
• Faster Sale Process : Assignment sales can expedite the sale process for sellers. Rather than waiting to complete the original contract, sellers can transfer their rights and obligations to the assignee. This enables them to sell the property without going through the typical marketing and negotiation process, which can save time and effort.
• Avoidance of Holding Costs : Sellers can avoid holding costs associated with property ownership by selling through an assignment. These costs may include mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and other ongoing expenses. Selling through an assignment allows sellers to transfer these responsibilities to the assignee, potentially saving them money in the long run.
• Increased Flexibility : Assignment sales provide sellers more flexibility regarding their plans. By completing the sale through an assignment, sellers can move forward with their plans without waiting for the original contract to close. This can be particularly advantageous if sellers need to relocate, downsize, or make other arrangements quickly.
• Lower Marketing Costs : When selling a property traditionally, sellers often need to invest in marketing efforts to attract potential buyers. This can include listing fees, advertising expenses, staging costs, and other related expenditures. In an assignment sale, the assignee typically assumes the responsibility of finding a new buyer, reducing or eliminating the need for sellers to incur marketing expenses.
• Minimised Default Risk : In certain situations, sellers may encounter circumstances that prevent them from completing the original purchase contract. This could be due to financial constraints, changes in personal circumstances, or other unforeseen events. By assigning the contract to a new buyer, sellers can avoid defaulting on the contract and potential legal consequences.

What are the Advantages of Assignment Sales for Buyers? 

Assignment sales offer several advantages for buyers in the real estate market. Here are the key benefits of assignment sales for buyers:

• Potential for Lower Purchase Price : Buyers engaging in assignment sales can secure a property at a lower purchase price than buying on the open market. Assignors often negotiate a favourable purchase price when they contract with the original seller. This can be advantageous for buyers looking for a good deal or who want to invest in properties with potential appreciation.
• Flexibility in Financing : Buyers participating in assignment sales can enjoy greater flexibility in financing options. Since they are buying the contract from the assignor, they may not need to secure a mortgage or make a substantial down payment immediately. This flexibility can be particularly beneficial for buyers needing more immediate access to large sums of money or facing challenges in obtaining traditional financing.
• Ability to Customize the Property : In some cases, buyers engaging in assignment sales can customise or make changes to the property before the completion of the sale. This flexibility allows buyers to tailor the property to their preferences by selecting finishes, fixtures, or design elements and creating a personalised living space or investment property.
• Potential for Profit : Assignment sales can provide buyers with profit potential. Suppose market conditions favourably change between the time the assignor entered into the contract and the completion of the sale. In that case, buyers can sell the property at a higher price, capturing the appreciation and generating a profit without ever taking ownership. This profit potential can attract investors or buyers looking for short-term gains.
• Expedited Purchase Process : Assignment sales can facilitate a faster buyer purchase process. Rather than going through the lengthy process of searching for a property, negotiating with sellers, and dealing with potential competing offers, buyers can step into an existing contract and finalise the sale with the assignor. This can save time and streamline the purchase process, allowing buyers to secure a property quickly.
• Lower Transaction Costs : Assignment sales may involve lower buyer transaction costs than traditional property purchases. Since buyers purchase the contract from the assignor, they may not need to pay certain closing costs associated with the initial purchase, such as land transfer taxes or legal fees. This can result in savings and make the overall transaction more affordable for buyers.

What Disadvantages Does a Buyer Face on Assignment Sales? 

Here are the key drawbacks of assignment sales for buyers:

• Limited Property Selection : Assignment sales often involve a limited pool of properties. Assignors may sell their contracts for various reasons, such as properties with a potential appreciation or in-demand locations. As a result, buyers participating in assignment sales may have fewer options than in the broader real estate market.
• Potential Seller Consent Issues : The success of an assignment sale depends on the consent of the original seller. Some sellers may have restrictions on assignment sales or may simply refuse to allow the transfer of the contract to a new buyer. This can create challenges for buyers who have invested time and effort into an assignment transaction only to have it rejected by the original seller.
• Lack of Control and Information : Buyers engaged in assignment sales have limited control over the original contract and the terms negotiated by the assignor. They may have yet to be involved in the initial negotiation process, which can lead to uncertainty about the terms and conditions of the purchase. Additionally, buyers may need more access to information about the property, its history, or potential issues, as they rely on the assignor for this information.
• Increased Complexity and Potential Delays : Assignment sales can be more complex than traditional property purchases. Multiple parties include the original seller, the assignor, and potential lenders. This complexity can lead to delays, as other legal and administrative processes may be required. Buyers may need to navigate various agreements and documents, potentially leading to more extended closing periods or increased legal expenses.
• Higher Risk of Non-Completion : Assignment sales carry a higher risk of non-completion than standard property purchases. Since buyers are assuming a contract from the assignor, they may face uncertainties and risks associated with the assignor’s ability to fulfil their obligations. If the assignor fails to complete the contract, it can lead to complications, potential legal disputes, and the loss of any invested time or resources.
• Market Fluctuations and Financial Loss : While assignment sales can offer profit potential, they also expose buyers to the risk of financial loss. Suppose market conditions decline or change unfavourably between the time of the assignment and the completion of the sale. In that case, buyers may need help to sell the property for a profit. Sometimes, they may need to sell lower than the initial purchase price, resulting in a financial loss.

What are the Disadvantages of Assignment Sales for a Buyer?

Here are the key drawbacks of assignment sales for buyers: 

• Limited Property Selection: Assignment sales often involve a limited pool of properties. Assignors may sell their contracts for various reasons, such as properties with a potential appreciation or in-demand locations. As a result, buyers participating in assignment sales may have fewer options than in the broader real estate market.
• Potential Seller Consent Issues: The success of an assignment sale depends on the consent of the original seller. Some sellers may have restrictions on assignment sales or may simply refuse to allow the transfer of the contract to a new buyer. This can create challenges for buyers who have invested time and effort into an assignment transaction only to have it rejected by the original seller.
• Lack of Control and Information: Buyers engaged in assignment sales have limited control over the original contract and the terms negotiated by the assignor. They may have yet to be involved in the initial negotiation process, which can lead to uncertainty about the terms and conditions of the purchase.
• Additionally, buyers may need more access to information about the property, its history, or potential issues, as they rely on the assignor for this information.
• Increased Complexity and Potential Delays: Assignment sales can be more complex than traditional property purchases. Multiple parties include the original seller, the assignor, and potential lenders. This complexity can lead to delays, as other legal and administrative processes may be required. Buyers may need to navigate various agreements and documents, potentially leading to more extended closing periods or increased legal expenses.
• Higher Risk of Non-Completion: Assignment sales carry a higher risk of non-completion than standard property purchases. Since buyers are assuming a contract from the assignor, they may face uncertainties and risks associated with the assignor’s ability to fulfil their obligations. If the assignor fails to complete the contract, it can lead to complications, potential legal disputes, and the loss of any invested time or resources.
• Market Fluctuations and Financial Loss: While assignment sales can offer profit potential, they also expose buyers to the risk of financial loss. Suppose market conditions decline or change unfavourably between the time of the assignment and the completion of the sale. In that case, buyers may need help to sell the property for a profit. Sometimes, they may need to sell lower than the initial purchase price, resulting in a financial loss.

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Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

What is the purpose of resale.

Resale is to transfer ownership of a previously owned item or property from the seller to a new buyer.

What is selling and reselling?

Selling refers to exchanging goods or services for monetary compensation, while reselling involves selling something previously purchased, typically to make a profit.

How much money can you make from resale?

The amount of money on resale depends on the type of property you have and the real estate environment of the area.

What is a good resale percentage?

The resale percentage depends on the real estate environment.

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Assignment Sales Explained

If you live in Downtown Toronto, you can attest to the fact that its skyline is scattered with cranes, its soundscape is mainly comprised of digging and drilling, and its road closures are abundant. Now that we've set the tone, the premise of this article is a byproduct of the emotion-inducing, 12-letter word: construction. In this article, we'll be diving deep into assignment sales; what they are, what makes them different, and the tips you need to know in order to smooth sail your way through the assignment sale process.

What is an assignment sale?

In order to understand what an assignment sale is, we'll need to touch on pre-construction properties. Buying a pre-construction property means that you purchase a property before it's ready, sometimes even before its construction has even begun. Building developers usually start pre-construction sales early on, meaning you can buy a condo in a coveted building and desirable area for a fairly reasonable price (sounds impossible, right?) - but here's the catch, it won't be ready for a couple of years. The upside is that it will most likely have appreciated in value by the time you receive it, making it a smart investment. As soon as you buy a pre-construction property, you are entering an agreement with the builder until the property is ready.

Now an assignment sale is when the original buyer of a pre-construction property sells their contractual interest in the property to a new buyer, meaning that they resell the pre-construction property before taking possession of it. The sale must be done before the original buyer takes registered possession of the home for it to be considered an assignment sale. As such, the second buyer (the purchaser of the assignment sale) is the one who completes the transaction with the original seller (the builder). To put it simply, it's basically a purchase of the agreement between the builder & the original buyer, so that the new buyer automatically becomes the new owner of the property once it's completed.

How do assignment sales work?

Since we've covered the assignment sale basics, let's get more technical - the property being sold is still not registered with the land registry office and is probably still under construction. This makes it quite different from a regular sale, in more than one way. Let's get into the main attributes that make this type of purchase unique.

A Larger Deposit

When purchasing a property via assignment sale, there is usually a larger than normal deposit. The deposit in an assignment sale takes into consideration the deposit paid by the original buyer to the builder (usually 20%), plus additional profit that the seller is hoping to gain. Since the original buyer (now the seller of the agreement) is making a profit on the property above the downpayment already paid,  these assignment sales can be very cash intensive - this is the single biggest deterrent for most buyers.

For instance, Buyer A purchases a pre-construction property from the developer of the project (the builder) for $500,000. Buyer A pays a 20% deposit ($100,000) over a two year span to the builder. Before the project is completed, Buyer A decides that they are no longer interested in going through with the purchase and would like to sell the unit, at this point (two years later) the market price of the property has now reached $550,000. Buyer A lists the unit for sale for $550,000, and the new buyer (Buyer B) would have to pay Buyer A their original deposit of $100,000 (20%), plus the property's appreciation of $50,000. The total deposit that Buyer B will have to pay is $150,000 which, at this point, would be higher than the 20% usually required to obtain a mortgage on an investment property.

Builder's Requirements & Consent

Another factor to keep in mind is that the assignment sale cannot take place without the builder's consent. If you're thinking of buying a pre-construction property only to then re-sell it as an assignment sale and turn a profit, this is definitely a factor worth considering. The builder reserves their right to hold back on consent for assignment sales and most only allow one assignment to be completed prior to final closing.

Therefore, as the buyer in an assignment sale, you'll only be able to take over the original purchase agreement between the builder and Buyer A with the consent from the builder. This usually entails the builder requiring mortgage approval documents, ID, and additional information from the new buyer. Then there would be an assignment agreement executed between the builder, original buyer, and you (the new buyer). Needless to say, this is not the case with a regular sale - in a regular sale, the only consent you will need is that of your own and the seller.

No Showings

Adding to the growing list of factors that make the assignment sale process different, showings do not exist here. Since, in most cases, an assignment sale is done before the building is even ready, the buyer is unable to physically see the property before purchasing it. As the buyer in an assignment sale, you'd be able to see floor plans, mock-ups, and images. In some cases, you'd also be able to head to the builder's sales center and see/touch the finishes (eg. kitchen cabinets, countertops, tiles, appliances, etc.). You may also see the status of construction of the building by visiting the development site, to get an idea regarding the stage of project.  

Since this requires a lot of trust, we recommend doing your research on the city's reputable builders & the neighbourhood of the development to make sure its the right for you. It's worth noting, however, that if the assignment sale is taking place during occupancy - when the original buyer has occupied the unit but is not yet in full possession of it - you might be able to see the unit in person.

Increased legal fees

Within the process of an assignment sale, you'll find that there is additional paperwork (Builder's consent, assignment agreement, etc.) and stages (occupancy closing, final closing, etc), which in turn leads to more legal hours. Lawyer fees for these types of sales are usually higher than a traditional sale because there are more contractual technicalities involving more than one party (Buyer A, the builder and Buyer B). Our advice would be to discuss these fees with your lawyer, in order to paint a more accurate picture of the what you can expect.

Occupancy Fees

When buying a property via assignment sale, you are essentially buying a pre-construction property through a third party (Buyer A). With pre-construction properties, you get physical possession of the home (known as occupancy) before you get full possession of the home on paper (known as final closing). Therefore, occupancy fees are fees that you have to pay from the time you get possession of the home (occupancy phase) until the time you take official title of the property (final closing). Final closing usually occurs after the building is completed and has reached a certain percent of total occupancy.  At final closing is when you would your mortgage would kick in. During the occupancy phase, you can expect the occupancy fees to be roughly the same amount as your mortgage payments would be with 20% down.

Additional Closing Costs (Levies)

To add to what seems like the never-ending fine print, you might come across a number of additional fees when it comes time for final closing. Most contracts with a builder state that the buyer might incur additional costs that will only be specified upon final closing. The main additional fees are levies charges, also known as development costs; these are costs that the builder incurred while constructing the building, which they pass on to you as the buyer.

The size of these fees really depends on more than one factor: the builder, the city, and the project are a few to list. However, in most cases, you may have the builder set an upper cap limit on these fees - also known as Capped Levies. That way you know that the additional charges will be have a maximum upper limit that they wont exceed. Typically in Toronto, most developers cap development charges for one bedrooms to $7,500, $15,000 for two bedrooms, and over $20,000 for three bedrooms but please keep in mind that these are just ballpark numbers and the exact capped amount varies.

It's essential to look at the original agreement between the assignment seller and the builder to see if levies are capped and at what amount. If the levies are not capped, you will have to assume the risk of higher-than-anticipated closing costs at the time of taking title to the property. Of course,  there are also the common costs associated with homeownership which include land transfer taxes, legal fees, and possible mortgage fees.

HST on Pre-construction

Last but not least, it's critical to consider HST (Harmonized Sales Tax) when buying via assignment sale, which essentially means you're purchasing a pre-construction property. As a buyer, the HST of 13% in most cases is actually already included in the purchase price of the pre-construction property and the builder then applies for their rebate. However, it's important to touch on the fact that buying a pre-construction property solely for investment may alter this structure.

If you are purchasing the property solely as an investor, and neither you or a direct family member will be occupying the unit, then you would have to pay the HST at final closing and apply for the New Residential Rental Property Rebate (NRRPR) after leasing the unit for one year. For more information regarding qualifications and the amount of the rebate, visit this publication from the CRA.

If you're purchasing the assignment for yourself and it will be used as a primary resident then you'll have to confirm that the HST is included in the purchase price of the assignment.  For more information you may also visit the CRA's info sheet here .

When it comes to HST and the status of your occupancy, you should always consult with your accountants and lawyers as each circumstance is unique.

Why do people purchase/sell on assignment?

Well, after much unbiased consideration, it's safe to say that purchasing/selling on assignment can be a win-win scenario for both parties - the assignment seller gets a price above purchase price and the buyer, in most cases, snags a property below market price. Since assignment sales tend to occur well into the construction phase, there's also less risk imposed on the buyer in an assignment sale. That being said, there are a number of reasons why a person might want or need to sell/buy a property on assignment:

Selling Reasons:

• Change of plans: since pre-construction homes can take years to be completed, the original buyer situation could have changed within that time. For example, the original buyer may have started a family and is now looking for a larger, more suitable home.
• Financial trouble: the financial situation of the original buyer may have changed over the years, and they're now put in a position to have to sell the property. For example, the original buyer may have lost their job, meaning they can't get qualified for a mortgage and are now unable to complete the purchase.
• Profit: it's very common for investors to buy pre-construction homes with the aim of re-selling them to turn a profit. This is usually a common scenario for assignment sales in the Toronto real estate market.

Buyer Reasons:

• Brand new building/area: it can simply be that the purchaser is looking for a property that has never been occupied, or is in a newly developed neighbourhood, or just wants to secure a property in a new, buzz-worthy development. An example of this is Nobu Toronto.
• Below market price and less competition: since these purchases require at least 20% down-payment, in most cases it could be that these units have less competition and can be purchased at somewhat of a bargain.
• Profit: again, investors also look to buy properties via assignment sale because they believe that the building or neighbourhood will continue to appreciate in value, and come time of total completion or a few years later they would be able to sell for higher.

Looking to buy a home in Toronto or the Greater Toronto Area (GTA)? Message us via the live chat on Dwelly.ca and start the conversation.

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What Is an Assignment of Mortgage?

Please fill the form to the right for a free consultation if you need an assignment/robo audit/document signature audit, or go to https://www.mortgageauditsonline.com/

An assignment of mortgage is a document which indicates that a mortgage has been transferred from the original lender or borrower to a third party. Assignments of mortgage are more commonly seen when lenders sell mortgages to other lenders. When someone has what is known as an assumable mortgage, it is possible for the borrower to transfer the mortgage to another person, in which case an assignment of mortgage will need to be filed to record the transaction.

This document indicates that the loan obligation has been transferred. It usually describes the property so that there is no confusion about which piece of real estate is under discussion. It should include the name of the original party, along with the name of the third party, with contact information and the date that the assignment of mortgage becomes valid. In the case of an assignment of mortgage between lenders, the document notes the identity of the borrower, while assumed mortgages identify the lender and indicate that the transfer took place between borrowers.

Lenders routinely sell mortgages, and in fact a mortgage may be transferred multiple times before it has been paid off. Lenders are not required to notify borrowers when they sell mortgages, and borrowers do not have an opportunity to contest the sale. The new lender is required to send out a notification indicating that a sale took place and providing information about how to make mortgage payments to the new lender. The borrower may attempt to negotiate a change in terms, or if the borrower does not want to work with the new lender, it may be possible to apply for a new mortgage to pay off the old one.

With an assumable mortgage, the issue is a bit trickier. Lenders do not want borrowers to assign their mortgages to people who cannot keep up with the payments, as then they will be faced with having to foreclose and sell the property, and this adds to the expense of servicing the loan. As a result, people who wish to assume a mortgage must demonstrate that they are financially capable of taking on the loan, and that they fully understand the terms of the loan.

An assignment of mortgage will be filed in the same government office which handles ownership records, property taxes, and related matters. People should be aware that sometimes an assignment of mortgage is not recorded for several months, especially if there is a backlog of documenting material which needs to be gone through.

If borrowers receive a notice in the mail indicating that their mortgage has been transferred, they should call their lenders to confirm the sale and ask who the mortgage was sold to. It is also advisable to check the records office to confirm that an assignment of mortgage has been followed. Borrowers should be aware that some scammers prey on people by claiming that their mortgages have been transferred when this is not actually the case.

Following via: law.justia.com

CHAPTER 701

ASSIGNMENT AND CANCELLATION OF MORTGAGES

701.01  Assignment.

701.02  Assignment not effectual against creditors unless recorded and indicated in title of document; applicability.

701.03  Cancellation.

701.04  Cancellation of mortgages, liens, and judgments.

701.041  Title insurer; mortgage release certificate.

701.06  Certain cancellations and satisfactions of mortgages validated.

701.01  Assignment. –Any mortgagee may assign and transfer any mortgage made to her or him, and the person to whom any mortgage may be assigned or transferred may also assign and transfer it, and that person or her or his assigns or subsequent assignees may lawfully have, take and pursue the same means and remedies which the mortgagee may lawfully have, take or pursue for the foreclosure of a mortgage and for the recovery of the money secured thereby.

History. –s. 1, Dec. 11, 1834; RS 1985; GS 2498; RGS 3840; CGL 5743; s. 782, ch. 97-102.

701.02  Assignment not effectual against creditors unless recorded and indicated in title of document; applicability. —

(1)  An assignment of a mortgage upon real property or of any interest therein, is not good or effectual in law or equity, against creditors or subsequent purchasers, for a valuable consideration, and without notice, unless the assignment is contained in a document that, in its title, indicates an assignment of mortgage and is recorded according to law.

(2)  This section also applies to assignments of mortgages resulting from transfers of all or any part or parts of the debt, note or notes secured by mortgage, and none of same is effectual in law or in equity against creditors or subsequent purchasers for a valuable consideration without notice, unless a duly executed assignment be recorded according to law.

(3)  Any assignment of a mortgage, duly executed and recorded according to law, purporting to assign the principal of the mortgage debt or the unpaid balance of such principal, shall, as against subsequent purchasers and creditors for value and without notice, be held and deemed to assign any and all accrued and unpaid interest secured by such mortgage, unless such interest is specifically and affirmatively reserved in such an assignment by the assignor, and a reservation of such interest or any part thereof may not be implied.

(4)  Notwithstanding subsections (1), (2), and (3) governing the assignment of mortgages, chapters 670-680 of the Uniform Commercial Code of this state govern the attachment and perfection of a security interest in a mortgage upon real property and in a promissory note or other right to payment or performance secured by that mortgage. The assignment of such a mortgage need not be recorded under this section for purposes of attachment or perfection of a security interest in the mortgage under the Uniform Commercial Code.

(5)  Notwithstanding subsection (4), a creditor or subsequent purchaser of real property or any interest therein, for valuable consideration and without notice, is entitled to rely on a full or partial release, discharge, consent, joinder, subordination, satisfaction, or assignment of a mortgage upon such property made by the mortgagee of record, without regard to the filing of any Uniform Commercial Code financing statement that purports to perfect a security interest in the mortgage or in a promissory note or other right to payment or performance secured by the mortgage, and the filing of any such financing statement does not constitute notice for the purposes of this section. For the purposes of this subsection, the term “mortgagee of record” means the person named as the mortgagee in the recorded mortgage or, if an assignment of the mortgage has been recorded in accordance with this section, the term “mortgagee of record” means the assignee named in the recorded assignment.

History. –s. 1, ch. 6909, 1915; RGS 3841; CGL 5744; s. 13, ch. 20954, 1941; s. 2, ch. 89-41; s. 20, ch. 2005-241.

701.03  Cancellation. –Whenever the amount of money due on any mortgage shall be fully paid, the mortgagee or assignee shall within 60 days thereafter cancel the same in the manner provided by law.

History. –RS 1986; GS 2499; RGS 3842; CGL 5745; s. 171, ch. 73-333.

701.04  Cancellation of mortgages, liens, and judgments. —

(1)  Within 14 days after receipt of the written request of a mortgagor, the holder of a mortgage shall deliver to the mortgagor at a place designated in the written request an estoppel letter setting forth the unpaid principal balance, interest due, and the per diem rate. Whenever the amount of money due on any mortgage, lien, or judgment shall be fully paid to the person or party entitled to the payment thereof, the mortgagee, creditor, or assignee, or the attorney of record in the case of a judgment, to whom such payment shall have been made, shall execute in writing an instrument acknowledging satisfaction of said mortgage, lien, or judgment and have the same acknowledged, or proven, and duly entered of record in the book provided by law for such purposes in the proper county. Within 60 days of the date of receipt of the full payment of the mortgage, lien, or judgment, the person required to acknowledge satisfaction of the mortgage, lien, or judgment shall send or cause to be sent the recorded satisfaction to the person who has made the full payment. In the case of a civil action arising out of the provisions of this section, the prevailing party shall be entitled to attorney’s fees and costs.

(2)  Whenever a writ of execution has been issued, docketed, and indexed with a sheriff and the judgment upon which it was issued has been fully paid, it shall be the responsibility of the party receiving payment to request, in writing, addressed to the sheriff, return of the writ of execution as fully satisfied.

History. –s. 1, ch. 4138, 1893; s. 1, ch. 4918, 1901; GS 2500; RGS 3843; CGL 5746; s. 1, ch. 80-17; s. 15, ch. 93-250; s. 12, ch. 94-170.

701.041  Title insurer; mortgage release certificate. —

(1)  DEFINITIONS.–For purposes of this section:

(a)  “Mortgage” means a mortgage or mortgage lien on an interest in real property in this state, including any modifications thereof, given to secure a loan in the principal amount of $500,000 or less, other than a mortgage securing an open-end or revolving credit agreement.

(b)  “Mortgagee” means:

1.  The grantee of a mortgage; or

2.  If a mortgage has been assigned of record, the last person to whom the mortgage has been assigned of record.

(c)  “Mortgage servicer” means the last person to whom a mortgagor or the mortgagor’s successor in interest has been instructed by a mortgagee to send payments on a loan secured by a mortgage. A person transmitting a payoff statement is the mortgage servicer for the mortgage described in the payment statement.

(d)  “Mortgagor” means the grantor of a mortgage.

(e)  “Payoff statement” means a statement of the amount of:

1.  The unpaid balance of a loan secured by a mortgage, including principal, interest, and any other charges properly due under or secured by the mortgage.

2.  Interest on a per-day basis for the unpaid balance.

(f)  “Record” means to record with the clerk of the circuit court or the comptroller in the county or counties in which the real property securing the mortgage is located.

(g)  “Title insurer” means a corporation or other business entity authorized and licensed to transact the business of insuring titles to interests in real property in this state under chapter 624.

(2)  CERTIFICATE OF RELEASE.–An officer or duly appointed agent of a title insurer may, on behalf of a mortgagor or a person who acquired from the mortgagor title to all or a part of the property described in a mortgage, execute a certificate of release that complies with the requirements of this section and record the certificate of release in the real property records of each county in which the mortgage is recorded if a satisfaction or release of the mortgage has not been executed and recorded after the date payment in full of the loan secured by the mortgage was made in accordance with a payoff statement furnished by the mortgagee or the mortgage servicer.

(3)  CONTENTS.–A certificate of release executed under this section must contain:

(a)  The name of the mortgagor, the name of the original mortgagee, and, if applicable, the mortgage servicer; the date of the mortgage; the date of recording; and the volume and page or document number in the real property records in which the mortgage is recorded, together with similar information for the last recorded assignment of the mortgage.

(b)  A statement that the mortgage, including any modifications thereof, was in the principal amount of $500,000 or less.

(c)  The name of the title insurer filing the certificate of release, a statement that the person executing the certificate of release is an officer or a duly appointed agent of the title insurer, a statement that the title insurer is authorized and licensed to transact the business of insuring titles to interests in real property in this state under chapter 624 or chapter 626, and, if executed by a duly appointed agent, shall further provide the recording information of the appointment of such agent as required by subsection (4).

(d)  A statement that the certificate of release is made on behalf of the mortgagor or a person who acquired title from the mortgagor to all or a part of the property described in the mortgage.

(e)  A statement that the mortgagee or mortgage servicer provided a payoff statement which was used to make payment in full of the unpaid balance of the loan secured by the mortgage.

(f)  A statement that payment in full of the unpaid balance of the loan secured by the mortgage was made in accordance with the payoff statement and that a copy of the certificate of release was sent to the mortgagee or mortgage servicer that provided the payoff statement.

(4)  EXECUTION.–

(a)  A certificate of release authorized by subsection (2) must be duly executed, sworn to or affirmed under penalty of perjury before a notary public, and recorded and may be executed by an officer of a title insurer or by a duly appointed agent of a title insurer. Such delegation to an agent by a title insurer shall not relieve the title insurer of any liability for damages caused by the agent for the execution or recordation of a certificate of release.

(b)  The appointment of an agent must be duly executed, acknowledged, and recorded by an officer of a title insurer and must state:

1.  The title insurer as the principal.

2.  The identity of the person, partnership, or corporation authorized to act as agent to execute and record certificates of release provided for in this section on behalf of the title insurer.

3.  That the agent has the full authority to execute and record certificates of release provided for in this section on behalf of the title insurer.

(c)  A separate appointment of agent shall not be necessary for each certificate of release provided that at least one such appointment is recorded in the county in which the mortgaged property is located. The appointment of agent must be rerecorded where necessary to establish authority of the agent, but such authority shall continue until a revocation of appointment is recorded in the office of the county recorder in which the appointment of agent was recorded.

(d)  After recordation of a title insurer’s revocation of appointment in the office of the county recorder in which the appointment was recorded, the agent whose appointment is revoked in such county shall have no further authority to execute or record certificates of release as provided in this section on behalf of that title insurer with respect to any mortgages recorded in that county, and no such certificate of release thereafter executed or recorded by that agent on behalf of that title insurer shall be effective to release any mortgage recorded in that county.

(5)  EFFECT.–For purposes of releasing the mortgage, a certificate of release containing the information and statements provided for in subsection (3) and executed as provided in subsection (4) is entitled to be recorded with the county recorder and operates as a release of the mortgage described in the certificate of release. The county recorder shall rely upon the certificate to release the mortgage. Recording of a certificate of release by a title insurer or its agent shall not relieve the mortgagor, or the mortgagor’s successors or assigns, from any personal liability on the loan or other obligations secured by the mortgage. A certificate of release recorded pursuant to this section fulfills any other obligation of the mortgagee or mortgage servicer to file a satisfaction or release of the mortgage.

(6)  LIABILITY OF TITLE INSURER.–

(a)  In addition to any other remedy provided by law, a title insurer recording a certificate of release under this section shall be liable to the holder of the obligation secured by the mortgage for actual damage sustained due to the recording of the certificate of release. Reasonable costs and attorneys’ fees shall be awarded to the prevailing party.

(b)  The title insurer named in a certificate of release filed by a duly appointed agent shall be liable pursuant to this subsection without regard to whether the title insurer authorized the specific certificate of release recorded by the agent.

(c)  The title insurer shall have no liability under this subsection if the title insurer shows that payment in full of the unpaid balance of the loan secured by the mortgage was made in accordance with the payoff statement furnished by the mortgagee or the mortgage servicer.

(d)  Liability of a title insurer pursuant to this section shall be considered to be a title insurance claim on real property in this state pursuant to s. 627.7865.

(7)  RECORDING.–If a mortgage is recorded in more than one county and a certificate of release is recorded in one of such counties, a certified copy of the certificate of release may be recorded in another of such counties with the same effect as the original. In all cases, the certificate of release shall be entered and indexed as satisfactions of mortgage are entered and indexed.

(8)  APPLICATION.–This section applies only to a mortgage, including any modifications of such mortgage, in the principal amount of $500,000 or less.

(9)  PREMIUM.–The Financial Services Commission shall adopt rules establishing an actuarially sound premium charge to be made for each certificate of release recorded pursuant to this section.

History. –s. 1, ch. 2005-122.

701.06  Certain cancellations and satisfactions of mortgages validated. –All cancellations or satisfactions of mortgages made prior to the enactment of chapter 4138, Acts of 1893, by the mortgagee or assignee of record of such mortgage entering same on the margin of the record of such mortgage in the presence of the custodian of such record and attested by the said custodian and signed by said mortgagee or assignee of record of such mortgage, shall be valid and effectual for every purpose as if the same had been done subsequent to the enactment of chapter 4138, Acts of 1893.

History. –s. 1, ch. 14763, 1931; CGL 1936 Supp. 5746(1).

FORECLOSURE MILL EMPLOYEE SIGNATURES (FORGERIES) ON ASSIGNMENT OF MORTGAGES.

______________________________________

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