Definition
In Québec, the notary is a public officer member of the Chambre des notaires du Québec, whose involvement is mandatory in any real-estate transaction: sale, purchase, gift, mortgage, refinance. This Québec specificity contrasts with the rest of Canada where the lawyer plays this role.
Notary responsibilities in a mortgage transaction: drafting the deed of sale and mortgage deed, verifying the title of ownership ("title examination"), registering at the Land Registry, collecting and redistributing funds (principal, taxes, adjustments), discharging the outgoing lender on transfers, providing impartial legal advice to both parties.
Typical costs in Québec in 2026: CA$1,200-1,800 for a purchase with mortgage, CA$1,500-2,500 for a refinance, CA$1,000-1,500 for a transfer. Add state fees (transfer duties, Land Registry filing — CA$161 + CA$1 per deed). Several lenders offer a "covered notary" program up to CA$1,000 for transfers.