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REAL ESTATE RECEIVER NAVIGATES REAL ESTATE INSOLVENCY: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE

Real Estate Receiver Introduction to Real Estate Insolvency

Commercial real estate markets are constantly evolving, and with the recent upswing in defaulted real estate loans on commercial properties, lenders and borrowers are facing unprecedented challenges. I have observed the current market conditions from our ongoing real estate receiver files with keen interest. The landscape is evolving, presenting both challenges and opportunities for developers, lenders and real estate investors alike.

In this Brandon’s Blog post, from my perspective as a real estate receiver, I delve into the intricacies of the growing sector of real estate insolvency, offering (hopefully) valuable insights for both owners and lenders. This includes the challenges faced by developers, the growing demand for remedies in distressed properties, and the overall market dynamics. Join me as I explore the remedies available to navigate through these turbulent times.

Real Estate Receiver Overview of the Current Market Conditions

The real estate sector is currently navigating through dynamic market conditions that have been shaped by various factors. The recent upswing in defaulted commercial real estate loans serves as a signal of a continued downward trend in the market cycle. Developers, especially those with ongoing residential condominium projects, find themselves particularly vulnerable to unexpected upheavals.

Challenges Faced by Developers with In-Progress Projects

Developers face challenges during the construction phase. Delays, spiking costs, and inflation in construction expenses have eroded profit margins, leading to financial strains on developers.

  • Developers of residential real estate typically need to presell a significant portion of units to secure financing.
  • Construction cost inflation and pandemic-related disruptions have further complicated project economics.
  • Delays in construction schedules have been a common occurrence.

Developers in the real estate market are struggling with unprecedented challenges, with many facing insolvency issues. Adapting to changing market conditions and mitigating financial risks has become paramount. Legal experts note a growing demand for remedies across all types of distressed properties, highlighting the urgency in finding solutions to support developers and real estate investors.

Developers must navigate these challenges effectively by exploring various options such as mezzanine lending, private lending, and workout agreements. The evolving market dynamics require a proactive approach to address financial distress and ensure the successful completion of projects.

Growing Demand for Remedies in Distressed Properties

The growing demand for remedies in distressed properties underscores the need for collaborative efforts between lenders and borrowers to resolve defaults. Workout agreements and restructuring of loans offer potential solutions to mitigate financial risks and stabilize projects facing insolvency.

“It’s essential to establish trust and cooperation between borrowers and lenders to navigate through financial challenges effectively.”

Partnerships such as the conversion of mezzanine loans into equity demonstrate innovative approaches to address insolvency issues and support project completion. By exploring alternative solutions, stakeholders in the real estate sector can work towards sustainable outcomes and mitigate potential losses.

A professional-looking individual, possibly wearing a suit, holding a clipboard and standing confidently in front of a distressed property. The property could be depicted with signs of neglect or decay to emphasize its distressed state, such as boarded-up windows, overgrown plants, and peeling paint. The focus should be on the individual, exuding a sense of authority and competence in managing such situations. The setting could be urban or suburban, with a backdrop that hints at the challenges of real estate insolvency. The art style could be detailed and realistic to capture the situation's seriousness and the individual's professional demeanour.
real estate receiver

Real Estate Receivership: Challenges in Residential Condominium Economics

In my role as a real estate receiver, I am intrigued by the complexities of residential condominium project economics, particularly in the face of obstacles such as construction delays and escalating costs. These variables can substantially affect the financial viability of such projects, necessitating developers to implement targeted risk mitigation strategies.

Impact of Construction Delays and Cost Inflation

One of the most critical aspects affecting condo projects is the occurrence of construction delays and cost inflation. During the construction phase, when financing is fixed, any delays can lead to financial strain as developers cannot generate income until the project’s completion. Typically, developers aim to presell a significant percentage of units to secure financing. However, the recent spike in construction costs, coupled with delays, has eroded profit margins.

  • Statistics Canada reported substantial inflation in construction costs.
  • Delays in project timelines can lead to increased expenses and reduced profitability.
  • Preselling units becomes challenging when costs cannot be accurately predicted.

Strategies for Developers to Mitigate Financial Risks

Developers facing these challenges must consider various strategies to safeguard their investments and navigate through uncertain economic conditions. Some effective risk mitigation strategies include:

  1. Diversifying funding sources to reduce dependency on a single financing option.
  2. Implementing robust project management techniques to minimize delays and cost overruns.
  3. Engaging in transparent communication with stakeholders to manage expectations effectively.
  4. Conversion of mezzanine loans into equity.

Real Estate Receiver: Power of Sale vs. Foreclosure Process

When it comes to handling defaulting real estate loans, there are various legal mechanisms available to lenders and borrowers to manage real property insolvency situations effectively without the need for a real estate receiver. In this section, I will compare the processes of power of sale and foreclosure, explore key scenarios where each approach may be beneficial, and discuss the legal considerations that both lenders and borrowers need to take into account.

Comparison of Power of Sale and Foreclosure Processes

Both power of sale and foreclosure are methods that lenders can use to recover funds from defaulted borrowers. The key difference between the two lies in the execution and outcome of the process.

  • Power of Sale: This approach allows lenders to sell the property without involving court proceedings. It is authorized under Ontario’s Mortgages Act and is generally faster and less costly compared to foreclosure. Lenders have the right to sell the property to recoup the outstanding debt, with any surplus earnings returned to the borrower and any shortfall being the responsibility of both the borrower and any guarantors of the borrower’s mortgage financing.
  • Foreclosure: In a foreclosure action, lenders take ownership of the property in exchange for the debt owed. This process involves court proceedings, starting with a statement of claim issued by the creditor. Foreclosure can be challenged by the borrower, and in some cases, the court may convert it to a judicial sale, allowing other parties to benefit from any potential surplus proceeds.

Key Scenarios for Each Approach

The choice between the power of sale and foreclosure may depend on the specific circumstances of the defaulting loan and the goals of the lender or borrower.

  • Power of Sale: This method is often preferred when quick action is required to recover funds. It is suitable for situations where the market value of the property is likely to cover the debt, and lenders want a faster resolution.
  • Foreclosure: Foreclosure may be more appropriate when the debt exceeds the property value, or when disputes regarding the validity of a sale are likely. Turning foreclosures into judicial sales provides added oversight and protection for borrowers, allowing for a fair distribution of proceeds.

Both lenders and borrowers need to navigate various legal requirements and considerations when dealing with the power of sale and foreclosure processes.

  • Lender Responsibilities: Lenders must adhere to statutory and contractual obligations, including providing notification to borrowers and ensuring fair market value in property sales. They have the right to pursue borrowers for any remaining debt after the property sale.
  • Debtor Rights: In cases of insolvency, borrowers have the right to contest the sale and request evidence of its legitimacy. They may insist that lenders provide proof that the sale price accurately reflects the property’s true market value, supported by appraisals and appropriate marketing efforts.

The decision between utilizing the power of sale and pursuing foreclosure should be based on the specific circumstances of the defaulted loan, the characteristics and interests of all involved parties, and the desired outcomes for both lenders and borrowers. A comprehensive understanding of the variances and consequences associated with each approach is essential for effectively navigating insolvency scenarios within the real estate sector.

A professional-looking individual, possibly wearing a suit, holding a clipboard and standing confidently in front of a distressed property. The property could be depicted with signs of neglect or decay to emphasize its distressed state, such as boarded-up windows, overgrown plants, and peeling paint. The focus should be on the individual, exuding a sense of authority and competence in managing such situations. The setting could be urban or suburban, with a backdrop that hints at the challenges of real estate insolvency. The art style could be detailed and realistic to capture the situation's seriousness and the individual's professional demeanour.
real estate receiver

Real Estate Receiver: Workout – The Collaborative Solution

As a real estate receiver, I believe it’s crucial to understand the various mechanisms available to address mortgage defaults and insolvency in addition to a real estate receivership enforcement action in dealing with real estate assets. One such approach that has traction in the right circumstances in dealing with a real estate distressed asset is the concept of workouts as a collaborative solution to resolving defaults. Let’s delve into the key components of a workout plan and forbearance agreements.

Exploring the Concept of Workouts as a Collaborative Approach

When creditors and debtors face insolvency or defaults, engaging in a workout plan can offer a mutually beneficial solution. Unlike traditional enforcement measures like foreclosure or power of sale, workouts emphasize collaboration and finding a middle ground that works for both parties. This approach is based on trust, cooperation, and a shared goal of resolving financial difficulties.

Key Components of a Workout Plan and Forbearance Agreements

A workout plan typically involves amending the original loan agreement or creating a forbearance agreement to outline the terms and conditions for resolving the default. It requires a thorough assessment of the situation, a solid plan to address the financial issues, and a commitment to openness and transparency between the borrower and lender. By setting clear objectives and timelines, both parties can work towards a viable solution that avoids costly legal proceedings.

Real Estate Receiver: A Detailed Overview of a Real Estate Receivership

When comparing receivership with judicial sales and foreclosure processes, it becomes apparent that each approach has its unique advantages and challenges. Receivership, often court-appointed, involves a licensed insolvency trustee acting as the receiver overseeing the property’s recovery and sale to recoup funds owed. While more time-consuming and costly than the power of sale or foreclosure, court-appointed receivership offers a structured way to handle complex real estate insolvencies. Due to the complexity, a real estate receiver requires extensive powers from the court.

Challenges and benefits arise for both lenders and borrowers in the realm of receivership. Lenders may face the risk of insufficient property sale proceeds, prompting the pursuit of borrowers for remaining loan amounts. On the flip side, borrowers have the legal right to challenge the validity of a power sale and must ensure the property’s sale price reflects its market value to protect their interests.

Receivership serves as a court-supervised controlled process that aims to maximize gross sales proceeds and prioritize creditors’ claims transparently and efficiently. By applying to the court to appoint a receiver to handle property recovery and distribution, the complexities of insolvency can be managed effectively, safeguarding the interests of all stakeholders involved.

Within the legal landscape of Canada encompassing matters of commercial contention, there is the intricate notion of receivership. This process entails the designation of one of the two types of receivers; either a privately-appointed receiver or a court-appointed receiver. A receiver is vested with the authority to assume dominion over a business’s array of assets and properties. This authority arises from situations of monetary default on their secured loans.

It is prudent to retain awareness that the role of a receiver can only be filled by a licensed trustee for assuming the mantle of a receiver within the confines of Canada’s legal expanse.

The fulcrum upon which the inception of the receivership mechanism pivots is usually the inability of secured creditors to recoup their financial outlay from a debtor, who in turn is incapacitated in discharging its pecuniary obligations.

The receiver becomes vested with the possession and control of the assets, affects their liquidation, and subsequently allocates the ensuing sale proceeds among the cadre of creditors within the hierarchy delineated by the legal ladder of priority of claims. A court-appointed real estate receiver may also need to retain other real estate experts such as property managers, appraisers and real estate agents.

As an instrumental constituent of the commercial legal architecture in Canada, the receivership process endeavours to safeguard the vested interests of both creditors and debtors. It offers creditors the avenue to recoup either the entirety or a portion of their outstanding amounts due.

Concurrently, beleaguered commercial entities are afforded the prospect of either orchestrating a financial reconfiguration that extricates them from the quagmire of their fiscal problems or facilitating the divestiture of assets with the aspiration of facilitating the uninterrupted continuity of the business, but under new ownership. It, therefore, emerges as an indispensable instrument within the gamut of the Canadian legal paradigm, upholding the equilibrium of economic constancy.

Who is an approved buyer in the context of a receivership sale?

In the detailed context of a receivership sale, an approved buyer describes an individual or entity that has effectively met the specific requirements stated by the designated receiver. These standards encompass a variety of variables, including financial disclosure, a shown understanding of the sale’s terms and conditions, and the tried and tested capacity to finalize the purchase quickly. Usually, the recognition of an approved buyer takes place within a defined bidding procedure, in which potential purchasers compete to meet these developed requirements.

Once identified, an approved buyer ends up being subject to the terms and terms laid out within the sale arrangement. It is the receiver’s responsibility to ensure that the sale is carried out with a commitment to fairness and transparency. This consists of the duty to pick an approved buyer who not only can efficiently wrap up the real estate transaction but also can enhance the overall value of the assets that are being sold.

The fiduciary responsibility of the receiver is paramount throughout this process. The receiver is obliged to act in the very best interests of all parties, which encompasses lenders and other stakeholders. For that reason, the receiver’s duty surpasses the simple identification of an approved buyer; it includes securing the integrity of the sale, guaranteeing fairness for all parties, and ultimately maximizing the value that can stem from the assets being sold within the context of the receivership.

The role of secured creditors and their rights in receiverships

In the world of Canadian receiverships, secured creditors play an essential function in identifying the destiny of troubled companies. Recognizing their rights is essential in going through this complex landscape. Secured creditors have the legal authority to take enforcement proceedings against the assets covered by their security and have a higher priority in payment contrasted to unsecured creditors. They can either privately appoint or apply to the court for the appointment of a receiver.

The court-appointed receiver acts as a neutral party in charge of taking care of and selling the assets. The secured lenders have the right to challenge court-approved buyers if they think the receivership sale process is unfair or if they have a better deal. Nonetheless, safeguarding their legal rights within receiverships calls for a detailed understanding of the legal complexities and efficient timing associated with receiverships.

A secured creditor plays a crucial duty in the sale process. As the main financial stakeholder given their claim against the secured assets, the secured creditor has a vested interest in the result of the sale procedure. The court-appointed sale procedure includes the marketing and sale of the debtor’s assets and properties, which inevitably establishes the amount of funds that will be available to pay against the secured debt.

For that reason, the secured lender has a significant interest in guaranteeing that the sale procedure is conducted in a way that optimizes the recuperation of funds. The secured creditor’s beneficial interest in the sale procedure is shown in their capability to approve or reject the sale of assets in a private appointment and carries a level of weight with the court for a court-approved sale. This power allows them to protect their economic interests and ensure the very best feasible result from the sale process.

The timelines and stages of a receivership sale: The role of the approved buyer in Canadian receiverships

In Canadian receiverships, the role of the approved buyer is essential to the successful outcome of a receivership. In a court-appointed receivership, approved buyers are court-approved purchasers who typically offer the highest and most beneficial bid for the debtor company’s assets. They play a crucial role in maximizing the value of the distressed company and ensuring the best outcome for all parties involved. Their timely participation in the receivership process is instrumental in achieving sale finality and ultimately shaping the fate of the distressed entity.

In the world of Canadian receiverships, the involvement of court-approved buyers functions as a cornerstone in supporting an equitable and clear process. This essential process makes certain that every interested party can take part in the bidding process for the assets being sold. The result of this bidding process finishes with the choice of the best overall bidder. This mechanism of operation is rooted in concepts of justness, striving to eliminate any type of unnecessary benefit that a solitary party might have over others.

When a company is placed into receivership, the assigned receiver assumes command over the assets as well as operational elements of the business. The purpose behind the orchestration of a receivership sale revolves around the liquidation of the firm’s holdings to get them out of the insolvent troubled company and into the hands of a buyer who can maximize their value. The timing and stages integral within receiverships have a level of fluidity depending upon the intricacy and complexity of the business’s operations and assets.

Generally, the receiver’s starting point is the meticulous groundwork and strategy in setting up the sale procedure. Typically, the initial stage involves the preparation and marketing of the sale of the assets. This is followed by the negotiation and acceptance of offers from interested parties. In court-appointed receiverships, once an offer is accepted, the sale is subject to court approval and then the transfer of ownership is completed.

As this complex process unravels, the receiver must follow rigid lawful as well as regulatory requirements, thereby promoting an environment of impartiality and transparency that emphasizes a fair sale process. In its totality, the underlying purpose of a receivership sale opens up as the optimization of the company’s asset values, a pursuit carried out in the service of all stakeholders’ well-being.

A professional-looking individual, possibly wearing a suit, holding a clipboard and standing confidently in front of a distressed property. The property could be depicted with signs of neglect or decay to emphasize its distressed state, such as boarded-up windows, overgrown plants, and peeling paint. The focus should be on the individual, exuding a sense of authority and competence in managing such situations. The setting could be urban or suburban, with a backdrop that hints at the challenges of real estate insolvency. The art style could be detailed and realistic to capture the situation's seriousness and the individual's professional demeanour.
real estate receiver

Real Estate Receiver: What the Court Requires To Approve A Real Estate Receivership Sale

Being involved as a bidder in real estate receivership sales can be both exciting and daunting, laden with unique challenges and opportunities. Let’s delve into the intricacies of what the Court requires for the legal process to approve a particular sales process and sale of assets when the company is in receivership.

The Soundair principles

The Soundair principles are a collection of lawful standards developed by the Court of Appeal for Ontario in 1991 in the case of Royal Bank of Canada v. Soundair Corp., 1991 CanLII 2727 (ON CA). All Canadian courts follow these principles.

The Soundair principles are aimed at creating fairness and transparency in the sale of assets throughout real estate receivership cases. Thirty-one years later, it is still the leading case in Canadian insolvency asset sales rules and regulations. These concepts guide courts in evaluating whether the sale procedure carried out by a receiver has been fair and suitable.

Here are the Soundair principles in detail:

  • Diligent Efforts to Secure the Best Price: The receiver/trustee is obliged to exert sensible efforts to secure the highest possible price for the assets for the general benefit of creditors. This entails thoroughly advertising the assets for sale, soliciting competing bids, and ensuring that prospective purchasers have sufficient information to submit proper offers to purchase. The goal is to get the highest sales price possible under the circumstances, to maximize the return for the benefit of creditors.
  • Fairness and Integrity in the Sale Process: It is essential to give all interested parties an equivalent opportunity to join the sales process and to avoid any potential purchaser from obtaining an unreasonable edge. Transparency and impartiality are vital, and conflicts of interest cannot be tolerated.
  • All Stakeholders’ Interests: The receiver/trustee must look out for the interests of all parties, secured creditors and unsecured creditors, shareholders, and any other appropriate stakeholders. It is very important for the licensed insolvency trustee to avoid preference for any party and to strive for a fair equilibrium of the interests among everybody affected because the company is insolvent.
  • Input from significant creditors: This is a crucial consideration for the licensed insolvency trustee. While the trustee retains the ultimate decision-making authority, it is essential to carefully weigh and consider the recommendations and preferences of major creditors. Given that these creditors will bear financial implications based on the sale outcomes, their input carries substantial significance in the decision-making process.

Application of the Soundair principles

In practice, when a sale of assets is held because the company is in receivership, there are two stages of court review. First, the licensed insolvency trustee needs to get approval for the actual sales process itself. Then, the Court will review the process as implemented by the licensed insolvency trustee.

The Court’s reviews are to ensure conformity with these Soundair principles. This is the case if this is not a sale at arm’s length purchaser. The court will take into consideration the following elements:

  • Marketing Efforts: How the assets were advertised and marketed, including the period and reach of the advertising and marketing initiatives.
  • Number and Quality of Offers: The variety of offers obtained and whether they reflect reasonable market price. To assist the Court in determining the reasonableness of the offers received, the Trustee must provide evidence to the Court. An independent appraisal of the assets and other market data is the normal kind of evidence usedwhat a fair valuation of the assets is.
  • Transparency: Whether the sale process was conducted fairly and transparently, with appropriate details provided to all possible purchasers.
  • Stakeholder Consultation: Whether the licensed insolvency trustee has spoken with and taken into consideration the views of significant creditors and other stakeholders.
  • Authorization of Sale: Whether the proposed sale is supported by the significant creditors or as a minimum, is not being opposed.

The Soundair principles assist when a company is in receivership, in guaranteeing that the sale of assets in an insolvency context is carried out in a fashion that maximizes value, keeps fairness, and appreciates the interests of all the major stakeholders. By adhering to these concepts, the court aims to supply confidence in the integrity and fairness of the process and protect the rights of all stakeholders.

Real Estate Receiver FAQs on Real Estate Receivership and Insolvency

  1. What is a Real Estate Receiver? Answer: A real estate receiver is a court-appointed licensed insolvency trustee individual or firm responsible for managing, operating, and sometimes selling a property that is in financial distress. The receiver acts as a neutral third party to preserve the value of the property for the benefit of creditors and stakeholders.
  2. What is Real Estate Insolvency? Answer: Real estate insolvency occurs when a property or the owner of a property is unable to meet financial obligations. This often leads to legal proceedings where creditors seek to recover owed amounts, potentially resulting in foreclosure or receivership.
  3. When is a Receiver Appointed in Real Estate Cases? Answer: A receiver is typically appointed when a property is in financial distress, and there is a risk of losing significant value. This can occur during foreclosure proceedings, bankruptcy cases, or other situations where the property’s income and management are compromised.
  4. What Are the Duties of a Real Estate Receiver? Answer: The responsibilities of a real estate receiver encompass overseeing the daily activities of the property, collecting rental payments, maintaining the property, facilitating required repairs, and occasionally coordinating the property’s readiness for potential sale. The primary objective of the receiver is to optimize the property’s value and uphold equitable treatment of all stakeholders.
  5. How Does the Receivership Process Work? Answer: The receivership process commences upon the issuance of a court order appointing a receiver. The receiver assumes control of the property, evaluates its condition, and executes a management strategy. Regular reports are submitted to the court, and the receiver adheres to the court’s instructions until the property is stabilized, sold, or resolved in another manner.
  6. What Are the Benefits of Appointing a Receiver? Answer: Appointing a receiver offers numerous advantages, including the stabilization of distressed properties, prevention of waste and loss, and provision of a neutral party to impartially manage the property. This can prove highly beneficial to creditors, owners, and tenants alike, safeguarding the property’s value and potentially optimizing its worth.
  7. Can Property Owners Regain Control of Their Property After Receivership? Answer: Yes, property owners can regain control of their property if they resolve the financial issues and the court approves the termination of the receivership. This often requires paying off debts, restructuring finances, or meeting other conditions set by the court.
  8. What Happens to Tenants During Receivership? Answer: Tenants generally continue their leases under the receivership. The receiver collects rents and manages the property as usual, ensuring that the property remains operational. Tenants may experience improved management and maintenance under a receiver’s oversight.
  9. How Are Receivers Compensated? Answer: Receivers are compensated from the income generated by the property or from the proceeds of a property sale. Their fees and expenses must be approved by the court and are given priority over both secured and unsecured creditor claims by the court.
  10. What Is the Difference Between Receivership and Foreclosure? Answer: Receivership and foreclosure are distinct legal processes in real estate management. Foreclosure refers to a legal action taken by a lender to recover the outstanding loan balance from a borrower who has defaulted on payments, often leading to the sale of the property. On the other hand, receivership entails the appointment of an impartial third party to oversee and stabilize the property, to potentially prevent foreclosure, maintain the property’s value and ultimately sell it.
  11. Can a Receiver Sell the Property? Answer: Yes, a receiver can sell the property if authorized by the court. The sale process is usually supervised by the court to ensure it is conducted fairly and that the proceeds are distributed according to the court’s directives.
  12. What Challenges Might a Receiver Face? Answer: Challenges include dealing with neglected maintenance, unpaid taxes, existing liens, tenant disputes, and market conditions. The receiver must navigate these issues while adhering to legal requirements and court orders.
  13. How Long Does a Receivership Last? Answer: The duration of a receivership is contingent upon the intricacy of the case, the state of the property, and the objectives of the receivership. The timeline can range from several months to multiple years.
  14. Who Can Request the Appointment of a Receiver? Answer: Interested parties such as creditors, lienholders, property owners, or other relevant entities have the option to seek the appointment of a receiver. The court will evaluate such requests by taking into account the specific circumstances and the necessity of safeguarding the property’s value.

These FAQs provide a comprehensive overview of key concepts related to real estate receivership and insolvency.

Real Estate Receiver Conclusion

I hope you have enjoyed this real estate receiver Brandon’s Blog. Do you or your company have too much debt? Are you or your company in need of financial restructuring? The financial restructuring process is complex. The Ira Smith Team understands how to do a complex restructuring. However, more importantly, we understand the needs of the entrepreneur or the person who has too much personal debt.

You are worried because you are facing significant financial challenges. It is not your fault that you are in this situation. You have been only shown the old ways that do not work anymore. The Ira Smith Team uses new modern ways to get you out of your debt troubles while avoiding bankruptcy. We can get you debt relief freedom.

The stress placed upon you is huge. We understand your pain points. We look at your entire situation and devise a strategy that is as unique as you and your problems; financial and emotional. The way we take the load off of your shoulders and devise a plan, we know that we can help you.

We know that people facing financial problems need a realistic lifeline. There is no “one solution fits all” approach with the Ira Smith Team.

That is why we can develop a restructuring process as unique as the financial problems and pain you are facing. If any of this sounds familiar to you and you are serious about finding a solution, contact the Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. team today.

Call us now for a free consultation. We will get you or your company back on the road to healthy stress-free operations and recover from the pain points in your life, Starting Over, Starting Now.

The information provided in this Brandon’s Blog is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended to constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers are encouraged to seek professional advice regarding their specific situations. The content of this Brandon’s Blog should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional guidance or consultation. The author, Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. as well as any contributors to this Brandon’s Blog, do not assume any liability for any loss or damage resulting from reliance on the information provided herein.

A professional-looking individual, possibly wearing a suit, holding a clipboard and standing confidently in front of a distressed property. The property could be depicted with signs of neglect or decay to emphasize its distressed state, such as boarded-up windows, overgrown plants, and peeling paint. The focus should be on the individual, exuding a sense of authority and competence in managing such situations. The setting could be urban or suburban, with a backdrop that hints at the challenges of real estate insolvency. The art style could be detailed and realistic to capture the situation's seriousness and the individual's professional demeanour.
real estate receiver
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CANADIAN RECEIVERSHIPS: SECURED CREDITOR’S CHALLENGE TO BLOCK APPROVED BUYER TOO LATE TO THE PARTY

Receiverships introduction

Step into this week’s edition of Brandon’s Blog! Our topic this week explains the complicated landscape of Canadian receiverships. Our journey into a world where secured lenders sometimes grapple with their unhappiness with a receiver’s recommendation for a certain court-sanctioned buyer, wanting to buy the holdings of an insolvent enterprise.

Simplifying your journey, I shall use a recent, tangible case study to unveil how secured creditors can endeavour to wield influence in court-supervised receiverships. I will deconstruct the technical terms and explain every nuance in a manner that you will easily understand.

Canadian receiverships are a pursuit of balance, entwined with the rightful entitlements of secured creditors through the prism of procedural clarity and the scales of impartiality, as demanded by the court in the realm of Canadian receiverships.

Understanding Canadian receiverships and approved buyers

Within the legal landscape of Canada encompassing matters of commercial contention, there is the intricate notion of receivership. This process entails the designation of one of the two types of receivers; either a privately-appointed receiver or a court-appointed receiver. A receiver is vested with the authority to assume dominion over a business’s array of assets and properties. This authority arises from situations of monetary default on their secured loans.

It is prudent to retain awareness that the role of a receiver can only be filled by a licensed trustee for assuming the mantle of a receiver within the confines of Canada’s legal expanse.

The fulcrum upon which the inception of the receivership mechanism pivots is usually the inability of secured creditors to recoup their financial outlay from a debtor, who in turn is incapacitated in discharging its pecuniary obligations.

The receiver becomes vested with the possession and control of the assets, affects their liquidation, and subsequently allocates the ensuing sale proceeds among the cadre of creditors within the hierarchy delineated by the legal ladder of priority of claims.

As an instrumental constituent of the commercial legal architecture in Canada, the receivership process endeavours to safeguard the vested interests of both creditors and debtors. It offers creditors the avenue to recoup either the entirety or a portion of their outstanding amounts due.

Concurrently, beleaguered commercial entities are afforded the prospect of either orchestrating a financial reconfiguration that extricates them from the quagmire of their fiscal problems or alternatively, facilitating the divestiture of assets with the aspiration of facilitating the uninterrupted continuity of the business, but under new ownership. It, therefore, emerges as an indispensable instrument within the gamut of the Canadian legal paradigm, upholding the equilibrium of economic constancy.

Who is an approved buyer in the context of a receivership sale?

In the detailed context of a receivership sale, an approved buyer describes an individual or entity that has effectively met the specific requirements stated by the designated receiver. These standards encompass a variety of variables, including financial disclosure, a shown understanding of the sale’s terms and conditions, and the tried and tested capacity to finalize the purchase quickly. Usually, the recognition of an approved buyer takes place within a defined bidding procedure, in which potential purchasers compete to meet these developed requirements.

Once identified, an approved buyer ends up being subject to the terms and terms laid out within the sale arrangement. It is the receiver’s responsibility to ensure that the sale is carried out with a commitment to fairness and transparency. This consists of the duty to pick an approved buyer who not only has the capacity to efficiently wrap up the transaction but also has the ability to enhance the overall value of the assets that are being sold.

The fiduciary responsibility of the receiver is paramount throughout this process. The receiver is obliged to act in the very best interests of all parties, which encompasses lenders and other stakeholders. For that reason, the receiver’s duty surpasses the simple identification of an approved buyer; it includes securing the integrity of the sale, guaranteeing fairness for all parties, and ultimately maximizing the value that can stem from the assets being sold within the context of the receivership.

Image depicting a dramatic clash between a gavel symbolizing secured creditors' rights and a fading corporate logo, representing distressed companies. A ticking clock and courthouse backdrop emphasize urgency and legal battles in Canadian receiverships.
receiverships

The role of secured creditors and their rights in receiverships

In the world of Canadian receiverships, secured creditors play an essential function in identifying the destiny of troubled companies. Recognizing their rights is essential in going through this complex landscape. Secured creditors have the legal authority to take enforcement proceedings against the assets covered by their security and have a higher priority in payment contrasted to unsecured creditors. They can either privately appoint or apply to the court for the appointment of a receiver.

The court-appointed receiver acts as a neutral party in charge of taking care of and selling the assets. The secured lenders have the right to challenge court-approved buyers if they think the receivership sale process is unfair or if they have a better deal. Nonetheless, safeguarding their legal rights within receiverships calls for a detailed understanding of the legal complexities and efficient timing associated with receiverships.

A secured creditor plays a crucial duty in the sale process. As the main financial stakeholder given their claim against the secured assets, the secured creditor has a vested interest in the end result of the sale procedure. The court-appointed sale procedure includes the marketing and sale of the debtor’s assets and properties, which inevitably establishes the amount of funds that will be available to pay over against the secured debt.

For that reason, the secured lender has a significant interest in guaranteeing that the sale procedure is conducted in a way that optimizes the recuperation of funds. The secured creditor’s beneficial interest in the sale procedure is shown in their capability to approve or reject the sale of assets in a private appointment and carries a level of weight with the court for a court-approved sale. This power allows them to protect their economic interests and ensure the very best feasible result from the sale process.

The timelines and stages of a receivership sale: The role of the approved buyer in Canadian receiverships

In Canadian receiverships, the role of the approved buyer is essential to the successful outcome of a receivership. In a court-appointed receivership, approved buyers are court-approved purchasers who typically offer the highest and most beneficial bid for the debtor company’s assets. They play a crucial role in maximizing the value of the distressed company and ensuring the best outcome for all parties involved. Their timely participation in the receivership process is instrumental in achieving sale finality and ultimately shaping the fate of the distressed entity.

In the world of Canadian receiverships, the involvement of court-approved buyers functions as a cornerstone in supporting an equitable and clear process. This essential process makes certain that every interested party has the possibility to take part in the bidding process for the assets being sold. The result of this bidding process finishes with the choice of the best overall bidder. This mechanism of operation is rooted in concepts of justness, striving to eliminate any type of unnecessary benefit that a solitary party might have over others.

When a company is placed into receivership, the assigned receiver assumes command over the assets as well as operational elements of the business. The purpose behind the orchestration of a receivership sale revolves around the liquidation of the firm’s holdings to get them out of the insolvent troubled company and into the hands of a buyer who can maximize their value. The timing and stages integral within receiverships have a level of fluidity depending upon the intricacy and complexity of the business’s operations and assets.

Generally, the receiver’s starting point is the meticulous groundwork and strategy in setting up the sale procedure. Typically, the initial stage involves the preparation and marketing of the sale of the assets. This is followed by the negotiation and acceptance of offers from interested parties. In court-appointed receiverships, once an offer is accepted, the sale is subject to court approval and then the transfer of ownership is completed.

As this complex process unravels, the receiver must follow rigid lawful as well as regulatory requirements, thereby promoting an environment of impartiality and transparency that emphasizes a fair sale process. In its totality, the underlying purpose of a receivership sale opens up as the optimization of the company’s asset values, a pursuit carried out in the service of all stakeholders’ well-being.

Image depicting a dramatic clash between a gavel symbolizing secured creditors' rights and a fading corporate logo, representing distressed companies. A ticking clock and courthouse backdrop emphasize urgency and legal battles in Canadian receiverships.
receiverships

When is it too late for a secured creditor to challenge an approved buyer in Canadian receiverships?

Within the intricate realm of Canadian receiverships, those holding the mantle of secured creditors find themselves navigating through a myriad of intricate challenges, especially when confronted with the task of contesting a buyer approved by the court. The genesis of these challenges emerges from the imperative to harmonize the rights of stakeholders with the irrevocability of a sale.

Timing emerges as an eminent concern for any actions by creditors, as secured creditors must expeditiously interpose to thwart the endorsement of an approved buyer. Such a stance necessitates astute contemplation encompassing not only the exigencies of insolvency statutes but also the jurisprudential lineage of past cases, in tandem with an astute assimilation of the considerations that judiciaries deliberate upon while adjudging the legitimacy of an opposition. The effective surmounting of these multifaceted impediments serves as the crucible through which a secured creditor’s sway attains its zenith, eventually moulding the denouement of an entity’s restructuring endeavour.

In Canadian receiverships, it is very important for secured creditors to understand when it is far too late to challenge an accepted buyer. A secured creditor has the status of a major stakeholder to object to the sale of property by a receiver. However, this objection needs to be made within an appropriate timespan. Normally this would be on the receiver’s motion to approve a specific buyer under an agreement of purchase and sale to buy the company’s assets in receivership.

If the creditor stays silent at the hearing, after being served with the receiver’s motion record, or worse, consents to the relief the receiver is requesting, it will be near impossible to change the outcome. Also, if the secured creditor waits too long to appeal the court’s decision on the approval of the buyer, it may be too late to overturn the accepted buyer.

The courts normally take into consideration variables such as the timing of the objection, the factors for the opposition, as well as whether the creditor had knowledge of the receiver’s motion recommending the sale. Therefore, it is essential for secured creditors to act without delay as well as seek legal advice in receiverships to ensure their rights are preserved and protected.

The Role of Investment and Due Diligence by Approved Buyers in Canadian receiverships

When potential investors turn their gaze toward the prospects of allocating resources in assets emanating from Canadian receiverships, a paramount imperative takes center stage—none other than the meticulous practice of due diligence. Embarking on this voyage entails a profound plunge into the annals of financials, operational intricacies, assets, and liabilities of pivotal suppliers—a linchpin to the enterprise’s continuity. Moreover, a comprehensive appraisal of the corporate entity’s visage within the tapestry of market conditions unfurls before them—an intricate matrix to fathom.

This immersive exploration fosters an enriched cognizance of the assets that conflate to shape the enterprise’s essence and the latent perils entwined. Concurrently, an assessment of the enterprise’s fiscal robustness commences, bifurcating between the financial vitality of the business itself and the overarching corporate infrastructure. This evaluation, ranging from debt metrics and asset portfolios to revenue inflows and the embryonic promise of future profitability, unfurls a tapestry conducive to ascertaining a judicious valuation, commensurate with inherent realities.

The compass of scrutiny extends further to encompass the realm of legality and regulation—a vista often overlooked yet of paramount significance. Engaging in a bout of legal due diligence emerges as the prudent course, an endeavour aimed at unearthing dormant legal quandaries or impending obligations that might cast a pall over operational congruence or intrinsic valuation.

As the due diligence crescendo navigates onward, an avenue laden with promise unfurls—plummeting into the corridors of potential betterment and restructuring, the twin gateways to magnifying operational yield. This orchestration, calibrated to fortify profitability, occupies a pivotal niche within the mosaic of considerations.

In the vanguard of this multifaceted expedition looms the bastion of market research—an indispensable edifice buttressed by industry ebbs and flows, the throes of competitive dynamics, and the overarching symphony of market demand. The synthesis of these nuanced factors culminates in an orchestration of knowledge that infuses sagacity into investment choices, ensuring an informed voyage into the tapestry of Canadian receiverships.

Within the realms of court-overseen receiverships in the Canadian context, the focal point unfailingly revolves around the paramount virtue of transparency. The bedrock of establishing confidence and credibility in the transaction resides in a meticulous and exhaustive due diligence endeavour. This endeavour, in its multifaceted essence, serves the dual purpose of ensuring equitability in pricing, commensurate with the genuine valuation of the assets on offer—an aspect that assumes cardinal significance for all stakeholders vested in the proceedings.

Furthermore, the inclusion of endorsed purchasers injects a paradigm of impartiality and impartiality into the entire procedural tapestry. Let us not be remiss in accounting for the aspect of legal conformity—a facet woven intricately into the fabric of this process. Said purchasers are vested with the task of scrutinizing potential legal conundrums, thereby preempting any semblance of post-sale imbroglio. An additional boon surfaces in the form of expedited procedural swiftness—a byproduct of the exhaustive due diligence undertaken.

Essentially, the realm of Canadian court-supervised receiverships beckons our attention to several pivotal considerations. First, and foremost, lies the meticulous endeavour undertaken by prospective buyers, involving an intricate choreography of research and analysis preceding their bids. This diligent preliminary inquiry manifests as a testament to their authenticity and competence, encapsulating an acute grasp of their enterprise. This facet’s significance stems from the heightened assurance it instills across the spectrum of participants, nurturing faith in their aptitude to consummate the transaction while adroitly managing the assets set to come under their aegis.

Segueing onwards, the confluence of comprehensive insights gleaned through rigorous due diligence serves as a compass directing prospective purchasers toward sagacious choices. These choices burgeon from the assimilation of manifold data points, sculpting a strategy to mitigate perils and optimize trajectories—calibrating the optimal approach for the assets earmarked for takeover. Additionally, negotiations unfurl as a canvas, where a nuanced comprehension of the distressed entity’s predicament acts as the brushstroke guiding buyers toward terms consonant with their aspirations. Simultaneously, the custodian of the proceedings—embodied by the receiver—meticulously orchestrates a harmonious equilibrium, ensuring equity persists as a recurring motif, safeguarding the interests of all implicated parties.

Collectively, the crux of the matter revolves around sanctioned buyers channelling their energies into a judicious exploration, culminating in a discerning investment stance. This virtuous circle of scrutiny and prudence furnishes a bastion of probity, where parity prevails and stakeholders’ interests find refuge within the tapestry of these exigent corporate circumstances. The intricate interplay of variables emboldens distressed entities’ myriad stakeholders, engendering optimism for recuperation within the contours of an intricate, multifaceted milieu.

Image depicting a dramatic clash between a gavel symbolizing secured creditors' rights and a fading corporate logo, representing distressed companies. A ticking clock and courthouse backdrop emphasize urgency and legal battles in Canadian receiverships.
receiverships

In the detailed tapestry of Canadian receiverships, the dissection of legal criterion and court decisions emerges as an essential core, important for the understanding of the detailed inflections that accompany the decisions of secured creditors in their search to overturn the approval of a purchaser. This case study, being a current decision of the Court of Appeal for Ontario, offers a fascinating look at the factors the appellate court takes into consideration when a secured creditor attempts to overturn a lower court decision on an accepted buyer and the approval of their offer to purchase assets from receiverships.

Scrutiny of cases bestows enlightenment rich with insights and strategies, unfurling before practitioners an intricate bouquet of knowledge encapsulating the symphony between legal principles and commercial actualities. Within this continuum, the equilibrium between safeguarding the prerogatives of creditors and the unalterable finality of an economic transaction assumes a role of pivotal prominence. By charting the trajectory of these paradigms, individuals of the legal craft glean invaluable insights that serve as compasses guiding their navigation within the intricate choreography of corporate metamorphosis.

The decision of the Court of Appeal for Ontario on August 21, 2023, I wish to discuss is Rose-Isli Corp. v. Smith, 2023 ONCA 548 (CanLII). It was on appeal from the order of The Honourable Madam Justice Kimmel of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, dated February 2, 2023.

Overview of the case

Certain parties, including a secured creditor, appealed the authorization and vesting order released by the lower court judge that appointed the receiver and approved the sales process to be used to sell the property in receivership, in addition to a relevant ancillary order.

The appellants had actually initially sought the appointment of the receiver over the property. One of the applicants, 2735440 Ontario Inc. (“273 Ontario”), held a second mortgage on the real property. The order appointing the receiver contemplated 273 Ontario would certainly participate in a sales process for the property. The receiver received court authorization for a sales procedure, performed that approved sales process, and then sought court approval of the recommended bid.

When the receiver came to court for approval of the buyer and the sales agreement, the appellants opposed the proposed sale and, rather, looked for an order that 273 Ontario could pay out the first mortgage or, be acknowledged as a successful creditor bidder. The court approved the receiver’s recommendations of who the buyer should be and approved the sale as well as dismissing the applicants’ cross‑motion to redeem the 1st mortgage. The appellants submitted that the motions judge made an error by issuing the order that she did.

At the time of the issuance of the appointment order, the judge who issued the appointment order described the lay of the land at the time the applicants asked for the appointment of a receiver. That judge said that the relationship between and amongst the parties had irrevocably broken down. The evidence for that was the receivership application itself. That judge kept in mind that one way or the other, all stakeholders that day agreed that the Rosehill condo real estate project should be sold and that the sale process needed to be done by a court-appointed officer.

The appellants proclaimed that the lower court judge had made an error in not allowing the appellant’s cross-motion. They submitted that as the second mortgagee, they held the right to redeem the first mortgage at any conceivable juncture, even in the face of the implementation of a carefully run court-sanctioned sales procedure and the request for the approval of a sale to the approved buyer.

The appellate court analysis

273 Ontario, as one of the applicants seeking the appointment of a receiver, extended their consent to the issuance of the Appointment Order. Paragraph 9 of the Appointment Order made it clear that the entitlement of any kind of encumbrancer to effectuate the redemption of a mortgage pertaining to the property was now trapped under the jurisdiction of the appointed receiver.

Within that section was the affirmation that all privileges as well as remedies against the project or its assets or the receiver, or that impact the property, are currently kept in abeyance and suspended, unless the receiver concurred with the proposed action, in writing, or if the court made such an order.

The appellate court found that the motions judge deliberately acknowledged that the subject for adjudication did not orbit around whether 273 Ontario had a legitimate claim for redemption, yet instead, she focused on the much more practical query as to whether 273 Ontario ought to be given the authority to implement that preserved benefit once the process of court-sanctioned sales process had been carried out and the receiver coming to court seeking the approval of the sale of assets under that process. After all, the sales process carried out by the receiver followed the Appointment Order requested by the applicants, which included 273 Ontario.

The Court of Appeal found this to be an astute reframing of the concern and made certain that the heart of the matter was aptly described: (i) the appellants had requested for the appointment of the receiver; (ii) the receiver, in accordance with the approval of the court, had undertaken a methodical sales procedure; and (iii) most importantly, the period of the Receiver had yet to be discharged.

Therefore, the vital scope of 273 Ontario’s ability to obtain court authority to redeem the 1st mortgage was undoubtedly coloured by the plain reality that the property stayed within continuous control under an active receivership. The court supervising the receivership and the sales process status was beyond the redemption rights of the 2nd mortgagee.

The Court of Appeal for Ontario said that, when confronted with the petition of an encumbrancer looking to redeem a mortgage on a property in receivership, the court has to meticulously ponder upon the far-reaching repercussions that might unfurl should the encumbrancer be allowed to exercise its right of redemption.

This philosophy extends to incorporate any kind of and all stakeholders who have purposes of disrupting a court-sanctioned sale process, that has been properly performed by the receiver, all while bearing in mind the prospective purchaser who followed all the rules and waits to complete the acquisition. This principle is not restricted only to a mortgage redemption; it is a guiding beacon for any kind of stakeholder who attempts to disrupt a properly performed court-approved sales process.

The Court of Appeal for Ontario said that the following principles must be adhered to:

  • Usually, if a court-approved sales process has been carried out in a manner consistent with the principles set out in Royal Bank of Canada v. Soundair Corp., (1991), 1991 CanLII 2727 (ON CA), 4 O.R. (3d) 1 (C.A.), a court should not allow a subsequent endeavour to redeem to disrupt the consummation of the properly carried out sales process. From its perspective, the appellate court stated the rationale behind the Soundair principles applies in scenarios wherein an encumbrancer aspires to redeem a mortgage. Once the judicial machinery has been set in motion to oversee the sale of assets controlled within the confines of a receivership, that process must be allowed to play out. The court’s supervision of receiverships will give due regard to the intricate web of economic interests intertwined with the assets under the receiver’s control. In court-supervised receiverships, it is no longer the exclusive purview of a single creditor, but rather the collective interests of all economic stakeholders, that must be considered in this court-supervised process.
  • When addressing this issue, judicial deliberation should embark on a meticulous journey of ensuring balance. The court must delicately weigh the sacrosanct right to redemption against its potential repercussions of blemishing a fair, unbiased and transparent court-sanctioned receivership procedure.
  • A mockery would be made of the practice and procedures relating to receivership sales if redemption were permitted at that stage of the proceedings. A receiver would spend time and money securing an agreement of purchase and sale that was, as is commonplace, subject to Court approval, and for the benefit of all stakeholders, only for there to be a redemption by a mortgagee at the last minute. This could act as a potential chill on securing the best offer and be to the detriment of stakeholders.

The Court of Appeal for Ontario makes its decision

The Court of Appeal held that the appellants repeated the numerous complaints they made in the lower court about the lack of fairness in the sales process. The motions judge canvassed those complaints in considerable detail and found no merit in any of them. Her conclusion that the conduct of the sales process met the Soundair criteria was reasonable and free of palpable and overriding error, anchored as it was in the specific evidence before her.

Finally, the appellate court found no reversible error in the motions judge’s conclusion that the balance favoured protecting the integrity of the sales process over 273 Ontario’s request to redeem. The appeal was denied.

Image depicting a dramatic clash between a gavel symbolizing secured creditors' rights and a fading corporate logo, representing distressed companies. A ticking clock and courthouse backdrop emphasize urgency and legal battles in Canadian receiverships.
receiverships

Factors considered by courts in evaluating the timing of secured creditor’s challenge: Balancing creditor rights and sale finality

In evaluating the timing of a secured creditor’s challenge to block an approved buyer in Canadian receiverships, courts consider several factors. Firstly, they assess whether the creditor had sufficient notice and opportunity to challenge the sale. Timing is crucial, as courts look at whether the challenge was brought promptly and diligently.

Additionally, courts evaluate the potential impact on the sale process, including the harm to other stakeholders and the feasibility of an alternative solution. The creditor’s reasons and supporting evidence for the challenge are also scrutinized. Overall, the courts aim to balance the interests of the creditor with the need for finality and the preservation of the distressed company’s value.

Strategies for secured creditors to maximize influence

Testing a court-approved buyer too late in Canadian receiverships carries substantial prospective repercussions for secured creditors. The timing of these challenges is a vital variable that can considerably influence the outcome.

Leading among the dangers is the prospective loss of the opportunity to challenge the sale. Canadian courts value the finality of sales and receiverships while seeking to maximize the value of distressed company assets. Late legal challenges can interrupt this procedure and may not be viewed positively by the courts.

Secured lenders additionally risk forfeiting the chance to produce better offers or bargain for extra beneficial terms for themselves. Waiting too long to test an approved buyer can limit their capability to draw out the very best offer from the sale.

Additionally, late opposition can stain the integrity of secured creditors in the eyes of the court. This loss of reputation can have long-term consequences, potentially limiting their influence in future restructuring cases.

Secured creditors dealing with the intricate terrain of Canadian court-supervised receiverships, especially when opposing an approved buyer, are without a doubt confronted with an awesome challenge. To obtain the most favourable result for themselves, these creditors can carry out a variety of tactical techniques.

First and foremost, partnership emerges as a potent technique to reach an agreeable outcome. Secured lenders ought to take part in useful discussions with various other stakeholders and also the borrower, cultivating a joined front. This unity can significantly affect the selection of a receiver that understands their interests and intentions.

Moreover, direct engagement with the receiver is essential. By proactively participating in conversations with the receiver, secured creditors can make sure that their concerns and objectives are appropriately taken into consideration throughout the process. This interaction might also entail discovering different avenues, such as finding an approved buyer they support or offering financing to their preferred buyer, which can be advantageous in securing ideal end results.

A focus on detail cannot be underrated. Secured lenders should carefully inspect all essential documentation, leaving no rock unturned. Looking for experienced legal advice is critical to guarantee they are knowledgeable and supported to make sound decisions that will ideally safeguard their interests.

In summary, a mix of calculated planning, efficient interaction, as well as professional support is important for secured creditors seeking to navigate the elaborate landscape of court-supervised receiverships in Canada successfully. By embracing these approaches, they can boost their impact as well as maximize their opportunities to accomplish the most beneficial results.

Image depicting a dramatic clash between a gavel symbolizing secured creditors' rights and a fading corporate logo, representing distressed companies. A ticking clock and courthouse backdrop emphasize urgency and legal battles in Canadian receiverships.
receiverships

Canadian receiverships conclusion

I hope you enjoyed this receiverships Brandon’s Blog where I explored the dynamic realm of Canadian receiverships as secured creditors navigate the race against time to challenge court-approved buyers. The court must weigh the balance between creditor rights and sale finality that shapes the fate of distressed companies.

Individuals and business owners must take proactive measures to address financial difficulties and promptly seek assistance when necessary. It is crucial to recognize that financial stress is a prevalent concern and seeking help is a demonstration of fortitude, rather than vulnerability. Should you encounter challenges in managing your finances and find yourself burdened by stress, do not delay in pursuing aid.

Revenue and cash flow shortages are critical issues facing people, entrepreneurs and their companies and businesses with debt problems that are in financial distress. Are you now worried about just how you or your business are going to survive? Are you worried about what your fiduciary obligations are and not sure if the decisions you are about to make are the correct ones to avoid personal liability? Those concerns are obviously on your mind.

The Ira Smith Team understands these financial health concerns. More significantly, we know the requirements of the business owner or the individual who has way too much financial debt. You are trying to manage these difficult financial problems and you are understandably anxious.

It is not your fault you can’t fix this problem on your own and it does not mean that you are a bad person. The pandemic has thrown everyone a curveball. We have not been trained to deal with this. You have only been taught the old ways. The old ways do not work anymore. The Ira Smith Team uses innovative and cutting-edge methodologies, to adeptly navigate you through the intricacies of your financial challenges, ensuring a resolution to your debt-related predicaments without resorting to the rigours of the bankruptcy process. We can get you debt relief now!

We have helped many entrepreneurs and their insolvent companies who thought that consulting with a Trustee and receiver meant their company would go bankrupt. On the contrary. We helped turn their companies around through financial restructuring.

We look at your whole circumstance and design a strategy that is as distinct as you are. We take the load off of your shoulders as part of the debt settlement strategy we will draft just for you.

The Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. team understands that people facing money problems require a lifeline. That is why we can establish a restructuring procedure for you and end the discomfort you feel.

Call us now for a no-cost consultation. We will listen to the unique issues facing you and provide you with practical and actionable ideas you can implement right away to end the pain points in your life, Starting Over, Starting Now.

Image depicting a dramatic clash between a gavel symbolizing secured creditors' rights and a fading corporate logo, representing distressed companies. A ticking clock and courthouse backdrop emphasize urgency and legal battles in Canadian receiverships.
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FROM GRIPPING TAKEOVER TO DISCHARGE: HOW LONG DO RECEIVERSHIPS LAST?

How long do receiverships last in Canada? Introduction

In my September 2021 Brandon’s Blog, THE CANADIAN RECEIVERSHIP EASY BEGINNERS GUIDE, I provided an easy-to-understand guide to understand the receivership process. To summarize, I described that in Canada, a receivership is a legal remedy available to secured creditors to recover outstanding amounts under a secured loan if a company defaults on its loan payments. It may also be used in shareholder disputes to complete a project, liquidate assets, or sell a business.

A court may appoint a receiver to take possession of assets, oversee liquidation proceedings, and distribute the proceeds according to the applicable legal priorities as outlined in Canada’s Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (BIA). Or, a secured creditor may issue a letter of appointment to the same effect.

It is essential to recognize that receivership and bankruptcy are distinct legal proceedings. Bankruptcy is a formal proceeding, regulated by the BIA, to provide debtors with debt relief when they are financially incapable of paying their unsecured creditors. Conversely, a receivership is a process available to secured creditors to recuperate outstanding debt arising from a secured loan or to address shareholder disputes.

The purpose of this Brandon’s Blog is to answer the question I am often asked: “how long do receiverships last in Canada?”.

how long do receiverships last
how long do receiverships last

How long do receiverships last in Canada? Understanding what receivership is

There are two types of receiverships in Canada: court-appointed receiverships and private receiverships. Court-appointed receivers are appointed by a court to oversee the management and disposition of a debtor’s assets. Private receivers are appointed by secured creditors as part of a loan agreement and the security agreement between the debtor company and the creditor.to manage and sell a business debtor’s assets outside of the court system.

The receiver, regardless if it is a court-appointed receiver or privately appointed receiver, takes control of a company’s assets and business operations to repay outstanding debts to creditors. The receiver’s primary duty is to maximize the value of the assets and distribute the proceeds to the creditors according to their priority ranking. The receiver has the power to sell, manage, or liquidate the assets and may also negotiate with creditors to restructure the company’s debt.

Some key players in a receivership process are:

  • Borrower: The owner of the property who defaults on their loan obligations or faces financial distress.
  • Lender: The secured lender, normally a financial institution, who initiates the receivership action to protect their interest in the property and recover their debt.
  • Receiver: The neutral third party who is a licensed insolvency trustee (formerly called bankruptcy trustees) and is appointed either privately or by the court to take charge of the property and manage it toward a sale or resolution.
  • Court: The judicial authority that grants or denies the receivership request, sets the terms and conditions for the receiver’s appointment and oversees the receivership process.
  • Law firm: The lawyers who are acting for the lender, the borrower and the court-appointed receiver.

The powers and duties of a receiver can vary depending on the nature of the assets or the court order appointing them. Generally, it includes taking control of the assets, managing them in a financially responsible manner, and reporting to the court and parties involved in the dispute.

The duration of receiverships in Canada can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case, but it typically lasts for a few months to over a year.

how long do receiverships last
how long do receiverships last

How long do receiverships last in Canada?

Several factors will affect the duration of receivership in Canada, including:

  • the complexity of the case;
  • the number and nature of the assets involved;
  • the cooperation of the parties involved; and
  • the efficiency of the court system.

Other factors may include the availability of qualified professionals to manage and sell the assets, the level of creditor involvement and negotiation, and the overall economic and market conditions at the time. Ultimately, the length of receivership will depend on the specific circumstances of each case.

Court supervision is the oversight provided by a court in a court-appointed receivership. The purpose of court supervision is to appoint the receiver, to allow for the receiver to obtain the approval of the court to decisions and actions the court-appointed receiver wishes to take, to ensure that the receiver acts in the best interest of all parties involved and follows the court’s orders and to allow a forum for any aggrieved party to bring their dispute to the court for adjudication.

Termination of a receivership occurs when the court is satisfied that the receiver has fulfilled their duties and objectives or when the receiver’s appointment is no longer necessary. The court terminates a receivership by court order after approving the receiver’s final report and accounts.

how long do receiverships last
how long do receiverships last

How long do receiverships last in Canada? Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Navigating receiverships can be a tricky and complex situation. Asking questions like “how long do receiverships last in Canada?” is essential to any company dealing with financial hardship. Here I will cover some of the common FAQs associated with receiverships in Canada, and provide an in-depth look at the timeline of these proceedings. It is essential to have a thorough comprehension of receiverships to successfully manage this situation.

What are the differences between bankruptcy vs. receivership?

Receivership is a process to secure the rights of secured creditors, allowing for the control and eventual sale of the assets of a distressed company. Bankruptcy, on the other hand, is a legal process which allows a company in financial difficulty to reorganize its affairs or liquidate its assets under the guidance of an insolvency trustee – providing a safety net to unsecured creditors.

What happens during a receivership process in Canada?

As part of the receivership process in Canada, a receiver is appointed to handle a company’s assets and activities, facilitating the sale of these to settle the company’s debt to creditors.

How does a receiver sell a business or assets?

To sell a business or assets, a receiver has many options available. A receiver can:

  • advertise the assets for sale by running a tender bid sales process;
  • a tender bid sales process could be stand-alone or could be combined with a stalking horse sales process;
  • the assets could be liquidated through a public auction using the services of an auctioneer;
  • the receiver could hand all the assets over to a liquidator in order to sell the assets in an online auction;
  • in certain circumstances, the receiver may wish to hire a professional business broker experienced in that particular industry or assets the receiver took possession of; or
  • for retail store assets, the receiver may sell the entire package of assets and will then run a retail sale to the public.

Regardless of the process chosen, the receiver’s aim is to market and sell the assets or business and obtain the best price for the assets or business under the circumstances.

How does a creditor apply for receivership in Canada?

Secured lenders can apply for receivership in Canada by filing an application to the court under a federal or provincial statute or enforcing their security rights by appointing a receiver privately through a security instrument by way of an appointment letter. A receivership is a remedy that allows a secured creditor to take control of and sell the debtor’s property and assets to collect their secured debt through a private or court appointment process.

Can a receivership be stopped or avoided?

Receivership can sometimes be stopped or avoided through negotiation with the secured creditor(s), restructuring or refinancing of debts, or by finding alternative sources of funding. However, whether or not it can be stopped or avoided depends on the specific circumstances of each case. The cessation of receivership will not be easy unless the secured creditor is being paid out.

how long do receiverships last
how long do receiverships last

How does a creditor enforce a secured loan in Canada?

In Canada, a creditor can enforce a secured loan by appointing a receiver under a private contract or through the court process. Upon appointment, the receiver will seize and sell the secured assets or the assets set out in the court order to recover the amount owed.

However, before being able to appoint the Receiver, there have to be one or more events of default as described in the loan agreement. Then, the lender must be reasonable in allowing the company borrower to cure the default. If the company in default does not remedy the default(s) and the lender has lost confidence, the lender can then make a written demand on the company to repay the entire loan, plus interest and costs and also serve the necessary statutory form on the defaulting borrower.

The lender must give the borrower a reasonable period of time to repay the secured lender’s debt. Reasonable time will vary depending on the unique circumstances of the situation. In Canada, the minimum amount of time that has to be given is 10 days, unless the borrower acknowledges in writing that they can never repay the debt and is waiving the notice period.

Legal options available to recover outstanding loan payments may include sending demand letters, filing a lawsuit, obtaining a judgment and using collection methods such as wage garnishment or asset seizure.

How long does the bankruptcy process take in Canada?

The timeline of a corporate bankruptcy process depends on the uniqueness and complexity of each individual situation. There is no typical timeline, but, it could be a year or more from the start of the bankruptcy until the licensed insolvency trustee is discharged.

How do I liquidate assets in Canada?

When seeking to divest yourself of some assets you have a plethora of choices – in the case of an asset like real estate, you can list it on the public market. Alternatively, you can try to find the right buyer on your own. Or, if you’d like some professional assistance, enlist the help of a savvy broker or financial adviser.

What are the consequences of not paying off secured loans in Canada?

In Canada, if you don’t pay back a secured loan, the lender may reclaim the collateral you put up, personal property like a car or real property such as a house. Don’t let your possessions be taken away! Be sure to make all loan payments in a timely manner.

how long do receiverships last
how long do receiverships last

How long do receiverships last in Canada? Conclusion

So I hope that you now have a good appreciation for receiverships in Canada including the answer to the question “how long do receiverships last in Canada?”. If your company or business is under financial pressure and your secured creditor is about to demand full repayment of all loans, you need immediate professional advice.

Revenue and cash flow shortages are critical issues facing entrepreneurs and their companies and businesses. Are you now worried about just how you or your business are going to survive? Are you worried about what your fiduciary obligations are and not sure if the decisions you are about to make are the correct ones to avoid personal liability? Those concerns are obviously on your mind. Coming out of the pandemic, we are also now worried about the economic effects of inflation and a potential recession.

The Ira Smith Team understands these concerns. More significantly, we know the requirements of the business owner or the individual that has way too much financial debt. You are trying to manage these difficult financial problems and you are understandably anxious.

It is not your fault you can’t fix this problem on your own. The pandemic has thrown everyone a curveball. We have not been trained to deal with this. You have only been taught the old ways. The old ways do not work anymore. The Ira Smith Team makes use of new contemporary ways to get you out of your debt problems while avoiding bankruptcy. We can get you debt relief now.

We have helped many entrepreneurs and their insolvent companies who thought that consulting with a trustee and receiver meant their company would go bankrupt. On the contrary. We helped turn their companies around through financial restructuring.

We look at your whole circumstance and design a strategy that is as distinct as you are. We take the load off of your shoulders as part of the debt settlement strategy we will draft just for you.

The Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. team understands that people facing money problems require a lifeline. That is why we can establish a restructuring procedure for you and end the discomfort you feel.

Call us now for a no-cost consultation. We will listen to the unique issues facing you and provide you with practical and actionable ideas you can implement right away to end the pain points in your life, Starting Over, Starting Now.

how long do receiverships last
how long do receiverships last
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RECEIVERSHIP IN CANADA: THE COMPLETE STORY OF WHOSE HAPPY RECEIVER IS IT ANYWAY?

Receivership in Canada: What does receivership mean?

I have just read a decision of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice Commerical List dealing with an important aspect of receivership in Canada. The case is concerned with what happens when two equally applicable provincial laws appear to be working at cross purposes in the context of the receivership in Canada process.

I will explain the case and the process of company receivership in Canada. By understanding the process, the case will make more sense.

Secured lenders may enforce their security to recover loans from borrowers who have defaulted. This remedy available to secured creditors when a borrower, usually a company defaults, is known as receivership.

What does going into receivership in Canada mean?

A receivership is a legal process available to secured creditors, whereby a company’s affairs, business and property are entrusted to a receiver to manage and eventually sell the assets. Secured lenders may enforce their security to recover loans from borrowers who have defaulted. This remedy available to secured creditors is known as receivership.

If a business debtor does not make payments or otherwise defaults on a secured loan, the secured creditor would have the right to appoint a receiver to collect the money owed. Before appointing a receiver, a secured creditor must first issue a “Section 244” notice of intention to enforce security. This is a notification that secured creditors must send to defaulting debtors before appointing a receiver. Section 244 refers to that section number in the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (Canada) (BIA).

The notice states that the security covers certain assets, that the company in default owes a specified amount to the secured creditor, and that the creditor may enforce the security after 10 days. The company in default may waive the notice period and consent to the appointment of the receiver.

Under the BIA, only a licensed insolvency trustee (formerly called a trustee in bankruptcy) can be a receiver. No other party is licensed to administer a receivership in Canada.

receivership in canada
receivership in canada

Receivership in Canada: What is the difference between a court-appointed receiver and a privately appointed receiver?

A privately-appointed receiver is a licensed trustee who is appointed by a contract between the insolvency trustee and the secured creditor. A private receiver is typically used when there is no dispute to ranking among secured creditors or various claims to ownership of the company’s assets. The powers of a receiver listed in the security document give the privately appointed receiver more limited powers than a court-appointed receiver gets under a court order.

A receiver is court-appointed when the secured creditor makes an application to the court for the appointment of a receiver with more expanded powers. Like a privately-appointed receiver, a court-appointed receiver takes control of a company’s property because of financial distress and when there is a dispute among secured creditors and others as to the ranking of secured claims and ownership of property.

Both kinds of receivers are tasked with protecting and preserving the value of the company or property and are certainly given broader powers by the court to do so.

How is receivership in Canada different from bankruptcy proceedings?

Many people mistakenly use the terms “receivership” and “bankruptcy” interchangeably. However, bankruptcy and receivership are two distinct legal proceedings with different implications.

Bankruptcy vs. receivership can be confusing, but once you understand the key differences between the two, it is fairly straightforward. Whether it is a private appointment or a court-appointed receiver, the differences between bankruptcy and receivership in Canada are the same.

A receivership is a legal remedy available to secured creditors to enforce their security rights against a defaulting debtor. A receiver is appointed to manage the debtor’s property and assets and sell them under a properly run and fair sales process.

The Canadian bankruptcy process is a distinct legal process. An insolvency trustee does not represent secured creditors in bankruptcy proceedings. Instead, under the bankruptcy regime, they represent the unsecured creditors of the bankrupt estate. A corporate debtor may be subject to both bankruptcy and receivership proceedings simultaneously.

One of the major differences has to do with the creditors. In a bankruptcy administration, the bankruptcy trustee must call a meeting of creditors. This is where the insolvency trustee provides its report on the affairs and conduct of the bankrupt debtor and unsecured creditors get to vote on any matters of importance. In receivership, there is no such requirement to hold a meeting of creditors.

receivership in canada
receivership in canada

What are the key distinctions between receivership in Canada and liquidation?

So you know what receivership is by now. The federal BIA doesn’t govern liquidation, that’s done under the provincial Business Corporations Act or Wind-Up Act.

A liquidation is for a solvent company where the shareholders, Officers and directors decide to cease business operations. The company puts up its assets for sale and uses the proceeds to pay off its creditors with cash. Any funds left over are then distributed to the shareholders.

A liquidator can be appointed either privately by the company’s directors or by a court order. Liquidation is therefore different from both bankruptcy and receivership in Canada.

Can individuals be placed into receivership in Canada?

The answer is yes. When a secured creditor wishes to take enforcement action upon the security agreement they have against a debtor’s property, as indicated above, they have the remedy of receivership in Canada. This remedy allows them to collect as much of their secured debt as possible.

There are no restrictions as to who can go into receivership in Canada. One of our more famous (infamous?) receivership cases over the years has been the receivership of the assets, property and undertaking of Norma and Ronauld Walton.

receivership in canada
receivership in canada

Receivership in Canada: Whose receiver is it anyway?

Now for the court case where two different provincial laws caused a fight amongst secured creditors over the appointment of a receiver. The case is Canadian Equipment Finance and Leasing Inc. v. The Hypoint Company Limited, 2618905 Ontario Limited, 2618909 Ontario Limited, Beverley Rockliffe and Chantal Bock, 2022 ONSC 6186. The two competing provincial statutes are the Mortgages Act and the Personal Property Security Act.

The business is conducted through two affiliated entities. One owns the property and the other operates the business. This is quite a typical arrangement.

One creditor funded the purchase of equipment and took PPSA security over it. Another creditor funded the acquisition of the real property and has a traditional mortgage security. The security agreements extend over different assets, and the outcome is usually uncomplicated.

However, when equipment that has been purchased is attached to real property, there is disagreement about whether and how it can be removed, and whether such removal will negatively affect the value of both the equipment and the real property. The question is now more complicated: which creditor’s rights should take priority over this matter?

Both the equipment lender and the mortgagee are seeking to enforce their security. The equipment lender has filed a motion with the court to appoint a receiver over both the operating company (Opco) that owns the pledged equipment and the holding company (Holdco) that owns the real estate. This would allow the receiver to manage and sell the assets of both companies in order to repay the outstanding debt.

In this case, Opco was a commercial marijuana operation that was unable to get off the ground due to its heavy debt load and startup problems.

Although the mortgagee began power of sale enforcement proceedings, they do not object to a receiver being appointed over the equipment only. The mortgagee wishes to continue its power of sale proceedings and opposes the receiver being appointed over the building. The mortgagee in possession is of the opinion that the equipment is attached to the building and cannot be removed.

The mortgagee concurred that the court has the power to assign a receiver over the property of both Opco and Holdco according to section 101 of the Ontario Courts of Justice Act. They stated that, if a receiver is appointed, the receiver needs to be a firm chosen by them.

Both the licensed insolvency trustee firm preferred by the mortgagee and the firm nominated by the equipment lender filed a consent to act with the court.

What are the conditions under which a receiver may be appointed?

The court looked at numerous factors in order to make a decision on whether or not to appoint a receiver, and if so, which one, including those that have historically in receivership in Canada cases been taken into account in such determinations:

  1. Although it is not essential for a creditor to establish irreparable harm if a receiver is not appointed where the appointment is authorized by the security documentation, the court considered if no order is made, will irreparable harm be caused?
  2. The size of the debtor company’s equity in the assets and the need for protection or safeguarding of assets during litigation are important factors to consider when assessing the risk to the security holder.
  3. The kind of property it is.
  4. The potential for the assets to be wasted or dissipated.
  5. The need to safeguard the property until a legal ruling is made.
  6. The parties’ respective balance of convenience needs to be considered when making the decision.
  7. Pursuant to the loan documentation, the creditor has the right to an appointment.
  8. Enforcing the security instrument when the security holder experiences or anticipates difficulties with the debtor.
  9. The principle of appointing a receiver should be approached with caution.
  10. The court will determine whether appointing a receiver is necessary to enable the receiver to carry out its duties efficiently.
  11. The effect a receivership order will have on the parties.
  12. The parties’ conduct.
  13. How long a receivership may last.
  14. The financial impact on the parties.
  15. The likelihood of maximizing return to the parties is increased.
  16. The goal of ensuring the smooth running of the receiver’s duties.

As everyone agreed that all assets of both Opco and Holdco should be sold to maximize recovery for all creditors, but cannot agree on the process by which that should be undertaken, resulting in the entire process being stalled, the judge was satisfied that it is just and convenient to appoint a receiver.

The court found that either proposed receiver was acceptable and decided that the receiver nominated by the mortgagee would be appointed by the court to administer all assets. The receiver would eventually come back to court with a sales plan to maximize the value of all the assets subject to the security of all stakeholders.

receivership in canada
receivership in canada

How the entrepreneur can avoid receivership in Canada

As a business owner, the way to avoid the receivership process is long before financial difficulties ever become serious financial problems. Here are a few tips on how to do just that:

  • Keep a close eye on your finances. This means regularly reviewing your income and expenses, and making sure you have a good handle on your cash flow.
  • Stay current on your bills. This includes not only making timely payments but also staying on top of any changes in your billing terms or amounts.
  • Keep good records. This means having up-to-date financial statements and documentation for all of your income and expenses.
  • Make a plan. If you do find yourself in a financial bind, have a plan in place for how you’ll get out of it. This may include negotiating with creditors, seeking new financing, or making cuts to your expenses.
  • Seek professional help from a licensed insolvency trustee with commercial insolvency experience. If your business is viable and you seek help early enough, there may be many options. The most common ones are refinancing with or without financial restructuring. Reviewing your business allows us to make restructuring recommendations allowing your viable company to become healthy and profitable once again.

Receivership in Canada summary & speak with a licensed insolvency trustee

I hope you enjoyed this receivership in Canada Brandon’s Blog.

Revenue and cash flow shortages are critical issues facing entrepreneurs and their companies and businesses. Are you now worried about just how you or your business are going to survive? Those concerns are obviously on your mind. Coming out of the pandemic, we are now worried about its economic effects of inflation and a potential recession.

The Ira Smith Team understands these concerns. More significantly, we know the requirements of the business owner or the individual that has way too much financial debt. You are trying to manage these difficult financial problems and you are understandably anxious.

It is not your fault you can’t fix this problem on your own. The pandemic has thrown everyone a curveball. We have not been trained to deal with this. You have only been taught the old ways. The old ways do not work anymore. The Ira Smith Team makes use of new contemporary ways to get you out of your debt problems while avoiding bankruptcy. We can get you debt relief now.

We have helped many entrepreneurs and their insolvent companies who thought that consulting with a trustee and receiver meant their company would go bankrupt. On the contrary. We helped turn their companies around through financial restructuring.

We look at your whole circumstance and design a strategy that is as distinct as you are. We take the load off of your shoulders as part of the debt settlement strategy we will draft just for you.

We understand that people facing money problems require a lifeline. That is why we can establish a restructuring procedure for you and end the discomfort you feel.

Call us now for a no-cost consultation. We will listen to the unique issues facing you and provide you with practical and actionable ideas you can implement right away to end the pain points in your life, Starting Over, Starting Now.

receivership in canada
receivership in canada

 

 

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RECEIVER APPOINTED BY COURT: 16 KEY INGREDIENTS TO ENSURE COURT APPROVAL OF A RECEIVER

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, we hope that you, your family, and your friends are safe, healthy, and secure. Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. is fully operational, and both Ira and Brandon Smith are readily available for phone or video consultations.

A receiver appointed by court: What is a receiver in Canada?

In the event that a company has financial difficulties, a Receiver may be appointed to take over its assets and manage them until its assets can be sold. The receivers are third parties appointed to supervise the liquidation process and remit the proceeds in accordance with legal priorities. A judge appoints a court-appointed receiver, and a secured creditor appoints a privately appointed receiver under a simple appointment letter. In Canada, for a court-appointed receivership, a receiver appointed by court must be a licensed insolvency trustee (formerly known as a bankruptcy trustee).

In this Brandon Blog, I focus on the factors to be considered by the Court when determining an application for a receiver appointed by court.

receiver appointed by court
receiver appointed by court

The receiver appointed by court: What happens when a receiver is appointed?

The licensed trustee acting as receiver’s first duty is to take possession and control of the assets covered by the secured creditor’s security, or of all the assets identified in the court order in a court appointment. The receiver can decide if it can sell the assets for a higher price if it operates the business.

Senior management and the Board of Directors lose most of their decision-making authority when the company goes into receivership. Their advice and assistance are only needed if requested by the receiver.

The source of authority for the receiver appointed by court is appointed in Ontario under two statutes:

The receiver appointed privately has a duty of care to only the appointing secured creditor. Court-appointed receivers are responsible to all creditors.

receiver appointed by court
receiver appointed by court

Receiver appointed by court: When can a court appoint a receiver?

Under Section 101 of the Courts of Justice Act (Ontario), the court considers whether the appointment “is just or convenient” under the circumstances. When deciding the origin of authority on whether or not to appoint a receiver as the court-appointed officer, the court must consider a variety of factors. Among them leading to the authority for decision making when there is an application for authorization for the appointment of a receiver are:

  1. in spite of not having to prove it, will there be irreparable harm if the court does not appoint a receiver?;
  2. the risk to a secured creditor and the equity the company owns in the assets, while litigation continues;
  3. types of assets that would be subject to possession with respect to the receiver’ acts in its appointment;
  4. it is necessary to balance the interests of the parties and to consider their rights;the preservation and protection of the property through the receivership proceeding pending judicial determination;
  5. under its security, the creditor has the right to appoint a receiver;
  6. when a creditor expects that the debtor will resist the enforcement of its security agreement;
  7. it is an extreme measure which should be authorized sparingly, but less so if the applicant is a secured creditor who has that right under its security document;
  8. in order to allow the receiver to perform its duties more effectively, a court appointment is necessary;
  9. effects of the receivership order on the various parties;
  10. actions taken by the parties and the litigation against properties;
  11. duration of the Court-Approved receivership;
  12. the costs incurred by each party;
  13. it is likely that the receiver appointed by the court will maximize the return to the parties when the assets are sold under a receivership asset purchase agreement with the purchaser of assets;
  14. facilitating the receiver’s duties and activities for its asset plan by a court order; and
  15. a secured creditor’s good faith, the commercial reasonableness of the proposed Court-Appointed receivership and any equity questions.

A decision will usually turn on whether it is necessary to incur the expense and formalities of naming the third party to exercise neutral, transparent, and accountable stewardship of the debtor’s assets, while interested parties argue about the merits of the dispute and the receiver, attempts to maximize the recovery under an asset purchase agreement.

The court will usually intervene if the parties’ dispute puts the business assets at risk or where realizing the debtor’s assets or indemnifying a private receiver could impair the secured creditor’s recovery options. Often, simple default on the secured debt will be sufficient to attract a receivership where the risk to the business is implicit in the nature of the business or the dispute between the creditor(s) and the debtor(s). However, as with all equitable remedies, context is everything and each case turns on its own facts.

receiver appointed by court
receiver appointed by court

A receiver appointed by court summary

I hope you found this receiver appointed by court Brandon Blog informative. Although nothing is guaranteed, managing your debt in a way that will allow you or your company in a way to be able to afford it, will lead to your financial success. It will also give you the best shot at having a financially stress-free life.

Are you or your company in financial distress and a debt crisis? Are you embroiled in costly litigation or a crushing debt load and need a time out in order to restructure? Do you not have adequate funds to pay your financial obligations as they come due? Are you worried about what will happen to you? Do you need to search out what your debt relief options and realistic debt relief solutions for your family debt are? Is your company in financial hot water?

Call the Ira Smith Team today. We have decades and generations of experience assisting people looking for life-changing debt solutions through a debt settlement plan and AVOID the bankruptcy process.

As licensed insolvency professionals, we are the only people accredited, acknowledged and supervised by the federal government to provide insolvency advice and to implement approaches to help you remain out of personal bankruptcy while eliminating your debts. A consumer proposal is a Government of Canada-approved debt settlement plan to do that. It is an alternative to bankruptcy. We will help you decide on what is best for you between a consumer proposal vs bankruptcy.

Call the Ira Smith Team today so you can eliminate the stress, anxiety, and pain from your life that your financial problems have caused. With the one-of-a-kind roadmap, we develop just for you, we will immediately return you right into a healthy balanced problem-free life.

You can have a no-cost analysis so we can help you fix your troubles.

Call the Ira Smith Team today. This will allow you to go back to a new healthy and balanced life, Starting Over Starting Now.

receiver appointed by court
receiver appointed by court

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, we hope that you, your family, and your friends are safe, healthy, and secure. Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. is fully operational, and both Ira and Brandon Smith are readily available for phone or video consultations.

 

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THE CANADIAN RECEIVERSHIP EASY BEGINNERS GUIDE

receivership

We hope that you and your family are safe, healthy and secure during this COVID-19 pandemic.

Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. is absolutely operational and Ira, in addition to Brandon Smith, is readily available for a telephone consultation or video meeting.

If you wish to listen to an audio version of this Brandon Blog, please scroll to the very bottom of the page and click play on the podcast.

What is Receivership?

Last week I wrote an easy beginner’s guide on bankruptcy. This Brandon Blog is for anybody interested in finding out what type of insolvency process receivership is and how it differs from some other insolvency processes. I will explain the receivership process, provide an overview of what happens in a receivership, explaining what is sought to achieve, and the consequences of receivership.

Receiverships occur when a secured lender enforces its security to recover loans that have been defaulted on by a borrower. Secured creditors appoint an insolvency trustee to serve as receiver or receiver-manager depending on the terms of their security documents when the corporate debtor defaults.

Receivers and secured lenders can enter into a private contract appointing a receiver. Alternatively, the secured lender may seek an order from the court appointing a receiver. I’ll talk more about that shortly.

What Does Going into Receivership Mean?

If the corporate debtor defaults on a secured loan, the creditor may be entitled to appoint a receiver to collect their money. In Canada, “Section 244” notices are specific forms of notification that secured creditors must send to defaulting companies.

The notice specifies the assets covered by the security, the amount owed by the company in default, and that the secured creditor has the right to enforce the security after 10 days. The debtor company in default can consent to the appointment of the receiver before the expiration of the 10 day notice period.

A Section 244 notice is prescribed under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (Canada) (BIA), and it is usually the last notice a creditor receives before the receiver takes possession of the debtor’s assets, properties, and undertakings.

Receivers then liquidate the assets of a business in order to pay secured creditors.

receivership

How Receivership Works

Parliament amended the BIA insolvency legislation in 1992 by enacting Part XI. BIA sections 243 through 252 to deal with secured creditors and receivers. Prior to that time, there was no federal statute insolvency legislation dealing with receivership matters. These provisions provide information about the court that hears bankruptcy and insolvency cases control over receivership matters that involve all or substantially all of the inventory, the accounts receivable, or the other property of a debtor. There are also restrictions imposed on the duties of secured creditors and receivers. It also stipulates that only a licensed insolvency trustee can act as a receiver. Part XI applies to both privately-appointed and court-appointed receivers.

These sections do not confer any powers available to a trustee of a bankrupt estate on secured creditors or receivers. Only those powers conferred upon the receiver in the appointment letter are granted to private receivers, and those are the powers specified in the security instrument. However, the receiver may also exercise certain statutory powers. If certain powers are required to administer the estate but are omitted under the security instrument, a receiver cannot act. Receivers are generally appointed by the secured creditor pursuant to security that at least states:

  • the collateral secured under the security; and
  • the receiver has the right to dispose of the collateral, including operating the insolvent debtor‘s business.

In a court-appointed receivership, the powers of the receiver come from the receivership appointment court order appointing the court-appointed receiver.

Receivership: Notice and Statement of the Receiver

From the 1992 amendments to the BIA, a receiver is required to provide notice to all known creditors of an insolvent debtor in receivership. Previously, creditors were not required to be notified.

When the receiver has become the receiver of an insolvent debtor‘s property, the receiver must provide notice of receivership as soon as reasonably possible but within 10 days of its appointment. Notice of the receivership must be sent to all creditors, the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy and the insolvent debtor.

If the debtor is also bankrupt, rather than sending the notice to all creditors, the receiver sends the notice to the bankruptcy trustee. Since the creditors are already represented in corporate bankruptcy by the Trustee, the bankruptcy process will deal with them.

A receivership notice states, among other things, that the receiver has been appointed, whether it is a private appointment or a court appointment, and what the receiver’s plan of action is. Additionally, it contains a list of all known creditors.

As part of the receivership process, the receiver must provide interim reports every six months as well as a final report when the receivership is concluded. A copy of the receiver’s final receipts and disbursements statement must also be included in the final notice.receivership

What’s The Difference Between a Court-Appointed Receiver and a Privately Appointed Receiver?

A court-appointed receiver vs. a privately appointed receiver is something people always want to know the answer to. I will explain the difference to you. It is pretty simple. Based on what I have already written, you have probably guessed it by now.

In a Court-appointed receivership, when the Court appoints a receiver, it does so through an Order on the application of the secured creditor. As between a secured creditor and a debtor, a privately appointed receiver is a receiver who is appointed by the secured creditor as provided in the Security Agreement. The Court-appointed receiver’s administration is supervised by the Court.

How is Receivership Different from Bankruptcy? Bankruptcy / receivership

Bankruptcy vs. receivership is also something people want to know. Many times, people confuse the two and use the terms receivership and bankruptcy, mistakenly, interchangeably. Often, receiverships and bankruptcy are confused, but the differences between the two are fairly straightforward. Whether it is a private appointment or a Court-appointed receivership, it is still different.

There are several main differences between bankruptcy and receivership. A receivership is a remedy available to secured creditors, as stated above. In order to enforce the secured creditor’s security rights against a defaulting debtor, a receiver is appointed.

Bankruptcy is a separate legal process. Trustees do not represent secured creditors in bankruptcy. Instead, they represent unsecured creditors. Corporate bankruptcy can occur simultaneously with a receivership of the same corporate debtor. The process of a corporate bankruptcy would be the subject of another Brandon Blog. To find other Brandon Blogs about corporate bankruptcy, use the search function at the top of this page.receivership

What’s the Difference Between Receivership and Liquidation?

By now you know what the definition of receivership is. So I won’t repeat it because I do not want to sound like a broken record (younger people may not catch that reference!)!

Liquidation is not governed by the federal BIA. Rather, it is done under the provincial Business Corporations Act or Wind-Up Act. A liquidation is for a solvent company where the shareholders, Officers and Directors decide to cease business operations by running off any existing contracts and selling off the assets. The cash obtained is then used first to pay off the creditors. Any funds leftover is then distributed to the shareholders.

Just like a receiver, a liquidator can be appointed either privately by resolution of the Directors or by Court order. Liquidation is not a receivership or bankruptcy.

Employee Rights in Bankruptcy Protection and Bankruptcy⁄Receivership

A device was created by the BIA for employees of a company that went bankrupt or into receivership. It does not apply to employees of a company trying to rightsize itself through reorganization; either a BIA Proposal or a Plan of Arrangement under the CCAA. The Wage Earner Protection Program Act (WEPPA) protects wages or benefits, including termination and severance pay, accumulated in the 6 months prior to a business going bankrupt or going into receivership.

The WEPPA ended up being enacted due to the federal government’s concern that when a company went bankrupt and employees were not paid their wages, there was rarely an opportunity for them to recoup any of their income. There are limits or caps on what employees can receive.

In the period in which amounts are past due to you, you will not qualify for WEPPA if:

  • you are a Director or Officer of the business;
  • or you have worked as a manager for the company
  • you are part of the management responsible for negotiating or refusing to pay amounts owed.

You may qualify if:

  • the previous employer has gone bankrupt or into receivership.
  • The firm owes you wages, salaries, vacation pay, or unreimbursed costs throughout the six months prior to the date of bankruptcy or receivership.

When an employer enters bankruptcy or receivership, the WEPPA provides funds to employees owed money. Those employees who qualify are paid as soon as possible. An employee’s qualifying earnings are equal to seven times their maximum regular insurance earnings under the Employment Insurance Act. According to Service Canada, the maximum amount of $56,300 a year is the limit for insurable earnings as of January 1, 2021. Thus, in 2021 the maximum amount a former employee can claim under WEPPA is $7,578.83.

Trustees and receivers are required to inform employees about the WEPPA program and provide information about amounts due. In the event of bankruptcy or receivership, trustees, as well as receivers, have 45 days to submit to Service Canada the Trustee Information Forms showing the amounts owed to each employee.

In other words, WEPPA‘s payment for former employees is something, but it may not be enough to fully compensate each. As a result of the amount paid by Service Canada, which administers the employment insurance system, $2,000 per employee is a super-priority against the company’s current assets. All remaining amounts paid to each employee, up to the maximum, are unsecured claims.receivership

Receivership summary

I hope you found this receivership Brandon Blog informative and that the differences between receivership, bankruptcy, restructuring and liquidation legal proceedings are now clearer. Because it all has to do with corporate insolvency, the provincial Bankruptcy Courts also deal with receivership matters to adjudicate under the applicable insolvency law.

With too high debt levels and not enough wealth, you are insolvent. You can choose from several insolvency processes to get the debt relief that you need and deserve. It may not be necessary for you to file for bankruptcy.

If you or your business are dealing with substantial debt challenges, you need debt help, and you assume bankruptcy is the only option, call me.

If you’re thinking about bankruptcy, you’re probably in a situation where you’re overwhelmed, frightened, and feel like you’re alone. That’s natural and it is not your fault.

It’s good that you’ve come to this site, where you’ll find answers to your questions, sort through your options, and discover that you can get help. You’re not alone, and the professionals at Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. are committed to helping you find a debt solution that’s best for you.

It is not your fault that you remain in this way. You have actually been only shown the old ways to try to deal with financial issues. These old ways do not work anymore.

The Ira Smith Team utilizes new modern-day ways to get you out of your debt difficulties with debt relief options as an alternative to bankruptcy. We can get you the relief you need and so deserve. Our professional advice will create for you a personalized debt-free plan for you or your company during our no-cost initial consultation.

You are under a lot of pressure. Our team knows how you feel. You and your financial and emotional problems will be the focus of a new approach designed specifically for you. With our help, you will be able to blow away the dark cloud over your head. We will design a debt settlement strategy for you. We know that we can help you now.

We understand that people with credit cards maxed out and businesses facing financial issues need a realistic lifeline. There is no “one solution fits all” method with the Ira Smith Team. Not everyone has to file bankruptcy in Canada. The majority of our clients never do as we know the alternatives to bankruptcy. We help many people and companies stay clear of filing an assignment in bankruptcy.

Because of this, we can develop a new method for paying down your debt that will be built specifically for you. It will be as unique as the economic problems and discomfort you are experiencing. If any one of these seems familiar to you and you are serious about getting the solution you need to become debt-free, contact the Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. group today.

Call us now for a no-cost consultation.

We hope that you and your family are safe, healthy and secure during this COVID-19 pandemic.

Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. is absolutely operational and Ira, in addition to Brandon Smith, is readily available for a telephone consultation or video meeting.

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WHAT IS A RECEIVERSHIP? OUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO RECEIVERSHIP SOLUTIONS

what is a receivership?

We hope that you and your family are safe, healthy and secure during this coronavirus pandemic. Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. is absolutely operational and Ira, in addition to Brandon Smith, is readily available for a telephone consultation or video meeting.

What is a receivership?

What is a receivership is a question I am asked often. Receivership is a remedy available to secured lenders to recoup as much of their debt as possible. A secured creditor, normally a financial institution, has lent funds to the company or individual under a secured financing transaction. They did it this way so in the event the company or person defaults on its finance payments, they can enforce against the assets subject to the security.

Receivership is a different process than bankruptcy for the sale of the properties of a corporation. In Canada, the secured creditor is typically the Bank as the lender. Normally, when a borrower misses payments, they tend to be insolvent. However, it is possible to have a receivership in Ontario even if the borrower is not insolvent.

In this Brandon Blog, I am going to tell you all about receivership. What is a receivership? How it works. When it can be used? What types of receivership are there?

What is a receivership? Examples of receivership in a sentence

What is a receivership? Receivership is a legal proceeding. Either a secured creditor privately appoints the receiver by instrument or a court appoints a person or company, called a receiver, to collect and manage the assets of a person or business that is unable to manage those assets effectively.

To understand more about the receivership process, we first need to look at the types of receivership. These are:

  • Liquidating receivership – This is a type of receivership that is brought about when a company ceases operations because the management of the company is unable to make it a viable business again. If the business is not viable, then the receiver will not operate it and will find buyers for the assets.
  • Operating receivership – This form of receivership is when parts of the company are viable or must otherwise continue operating under receivership. The business assets have a great deal of value if operating, but if shut down, relatively no value. In this case, the receiver will continue operating the business and the secured creditor will agree to lend funds if the business’s cash flow is insufficient. While operating the business, the receiver will also look for buyers.

The word “receiver” originally meant “a person appointed by a court to manage the affairs of another, especially a bankrupt or insolvent“. The term is now more widely applied and refers to a person placed in temporary charge and control of another person’s assets or a business entity. A receivership is a form of governance used in a wide range of situations. It is particularly common in the fields of law and business.

What is a receivership in a sentence – A receivership is a legal process started by a secured creditor either privately appointing a receiver by instrument or making an application to the court for an order that forces a party to carry out the duties of a receiver over the assets of a company or person.

what is a receivership
what is a receivership?

In Canada, section 243(4) of the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (Canada) (BIA) dictates that only a licensed insolvency trustee can act as a receiver. From the above, you should now realize that there are two types of receivers: (i) privately appointed receiver; and (ii) court-appointed receiver.

What is a receivership? 10 – Day Notice of Intention to Enforce Security

Section 244 of the BIA relates to a secured creditor who intends to enforce its security against an insolvent debtor, either through private appointment or by making an application to the court. This section states that any secured creditor who intends to enforce against all, or substantially all, of the inventory, accounts receivable or other property used by the insolvent debtor in its business, must give adequate notice. The notice must be in writing by using the form prescribed by the BIA.

The BIA defines adequate as a minimum of 10 days. A secured creditor must send out the 10-day notice of intention to enforce security and cannot enforce its security until the 10 days have expired unless the debtor consents in writing to earlier enforcement. The purpose of giving the 10-day notice is to allow the insolvent debtor a chance to either negotiate some resolution with the secured creditor or otherwise attempt to reorganize its financial affairs. An example of reorganizing would be speaking with new potential lenders, consideration of assets that could be sold to repay or otherwise reduce the indebtedness to the unhappy secured creditor.

The insolvent debtor may also be considering invoking an insolvency process such as a Division I Proposal under the BIA to reorganize all of its debts to implement a financial reorganization strategy. If a proposal or a notice of intention to make a proposal under the BIA is filed by the insolvent debtor before the expiry of the 10 day period, then the enforcement action of the secured creditor has initially stayed.

That secured creditor would have to make an application to the court to show that it has lost total confidence in the insolvent debtor’s abilities and it will not support any reorganization attempt. The application is to lift the automatic stay of proceedings that happened when the insolvent debtor filed, to allow the secured creditor to enforce its security against the assets to try to recover as much of the secured debt as possible through the appointment of a receiver.

Why did 10 days become the official notice period? This was part of amendments to the BIA made in 2009. It arose as a .esult of court decisions over what is reasonable notice. The most famous case is one that insolvency practitioners refer to as Lister v. Dunlop. The case made its way all the way up to the Supreme Court of Canada. The proper name of the case is R.E. Lister Ltd. v. Dunlop Canada Ltd., [1982] 1 S.C.R. 726. The decision was released on May 31, 1982.

The case dealt with a variety of issues, including what is receivership. Another of the issues considered was a reasonable notice to be given when a secured creditor demanded repayment of its demand loan, due to one or more defaults on loan? The most common default is defaulting on making the required loan payments on time. The loan agreement and debenture securing the loan stated that it was a demand loan and that the lender must give reasonable notice when making the demand.

However, in the “old days”, there was never a definition of what reasonable notice was. In fact, in Ontario, the law at the time was that reasonable notice only came into being if the business owner asked for a time to repay the loan. What was reasonable was a matter of discussion and negotiation. In Lister v. Dunlop, it was determined that Dunlop did not provide reasonable notice, based on the specific facts in that case.

Case law evolved and eventually, in 2009, the BIA was amended as part of the new provisions to bring receivership under the BIA and receivers subject to the supervision of the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy Canada. The 10 day notice period was Parliament’s way to try to codify what reasonable notice is.

Court Appointed Receivers vs. Privately Appointed Receivers

As discussed above, receivers are appointed when secured creditors want to recover on their secured loans. Receivership is a remedy for secured creditors. It is not a remedy for unsecured creditors. The intent is for the receiver to take possession of the insolvent company assets subject to the security agreement and conduct a sale of assets. The proceeds of the sale will then be distributed in accordance with the priority of the creditors under the BIA. The secured creditor should want to make sure that it is in the first place to receive the funds from the receiver, for the receivership process they are paying for!

From the above, by now, you have probably realized that a privately appointed receiver is appointed in writing by the secured creditor. The receiver gets properly retained and then is given an appointment letter by the secured creditor after the 10 day notice period has either passed or was waived by the insolvent debtor. The privately appointed receiver gets its powers from the security documents which will outline the approved steps the receiver can take.

Court-appointed receivers, as the term implies, are appointed by the court. The secured creditor properly retains the receiver and makes an application to the court for the appointment of the receiver. The secured creditor is the plaintiff in this litigation. If the court grants the order, then the court-appointed receiver begins the receivership administration. The powers and responsibilities of the court-appointed receiver come from the court order, called the Appointment Order.

The steps the receiver will take in determining what method will realize the most money possible from the sale of assets should be pretty well identical under both a court-appointed receivership and a privately appointed receivership. The analysis of how and the steps to be taken to realize the most money possible from the assets of the company in receivership should be the same, regardless of the form of appointment.

Either way, as stated above, the receiver must be a licensed insolvency trustee who is experienced in acting as a licensed insolvency practitioner.

what is a receivership
what is a receivership

What is a receivership? Duties of a receiver

Receivers are required to act honestly and in good faith. A privately appointed receiver has a duty to the secured creditor who appointed the receiver. A court-appointed receiver has a duty to act in good faith to all creditors.

The main roles of the receiver, whether private or court-appointed, can be summarized as to:

  • Secure all the assets of the insolvent debtor pledged under the security agreement or covered by the Appointment Order.
  • Make sure the receiver has control of property, the assets are conserved and properly insured.
  • Advance the rights of the debtor with the approval of either the secured creditor or the court. This could include continuing or beginning any necessary litigation.
  • Formulate the plan to maximize the realization from the sale of assets. This also involves a decision as to whether or not to operate the business of the company.
  • Offer the assets for sale in a properly advertised public sale.
  • Complete the sale and distribute the net proceeds in accordance with the provisions of the BIA.
  • Make regular reporting to the court and/or the appointing creditor
  • Obtain the approval of the secured creditor, and under a court appointment, approval of the court for all actions to be taken by the receiver.
  • In a court appointment, to obtain the approval of the court for its fee and disbursements and for those of the receiver’s legal counsel.

The Appointment Order generally will give the court-appointed receiver extensive powers.

I want to summarize the difference between company receivership and bankruptcy

I find that many times people will confuse the terms receivership and bankruptcy. What is a receivership is not the same as what is bankruptcy. I want to summarize the difference between company receivership and bankruptcy. There are important differences between bankruptcy and receivership.

The terms bankruptcy and receivership are often mistakenly used; they are not the very same thing. Bankruptcy is a legal process for unsecured creditors. The bankruptcy of a person and that person’s discharge from bankruptcy acts to discharge that person’s unsecured debt. As a company is never discharged from bankruptcy, the bankruptcy process has the effect of ending the company’s business.

What is a receivership? Receivership on the other hand, is a legal process for the benefit of secured creditors that safeguards their security if an insolvent borrower defaults on its secured debt financial obligations.

what is a receivership
what is a receivership?

What is a receivership? Is receivership the right solution for you?

I hope you enjoyed the what is a receivership Brandon Blog post. I have gone to great lengths to describe what is a receivership, the different types of receivership and that it is a remedy for secured creditors. However, many times, if properly handled, it can also assist the business owner. The entrepreneur may be very frustrated that the company can no longer pay all its debts as they come due and is looking for a way out, a way to sell the business or a way to get rid of the sick parts of the business and keep the good parts.

There may be sufficient value to take care of the secured creditor, but nothing for anyone else, including the unsecured creditors. There may be some business units that should not survive, but if cut out, the business will be viable. A receivership might very well accomplish the goals for the entrepreneur also. I have many times structured a receivership process, in order to meet the goals of the entrepreneur, while satisfying the requirements of the secured creditor.

Are you worried because you or your business are dealing with substantial debt challenges and you assume bankruptcy is your only option? Call me. It is not your fault that you remain in this way. You have actually been only shown the old ways to try to deal with financial issues. These old ways do not work anymore.

The Ira Smith Team utilizes new modern-day ways to get you out of your debt difficulties while avoiding bankruptcy. We can get you the relief you need and so deserve.

The tension put upon you is big. We know your discomfort factors. We will check out your entire situation and design a new approach that is as unique as you and your problems; financial and emotional. We will take the weight off of your shoulders and blow away the dark cloud hanging over you. We will design a debt settlement strategy for you. We know that we can help you now.

We understand that people and businesses facing financial issues need a realistic lifeline. There is no “one solution fits all” method with the Ira Smith Team. Not everyone has to file bankruptcy in Canada. The majority of our clients never do. We help many people and companies stay clear of bankruptcy.

That is why we can establish a new restructuring procedure for paying down debt that will be built just for you. It will be as one-of-a-kind as the economic issues and discomfort you are encountering. If any one of these seems familiar to you and you are serious about getting the solution you need, contact the Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. group today.

Call us now for a no-cost consultation.

We will get you or your business back up driving to healthy and balanced trouble-free operations and get rid of the discomfort factors in your life, Starting Over, Starting Now.

We hope that you and your family are safe, healthy and secure during this coronavirus pandemic. Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. is absolutely operational and Ira, in addition to Brandon Smith, is readily available for a telephone consultation or video meeting.

what is a receivership
what is a receivership?
Categories
Brandon Blog Post

THE TORONTO CORONAVIRUS EXTRAORDINARY PLAN TO BUSINESS RECOVERY

The Ira Smith Team is absolutely operational and Ira, in addition to Brandon Smith, is readily available for a telephone consultation or video meeting.

Stay healthy, well balanced and safe and secure everyone.

Introduction

For businesses having a hard time enduring the Toronto coronavirus pandemic, insolvency may very well be the outcome. General insolvency filings were down in April, this is mainly because everyone has a built-in stay of proceedings right now.

Banks, credit card companies and collection agencies are not making a name for themselves right now during the Toronto coronavirus lockdown by harassing people who cannot afford to pay their regular monthly payment. However, that will not last too long.

In this Brandon’s Blog, I discuss options available to the entrepreneur if the Toronto coronavirus lockdown and quarantine wreaks havoc on your business.

Telltale signs from the United States

We have already seen the variety of companies that submitted to Chapter 11 insolvency. They did so in order to attempt to reorganize their financial obligations while trying to stay in business. This has been especially true for the large retail business sector. Their business problems were not caused by COVID-19. However, the pandemic merely accelerated where they were heading anyway.

The American Bankruptcy Institute reported that Chapter 11 filings in April 2020 represent a 26% boost from April 2019.

I have previously written about Modell’s Sporting Goods and Pier 1. Now we can add Neiman Marcus, JCPenney and J.Crew. Outside of the retail sector, Hertz Car Rental, Gold’s Gym, Foodora and Virgin Australia are also recent restructuring filings. I also really believe that it won’t be long before the floodgates open up to subject an excess of small firms looking for relief from their financial problems, in North America and the rest of the world. That is probably obvious to you, it really can’t be called a Toronto coronavirus news update!

Entrepreneurs are doing whatever they can

I have definitely noticed an uptick in telephone calls from people scared about their personal situation and from worried business owners in the past 4 weeks. They aren’t all set to throw in the towel right now. They are attempting to do whatever they can through the shutdown to stabilize their company. So for now, they are trying to take advantage of various federal government programs to help them stay afloat. The programs include:

However, the people I am talking to are also realists. They all understand that if what they are doing now doesn’t work, they will either have to try to restructure the company or have it go bankrupt. So for now, there is somewhat of a pause in remedies such as distraints, repossessions, terminations of leases and financial institution collections.

The moratorium won’t last forever

Right now the Canadian federal government is taking the lead. They have extended timelines for filing income tax and HST returns and paying amounts owing. They have also extended certain relief programs from their original expiration date of June 30. Right now, subject to a further extension, of course, it looks like the feds are shooting for September 30 to end the COVID-19 assistance programs.

Ultimately, the patience for non-payment being shown right now by landlords and creditors won’t last permanently. I expect business bankruptcy protection and bankruptcy filings to climb after the “all clear” is sounded on this Toronto coronavirus state of emergency and the government assistance ends. The pent up collection activity will go into full flight.

The floodgates will open. I expect one of the worst offenders to be the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). There will be so many companies in default of their tax payment obligations. The government is spending trillions of dollars to prop up the Canadian economy. Those programs will have to be paid for and all the IOU’s will be called in.

It seems that everybody I have spoken with is simply waiting until this Toronto coronavirus period quiets down. The pool of business problems is overflowing right now.

Corporate bankruptcy is not the only option for a company battling its financial demons. There are going to be three categories of insolvent companies:

  1. Those who are too small and it just does not make sense for them to do anything other than paying the employees their final salary, wages and vacation pay. Then file their final corporate and income tax files. Then, turn the key in the door and walk away.
  2. A company that has just a few creditors and all or some of the business operations remains viable. They can negotiate with their creditors for a reduction in each amount owing on a creditor by creditor basis. The reason this does not work if there is a large group of creditors is because of human nature. Everyone is worried that the next person is getting a better deal. By the time you get the last person to say yes, the first person may have changed their mind. There is no way to independently satisfy all the creditors that nobody is getting a better deal. In reality, some are getting a better arrangement than others. It will be based on the negotiation ability of the creditor and how essential maintaining the supply of their product or service from them is.
  3. Businesses where all or some of their operations remain viable. However, the company can only survive if it can chop off the sick parts and eliminate however much debt they need to so that the newly restructured company is solvent.
  4. Companies with complex issues needing to assign their assets to a licensed insolvency trustee through a bankruptcy or whose secured creditor will enforce on their security by appointing a receiver, either a private receiver or court-appointed receiver.

Toronto coronavirus induced restructuring

If you anticipate your entire business or certain business units will remain viable but require relief from its creditors and debts, the first look at restructuring. This route enables a company to stay functioning while renegotiating its financial obligations. This process includes looking critically at all business units and determining how operations can be made more efficient in order to improve profitability. Many hard decisions will have to be made.

Companies have two choices in Canada for restructuring. For the larger restructurings, the kind that you read in the newspaper, the restructuring statute is the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act (Canada) (CCAA). In order to qualify for restructuring under the CCAA, the company has to owe its creditors at least $5 million.

All other companies restructure under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (Canada) (BIA) restructuring provisions. It is called Part III Division I of the BIA. Regular readers of Brandon’s Blog will know that I have written several blogs before on aspects of both the CCAA and restructuring under the BIA.

In my blog, BANKRUPTCY EXPERTS WEIGH IN ON US & CDN SMALL BIZ RESTRUCTURING, I lamented the fact that the Canadian insolvency system does not have a streamlined restructuring process for smaller companies. We have the consumer proposal restructuring under the BIA for smaller personal insolvent debtors trying to restructure.

The United States has the Small Company Reorganization Act (SBRA) of 2019, also known as “Subchapter 5”. The SBRA is aimed at simplifying restructuring procedures for small companies by boosting efficiency, lowering costs, and easing the restructuring plan confirmation process. I believe this would be a great addition to the Canadian insolvency system. It may very well move some companies from my #1 category listed above into #3.

There is no sense dwelling any longer on what we don’t have. The Toronto coronavirus news today has affected so many companies. Many will just not survive. Others will be able to come out of the other side of this Toronto coronavirus pandemic but will need major surgery to stay alive.

The first step for any entrepreneur is to get professional advice in order to strategize and make a decision on what plan to put into place. You should speak either to a licensed insolvency trustee (formerly called a bankruptcy trustee) (Trustee) or a lawyer who has experience in insolvency matters.

Most licensed insolvency trustees will provide a one-hour no-cost strategy session.

You need to understand whether or not you have a viable business and company. Then, you need to have a sensible plan to increase your chances of success based on the viability analysis.

Both Ira and I have been doing many such strategy sessions over the telephone and video meeting since the Toronto coronavirus self-quarantine lockdown came into effect. I know that we will be doing many more as the city and the province begin to open up.

The goals of the entrepreneur have to be the driving force. For example, if the entrepreneur is adamant about staying in business, then you have to hope that business viability can be proven so that the likelihood of a successful restructuring is enhanced. On the other hand, if you can prove business viability but the entrepreneur has had enough and wants out, then you look at the restructuring and sale of the viable business parts.

Once viability is established, then a restructuring plan can be developed. The restructuring will take place either under the BIA or CCAA. Depending on the circumstances and the goals of the entrepreneur, either a refinancing of the restructured company of a sale of the business is part of any restructuring plan.

Business not viable

If the business is not viable, then pure restructuring is not possible. However, that does not mean that the assets that form the business unit cannot be used by someone else to efficiently run the business. I am not just talking about hard assets. Things such as patents, trademarks, processes, experienced workforce and the customer base before they go off to find a new supplier are all valuable parts of a business.

Perhaps the tangible and intangible assets can be sold to someone that can bring them into their existing operation and run the business profitably. Jobs can be saved also if this were to happen.

When this is the case, then you are into some form of liquidation. A secured creditor will move for the appointment of a receiver. As I have written before on this topic, the appointment can either be by way of a private appointment or an application to the court for a court-appointed receiver.

If there are no secured creditors, the security taken is invalid, or there are other factors that make a bankruptcy necessary, then the company can assign itself to bankruptcy. It isn’t every day you find this, but in a recent corporate bankruptcy filing that I am administering, I found that the security of the purported secured creditor was invalid as against us as Trustee.

Then either the receiver or Trustee can take possession of the assets, run a well-advertised and managed sales process and hopefully find a buyer for the assets to comprise all or many parts of the operating business. If such a buyer does not exist, then it will be a straight liquidation of individual assets. Obviously, higher values can be achieved when selling what amounts to a business rather than just individual assets in a liquidation.

Personal guarantees and director liabilities

In any corporate or business insolvency, the exposure of the directors has to be taken into consideration. This is not Toronto coronavirus news. It is normal for entrepreneurs to have to give a personal guarantee to a lender in addition to the security taken. Such a guarantee can be backed up by specific personal assets as collateral, or be an unsecured guarantee. Or, an entrepreneur has to indemnify the landlord as part of the corporation leasing premises.

Directors also have certain liabilities under provincial or federal law. Generally, directors will have personal liability for:

The exposure of directors must be recognized and taken into account in any restructuring attempt.

Toronto Coronavirus Summary

Businesses all over will look different due to the Toronto coronavirus pandemic and lockdown. The current environment is unprecedented and is teaching all of us things we have never seen before.

The Ira Smith Team family hopes that you and your family members are remaining secure, healthy and well-balanced. Our hearts go out to every person that has been affected either via misfortune or inconvenience.

We all must help each other to stop the spread of the coronavirus. Social distancing and self-quarantining are sacrifices that are not optional. Families are literally separated from each other. We look forward to the time when life can return to something near to typical and we can all be together once again.

Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. has constantly used clean, safe and secure ways in our professional firm and we continue to do so.

Revenue and cash flow shortages are critical issues facing entrepreneurs and their companies and businesses. This is especially true these days.

If anyone needs our assistance, or you just need some answers for questions that are bothering you, feel confident that Ira or Brandon can still assist you. During this Toronto coronavirus state of emergency, we are doing telephone consultations and/or virtual conferences that are readily available for anyone feeling the need to discuss their personal or company situation.

 

The Ira Smith Team is absolutely operational and Ira, in addition to Brandon Smith, is readily available for a telephone consultation or video meeting.

Stay healthy, well balanced and safe and secure everyone.

toronto coronavirus

 

 

Categories
Brandon Blog Post

TOP COURT APPOINTED RECEIVER SECRET: DETAILS MATTER

court appointed receiver

If you would rather listen to an audio version of this Brandon’s Blog, please scroll to the bottom of this page and click on the podcast.

Introduction

I recently read an interesting case from the Court of Queen’s Bench of Alberta involving a court appointed receiver. To me, it highlights that sometimes the simplest of things can provide major difficulty. I will explain, but first, I will go over some basic facts that will help you understand the issue in this case better.

What is a court appointed receiver?

When a borrower defaults on its borrowing agreement, typically by non-payment, the secured creditor needs to decide if it is required to enforce against its security. The most common method for a lender to use is receivership. There are 2 types of these procedures in Canada; 1) private appointed or; 2) court appointed.

Normally, the procedure begins with the secured creditor seeking advice from its legal counsel and the receiver it is thinking of using. If it is chosen that there should be a receiver appointed, the secured creditor, normally a financial institution, then makes a selection. They can either appoint the receiver by private letter of appointment or make an application to the Court for an Order designating the receiver (court-appointed).

The Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (Canada) (BIA) requires that just a licensed insolvency trustee (formerly called a bankruptcy trustee) can work as a receiver. A privately appointed receiver acts on behalf of the selecting secured creditor. A court appointed receiver has a duty of care to all creditors.

1305402 Alberta Inc v 0774238 B.C. Ltd, 2019 ABQB 982

This case was an application by the court appointed receiver (as a British Columbia Court designated receiver of two individuals and also several companies) to have funds in the amount of $281,711.11 paid to it in its capacity as the receiver. The application on its face seemed simple.

The British Columbia Securities Commission (the “Securities Commission”) made considerable enforcement orders versus the individuals and the companies (the “Debtors”). The total fines exceeded $9 million in total. They arose from the Debtors having gotten from various parties real estate financial investments without a prospectus and various other violations.

The Securities Commission got a receivership court order from the Supreme Court of British Columbia on October 3, 2019, appointing a receiver (the Receivership Order). The Debtors are the named parties whose assets the Receivership Order covers.

This application in the Alberta Court was made by the court appointed receiver to take possession of surplus cash paid into the Alberta Court, available from the sale of a property located in the Province of Alberta.

The Court’s problems

On the face of the Receivership Order, it was difficult to tell which parties were originally served with notice of the case. The Receivership Order indicates that a list of those served was attached as Schedule A. Yet Schedule A was not the service list. Rather, it was an example of the Receiver’s Certificate to be utilized in securing financing of the receivership. There was also a Schedule B to the Receivership Order. Unfortunately, it also was of no help. Its only purpose was to list the legal description of the subject land.

Counsel for the applicant argued that certain findings in the original receivership application would decide the outcome of this case. As a result, the Master said that it would certainly have been handy to understand whether the objecting party to this application had any type of capacity to make any kind of argument now!

For example, was the matter in this application already decided in the original motion, or, are there any estoppel issues that would stop someone with notice of the original receivership application from objecting now? In the end, the Master decided that the documents now before the Alberta Court was not adequate to figure out those problems now.

Duties of a court appointed receiver

In addition to having a general duty of care to all stakeholders, the specific duties are spelled out in the Receivership Order. Like all such orders, this one gave the receiver the duty to take possession of all of the assets of the Debtors.

The funds in Court are surplus from a sale or foreclosure in Alberta known as the “Rocky View Lands”. There was a consent order for repossession in the foreclosure action giving the mortgagee title. It was not readily evident from the material before the Master just how surplus proceeds were generated. Nevertheless, the funds were being held by the Court and the receiver was applying to take possession of the cash under its Receivership Order powers and duties.

The receiver’s problem

The proceeds were paid into Court on the application of the previous authorized owner of the Rocky View Lands. Unfortunately, that owner was not one of the Debtors! Just to make matters worse, one of the individuals who were one of the Debtors, filed an affidavit that appended a purported Trust Agreement. The Trust Agreement stated that the owner of the Rocky View Lands was holding the property in trust for 19 different named investors who were opposing this application.

The Master held that the applicant did not adequately prove its case to its entitlement to the funds paid into the Court. The owner of the lands was not one of the Debtors. It was only the property of the Debtors the court appointed receiver had authority over.

So the Master decided that the parties could come back to Court for a full trial to figure out who really had an interest in the funds. This could only be decided after full argument by both the receiver and the opposing parties. It was too early to direct that the funds be paid to the court appointed receiver now.

The devil is in the details

From the Master’s decision, it is obvious that the court appointed receiver came to Court without knowing all the details. In addition, the details that it must have known about who was served with the original receivership application were missing. I am sure this receiver was not trying to pull a fast one over anybody – they were just sloppy.

A detail like whose property was the receiver trying to take possession of is not a small thing. A detail like was any party who was opposing the receiver’s request already stopped from raising such opposition is also not such a small thing. The Master was correct in not allowing the receiver’s application to take possession of the cash sitting in the Alberta Court. This receiver will have to do its homework for when it comes back to Court when a full hearing is conducted.

Summary

I hope you have seen why details matter. Not only for a Court but for a licensed insolvency trustee also. When someone comes to consult with me about their business or personal debts and financial situation, I need details too so that I can fully understand their situation.

Do you or your company have too much debt and in need of debt restructuring? Wouldn’t it be beautiful, though, if you could do a turnaround?

The Ira Smith Team understands how to do a debt restructuring. However, more importantly, we understand the needs of the entrepreneur or the person who has too much personal debt. You are worried because you are facing significant financial challenges.

It is not your fault that you are in this situation. You have been only shown the old ways that do not work anymore. The Ira Smith Team uses new modern ways to get you out of your debt troubles while avoiding bankruptcy. We can get you debt relief freedom.

The stress placed upon you is huge. We understand your pain points. We look at your entire situation and devise a strategy that is as unique as you and your problems; financial and emotional. The way we take the load off of your shoulders and devise a debt settlement plan, we know that we can help you.

We know that people facing financial problems need a realistic lifeline. There is no “one solution fits all” approach with the Ira Smith Team. That is why we can develop a restructuring process as unique as the financial problems and pain you are facing. If any of this sounds familiar to you and you are serious in finding a solution, contact the Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. team today.

Call us now for a free consultation. We will get you or your company back on the road to healthy stress-free operations and recover from the pain points in your life, Starting Over, Starting Now.

Categories
Brandon Blog Post

WHAT IS A CREDITOR IN BUSINESS LAW NOT TO DO?

What is a creditor introduction

The purpose of this Brandon’s Blog is to tell you a true story that all business people can learn from. Especially those wishing to provide consulting services to stakeholders in an insolvency proceeding. Let’s start simply by answering what is a creditor.

A creditor is a person or company that has advanced credit and is owed the payment by a different person or company. The debtor is the party that owes the money and a creditor is a person or company that wishes to be paid.

Vaughan Crossings Inc.

In January 2017, my Firm became the court-appointed receiver of the real property of Vaughan Crossings Inc. (VCI). VCI owned real property comprised of 5.5 acres of commercial development land located at the northwest corner of Dufferin and Centre Streets in the City of Vaughan. The first mortgagee made the application to Court for our appointment. The second mortgagee was a fund made up of many small investors.

Upon our appointment, we learned that the second mortgagee stakeholders had retained a business consultant to advise and assist these investors to try to obtain value out of the receivership from their investment. We dealt with the business consultant throughout the receivership.

It became clear to everyone that there was insufficient value for the second mortgagee group to recoup any funds through the sale of the property. So, the business consultant put together a group which included those who had registered a lien against the property for non-payment and the second mortgagee group.

The business consultant was not paid in cash by the second mortgagee group for his work. His fee and costs were also part of the buying group. They ended up paying above market value in all cash. I was not involved in their financing discussions so, I don’t know how they were able to get the required financing.

The sale was completed and we were discharged as the court-appointed receiver. Now it gets even more interesting.

The business consultant

The second mortgagee group of VCI was put together by a promoter. It turns out that promoter had other properties that they financed by way of the second mortgage the same way. My Firm was not involved in those other properties. However, it appears the same business consultant was involved in at least one other property.

It also appears that the business consultant experienced the same problem in that other property that he did in VCI; no cash to be paid from. In fact, as it turns out, he didn’t even have a retainer to act on behalf of the second mortgage investors in those other properties. That didn’t stop him from trying to work that property and chase his VCI dollars!

The court case

That issue was decided in the court case, The Superintendent of Financial Services v. Textbook Student Suites (525 Princess Street) Trustee Corporation, 2018 ONSC 7392 (CanLII). The consultant’s primary claim is against the Investors’ Committee. He asserts to be entitled to costs for solutions that he executed for the board. He claimed against the Investors’ Committee that because of the work he did in advising them, his charges need to be safeguarded by a court-ordered charge against the properties.

He claims that as a “bankruptcy expert” that his solutions were for the advantage of the stakeholders. Therefore, he ought to be paid his charges in advance of any kind of distributions to lenders.

He also said that his job also helped the lenders in their recuperation of the funds owing to them. He did not provide the court with any case law to support his position. Rather, he was relying on the inherent jurisdiction of the court to order such security.

The analysis

Of course, there was not a written agreement between the consultant and the Investor’s Committee signed by both parties. The Judge stated that the legislation is well-settled that in identifying whether the parties had a binding agreement, the court will take into consideration whether they reached agreement on every one of the material terms. One term that can be material is whether an arrangement requires to be in writing or whether an oral contract will be enough.

As it turns out, there were several drafts of the consultant’s engagement letter discussed with the Chair of the Investors’ Committee. However, the Investor’s Committee found the engagement letter to be too vague. They told the consultant this and asked him to provide a more detailed engagement letter of the activities he would undertake, the time estimate for each phase of his work and what his hourly rate would be for those services. The consultant did not provide a more formal engagement letter and as a result, one was never signed.

Rather, the court found that the consultant continued working. At the same time, he was exchanging emails with the Investors’ Committee. The Committee learned that at this same time, the consultant was trying to strike a deal with the second mortgagee stakeholder in my VCI file. Now the Investors’ Committee felt that the consultant may have a conflict, and did not seek an engagement letter to sign. At the same time, the consultant advised the Investors’ Committee that his retainer, was subject to their legal counsel obtaining a court-ordered charge for his fee and costs ahead of any distribution to be paid to the second mortgage investors.

This email turned out to be the downfall of the consultant in this court case. The court found that by this email, the consultant knew that he did not have that priority, yet was continuing his work. No court application was ever made to obtain that court-ordered charge. The consultant tried advancing all sorts of other arguments as to why he should now be granted the priority claim, but none were persuasive, or even correct!

The Judge ruled against the consultant. So, not only did the consultant not get paid for his work, but he also had costs awarded against him for losing this court battle.

So what is a creditor not to do?

What you should not do is:

  • Not start working if you do not have a properly written retainer to provide the consulting services.
  • Even if you have the properly written retainer, know how you are going to be paid and that the party you are contracting with has the ability to pay.

This is especially true in an insolvency situation. In a receivership or bankruptcy administration, there are many claimants against the assets. Many times the creditor claims are competing. So anyone wishing to provide goods or services to a stakeholder in an insolvency administration better make sure there is a clear contract and know who is going to be actually paying. This consultant found out the hard way that a court is not going to protect you for your mistakes later on, no matter how reasonable you believe it is.

What is a creditor?

Is your business in financial distress because you cannot collect your billings? Do you not have adequate funds to pay your creditors as their bills to you come due?

If so, call the Ira Smith Team today. We have decades and generations of experience assisting people looking for financial restructuring, a debt settlement plan and to AVOID bankruptcy.

As a licensed insolvency trustee (formerly called a bankruptcy trustee), we are the only professionals accredited, acknowledged and supervised by the federal government to provide insolvency advice and to implement approaches to help you remain out of personal bankruptcy while eliminating your debts. A restructuring proposal is a government approved debt settlement plan to do that. We will help you decide on what is best for you between a restructuring proposal vs bankruptcy.

Call the Ira Smith Team today so you can eliminate the stress, anxiety, and pain from your life that your financial problems have caused. With the one-of-a-kind roadmap, we develop just for you, we will immediately return you right into a healthy and balanced problem-free life.

You can have a no-cost analysis so we can help you fix your troubles. Call the Ira Smith Team today. This will allow you to go back to a new healthy and balanced life, Starting Over Starting Now.

what is a creditor

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