Costs of buying a home
Typical costs involved in buying a property
This is a rough guide for your budget for the closing costs when buying a property:
Property transfer tax
The British Columbia province defines this tax and it has to be paid before the purchase can be completed. |
1% of first $200,000
2% on remaining balance |
Lawyer or Notary
The legal fees cover the transfer of property title and recording this in the Land Title Office. If you are getting a new mortgage there is a fee to prepare and register the mortgage documents.
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$600 - $1,000 |
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Survey certificate
If required by the lender or recommended by the lawyer. The survey ensures that the buildings are within the borders of the property and there are no encroachments. Applies to single family homes. The previous owner may have a Survey Certificate that is acceptable. |
$250 approx |
Mortgage Application Fee
This varies from lender to lender. |
$300 - $500 |
Building inspection fee
It is your option as the buyer whether or not to have a home inspection done to pinpoint any potential defects. This is not a lending institution requirement. We strongly advise you to have your home inspected. |
$400 - $600 |
Appraisal fee
Most lenders require an appraiser’s report confirming that the purchase reflects fair market value. Depending on your down payment, some lenders will waive this requirement.
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$100 - $200 |
Property Tax
If the current owners have paid the property tax for the year, you will need to reimburse them for your share of the taxes. Property taxes are calculated from Jan – Dec and are paid at the end of June. |
Varies |
Goods & Services Tax (GST)
This applies to newly constructed homes only. If the home is your primary residence then you may qualify for a rebate.
If the home is under $350,000, and this is your principal residence, a rebate will reduce the GST paid to 4.48% of the purchase price. If the price is over $350,000 the net GST to be paid increases gradually until it is a full 7% at amounts over $450,000. |
Varies |
Strata fees
For condo’s, if the current owner has pre-paid the strata fees, there may be an adjustment that is needed. |
Varies |
You do not pay the realtor as a buyer. Realtors receive a commission from the selling realtor for introducing the buyer.
But remember that you will also need to consider the following costs:
- Moving costs
- Deposits required by utility companies
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