Land Transfer Tax

Land transfer tax, a payment made to the government for the transfer of property from the seller to the buyer, is a complex process that should be calculated by a professional. Since it is not imposed all across Canada and the means of calculation vary from province to province, depending on its jurisdiction, you will want to take advantage of your REALTORS® expertise. Land transfer tax is typically calculated based on the property's value as registered with the land registration office. The fees are calculated at 0.5–2% of the property’s total value. Generally, 1% applies to the first $200,000, and 2% to the remainder. As with most taxes, there are some exceptions.

Since 2005, first-time home buyers have been exempt from this tax, provided they meet certain criteria. Individuals must be Canadian citizens who have never owned a home anywhere else in the world. They must have been living in the province for at least one year prior to the purchase and have filed at least two Canadian tax returns within the past six years. Finally, they must occupy their new home for at least the first year of ownership.

As of December, 2007, land transfer tax exemption applies not only to resale homes, but to newly constructed homes as well. For exemptions on vacant lot purchases, a house must be constructed within one year of closing and the owner must live in that house for the remainder of the year.

If you have additional questions about land transfer tax, how it is calculated and whether or not you meet tax exemption criteria, you should consult your Assist 2 Sell Agent.