What is land transfer tax in Canada? +
Land transfer tax (LTT) is a one-time provincial tax charged when you purchase real estate in Canada. It is calculated as a percentage of the purchase price using a tiered bracket system, similar to income tax. It is paid on closing day and must be budgeted for as part of your closing costs. The amount varies significantly by province — and some provinces charge none at all.
Which Canadian provinces have no land transfer tax? +
Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba do not charge land transfer tax, which can save buyers thousands of dollars. However, these provinces may still charge small title registration or mortgage registration fees. If you are buying in one of these provinces, you will have significantly lower closing costs than buyers in Ontario or BC.
How much is the Ontario land transfer tax rebate for first-time buyers? +
First-time home buyers in Ontario receive a rebate of up to $4,000 on their provincial land transfer tax. If purchasing in the City of Toronto, there is an additional municipal land transfer tax (same rate as provincial) with a separate first-time buyer rebate of up to $4,475. Combined, Toronto first-time buyers can receive up to $8,475 in rebates.
What is the BC property transfer tax exemption for first-time buyers? +
First-time buyers in British Columbia are fully exempt from property transfer tax on homes priced up to $835,000. For homes priced between $835,000 and $860,000, a partial reduction applies. Above $860,000, no exemption is available. To qualify, you must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, have never owned a principal residence anywhere in the world, and the home must be your principal residence.
Is land transfer tax included in my mortgage? +
No. Land transfer tax must be paid in full on your closing date and cannot be rolled into your mortgage. It is an out-of-pocket expense that must come from your available cash, separate from your down payment. This is why it is critical to budget for LTT when planning your home purchase — it can add thousands to the cash you need on closing day.
What counts as a "first-time home buyer" for LTT rebate purposes? +
To qualify as a first-time home buyer for land transfer tax rebate purposes in most provinces, you must never have owned a home anywhere in the world at any time (not just in Canada). You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, be at least 18 years of age, and intend to occupy the home as your principal residence within 9 months of purchase. If you have a spouse or partner who has previously owned a home, you may not qualify in some provinces.