When purchasing a property, buyers must account for various costs beyond the purchase price. These expenses can vary depending on location, property type, and whether the buyer is a resident or non-resident. Below is a breakdown of the common fees associated with buying a property, particularly in Whistler, Canada.

### Mortgage-Related Expenses

1. Legal Fees for Mortgage Processing – Costs for a lawyer or notary to process mortgage documents.

2. Property Appraisal (if required) – An assessment to determine the fair market value of the property.

3. Land Title Registration Fees – Charges for registering the mortgage with the land title office.

4. Fire Insurance Premium – Insurance coverage required by lenders to protect against potential property damage.

### Legal and Professional Fees

1. Lawyer or Notary Fees – These include:

- Conducting a title search

- Investigating property ownership and any legal encumbrances

- Drafting and reviewing legal documents

- Facilitating land title registration

### Taxes and Government Fees

1. Goods and Services Tax (GST) – A 5% tax applied to newly constructed properties and properties used for short-term rentals.

2. Property Transfer Tax – A provincial tax calculated as follows:

- 1% on the first $200,000

- 2% on amounts above $200,000 up to $2,000,000

- 3% on amounts exceeding $2,000,000

3. Property Tax Adjustment – Covers the prorated property taxes from the date of purchase.

### Additional Costs for Strata Properties

1. Strata Maintenance Fees – Monthly charges for upkeep of common areas in condominiums and strata complexes.

2. Special Assessments – Additional fees levied by the Strata Corporation for major repairs or unforeseen expenses.

### Tourism Whistler Assessment Fees

- Applicable to properties located in designated “Town Centre” areas.

- Fees are determined based on the number of bed units.

- Buyers using the property exclusively for personal use (not rented for more than 14 days per year) may qualify for a reduced rate.

### Insurance Considerations

1. Home Insurance – Required for single-family homes to cover property and liability risks.

2. Strata Insurance – Covers shared property risks, but owners should obtain personal contents and liability insurance.

### Key Considerations for Non-Residents

If you are a non-resident purchasing property in Canada, additional requirements apply:

1. Withholding Tax on Rental Income –

- Non-residents earning rental income must pay a 25% withholding tax to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

- Filing an NR6 form may reduce this obligation if projected rental income is lower than expenses.

2. Execution of Mortgage Documents –

- Mortgage documents must be signed in person before a notary public and couriered back to Canada.

- Fax and email transmissions are not accepted.

3. Methods of Payment –

- Opening a Canadian bank account is recommended for easier transaction processing.

- Payments must be made in Canadian funds via certified cheque, bank draft, or wire transfer.

- Exchange rates fluctuate, so it is advisable to check rates before the transaction’s completion date.

### Importance of Meeting Completion Deadlines

In British Columbia, timely completion of the purchase transaction is crucial. If the funds are not transferred by the agreed completion date, the seller has the right to cancel the contract and retain the buyer’s deposit.

### Final Thoughts

Buying a property involves various costs and considerations, particularly for non-residents. It is essential to plan ahead, understand all associated fees, and work with experienced real estate professionals to ensure a smooth transaction.

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What is GST?
The goods and services tax (GST) is a value-added tax that Canada introduced on January 1, 1991. It adds 5% to most goods and services you buy in Canada, though some items are either exempt or “zero-rated.”

Who Pays the GST?
Generally, GST is included in the price of taxable items and services, meaning the buyer usually pays it. However, sellers are responsible for collecting the GST and remitting it to the government. Certain groups, such as First Nations citizens and some provincial or territorial governments, may not have to pay GST on certain transactions.

GST on New Builds
When you buy a newly built home, condo, or townhouse, GST applies to the entire purchase price—including the land. If you intend to live in the home as your primary residence, you might be eligible for a partial GST rebate, depending on the price. But if you’re buying the property as a rental investment, the full 5% GST is added.

GST on Resale Properties
For most resale properties, a special exemption called “Used Residential Real Estate” applies. This means that if the property has already been used for residential purposes (whether by an owner or a long-term tenant), the seller can claim the exemption. As a result, GST is not added to the sale price. This exemption is common in many real estate transactions, particularly in regions like British Columbia.

GST on Nightly Rental Properties
Properties used for short-term or nightly rentals are considered commercial, so they don’t qualify for the “Used Residential Housing” exemption. Sellers must charge GST on these sales. However, investors can often register for GST and claim a “Capital Acquisition Input Tax Credit” to cover this cost, meaning they don’t have to pay an extra 5% upfront. Although sometimes called “deferring the GST,” this is just a method of offsetting the tax rather than an actual delay in payment.

GST in Real Estate Transactions
GST also applies to many services related to real estate deals. For example, the 5% GST on real estate commissions is typically paid by the seller. Additional services such as inspections and legal fees are also subject to GST.

Final Thoughts
Because GST rules can be complex and vary depending on your situation, it’s wise to consult with a professional tax accountant to ensure you understand your obligations and potential rebates.

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