Buy vs rent tool
Closing costs and transfer tax for buying in Canada
Closing costs are a cost renters never pay, and they are part of why short stays favour renting. Estimate them by province here, then carry the total into the buy vs rent calculator.
What is included
The estimate covers provincial transfer tax or registration fees, mortgage registration where it is a separate charge, legal fees, title insurance, inspection and other costs. Insurance premiums are shown separately.
Alberta has no land transfer tax; Ontario, British Columbia and Manitoba use tiered schedules. Other provinces are approximations and are marked as such. Always confirm with your lawyer or notary.
Questions people ask
Are these estimates exact?
They follow published schedules for Alberta, Ontario, British Columbia and Manitoba. For other provinces they are approximate, and exemptions can change the result.
Do renters have closing costs?
Renters pay deposits and moving costs, but not transfer tax, legal fees or commissions.
Should I include selling costs?
Yes. They apply when you leave. The calculator includes commission, GST, legal and other costs.
Educational estimates based on your inputs; not advice. See the methodology and assumptions.