Buying a home is a significant milestone and one of the largest financial transactions most people will undertake. While many buyers focus on the down payment and mortgage details, closing costs are a critical part of the home-buying process that can catch first-time buyers off guard. In Alberta, closing costs can vary based on several factors, including the price of the home and the specifics of the transaction.
Here are some of the most common closing costs Alberta homebuyers may encounter.
Legal Fees and Disbursements
In Alberta, you’ll need a real estate lawyer to handle the transfer of property ownership. Legal fees generally range from $1,000 to $2,500, depending on the complexity of the transaction. Disbursements for things like registration fees, courier charges, and title searches are additional and can add several hundred dollars to your bill.
Land Registration Fee
Alberta does not have a land transfer tax, which is a benefit for home buyers compared to some other provinces. Instead, you may be required to pay a land registration fee, which is relatively modest compared to land transfer taxes in other areas. This fee is generally around $50 to $100.
Title Insurance
Purchasing title insurance is recommended to protect against potential issues with the property’s title that could arise after closing. In Alberta, title insurance typically ranges around $275, and is a one-time payment.
Home Inspection Fees
A home inspection is a wise investment before finalizing your purchase, as an inspection will ensure that you know everything there is to know about the condition of your new home. Inspection costs will depend on the size of your home, your inspector’s rates and the location of the property.
Mortgage Insurance
If your down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price, you’ll likely need mortgage default insurance, often known as CMHC insurance. This cost can be substantial, typically ranging from 2.80% to 4.00% of the loan amount, depending on your down payment size and mortgage amount.
Homeowner’s Insurance
Lenders typically require proof of homeowner’s insurance before finalizing a mortgage. The cost of insurance can vary significantly based on the value of the home, location, and coverage options, but it’s generally a few hundred dollars annually. Expect to pay the first premium upfront.
Adjustments and Prepaid Costs
At closing, you may need to cover adjustments for prepaid utilities, bills or services. For example, if the seller has paid for utility services or property taxes beyond the closing date, you’ll need to reimburse them for the portion of those services.
Closing costs can feel overwhelming, but it’s important not to overlook this important aspect of purchasing a home. Be prepared to budget around 6% of the cost of your home toward these costs.
It’s worth noting that in some cases, portions of closing costs can be negotiated with the seller – particularly if the market is competitive.
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