Buying a Home: ON

Buying a Home in Ontario

Province-specific costs, taxes, and the step-by-step process for Ontario home buyers.

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Ontario home buyer's checklist

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✓Province-specific closing cost breakdown
✓Ontario land transfer tax guide
✓Step-by-step buying checklist
✓What to watch out for in Ontario

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Closing costs · land transfer tax · buyer checklist

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✓Offer checklist
✓Closing cost worksheet
✓Land transfer tax guide
✓Step-by-step buyer guide

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Built by Nathan, nine years in the Canadian Army, paperwork done the hard way first.

Informational guide only. Guidepost is not a law firm. This guide explains the typical process and is not legal advice. Requirements can change. Verify current rules with the relevant government authority or a qualified professional before you act.

Land Transfer Tax / Fees

Ontario charges Land Transfer Tax (LTT) on a sliding scale: 0.5% up to $55k, 1% $55k–$250k, 1.5% $250k–$400k, 2% $400k–$2M, 2.5% over $2M. Toronto homebuyers pay a second Municipal LTT on the same schedule.

First-Time Buyer Rebate

First-time buyers get a provincial rebate up to $4,000 (eliminates LTT on homes up to ~$368k). Toronto adds a municipal rebate up to $4,475.

Official rate information →

Closing Costs to Budget For

Land Transfer Tax (provincial + possibly municipal)
Legal fees (ask for a quote)
Title insurance (varies by property value)
Home inspection (varies by property size and age)
HST on new builds (resale homes exempt)
Adjustments (property tax, utilities prepaid by seller)
Mortgage discharge/setup fees

Professionals You'll Need

Lawyer / Notary

A real estate lawyer is required for title transfer in Ontario; you cannot close without one. No law society publishes a set fee tariff, so fees vary by firm and by the complexity of the transaction; ask for a quote up front.

Title Insurance

Strongly recommended. Protects against title fraud, survey errors, and unknown liens. Premiums are a one-time cost that varies with the property value and the insurer; ask your lawyer or notary for a quote.

Home Inspector

Not legally required but strongly recommended. Ask for a OAHI-member inspector. Costs vary with the size, age and location of the property; ask the inspector for a quote.