Expenses to be expected upon signing the deed of sale for the house
- Notary fees.
- Distribution (refunds) of taxes: The calculation of the refund to the seller (if applicable) will be made from the date of occupancy, and you will have to reimburse the seller for the number of days already paid by them for the following property taxes:
- Municipal taxes
- School taxes
- Heating oil tank: If the property has oil heating, the seller must have the tank filled on the day of the deed of sale and bring the invoice to the notary, which the buyer must reimburse in full.
- Electricity (Hydro-Québec) and gas (Gaz Métropolitain) meters: The buyer and seller must notify Hydro-Québec and Gaz Métropolitain (if applicable) of the date of the change of ownership so that the meters can be read on that date and the amounts can be charged to the buyer and seller respectively on the date of occupancy of the property.
- Home insurance: Keep in mind that when you sign the deed of sale, you will need to provide proof that you have home insurance in effect for an amount equal to or greater than the existing mortgage.
Expenses to expect after signing the deed of sale for the house
- Real estate transfer tax or “Welcome Tax.”
- The municipality where you have moved will send you a transfer tax bill within four (4) to six (6) months after signing the deed of sale for the house. This tax is calculated based on the sale price and according to the following scale:
- 0.50% of the first $52,800
- 1.00% from $52,800.01 to $264,000
- 1.50% over $264,000
- Moving expenses, painting, decorating, etc.
