Additional Costs

Before you calculate the amount of your down payment and determine what you can afford, it's a good idea to set aside a few thousand dollars to cover the extra costs that seem to spring out of nowhere. Here is an overview of costs you could encounter. The good news is that not all of them will apply.

Property Taxes

If the Vendor has paid a portion of the taxes in advance, you will be responsible for reimbursing the Vendor on closing. Plus, if you have a high-ratio mortgage, your lender may require that you have your property taxes added to your mortgage payments.

Utility Fees

Utility fees are calculated through a meter so you will be responsible for paying what you have used up on the meter.

Land Transfer Tax

This applies in most provinces and ranges from 1% to 4%. For instance, in Ontario, you'll pay 1% of the first $55,000 - $250,000 and up to 2% of any amount over $400,000.

Survey Fee

Your lender will require an up-to-date survey. You can make it a condition of the Offer to Purchase that the Vendor provide a survey, or you will have to have one done. If there is no survey available, you may purchase "Title Insurance" in lieu of a survey which saves you about $500 - 700.

Appraisal Fee

A basic appraisal usually costs under $250.

Property Insurance

Your lender will insist that you have insurance on your property because your home is used as security for the mortgage.

Service Charges

You'll be charged for telephone, cable and a variety of other services that you hook up at your new home.

Lawyer (Notary) Fees

Each real estate transaction requires the assistance of a legal professional to review the Offer to Purchase, search the title, draw up the mortgage documents and take care of the details on the day of closing. Lawyers fees range widely depending on the complexity of the transaction. Ask your RE/MAX agent to recommend a lawyer. And remember, fees can be negotiated.

Mortgage Loan Insurance Premium and Application Fee

Mortgage loan insurance will be necessary if you have a high-ratio mortgage (less that 25% down payment). The application usually costs $75 with a valid appraisal, otherwise it's $235. The actual insurance premium will range from .5% to 3.75% of the purchase price and is added onto the mortgage.

Mortgage Broker Fee

Some brokers may charge as much as 2% of the total mortgage to find you a lender. In most cases though, the broker is paid by the lender. Buyers with good credit should not have to pay a fee.

Moving Costs

Whether you've decided to do it yourself or hire a moving company, now is the time to budget for the costs involved.

Estoppel Certificate

If you're moving into a condominium (complex not necessarily a high-rise) this certificate outlines the condominium corporation's financial and legal state. It will cost you up to $50.

Condominium Fees

These monthly fees vary from complex to complex. The fees are applied to everything from grounds keeping and carpet cleaning to security personnel and health club maintenance. Depending on the type of structure, these fees will usually be a few hundred dollars.

Home Inspection Fee

For around $300, depending on the size of your home, you'll receive a complete written report about the condition of the structure. Do your research and hire a reputable firm.

Renovation and Repairs

Your home inspection may indicate the need for some general repairs or a major project. Have some money set aside, particularly if you are purchasing an older home.

Redecoration

Your taste will be different from the previous owner. Set aside money to paint and wallpaper. Prepare a list of things you can live with, for now, and decorating faux pas that need immediate alteration.

Water Quality Certification

If you are purchasing a home with a well, you'll want to ensure the quality of the water. This will cost approximately $50 to $100.


© 2002 Don Marland