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.
