DeedWorthGuide · QuebecBC Property Transfer Tax 2026: What You Actually Pay
British Columbia charges a Property Transfer Tax (PTT) on every purchase, collected on closing. It is one of the steepest closing costs in Canada at higher price points.
PTT rates (2026)
| Portion of the fair market value | Rate |
|---|---|
| Up to $200,000 | 1% |
| $200,000 – $2,000,000 | 2% |
| $2,000,000 – $3,000,000 | 3% |
| Over $3,000,000 (residential) | 5% |
First-time buyer exemption
Full exemption under $500,000, partial up to $835,000 (worth up to $8,000). You must be a citizen or PR, have lived in BC for 12 months, and never have owned a principal residence. Investors do not qualify.
Worked example ($900,000)
1% × $200,000 = $2,000; 2% × $700,000 = $14,000 → PTT = $16,000.
It lowers your future tax
PTT is added to your adjusted cost base, reducing your taxable capital gain at sale. See capital gains on a rental property.
Build it into your analysis
DeedWorth includes PTT in its acquisition-cost calculation. Analyze a property with DeedWorth →
FAQ
How much is BC property transfer tax? It is tiered: 1% on the first 200,000 dollars, 2% up to 2,000,000, 3% up to 3,000,000, and 5% above 3,000,000 for residential property.
Is there a first-time buyer exemption in BC? Yes. First-time buyers are fully exempt under 500,000 dollars and get a partial exemption up to 835,000, worth up to 8,000. Investors do not qualify.
When do you pay BC property transfer tax? On closing, handled by your lawyer or notary. It is not financed by your mortgage.
Does the tax lower my capital gain? Yes. It is added to your adjusted cost base, reducing your taxable capital gain when you sell.
For information only, not tax or legal advice. Rates vary and change; confirm with the province, the municipality, and your lawyer/notary. Last verified: June 2026.