Updated September 2026
Most sellers expect to pay a commission. Fewer plan for the mortgage penalty, the legal bill, the strata paperwork or the property tax adjustment. None of these are huge on their own, but together they can change your plans for the next home.
Estimate what you'll walk away with
Commission, plus 5% GST: –
Estimated amount to you: –
An estimate only. Commission is negotiable and set out in your listing agreement; the rates and costs shown are examples you can change. Property tax and utility adjustments, strata fees and any prepayment penalty depend on your situation, so ask your lender and your lawyer or notary for exact figures.
The main costs
| Cost | Who pays | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Real estate commission | Seller | Set in your listing agreement and negotiable. GST applies on top. |
| Legal or notary fees | Seller | A fee plus disbursements to prepare the transfer, pay out your mortgage and handle the funds. Get a quote from two or three local firms. |
| Mortgage prepayment penalty | Seller, if breaking a mortgage early | Usually the greater of three months' interest or the interest rate differential. Porting your mortgage to your next home can avoid it. |
| Mortgage discharge fee | Seller | A small administrative fee charged by many lenders. |
| Strata Form B and Form F | Seller of a strata home | Form B is capped at $35 plus $0.25 a page; Form F at $15. |
| Property transfer tax | Buyer | Not your cost. The buyer pays it when title transfers. |
| GST on the sale price | Usually nobody | Most resale homes sold by individuals are exempt. Builders and substantial renovators are the main exception. |
Commission
In BC, commission is usually a percentage of the sale price, often set as a higher rate on the first $100,000 and a lower rate on the balance, and it's negotiable. It's shared between the listing brokerage and the buyer's brokerage. GST is charged on top.
With every offer, your REALTOR® must give you a Disclosure to Sellers of Expected Remuneration, which shows exactly what the listing brokerage will be paid and how much goes to the buyer's brokerage. There are no surprises at signing time.
Legal or notary fees
In BC a lawyer or notary handles the closing. They prepare the transfer documents and pay out your mortgage from the sale proceeds. They also prepare the Statement of Adjustments and send you the balance. Fees vary with how complex the sale is, so ask for a written quote.
Mortgage penalties
If you're breaking a fixed-rate mortgage before its term ends, the penalty can be the biggest surprise on the list. Ask your lender for a payout statement early, and ask whether you can port the mortgage to your next home. The Financial Consumer Agency of Canada explains how penalties are calculated.
Adjustments at completion
Property taxes and utilities are split between you and the buyer as of the completion date on the Statement of Adjustments. City of Vernon property taxes are due in early July. If you've already paid the year's taxes and sell in the fall, you'll get a credit back for the months after completion. Water, sewer and garbage are billed quarterly and the account stays with the property; the adjustment is handled on the statement.
Costs people forget
- Moving, storage and any overlap in housing costs between homes.
- Pre-sale repairs and cleaning. Small fixes are usually worth it; big renovations usually aren't. See preparing your home to sell.
- Taxes on the sale. Most people selling their own home pay no tax, but there are exceptions. See taxes when you sell.
Frequently asked questions
Does the seller pay property transfer tax in BC?
No. Property transfer tax is paid by the buyer when title is registered in their name.
Is GST charged on the sale of my house?
Usually not. Sales of used, owner-occupied homes by individuals are generally exempt from GST. It can apply to new homes, substantially renovated homes and people who buy and sell homes as a business. GST does apply to the real estate commission.
Is real estate commission negotiable in BC?
Yes. The rate and structure are agreed in your listing agreement, and your REALTOR® must disclose the expected payment to both brokerages with every offer.
When do I get the money from my sale?
Your lawyer or notary pays out your mortgage and costs on the completion date, then sends you the balance, usually the same day or shortly after, once the transfer is registered.
Sources: BC property transfer tax; CRA, GST on sales of owner-occupied homes; BCFSA, Disclosure to Sellers of Expected Remuneration; BC strata Form B; City of Vernon property taxes.