BC to Change the Property Transfer Tax Scheme

BC to Finally Change the Outdated Property Transfer Tax Scheme

The B.C. Liberal Government has announced that they are working on changes to the Provincial Property Transfer Tax Scheme.

Summary

  • No specifics have been announced, but the Finance Minister has stated that the changes to the BC Property Transfer Tax would be revenue neutral.
  • Plans to be unveiled with the February Fiscal Plan
  • Could potentially lower the rate on the lower end or raise the minimum threshold price
  • This could potentially erode affordability in Vancouver

What is the Property Transfer Tax?

  • The property transfer tax is a one time tax that is connected to the purchase of residential real estate in Canada
  • The tax is charged at a rate of 1% for the first $200,000 and 2% for the portion of the fair market value that is greater than $200,000
  • There are a number of exemptions including family exemptions (marriage breakdowns, transfer of principal residence, etc.); transfer related to bankruptcy; and special exemptions related to first-time homebuyers

As an example, a $250,000 home would cost a first time home buyer nothing and a repeat buyer $3,000. a $600,000 home would cost a repeat buyer $10,000.

What is Wrong With the BC Property Transfer Tax as it is?

Good question, thanks for asking. The main issue with the property transfer tax is that the cut-off points for exemptions have been in place for years. Since then, the price has grown substantially and most homes are well above the exemption now. This makes the property transfer tax in BC the most expensive nationwide (see below. Analysis by the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce). This is especially painful in the Greater Vancouver Area, where house prices are skyrocketing.

 

It should also be noted that the property transfer tax is an out-of-pocket tax, which is not amortized into the mortgage.

How Might They Change the Property Transfer Tax?

The specifics have not been released. What is important to note, however, is that any changes will be revenue neutral. Essentially, any tax savings at one end will be offset by higher taxes on higher-end homes.

This is important because any change in the tax system will likely be a progressive one (taxing higher priced homes more and lower-priced homes less). Because the threshold is equivalent province-wide, this will likely mean an increase in property transfer taxes on homes in Vancouver, which are well above the average price for the rest of the Province.