What is land transfer tax?
Land transfer tax (called property transfer tax in BC, or the "welcome tax" in Quebec) is a one-time tax you pay when a property changes hands. It's one of the biggest closing costs, and unlike your down payment it can't be added to your mortgage — you need it in cash at closing.
Which provinces charge it?
Most do, on a sliding scale by price. Alberta and Saskatchewan have no land transfer tax (just small registration fees). Ontario buyers in Toronto pay a second, municipal tax on top of the provincial one — effectively doubling it. First-time buyers can claim rebates in Ontario, Toronto and BC.
Planning your purchase? See the mortgage payment and affordability calculators too.