Land Transfer Taxes (LTT) are provincial taxes levied on the exchange of real estate, and are the responsibility of the purchaser. Usually the LTT is a percentage of the property value.  All provinces have a land transfer tax except Alberta and Saskatchewan (who instead levy a much smaller fee). Note that Ontario, Toronto, B.C. and PEI there are LTT rebates […]

You thought about Hydro, but what about Fido? You are on top of your move! Change of addresses sent, utilities notified, truck rented. But what about your furry sidekick? (or scaly, or slippery, or feathered?) By now, you’ve already checked the municipal by-laws, as well as any apartment / condo rules, to ensure your pet will be welcomed in your new home, […]

Land Transfer Taxes (LTT) are provincial taxes levied on the exchange of real estate, and are the responsibility of the purchaser. Usually the LTT is a percentage of the property value.  All provinces have a land transfer tax except Alberta and Saskatchewan (who instead levy a much smaller fee). Note that Ontario, Toronto, B.C. and PEI there are LTT rebates […]

Do I need to sign a lease or tenancy agreement? No.  However, if the agreement is a written one, both tenant and landlord must sign it and the landlord must give the tenant a copy of the agreement within 21 days after the tenant has signed it. Tenants who haven’t received a copy of their lease may contact the Residential […]

Cutting costs is not easy and can be frustrating if you are trying to save up for something special. Maybe you want to put money aside for a trip, school, a big purchase or just create a security blanket in the bank in case of emergency. Regardless of your reason to save, here are some great ways to make it […]

Leases are a binding contract between a tenant and a landlord and breaking a lease is a breach of this contract.  Despite this breach, you may find yourself with a valid reason for needing to break your lease – such as moving to another city. If you are in this situation, we want to help you try to avoid – […]

Sometimes when you are moving out for the first time or looking to decrease the cost of living in an apartment, finding a room mate can be a great option! There are however important considerations before making the choice to share your living space. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages to having a room mate! Advantages: Rent is […]

Take Inventory Before you start to furnish your new apartment, make sure you know exactly what you need. You don’t want to spend money on purchases you don’t really need or already have, especially if you are running on a tight budget. Your inventory of things for your new home may include items that friends or family no longer need […]

Land Transfer Taxes (LTT) are provincial taxes levied on the exchange of real estate, and are the responsibility of the purchaser. Usually the LTT is a percentage of the property value.  All provinces have a land transfer tax except Alberta and Saskatchewan (who instead levy a much smaller fee). Note that Ontario, Toronto, B.C. and PEI there are LTT rebates […]

Are you considering selling your own home or working with a real estate agent? Many sellers feel that real estate commissions are too high. On a $300,000 home, those commissions can add up to $15,000 or more. In theory, you can save thousands of dollars if you sell your own home.  But do you have the time or skills to […]