Home Buying Costs in BC | First-Time Buyer Fees Explained (2025)

Buying a home in BC comes with more than just a down payment. Whether you’re a first-time home buyer or planning your next move, it’s important to know all the fees and costs that come with purchasing real estate.

In this video, I cover:
✅ Closing costs when buying a home in BC
✅ Property Transfer Tax (and exemptions)
✅ Legal fees and notary costs
✅ Home inspection fees
✅ Appraisals & moving costs
✅ Extra expenses first-time buyers often overlook

Understanding these costs can save you thousands and help you feel more confident as you budget for your new home.

0:00 - Your Down Payment Isn't Enough: Extra Home Buying Costs
0:06 - Intro: Fraser Valley & South Delta Realtor's Full Cost Breakdown
0:42 - *Cost 1: The Down Payment* (Minimum 5% in Canada)
1:11 - *Cost 2: The Deposit* (Required to Secure Offer - Different from Down Payment)
1:53 - *Cost 3: Property Transfer Tax (PTT)*
2:09 - PTT Exemptions for First-Time Home Buyers in BC
2:55 - *Cost 4: Mortgage Insurance* (CMHC/Default Insurance if under 20% down)
3:28 - *Cost 5: Home Inspection* (Optional, but Always Budget for Peace of Mind)
4:10 - *Cost 6: Appraisals* (Lender Requirement to Confirm Value)
4:34 - *Cost 7: Home Insurance* (Fire & Liability Required Before Completion)
4:53 - *Cost 8: GST on New Construction* (5% GST on New Builds)
5:23 - *Cost 9: Closing Costs (Lawyer/Notary Fees)*
5:43 - *Cost 10: Moving Costs & Extras* (Movers, Utilities, Pizza!)
5:59 - Hot Tip: Where to Find Free Moving Boxes (Facebook/Grocery Stores)
6:46 - Real World Moving Costs Example ($1,600 to $2,500)
7:34 - *Rule of Thumb: Budget 1.5% of the Purchase Price for Extras*
7:52 - Free Home Buying Consultations in the Fraser Valley

📍 I’m Courtney Rufh, a Fraser Valley & South Delta Realtor® helping buyers and sellers navigate the BC real estate market with clarity and confidence.

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