Who Pays Land Transfer Tax in Ontario?
Buyers are responsible for paying land transfer tax (LTT) when they purchase a home, condo, or commercial property in Ontario. Sellers do not pay this tax. Your real estate lawyer typically collects and remits the LTT to the province on closing day.
If you're buying a property in Toronto, you’ll pay both the Ontario Land Transfer Tax and an additional Toronto Land Transfer Tax—making Toronto one of the few cities in Canada with a double LTT.
Ontario Land Transfer Tax Rates:
0.5% on the first $55,000
1.0% on the portion from $55,000 to $250,000
1.5% from $250,000 to $400,000
2.0% from $400,000 to $2,000,000
2.5% on the portion above $2,000,000 (for residential properties with 1–2 units)
Toronto Land Transfer Tax Rates (in addition to Ontario’s):
0.5% on the first $55,000
1.0% from $55,000 to $250,000
1.5% from $250,000 to $400,000
2.0% from $400,000 to $2,000,000
2.5% over $2,000,000
Use our Land Transfer Tax Calculator to estimate your total LTT.
First-Time Buyer Refund
If you're a first-time homebuyer, you may qualify for a partial or full refund of the Ontario and Toronto land transfer taxes. Learn more about first-time buyer rebates.
Other Taxes to Consider
HST: Applies to new or substantially renovated homes (not resale homes). Buyers may be eligible for an HST rebate of up to $24,000. Contact CRA at 1‑800‑959‑1953 for details.
Non-Resident Speculation Tax (NRST): 15% tax for non-residents buying residential property in the Greater Golden Horseshoe Region. Learn more.
When is Land Transfer Tax Paid?
Land transfer tax is due at closing when the deed is transferred.
If the deed is not registered within 30 days, a special return and payment must be submitted to the Ontario Ministry of Finance.
Exemptions May Apply
LTT exemptions or deferrals may apply for:
Transfers between spouses
Transfers to a family business corporation
Transfers of farmed land between family members
Transfers from charities or non-profits
Transfers between affiliated corporations