Land Transfer Tax Alberta (Common Confusion Explained)
People moving from Ontario or BC often search “land transfer tax Alberta.” Here’s the simple answer: Alberta does not charge a provincial land transfer tax like Ontario. But buyers still have real closing costs (legal, inspection, adjustments, and registration-related items). This guide shows what to budget.
Quick answer: Alberta has no provincial land transfer tax. Your “cash-to-close” is mainly legal + disbursements, inspection, adjustments, and (sometimes) title insurance and condo document review.
So what do Alberta buyers actually pay?
Even without a land transfer tax, buyers still have upfront costs. Think of this as your cash-to-close (money needed beyond the down payment).
| Cost category | What it usually covers | How to estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Legal fees + disbursements | Lawyer handling conveyancing, plus common out-of-pocket items tied to closing. | Ask your lawyer for a quote; we’ll include a budgeting range in your checklist. |
| Home inspection | Third-party inspection (recommended for many buyers). | Budget a realistic inspection amount in your monthly model. |
| Adjustments | Prorated items like property taxes, utilities, or condo fees depending on possession date. | Depends on timing; it’s normal for this to vary by property. |
| Title insurance (sometimes) | Risk coverage tied to title issues; sometimes used instead of certain searches. | Discuss with your lawyer—property type and situation matter. |
| Condo docs review (if condo) | Condo document package review (fees, bylaws, reserve fund, insurance, special assessment risk). | Budget for doc fees and review time. |
| Moving + setup | Movers, utility hookups, initial maintenance, small repairs. | Often underestimated—build it into your plan. |
Why this query converts (and how to use it)
- Out-of-province buyers ask this when they’re comparing Ontario/BC costs to Alberta.
- If your budget is tight, closing costs matter because they affect cash-to-close.
- The fastest way to avoid surprises is to run a clean model before you write an offer.
Next best pages (to keep crawl depth clean)
- Closing costs in Alberta (full buyer checklist).
- Property taxes: Edmonton vs Calgary.
- How to buy in Edmonton remotely.
- How to buy in Calgary remotely.
FAQ (land transfer tax Alberta)
Does Alberta have a land transfer tax?
No—Alberta does not have a provincial land transfer tax like Ontario. Buyers still pay other closing-related costs (legal, disbursements, adjustments, etc.).
Is there any transfer tax at all?
Not in the Ontario-style sense. Your closing costs come from the transaction process (legal work, registrations, adjustments) rather than a standalone provincial transfer tax.
What’s the best way to estimate my cash-to-close?
Use a checklist and run your monthly model early. We can also help you compare properties so the estimate is realistic before you offer.
Do condos cost more to close?
Often they add condo document costs and review diligence. It’s worth it—condo docs can reveal fee risks and special assessment exposure.
MLS®/REALTOR® trademarks belong to their respective owners. This is practical real estate guidance—not legal, tax, or accounting advice.