Quebec Closing Costs Calculator

Calculate closing costs for buying a home in Quebec. Includes the droits de mutation (welcome tax), mandatory notary fees, and Quebec-specific transaction requirements.

Quebec’s closing costs are shaped by two distinctive features: the droits de mutation immobilières (commonly called the “welcome tax”) and the mandatory use of a notary for all real estate transactions. The welcome tax uses tiered rates from 0.5% to 2.5%, similar in structure to Ontario’s land transfer tax but with different bracket thresholds. Unlike Ontario and BC, Quebec does not offer a first-time buyer exemption on the welcome tax.

The requirement to use a notary (rather than a lawyer) for Quebec real estate transactions is a legal mandate, not just a convention. Notary fees typically range from $1,500 to $2,500, which is comparable to legal fees in other provinces. However, Quebec buyers should also budget for the certificate of location (certificat de localisation), a survey document that may need to be updated if the existing one is more than 10 years old, at a cost of $700–$1,500.

Quebec Welcome Tax (Droits de Mutation)

The Quebec welcome tax is calculated on the greater of the sale price, the municipal assessment, or the market value indicated in the deed. The base rates are: 0.5% on the first $58,900, 1.0% on $58,901–$294,600, 1.5% on $294,601–$500,000, and higher rates on amounts above $500,000 (some municipalities, including Montreal, apply rates up to 2.5% on higher brackets).

On a $500,000 purchase, the welcome tax is approximately $5,500–$6,000 depending on the municipality. Importantly, Quebec does not offer any first-time buyer exemption or rebate on the welcome tax. This stands in contrast to Ontario (up to $4,000 rebate) and BC (full exemption up to $500,000), making Quebec’s closing costs comparatively less favorable for first-time buyers.

Notary Fees and Certificate of Location

Quebec law requires that a notary (notaire) handle all real estate transactions. The notary prepares the deed of sale, conducts title examination, ensures all conditions are met, collects and distributes funds, and registers the property transfer. Notary fees typically range from $1,500 to $2,500 depending on the complexity of the transaction.

Buyers should also budget for a certificate of location (certificat de localisation), which is a survey document showing the property boundaries, building location, easements, and encroachments. If the existing certificate is more than 10 years old or if modifications have been made to the property, a new one will likely be required. A new certificate costs $700–$1,500 and is ordered by the notary.

Key Facts

• The Quebec welcome tax (droits de mutation) uses tiered rates from 0.5% to 2.5%, payable within 30 days of the transfer.
• Quebec does not offer a first-time buyer exemption on the welcome tax, unlike Ontario and BC.
• A notary is legally required for all Quebec real estate transactions, with fees typically $1,500–$2,500.
• A certificate of location (survey) may need to be updated at a cost of $700–$1,500 if the existing one is outdated.
• The welcome tax is calculated on the greater of sale price, municipal assessment, or market value — not necessarily the purchase price alone.

FAQ

What is the Quebec welcome tax?

The welcome tax (droits de mutation immobilières) is Quebec’s equivalent of land transfer tax, charged when property ownership changes hands. It uses tiered rates starting at 0.5% and increasing on higher brackets. The tax is billed by the municipality within 30 days of the property transfer. Despite the friendly name, it is not a welcoming gift — it is a mandatory tax on all property purchases in Quebec.

Do first-time buyers in Quebec get a welcome tax exemption?

No. Unlike Ontario and BC, Quebec does not offer any exemption or rebate on the welcome tax for first-time home buyers. All buyers pay the full welcome tax regardless of whether it is their first home purchase. Federal programs like the Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP) and FHSA are still available to help with down payments and closing costs, but they do not offset the welcome tax directly.

Why do I need a notary to buy a home in Quebec?

Quebec’s civil law system (derived from French law) requires a notary to authenticate real estate transactions. The notary serves as a neutral public officer who ensures the legality of the transaction, conducts title searches, prepares the deed of sale, and registers the property transfer. This differs from common law provinces where a lawyer (who represents one party) handles the transaction.

What is a certificate of location and do I need one?

A certificate of location (certificat de localisation) is a survey document prepared by a land surveyor showing the property boundaries, building placement, easements, and any encroachments. Most lenders and notaries require a current certificate (typically less than 10 years old). If the existing certificate is outdated or if renovations have been made, a new one may be required at a cost of $700–$1,500.

Updated March 2026. Information on this page is provided for educational purposes only. Tax rules, rates, and government programs may change — verify details with the CRA or a qualified financial advisor.