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HST Will Result in Higher Vancouver Real Estate Costs

By Sebastian Albrecht

Real Estate Agent with Royal LePage

August 12, 2009 06:40 PM

I recently provided an update on the BC government's proposal to implement a Harmonized Sales Tax and it's impact on the Vancouver real estate market. The HST was a surprise to us all. It's unfortunate that the provincial government chose not to consult those of us directly impacted before announcing the tax.

The Announcement

The announcement of the HST was such a surprise that those affected are scrambling to respond. Both the BCREA and the REBGV are currently trying to figure out exactly how to respond and just what the impacts on the real estate industry are. I expect that we will be hearing more from our industry in the coming weeks on this topic.

If you are purchasing property in BC as of July 1st, 2010 you will have to pay the HST (12%) on new construction (although up to $400,000 will be exempt up to a maximum credit of $20,000). You will also have to pay the HST (12%) on realtor fees, appraisal fees, and home inspection fees. All of these costs were previously exempt from the PST (7%).

The Impact

Perhaps you think that this tax won't affect you if you aren't purchasing new construction. I believe that the implementation of the HST on new construction will affect the resale market as well. I expect that we will see resale prices rise approximately 7% in order to balance out with the costs of new construction once the HST is in place.

We were already paying a hefty provincial tax on purchasing property in British Columbia (the PTT which is 1% on the first $200,000 and 2% on the balance). Adding the PST to this tax (albeit only for new construction) only exacerbates the affordability issue in BC (and particularly in Vancouver).

Affordability is the biggest issue in the Vancouver real estate market. With the market just beginning to take off again, it's nothing less than irresponsible for the Provincial government to impose this tax without at least consulting the industries directly affected.

The Response

The president of the BCREA, John Tillie, recently published this editorial about the HST in the Vancouver Sun.

Please Donate

On June 22nd, 2009 I broke the record for the most ascents of the Grouse Grind for charity. The Royal LePage Shelter Foundation is an incredible organization which is there to help women and children suffering from domestic abuse. Of every dollar donated, 100% goes directly to those in need (Royal LePage covers all administrative costs of the charity).