How much does it cost to sell a home in Calgary?
The main expenses when selling a home typically include real estate commissions, legal fees, and any costs associated with preparing the property for sale. Depending on your situation, there may also be mortgage discharge or prepayment charges, moving expenses, and costs for obtaining or updating a Real Property Report. Commissions are negotiable and subject to GST. Before listing, I'll walk you through the anticipated expenses so you have a clear understanding of what you can expect to receive from the sale.

Costs of Selling a Home at a Glance


  • Commission is usually the largest selling expense.
  • Legal fees, mortgage payout costs, and RPR updates are also common.
  • Preparation and moving costs should be included in your budget.
  • Knowing your costs helps you estimate your net proceeds.

Common Selling Costs


  • Real estate commission, plus GST
  • Legal fees for the sale
  • Mortgage prepayment penalty or discharge fee
  • Real Property Report and municipal compliance, if needed
  • Repairs, cleaning, painting, or staging
  • Moving and storage
  • Utility and property tax adjustments at closing

Commission


Commissions are negotiable and subject to GST. A common structure in Calgary is 7% on the first $100,000 of the sale price and 3% on the balance. For a $500,000 sale, that equals $19,000 plus GST.


Mortgage Payout Costs


If you're breaking a mortgage before the end of its term, your lender may charge a prepayment penalty. Contact your lender early to request a payout estimate.


Real Property Report


For detached homes and some condos, you'll need a current Real Property Report with municipal compliance. Updating an RPR can cost several hundred dollars or more, and compliance may take time.


A Sample Cost Estimate


For a $500,000 sale, costs might include $19,000 in commission plus GST, legal fees, a possible mortgage penalty, and moving costs. Your actual costs depend on your mortgage, home, and plans, which is why a personalized estimate is so helpful before listing.


Estimating Your Net Proceeds


I'll prepare an estimate showing your expected sale price, costs, and approximate proceeds after your mortgage is paid out, so you can plan your next move with confidence.