The Real Cost of Selling a Home in BC — What Nobody Tells You

May 19, 2026

Most sellers focus on one number: the sale price.

But the number that actually matters is what you walk away with — and those two numbers are rarely the same.

Here's an honest breakdown of the real cost of selling a home in BC that most agents won't walk you through upfront.

Real Estate Commissions

This is the biggest cost. In BC, commissions are negotiable — but a typical structure looks something like this:

A percentage of the first portion of the sale price

A lower percentage on the remainder

On a $1,000,000 sale, total commission might be in the range of $25,000–$35,000 depending on what's negotiated. GST applies on top of the commission amount.

Remember: the listing agent's commission and the buyer's agent's commission both typically come out of the seller's proceeds.

Legal Fees

You'll need a lawyer or notary to handle the legal side of your sale — title transfer, mortgage payout, statement of adjustments.

Budget approximately $1,000–$1,500 in legal fees, though this varies by complexity.

Mortgage Payout Penalties

If you have a closed mortgage and you're selling before the term ends, your lender will charge a prepayment penalty.

This can range from three months' interest to an Interest Rate Differential (IRD) penalty — which can be substantial depending on your rate and remaining term. Always call your lender before listing to get the exact payout figure.

Property Tax Adjustments

Property taxes are paid annually but adjusted on closing. If you've prepaid taxes for the year and the buyer takes possession partway through, they'll reimburse you for their portion. If you haven't paid, you'll owe your share.

Pre-Sale Preparation Costs

To get the best price, most homes need some investment before listing:

Cleaning and decluttering — $500–$2,000

Staging — $2,000–$8,000 depending on the size of the home

Repairs and touch-ups — varies widely

Photography and marketing — typically covered by your agent, but confirm

Moving Costs

Don't forget to factor in the cost of your move — professional movers, storage, and the time and energy required to pack and transition.

The Net Proceeds Calculation

Here's a simplified example on a $1,000,000 sale:

Every situation is different — but this gives you a realistic starting point.

Want a Real Number for Your Home?

We'll give you a complimentary net proceeds estimate based on your specific situation — no obligation, no surprises.

Book a Home Seller Consultation →

Be good to yourselves — because at the end of the day, we're all just trying to find our way home. Much love.

— Taz & Navi, Impact Realty Group