The short answer
The ten items
1. The down payment
5% of the first $500,000 of the price, plus 10% of the next slice. At $450,000: $22,500. See Minimum down payment in Quebec.
2. The welcome tax
Calculated in brackets. At the 2026 base schedule, about $4,860 on a $450,000 purchase. A refundable tax credit can return part of it, up to $5,875, for a first home acquired after December 31, 2025. See Welcome tax.
3. The notary’s fees
They vary from one office to another. Ask for a written statement before choosing.
4. The pre-purchase inspection
Paid by the buyer, before the final offer. It works for you, not for the lender. See Inspection or appraisal.
5. The loan insurance premium and its tax
Below 20% down, the loan is insured. At 5% down the premium is 4.00% of the loan and is added to the balance. The provincial sales tax on the premium is paid in cash and cannot be added to the loan.
6. The property appraisal
Requested by the lender. Ask who covers the cost.
7. Tax and charge adjustments
They depend on the signing date and what the seller has already paid.
8. The location certificate
Needed in many files; the notary tells you whether the seller’s certificate is enough.
9. Insurance
Home insurance is required by the lender; title insurance is optional.
10. The move and the reserve
Moving, hookups, furniture, first repairs. Keep cash after closing. See Setting a purchase budget.
Frequently asked questions
How much should I have in the bank before making an offer?
The down payment, welcome tax, notary, inspection and tax on the premium, plus a reserve. I calculate the total with you.
Are these costs added to the loan?
The insurance premium is added to the loan. The other costs are paid in cash.