Purchasing Your Home
There are many potential pitfalls to avoid during the home buying process, and many complex legal and tax matters to circumnavigate, especially in today's environment of local and regional government intervention in the housing market. Working with a competent and experience Realtor can be essential and the advice and guidance they provide can be invaluable and is typically free of charge to you as the seller usually pays the commission.
Take the housing measures that were introduced by the provincial government in the 2018 budget and the speculation tax rules, for example. If you are buying a home for investment either as a BC resident, out of province, or foreign investor, these will certainly be of interest to you. Also on the tax front, there are GST exemptions on new homes that apply, subject to certain limitations, the BC Property Transfer Tax to consider that is also subject to a first time home buyer as well as a new home exemption under certain circumstances, and withholding taxes that apply on the sale of Real Estate if you are not a Canadian resident for tax purposes.
The purchase of Real Estate in BC demands a careful examination of the lands, the legal title to it, and any structures built thereon. Homes of certain vintages should be scanned and investigated for underground oil storage tank installation history. BC environmental laws are quite stringent when it comes to soil contamination resulting from such tanks. Insulation materials found in walls and attics and around water piles should be examined for the presence of asbestos products as it is often impossible to sell or to either obtain financing for a home until such materials have been remediated often at a significant cost.
Home Buying Can Be Easy
As your buying agent, I can help streamline the process of buying a home and make it easier for you. I’ve aligned myself with the top professionals in the industry, and once an offer has been accepted, I will personally help facilitate the process to close on the home. By working closely with mortgage brokers, title and escrow companies, home inspectors, and home warranty companies I will provide you with the best service possible!
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