In Quebec, closing costs represent about 2.5% to 3.4% of the purchase price. For a $450,000 property, that means $11,300 to $15,100 in additional fees on top of your down payment. Here’s the complete breakdown.
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1. Complete list of closing costs
Here are all the costs to plan for when purchasing a $450,000 property in Quebec in 2026:
| Expense item | Range |
|---|---|
| Notary fees | $1,500 - $2,500 |
| Welcome tax (transfer duties) | $4,861 |
| Pre-purchase inspection | $500 - $800 |
| Certificate of location | $800 - $1,500 |
| Municipal/school tax adjustment | ~ $2,200 |
| Title insurance | $250 - $400 |
| Moving costs | $800 - $2,000 |
| Home insurance (1st year) | $400 - $800 |
Estimated total for a $450,000 purchase: $11,300 to $15,100 (2.5% to 3.4% of the purchase price, sum of the items above)
2. Welcome tax calculation
The welcome tax (land transfer duties) is calculated using progressive brackets, similar to income tax. Here are the rates in effect in 2026:
Calculation formula — $450,000 purchase
• Bracket 1: $0 to $62,900 × 0.5% = $314.50
• Bracket 2: $62,900 to $315,000 × 1.0% = $2,521
• Bracket 3: $315,000 to $450,000 × 1.5% = $2,025
• Total welcome tax: $4,860.50 (2026 thresholds; a first-time buyer can recover all of it through Quebec’s refundable tax credit)
⚠ The welcome tax is payable within 30 days of the municipality sending the bill. Plan for this amount in cash; it cannot be financed through your mortgage.
For a detailed welcome tax calculation, read our complete guide to welcome tax in Quebec 2026.
3. Notary fees breakdown
Notary fees cover several essential services during the real estate transaction. Here is the breakdown for a standard purchase:
Title verification
The notary examines the chain of title to ensure the seller is the legitimate owner and that there are no hidden charges or servitudes.
Deed of sale and mortgage deed
Preparation, signing and publication of deeds at the Quebec Land Registry. Publication cost: approximately $200.
Adjustments and disbursements
The notary calculates tax adjustments, heating and other shared costs between buyer and seller at the closing date.
Certificate of location
If the seller does not provide a recent one (less than 10 years old), the buyer will need to order a new one ($800-$1,500).
To learn more about the notary’s role, read our guide to notaries in Quebec real estate.
4. Adjustments and hidden fees
The municipal and school tax adjustment is often the most underestimated cost. The seller has paid taxes for the full year; you must reimburse them for the remaining period from the closing date.
Adjustment example — July 1st closing
• Annual municipal taxes: $4,000
• Annual school taxes: $400
• Remaining period: 184 days (Jul 1 to Dec 31) ÷ 365 = 50.4%
• Adjustment to pay: ($4,000 + $400) × 50.4% = $2,218 (≈ $2,200)
Other commonly overlooked fees include title insurance ($250-$400) protecting against undiscovered title defects, utility connections (Hydro-Québec, internet, gas), and immediate renovations often needed after purchase.
5. Pre-closing checklist
Here is the checklist to complete before the closing date to avoid any surprises:
| Task | Deadline | Priority |
|---|---|---|
| Confirm mortgage financing | 7 days before | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Purchase home insurance | 5 days before | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Prepare certified cheque (balance of price) | 3 days before | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Pre-closing property visit | 1-2 days before | ⭐⭐ |
| Set aside funds for welcome tax | When the bill arrives | ⭐⭐ |
An OACIQ-certified real estate broker guides you through each step and ensures nothing is overlooked before closing. They coordinate with the notary and your lender for a smooth transaction.
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