Ottawa Real Estate Costs: From First Offer to Final Move
Thinking about buying or selling a home in Kanata or Stittsville? Wondering what the real costs look like? This friendly guide breaks it all down with no surprises and smart planning, so you can move forward with confidence.
When you're planning a move, there are a lot of things to get excited about: a new space, a new neighbourhood, maybe even a fresh start. But whether you're buying your first home or selling your fifth, the costs involved can add up quickly.
The good news? They don’t have to be surprising or stressful.
I walk clients through this all the time. The biggest advantage you can give yourself is knowing what to expect from the beginning. Here’s a breakdown of the real costs to move in and around Kanata and Stittsville, with some friendly advice to help you budget smart and breathe easier.
Costs to Buy a Home in Kanata-Stittsville
Buying a home is more than just the down payment. Here’s what to expect:
Based on a $600,000 purchase, the above chart is a guideline on how much you could roughly budget for each category. Note: this doesn’t take into account any rebates.
1. Deposit & Down Payment
The deposit is paid upfront with your offer and is typically anywhere between 1-3% of the purchase price. The down payment is paid at closing and the minimum is 5% in Canada for homes under $500,000. It’s important to note that these aren’t added costs. They go toward the purchase price. Just make sure the funds are accessible when you need them.
2. Home Inspection
While not a requirement when purchasing a home, a home inspection can save you a lot of money in the long run. The upfront cost can range between $400 to $600. This investment can offer you peace of mind by uncovering potential issues before you commit.
3. Legal Fees & Title Insurance
Legal fees for home buyers in Ontario are typically between $1,200 to $1,800 and title insurance ranges between $250 to $400. These costs cover reviewing the Agreement of Purchase and Sale, preparing and registering legal documents, legal advice, property search, paperwork, and protection from title-related issues.
4. Land Transfer Tax (LTT)
The cost varies based on home price. For example, if you were to purchase a $600,000 home in Ottawa, which is just under the average home price, expect around $8,475. First-time home buyers may be eligible for a rebate of up to $4,000.
5. Appraisal Fees
Required by lenders in many mortgage scenarios, the cost of this is usually between $300 to $500.
6. Utility Set-Up & Transfers
This can include but is not limited to Hydro Ottawa, Enbridge, Bell or Rogers, City of Ottawa services, and more. An estimate for these would be in the $100 to $300 range.
7. Moving Costs
This could vary depending on which route you go. Coordinating some able-bodied volunteers with the classic pizza/beer celebration party could cost you anywhere between $300 to $600. If you’d rather go through the done-for-you route of hiring professional movers, you’re looking at $1,000 to $2,000 or more. Keep in mind that prices fluctuate by season, distance, and how much you’re moving.
8. Post-Move Costs (Optional, but Common)
Costs such as new furniture or appliances, painting or small renovations, window coverings, garden tools, snow blower, etc. could factor in depending on property maintenance and what upgrades you’re looking to make. Remember, it’s not about spending more. It’s about knowing what to expect so you can plan smart.
Costs to Sell a Home in Kanata-Stittsville
Based on a $600,000 sale, the above chart is a guideline on how much you could roughly budget for each category.
Sellers don’t pay land transfer tax, but there are several other costs to plan for:
1. Real Estate Commission
The typical range is 4 to 5% of the final sale price and it’s split between the buyer’s and seller’s agents. Staying with the example of a $600,000 home, that might mean a $24,000 to $30,000 in commission.
2. Legal Fees for Sellers
The typical cost is $1,000 to $1,500 and this covers the mortgage discharge and final paperwork.
3. Pre-Listing Prep
Some prep you may want to do to your home includes cleaning/decluttering ($200 to $500), minor repairs or painting ($500 to $2,000 or more), and staging ($1,000 to $2,500 or more). Be sure to ask me what’s included in your listing as I often cover professional photography and marketing. Also, ask me what fixes are worth your time and which ones won’t move the needle. I’m happy to advise.
4. Mortgage Discharge or Penalty Fees
The costs associated with this will vary so it’s important to check with your lender if you're breaking a mortgage early. Fixed-rate mortgages often carry larger penalties.
5. Moving & Storage
Overall, these costs will be similar buying costs estimate (see above), ranging from $300 to $2,000 or more depending on whether you go the DIY or professional movers route. An added cost may be storage units at $100 to $200 per month if needed during staging or transition.
When selling your home, the biggest expense is usually the real estate commission, followed by costs for legal fees, staging and prep work, mortgage discharge penalties, and moving or storage services. Planning for these expenses upfront helps you avoid surprises and net the best return on your sale.
Hidden Costs That Catch People Off Guard
Some expenses fall in the "didn’t think of that" category. Here are a few:
1. Property Tax Adjustments: You may owe or be credited for prepaid taxes depending on your closing date.
2. Bridge Financing: Needed when your new home closes before your current home sells. Ask your mortgage broker about this in advance.
3. Condo Elevator Booking Fees: Some buildings charge to reserve elevator time for your move.
4. Insurance During the Move: Valuable items? Consider moving insurance to protect them.
5. Time Off Work, Child/Pet Care: Overlooked, but can easily add stress and cost if not accounted for.
What Makes Moving in Kanata & Stittsville Unique?
Living and working in Ottawa’s west end, I see a few factors that shape what moving looks like here:
• Market timing matters. Spring and early fall are busier, which can drive up moving company rates.
• Neighbourhood layout. Larger rural properties may need more planning for trucks or multiple trips.
• Reliable local service providers. I can connect you with movers, handy people, cleaners, lawyers, and more.
• School boundaries. Some clients move earlier than planned due to school zone shifts.
Want recommendations? I've got a go-to list of trusted, local contacts.
Let’s Make Your Move Feel Easy
Moving is a big step, but it doesn’t have to be a stressful one. A little preparation and the right guidance can go a long way.
👉 Reach out anytime. I’m happy to talk through your move and help make things simple.
