How much is the deed transfer tax in Halifax?

HALIFAX REAL ESTATE BLOG

20th Edition | Real Estate Tips

November 8, 2026

Shawn Zupan

REALTOR®

902 880 2162

szupan@pressrealty.ca

Press Realty Inc

233 Bedford Highway

Halifax, Nova Scotia

How much is deed transfer tax when buying a home in Halifax?

If you’re buying a home in Halifax Regional Municipality, include deed transfer tax in your closing budget. HRM’s municipal deed transfer tax is 1.5% of the value of the property transferred. For a straightforward example, 1.5% of $500,000 is $7,500. Your real estate lawyer can confirm the amount to budget for your purchase. HRM’s deed transfer tax bylaw

Ask about the provincial tax if you live outside Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia also has a separate provincial deed transfer tax that can apply when a non-resident acquires an interest in qualifying residential property. Under the current calculation, the 10% rate applies to the ownership interest transferred to non-residents, using the higher of the purchase price and assessed value. If you plan to move to Nova Scotia or you’re buying with someone who lives outside the province, have your lawyer review the exemption and proof-of-residency requirements early. Nova Scotia’s non-resident deed transfer tax guidance

Ask for a closing estimate early

If you’re comparing homes in Halifax with homes outside HRM, ask your lawyer what municipal rate applies at each address and which other costs should go in your closing budget. A price you can afford still needs to leave enough room for the money due at closing.

Sources

Zupan Monthly edition, November 2025, "Tip of the month: Don't forget the taxes!"

Data from NSAR

novascotia.ca

halifax.ca