Alberta Land Titles Has Increased Their Fees: How it Affects Your Deal

Written by: Sumit Kanwar

The fees associated with both residential and commercial real estate transactions in Alberta have increased effective October 20th, 2024.

This article will explore the significant impact of the new Land Title fees on real estate transactions in Alberta.

The Land Titles Act and Tariff of Fees Regulation was amended, causing an increase in fees for land transfers and mortgage registrations. A summary of the fee changes can be found below:

Prior to October 20, 2024, the fees were as follows:

- $50 base fee;

- $2.00 per $5,000.00 of value for a transfer; and

- $1.50 per $5,000.00 of value for a mortgage.

Effective October 20, 2024, the new fees are as follows:

- $50 base fee;

- $5.00 per $5,000.00 of value for a transfer and mortgage.

This is the first Land Titles registration fee increase since 2019.

All submissions for transfer or mortgage to the Land Titles Office effective October 20, 2024, are now subject to the new and increased fees.

Here is an illustrative example of what to expect:

Prior to October 20, 2024: $100,000 value/mortgage

- Transfer = $50 + ($100,000.00/$5,000.00) x $2.00 = $90.00

- Mortgage = $50 + ($100,000.00/$5.000.00) x $1.50 = $80.00

- Total = $170.00

After October 20, 2024: $100,000 value/mortgage

- Transfer = $50 + ($100,000.00/$5,000.00) x $5.00 = $150.00

- Mortgage = $50 + ($100,000.00/$5,000.00) x $5.00 = $150.00

- Total = $300.00

After October 20, 2024: $100,000 value/mortgage

- Transfer = $50 + ($200,000.00/$5,000.00) x $5.00 = $250.00

- Mortgage = $50 + ($200,000.00/$5,000.00) x $5.00 = $250.00

- Total = $500.00

As seen above, for every $100,000 increase in the property value or mortgage, the parties should account for an additional $100 in Land Titles registration fees for each as part of their closing costs under the new regime (not to mention the significantly higher fees at the same level).

Every real estate transaction in Alberta that is submitted to Land Titles on or after October 20, 2024 will be subject to the new increased fees. If you have submitted your transfer or registration of mortgage prior to this date, you will qualify for the lower fees, subject to certain exceptions.

Please be advised that the herein article constitutes legal information only and is not intended nor to be construed as legal advice.

Should you or anyone you know require assistance with your commercial or residential real estate transaction, please do not hesitate to contact the author, Sumit Kanwar at skanwar@sb-llp.com or any of our commercial or residential real estate lawyers at SB LLP.