Tips for Non-Resident Buyers Investing in Vancouver Real Estate

Non-Resident Investors in Canada: An Overview

Here’s an overview for buying a home in Vancouver for non-resident buyers and investors:

• There are no restrictions for a non-resident to purchase real estate in Canada, but  there is a 20% foreign buyer tax payable at the time of purchase for any homes purchased in the Metro Vancouver area.
• A non-resident may purchase as many properties as they wish in Canada.
• Rental properties: Non-residents must file a Canadian Tax Return each year and declare rental income.

Non-Resident Investors in Canada: Mortgages

• For non-resident borrowers banks generally require a minimum of 35%-50% down payment.
• Qualifying for the mortgage financing is probably no more involved than what borrowers in other countries are accustomed to. The borrowers will be interviewed via phone, fax and/or email to gather personal information, including assets/liabilities, employment and/or income information. Each borrower's application will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• The mortgage approval may take approximately 24 - 48 hours after application and documentation have been submitted to the lender. Documentation generally required: income verification, tax returns, credit bureau banker's report (letter from their own back stating that all accounts are in good standing to date), down payment confirmation via bank statements, copy of 2 pieces of identification and real estate appraisal.
• The borrower will require the services of a Canadian lawyer or notary public to prepare the mortgage documents and registration at the Lands Title office. It is best if the borrower is available in Canada to sign mortgage documents at the time of completion. In the event the documents need to be couriered outside of Canada for signing, this will need to be arranged with the lawyer and lender well in advance of completion date.

Non-Resident Investors: Selling

• Whenever a non-resident sells Canadian real estate, the non-resident is required to pay the appropriate amount of taxes on any gain.
• This certificate may be applied for in advance of the completion date by the vendor, but not until there has been a contract of purchase and sale with all subjects removed. The wait for the certificate is usually 6-8 weeks. If the certificate is not obtained, the purchaser is required to hold back from the sale proceeds, a percentage of the selling price (usually 25%-50%).

Contact us  for more information on buying or selling a home in Vancouver as a non-resident. The Canada Revenue Agency contains the most up-to-date, in depth info you’ll need as a non-resident buyer or seller.