Closing costs - the list of charges that your lawyer presents to you on the closing date - surprises many people. since they are additional costs over and above the price of the home. According to CMHC and GE Capital, one should have, in addition to the down payment, at least 1.5% of the purchase price for closing costs (we say 2-2.5%, just to be on the safe side). The costs vary among provinces, and for that matter, among cities.

Below you will find a brief explanation of these costs. Please note that not all of them may apply to your specific situation, and there may be more that apply in your circumstance. Use this is a guideline, and then talk with your lawyer who can provide a more realistic estimate for your situation, since he or she is the best resource for your closing costs.

Appraisal Fee: The appraisal provides the lenders with a professional opinion of the market value of the property. This cost is normally the borrower's responsibility and it ranges as low as $100 for a drive-by appraisal to as much as $250 for a full appraisal, and the average being $180, plus G.S.T. Occasionally, the costs could be slightly higher for larger, custom-built homes, or homes in remote parts.

Home Inspection Fee: A professional inspection of the home, top to bottom, is for the benefit of the buyer, therefore, that's who absorbs the cost. A typical home inspection can cost anywhere from $300-$400, but our opinion is that they are well worth the investment. New home buyers may not worry about it, but a definite must for buyers purchasing properties older than 5 years. When hiring a home inspector, make sure the inspector has liability insurance, just in case a mistake is made.

Fire Insurance: All mortgage lenders will require a certificate of fire insurance to be in place from the time you take possession of the home. The amount required is generally at least the amount of the mortgage or the replacement cost of the home. This cost can vary on the property size and extras being insured, as well as the insurance company and the municipality. The cost can vary anywhere from $250-$600 for most properties.

Provincial Sales Tax of 8% (P.S.T.): If your mortgage is CMHC or GE Capital insured (less than 25% down payment), there is P.S.T. of 8% in Ontario, payable at closing, on the CMHC or GE Capital fee. While the insurance premium can be added to the mortgage amount, the P.S.T. must be paid at closing. For example, a mortgage that results in a $1,000 fee, will have to pay $80 in PST upon closing.

Land Survey Fee Or Title Insurance Fee: A recent Survey of the property is usually required by the lender, and if one is not available, it normally costs anywhere from $600-$900 for a new survey. In lieu of the Survey, most lenders today will accept Title Insurance, at a much lower price of approximately $225.

Legal Costs and Disbursements: A lawyer or notary will charge a fee for their professional services involved in drafting the title deed, preparing the mortgage, and conducting the various searches. The disbursements, on the other hand, are out-of-pocket expenses incurred, such as registrations, searches, supplies, etc., plus G.S.T.

Land Transfer Tax: Most provinces charge a land transfer tax, payable by the purchaser, and the amount varies from province to province. This tax is based on the purchase price (refer to mortgage ABC's for exact calculation). In Ontario, first time home buyers who purchase a new home get a refund up to $1725.

New Home Warranty: In many provinces, new homes are covered by a new home warranty program. The cost to the purchaser for this warranty is approximately $600 and should the builder default or fail to build to an agreed-upon standard, the fund will finish or repair the deficiencies.

Mortgage Application and Processing Fee: On a high-ratio insured mortgage (mortgages above 75% of the purchase price), the mortgage insurer (CMHC or GE Capital) charges a fee of $165-$185 for applying and processing the file, as well as appraising the property. On new homes, this fee drops to $75. Closing Adjustments: An estimate should be made for closing adjustments for bills that the seller has prepaid such as property taxes, utility bills, and other charges. Any bills after the closing date are the purchaser's responsibility. Your lawyer/notary will let you know what they are exactly once the various searches have been completed.

G.S.T.: On the purchase of a newly constructed home, GST is payable, but make sure you know who pays this, you or the builder. Therefore, on the offer, the purchase price will say "Plus GST" or "GST Included", and who gets the GST new home rebate. A lot of builders have included this cost into the purchase price so that the buyer does not have to come up with that at closing. (As well, this tax is also charged on all professional fees).