Effective October 20, 2024, registration fees charged on real estate transactions significantly increased with amendments to the Land Titles Act (the "Act") and Tariff of Fees Regulation (the "Regulation"). Registration fees are charges imposed by the Land Titles Office for registering documents to ensure an accurate public record of land ownership and interests in land.
Although the flat fee rate of $50.00 for land transfers and mortgage registrations remains unchanged, there are adjustments to the variable costs involved in real estate transactions.
Transfers of Land
Previously, the variable fee for transfers of land was $2.00 per $5,000.00 of property value. This fee will now increase to $5.00 per $5,000.00 of property value.
Mortgage Registrations and Land-Charging Caveats
The variable fee for mortgage registrations and caveats charging the land will increase from $1.50 per $5,000.00 of mortgage value to $5.00 per $5,000.00 of mortgage value.
The below table illustrates the effect of the change in fees using $1,000,000.00 as the value of land and mortgage:
| Prior Fee | Current Fee | |
| Transfer of Land | $450.00 $50.00 + [$2.00 x (1,000,000.00/5,000.00)] | $1,050.00 $50.00 + [$5.00 x (1,000,000.00/5,000.00)] |
| Mortgage | $350.00 $50.00 + [$1.50 x (1,000,000.00/5,000.00)] | $1,050.00 $50.00 + [$5.00 x (1,000,000.00/5,000.00)] |
Conclusion
The new fee schedule for transfers and mortgages has been removed from the Regulation and will instead be included in the Act in Sections 64.1 (land transfers) and 102.1 (mortgage registrations).
It is important to include the increase in Land Title fees in your budget when purchasing land or borrowing funds.
Despite these cost increases, Alberta's land title and registration fees remain the lowest in Canada. If you require assistance with your real estate or financing matters please contact our office.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
