In Nova Scotia the deed transfer tax is set by each municipality — roughly 1% to 1.5%, with Halifax at 1.5%. Non-residents also pay a 10% provincial tax. The buyer pays at closing. Estimate yours below.
Nova Scotia's municipal deed transfer tax runs about 1% to 1.5% of the sale price; Halifax charges 1.5%, so a $700,000 Halifax home is about $10,500. Non-residents pay an extra 10% provincial deed transfer tax. This is an estimate — verify with your lawyer.
| Component | Rate |
|---|---|
| Municipal deed transfer tax (varies) | ~1.0% – 1.5% |
| Halifax Regional Municipality | 1.5% |
| Provincial non-resident tax (residential) | 10% |
The municipal deed transfer tax is set by each municipality. The 10% non-resident provincial deed transfer tax applies to agreements signed after March 31, 2025 (up from 5%), on residential property of 3 dwelling units or fewer, with a residency exemption.
It is set by each municipality, roughly 1% to 1.5% of the sale price. Halifax charges 1.5%, so a $700,000 Halifax home is about $10,500.
A 10% provincial deed transfer tax on residential property (3 units or fewer) where ownership passes to non-residents, for agreements signed after March 31, 2025. It increased from 5%. A residency exemption applies if the buyer becomes a NS resident within 6 months.
No. The rate ranges from about 1% to 1.5% depending on the municipality. Check your specific town or the Service Nova Scotia rate list.
There is no provincial first-time buyer rebate for the deed transfer tax.
No. It is an estimate; municipal rates vary and the non-resident tax has its own rules and exemptions. Confirm with your lawyer.