Thursday, September 4, 2025

Property owners in BC are subject to multiple taxes from all levels of government – many of which overlap.

For instance, both the BC and federal governments have a flipping tax, and if you live in Vancouver, there are three levels of taxes for empty or underused homes.

While these taxes serve similar purposes, they each have their own set of conditions and exemptions.

When you factor in taxes like local property taxes and the Capital Gains Tax, it’s clear how complicated the system can feel for homeowners.

This table includes the taxes related to owning or selling a home, along with deadlines, exemptions, and links for more detailed information.

Tax Government
responsible		 Due date
(if applicaable)  		 Other  
Empty Homes Tax Vancouver   About the EHT
Speculation and Vacancy Tax Provincial
  • Declaration letter on  March 31
  • Payment on first business day in July 
 About the SVT
Underused Housing Tax Federal April 30 of the following year About the UHT
Flipping taxes Provincial Within 90 days of sale
Federal   More info
Property tax Local July
Property Transfer Tax Provincial Upon purchase of home About the PTT
Capital Gains Tax Federal Due year of sale

About the Capital Gains Tax
GST Federal At time of purchase
  • REALTOR® services
  • Newly built homes 

Sources: Government of Canada, Government of BC, City of Vancouver