Selling your home isn't free — but knowing the numbers upfront helps you plan, budget, and walk away with more in your pocket. Here's your complete, honest breakdown.
Most sellers focus on the sale price. But what you actually walk away with depends on a dozen costs that add up fast. If you're asking "how much does it cost to sell a house in Ottawa?" — this guide answers that question down to the dollar.
| Expense | Estimated Cost | % of Sale Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Real Estate Commission | $27,400 – $34,250 | 4–5% | Split between listing agent and buyer's agent |
| Legal Fees | $1,500 – $2,500 | 0.2–0.4% | Includes title transfer, disbursements, and adjustments |
| Home Staging | $1,500 – $4,000 | 0.2–0.6% | Full staging costs more; partial/virtual options available |
| Professional Photography | $300 – $800 | <0.1% | Often included by listing agent — ask upfront |
| Pre-Listing Repairs | $1,000 – $5,000+ | 0.1–0.7% | Painting, minor fixes, deferred maintenance |
| Pre-Listing Home Inspection | $400 – $600 | <0.1% | Optional but builds buyer confidence |
| Mortgage Discharge Fee | $300 – $500 | <0.1% | If you have an existing mortgage |
| Capital Gains Tax | Varies | 0%* | *$0 on primary residence in Canada |
| Moving Costs | $1,000 – $3,000 | 0.1–0.4% | Local move; higher for long-distance |
| Utilities & Insurance Overlap | $200 – $500 | <0.1% | If you own two properties simultaneously |
| TOTAL ESTIMATED | $33,600 – $51,150 | 4.9–7.5% | Varies by home condition and choices |
Commission is typically 4–5% of the sale price in Ottawa, split between the listing agent and the buyer's agent. On a $685,000 home, that's $27,400–$34,250.
If you buy before you sell, you're carrying two mortgages. Bridge financing costs ~prime + 2-4% and can add hundreds in interest for every week of overlap.
After the home inspection, buyers often negotiate repairs or credits. Budget $1,000–$3,000 for concessions you hadn't planned for.
At closing, you'll reimburse the buyer for prepaid property taxes. This can be $500–$2,000 depending on the timing of your sale relative to tax payment dates.
Overpriced homes sit, accumulate price reductions, and often sell below market. Correct pricing from day one minimizes carrying costs.
Not all commission structures are fixed. Ask about tiered commission, flat-fee options, or reduced rates if you're also buying through the same agent.
Decluttering, deep cleaning, and minor touch-up painting are free. Skip professional staging if your home already shows well.
Spring and early fall typically see more buyers in Ottawa. Less competition in winter can mean faster sales with motivated buyers.
Every home is different. Book a free consultation and I'll give you a personalized net proceeds estimate — no strings, no pressure.
Free Buyer's Guide
Everything you need to know before you start — in plain language.