How Much Does It Cost to Sell a House in Canada? (2026 Guide)
By Modern Solution Realty
🏡 1% Listing Commission | 💰 $5,000 Buyer Cashback
Selling your home isn’t just about the sale price — it’s about what you actually walk away with.
A lot of homeowners focus on how much their home will sell for, but the real question is:
How much will you keep after all the costs?
In Canada, selling a home comes with several expenses that can add up quickly — and understanding them ahead of time can save you thousands.
The Biggest Cost: Real Estate Commission
For most sellers, commission is the largest expense.
Traditionally, real estate fees can be around 4%–5% of the sale price, depending on the market and brokerage.
On a $800,000 home, that’s:
👉 $32,000 – $40,000 in commission
That’s a significant portion of your equity.
A Smarter Alternative: 1% Listing Commission
Some modern brokerages now offer a different model.
Instead of paying the full traditional rate, sellers can list their home for 1% commission, while still receiving full service.
That can mean:
✔ Professional marketing
✔ MLS exposure
✔ Negotiation support
✔ Full agent representation
And the biggest difference?
👉 You keep more of your money.
Many homeowners are saving up to $15,000 or more just by choosing a lower commission structure.
Other Costs to Expect When Selling
Commission isn’t the only expense. Here are a few other common costs:
Legal Fees
You’ll need a real estate lawyer to handle the closing.
Typical cost:
👉 $1,000 – $2,500
Mortgage Penalties
If you’re breaking your mortgage early, there may be penalties.
This varies depending on your lender and terms — sometimes a few thousand dollars.
Staging & Preparation
Some sellers invest in:
- Cleaning
- Minor repairs
- Staging
This can range from a few hundred to several thousand, depending on the condition of the home.
Moving Costs
Whether you hire movers or do it yourself, this is another expense to factor in.
How Much Do Sellers Actually Walk Away With?
Let’s break it down quickly:
Example:
- Sale Price: $800,000
- Traditional Commission (5%): $40,000
- Other Costs: ~$5,000
👉 Net before mortgage: ~$755,000
Now compare that with a 1% listing model:
- Commission: $8,000
- Other Costs: ~$5,000
👉 Net before mortgage: ~$787,000
That’s a difference of over $30,000.
What About Buyers? Can You Save There Too?
Most people don’t realize this — but yes, you can.
Some brokerages offer cashback when you buy a home, giving you money back after closing.
For example, buyers working with Modern Solution Realty can receive:
👉 Up to $5,000 cashback
This can help cover:
- Closing costs
- Moving expenses
- Renovations
Do Lower Fees Mean Less Service?
This is one of the biggest concerns sellers have.
But in many cases, the answer is no.
Modern real estate models focus on:
- Efficiency
- Technology
- Streamlined processes
So you still get:
✔ Full representation
✔ Marketing exposure
✔ Negotiation expertise
— just without overpaying.
How to Reduce Your Selling Costs in 2026
If you’re planning to sell, here are a few smart strategies:
✔ Compare commission structures
✔ Ask what’s included in the service
✔ Understand your net (not just sale price)
✔ Plan ahead for all expenses
✔ Work with professionals who prioritize value
Final Thoughts
Selling your home is one of the biggest financial transactions you’ll make.
And while the market matters, your costs matter just as much.
Even small percentage differences in commission can translate into tens of thousands of dollars.
So before you list, take a step back and ask:
👉 “How much am I actually paying to sell — and is it worth it?”
Thinking About Selling?
Modern Solution Realty
📞 905-897-5000
Sell your home for 1% and keep more of your equity.