2026 Home Buying Costs · Ontario LTT · CMHC Insurance · Closing Costs
Peterborough offers one of the best affordability-to-lifestyle ratios in Ontario. Located at the heart of the Kawarthas, just 90 minutes from Toronto, the city attracts first-time buyers, remote workers, and retirees seeking more space for their money. The real estate market features detached homes, semis, towns, and waterfront properties at prices well below the provincial median.
The Peterborough real estate market has matured significantly since 2020, with prices stabilizing around the $590,000 median for all property types. Detached homes in areas like Northcrest and the South End range from $550,000 to $750,000, while East City and Heritage neighbourhoods command premium prices. Condos and towns start around $375,000.
At Peterborough's median of $590,000, total closing costs typically run $14,000–$20,000 including Ontario LTT of $8,475, legal fees (~$2,000), title insurance (~$500), home inspection (~$600), and miscellaneous adjustments. A 5% down payment requires $29,500 plus CMHC insurance.
| Cost Item | Estimated Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ontario Land Transfer Tax | $8,275 | At median price; FTB rebate up to $4,000 |
| Legal Fees | $1,800 – $2,500 | Includes title search and registration |
| Title Insurance | $300 – $600 | One-time premium |
| Home Inspection | $500 – $700 | Recommended on all resale purchases |
| Moving Costs | $1,500 – $4,000 | Local moves lower; inter-city higher |
| CMHC Insurance (5% down) | ~$23,110 | Added to mortgage; paid over amortization |
| Property Tax Adjustment | Varies | Prepaid portion reimbursed to seller at closing |
| HST on New Builds | May apply | Not applicable on resale homes |
For a full breakdown of Ontario LTT brackets, visit our Ontario Land Transfer Tax guide.
Peterborough's most sought-after areas include Northcrest (families, parks), East City (heritage, waterfront views), Monaghan (affordable semis), South End (new builds), and Ashburnham (quieter suburban streets). Trent University's presence keeps rental demand strong in the university district.
Use the LTT calculator above to estimate your exact Ontario land transfer tax for any purchase price in Peterborough.
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No. Only the City of Toronto charges a Municipal Land Transfer Tax on top of the provincial Ontario LTT. Peterborough is in Kawarthas — buyers pay only the Ontario provincial LTT.
Ontario LTT is paid on closing day through your real estate lawyer. It is based on the purchase price registered with the province.
The minimum down payment in Canada is 5% for homes priced up to $500,000, and 5% on the first $500,000 plus 10% on the remainder for homes between $500,000 and $999,999. At Peterborough's median of $590,000, this works out to approximately $29,500.
While not legally required, a home inspection is strongly recommended for resale properties in Peterborough, particularly older homes. Inspections typically cost $500–$700 and can reveal costly issues before you close.
For more details on Ontario LTT, see our Ontario Land Transfer Tax guide.