Calculate exactly how much PTT you'll pay buying a home in Dunbar
Dunbar is a quiet, family-oriented west-side neighbourhood bordering Pacific Spirit Regional Park. Its leafy streets, strong school catchments (Lord Byng, St. George's, Crofton House), and sense of community make it one of Vancouver's most sought-after addresses for families.
Dunbar condos are limited in number but typically range from $720,000 for a one-bedroom to $1.2M for a two-bedroom near Dunbar Street's shopping village.
Detached homes in Dunbar are highly sought after and typically sell between $2.4M and $3.8M. Properties backing onto Pacific Spirit Park can command a further premium.
| Property Type | Typical Price | Estimated PTT |
|---|---|---|
| Condo / Apartment | $850,000 | $15,000 |
| Detached House | $2,700,000 | $59,000 |
BC PTT is calculated on the fair market value of the property at the time of transfer. The tax uses a tiered structure:
| Price Tier | Rate |
|---|---|
| First $200,000 | 1% |
| $200,001 – $2,000,000 | 2% |
| $2,000,001 – $3,000,000 | 3% |
| Above $3,000,000 | 5% |
For a full breakdown and more examples, see our BC Property Transfer Tax guide.
Here's a step-by-step PTT calculation for a $850,000 purchase — close to the typical condo price in Dunbar:
| Tier | Calculation | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| 1% on first $200,000 | $200,000 × 1% | $2,000 |
| 2% on next portion | $650,000 × 2% | $13,000 |
| Total PTT | $15,000 |
On a $850,000 purchase in Dunbar, you would owe $15,000 in property transfer tax. This amount is due on the closing date and is paid through your BC notary or real estate lawyer.
BC first-time home buyers may qualify for a full property transfer tax exemption on homes priced at $835,000 or less — provided the home is new construction and you meet residency and occupancy requirements. A partial exemption applies for new homes between $835,000 and $860,000.
For resale (previously owned) homes, the exemption applies to purchases up to $500,000, with a partial exemption to $525,000.
Given typical Dunbar pricing, first-time buyers purchasing a new condo priced under $835,000 could save thousands of dollars in PTT. Always confirm your eligibility with a BC notary or real estate lawyer before closing.
Enter any purchase price to calculate your exact property transfer tax.
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