Land transfer tax, closing costs, and everything you need to buy in Whitby
Whitby is one of Durham Region's most family-friendly communities, offering spacious homes, great schools, and a historic downtown core. Located between Ajax and Oshawa, Whitby provides an excellent balance of affordability and amenities. Like all Durham Region municipalities, Whitby buyers pay only Ontario LTT with no municipal land transfer tax, keeping closing costs lower than the Toronto average.
Average home prices in Whitby sit around $900,000 in 2025, depending on property type and neighbourhood. Buyers in Whitby benefit from paying only Ontario's provincial land transfer tax — there is no municipal LTT in Whitby, making closing costs noticeably lower than in Toronto. First-time buyers can also claim the Ontario FTB LTT rebate of up to $4,000.
| Purchase Price | Rate |
|---|---|
| First $55,000 | 0.5% |
| $55,001 – $250,000 | 1.0% |
| $250,001 – $400,000 | 1.5% |
| $400,001 – $2,000,000 | 2.0% |
| Over $2,000,000 | 2.5% |
| Cost Item | Typical Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ontario LTT | Calculated above | No municipal LTT in Whitby |
| Legal fees | $1,500–$2,500 | Includes disbursements |
| Title insurance | $300–$500 | One-time |
| Home inspection | $500–$700 | Strongly recommended |
| CMHC premium | 2.8%–4% of mortgage | If under 20% down |
| Moving costs | $1,000–$3,000 | Local or long-distance |
Get pre-approved: Know your purchase power before viewing homes. Your lender will consider income, credit, and debt-to-income ratios. A mortgage broker can compare rates from multiple lenders.
Work with a local realtor: A buyer's agent familiar with Whitby's neighbourhoods and market conditions can help you identify value, navigate offers, and negotiate effectively. Their commission is typically paid by the seller.
Budget for all closing costs: Beyond LTT, budget for legal fees, title insurance, home inspection, and adjustments (property taxes, utilities). Use the calculator above to estimate your total.
Home inspection: Always include a home inspection condition for freehold properties. In Whitby's market, some buyers waive this in competitive situations — understand the significant financial risk involved.
Close with your lawyer: Your real estate lawyer will handle title registration, LTT payment, and key transfer. Bring certified funds for the balance of down payment and closing costs on closing day.
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