GST Buyer Information

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Is G.S.T. payable on Whistler Real Estate?

Another topic that generates a lot of buyer FAQ Whistler real estate questions is the one on the Goods and Services Tax (GST). Please note, this is a huge topic and one which cannot and should not be explained fully on any realtor’s website. Realtors have basic knowledge, but they are duty-bound to recommend you take professional advice from an accountant or lawyer. Realtors are not GST experts. In the meantime, the following information has been taken from local lawyers, Race and Company’s website.

“GST is a consumer tax. It is payable on most goods, including real estate. Purchasers will have to pay it unless the real estate is GST exempt, or the purchaser’s use of the property and their GST registration will entitle them to self-assess. 

“Whether or not a property is exempt from GST depends on the vendor’s use of the property. If the vendor uses it for residential purposes, then it will be exempt. 

“Property that the vendor uses commercially will attract GST. “Commercially” includes being rented or available for rent for periods of less than 28 days. This applies to all phase 2 properties.”

GST on Whistler Real Estate Determined by Vendor

More information from Race and Company states:

“The important point to understand is that the GST status is determined by the vendor, so the purchaser should obtain a warranty concerning the property’s GST status in the contract of purchase and sale. 

“If a property is subject to GST, the purchaser may self-assess the tax if they register for GST and continue a commercial use of the property. This means obtaining a GST number in advance of the closing date of the transaction. However, if such a property is taken out of the rental pool and kept for personal use, GST will be payable at that time on the market value. More complex GST rules apply when the owner is renting it out and using it whenever they want to. It really is important to take professional accounting advice on the property you have chosen before you buy it.” 

The Seller Warrants the GST

From the perspective of the Buyer’s realtor, it is up to the Seller to inform their realtor if GST is exempt on the property, or not. This exemption would be shown in the listing data. The Buyer’s agent will require the Seller to warrant that the GST is exempt or not exempt on the Contract of Purchase and Sale.

When do I need a GST number?

The threshold earnings to be a recognized commercial operation is $30,000 gross revenue. Earning that amount enacts the requirement for a GST number because you are now running a commercial operation.

When you apply for a GST number, you are collecting the GST from each transaction and submitting it to the Canada Revenue Agency. The application will ask if you want to file the GST on each transaction monthly, quarterly, or annually. If you are unsure, then ask the rental management company that you are planning to work with. They may offer the service of taking on that task for you.

GST Collection in the Sale

When GST is payable on a transaction, it is the buyer’s obligation to pay the tax and the seller’s obligation to collect the tax and remit it to the government. If GST is not exempt, the agreement should indicate if GST is included in the purchase price or is in addition to the purchase price.

Obtain Professional Advice

Like most topics that relate to taxes, it is important to obtain advice on your situation in advance of writing an offer. That way, you can sign the offer with the confidence that you understand the legal implications of your tax situation. Once the contract has been accepted, you are dealing with a legal document.

FAQ

Is there GST on Whistler Real Estate?

This is a huge question and it all depends on what type of Whistler real estate you are buying. It also depends on how often you are planning to use the property for personal use. Whistler has several options for nightly and seasonal rentals and each with its own GST implications. However, it is essential to understand the GST implications in advance of writing an offer.

If you think I would be a good fit to work with you and your family, and you are not already working with a Whistler realtor, please contact me. I look forward to hearing from you.

It’s a Good Life in Whistler!

Marion

Marion Anderson Personal Real Estate Corporation

marion@WhistlerSkiinSkiout.com (604) 938-3885