Non-Resident Investors in Canada
• There are no restrictions for a non-resident to purchase real estate in Canada, nor are there tax implications or extra fees payable at time of purchase.
• A non-resident may purchase as many properties as they wish in Canada.
• Rental properties: Non-residents must file a Canadian tax return each year and declare rental income.
Do non-residents qualify for a Canadian mortgage?
• For non-resident borrowers we will generally require a minimum of 35% – 50% payment.
• Qualifying for the mortgage financing is probably no more rigorous than what borrowers in other countries are accustomed to. The borrowers will be interviewed via phone, fax and/or email to gather personal information including, assets/liabilities, employment and/or income information. Each borrower’s application will be considered on a case by case basis.
• The mortgage approval may take approximately 24 to 48 hours after application and documentation have been submitted to the lender.
• Documentation generally required” Income verification, tax returns, credit bureau or banker’s report (letter from their own bank stating that all accounts are in good standing to date), down payment confirmation via bank statements, copy of 2 pieces of identification and real estate appraisal.
• The borrower will need to open a Canadian bank account for debiting of mortgage payments.
• The borrower will require the services of a Canadian lawyer to notary public to prepare the mortgage documents and registration at the Land Titles office. It is best if the borrower is available in Canada to sign mortgage documents at the time of completion. In the event the documents need to be couriered outside of Canada for signing, this will need to be arranged with the lawyer and lender well in advance of completion date.
What happens when a non-resident sells real estate in Canada?
• Whenever a non-resident sells Canadian real estate, the non-resident is required to pay the appropriate amount of taxes on any gain.
• This certificate may be applied for in advance of the completion date by the vendor, but not until there has been a contract of purchase and sale with all subjects removed. The wait for the certificate is usually 6-8 weeks. If the certificate is not obtained, the purchaser is required to hold back from the sale proceeds a percentage of the selling price (usually 25%-50%)
• The above information is not legal or intended to be legal advice.
International Renters
If you are a first time renter in Ottawa and do not have a credit history in the Canada, landlords might require an extra security deposit, a guarantor or rent paid up front.
Consult one of our expert agents for additional advice. Procedures and requirements may vary from one building to another. We’ll make sure to guide you through process and ensure the best possible outcome.
The team at Condo613 has you covered from Alpha to Omega with the least amount of Beta (risk) from which to be exposed.
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