What to look for when buying land in Ontario, Canada?
Purchasing property anywhere is a challenging agreement, and Ontario is no exception. It's very easy to make a commitment you later regret if you don't recognize the specifics of buying a piece of land.
Features of Buying Land in Ontario
Let us list out the most important features to consider while purchasing the land in Ontario
1. Area
The first and most important evaluation when purchasing land is the location. Conduct research on potential locations based on your requirements. Do your own research on the basis of safety, transit options, and anything else that may influence your decision.
When you've decided, try and contact local developers or search the web for high priority land exchanges and transactions. If you have any questions about ownership in Ontario, you can contact one of the many land registry offices.
2. Type of Land
The type of land or plot you buy is determined according to what you intend to build. You should also consider whether it is suitable for construction. Some plots may be categorized for specific purposes only, while others may be flood plains. Make sure you buy the land knowing you can construct the structure you want without regard for development control or committee rules.
3. Location
The location of your home is significantly vital. You should consider living conditions such as transportation, convenience, schools, parks, and anything else you may require.
4. Access
Building a private road extension or driveway to access your property on raw land or land that does not have existing road access may necessitate going through the property of another privately-owned and you could also think about paving an existing gravel road. Having gas, phone, and power lines run to your house can be expensive.
5. Taxes
A land transfer tax has to be paid when purchasing land or property in Ontario. The price of your property will influence the value. The percentages range from 0.5% to 2.5%. The taxes can be compensated in 2, 6, or 11 installments throughout the year.
If you buy vacant land for residential purposes, you do not have to pay Harmonized Sales Tax (HST). If you intend to develop commercial properties, you must pay HST
How to Finance the Purchase of Land in Ontario ?
_These are the following points to consider while doing financing for the Purchase of Land _
1. Financing from the Seller
Seller financing, also known as owner financing, occurs when the land's seller acts as a lender. You will purchase the land from them with a down payment and then make loan payments to the seller in the same way that you would make loan repayments to a bank.
2. Loans for Land
In Ontario, you can obtain private financing to purchase land. Vacant and raw land is risky for a lender because you are not directly attached to the land, unlike a residential mortgage, where you may lose your home if you fail to make your mortgage payments. Depending on the type of land, a down payment of at least 30% to 50% is required.
You may also discover Best Land Loan Options in Canada
3. Personal Loans and HELOCs
Depending on the size of the transaction, you may choose to pay for the land with cash, a personal loan, a HELOC, or a combination of these methods. If you already own a home, you can borrow money to buy the land using a home equity line of credit.
Buying Land in Ontario, Canada
If you have a down payment, buying land in Ontario is not complicated. The value will vary, so make sure you're investing in land that will give you a return on your investments.
You must take into account all of the factors listed above. It's also important to remember that the cost to you will include not only the land, but also property taxes, utilities, and other expenses.
Last Updated:
2023-02-27
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What are some of the key factors to consider when purchasing land in Ontario, Canada, such as rules& regulations, access to utilities, environmental considerations, and potential development opportunities?
byananyagkp15
, 2023-03-28T05:07:00.269Z"What are important factors to consider when purchasing land in Ontario, Canada?"
byananyagkp15
, 2023-03-27T11:00:02.674ZRelated Articles
How much down payment you need for land in Ontario, Canada?
Property prices in Canada are soaring, especially in provinces like Ontario. As real estate markets break records for the rate at which homes sell, many buyers are forgoing the search for a home altogether and purchasing land for new construction.
So, if you're considering buying land in Ontario, Canada but lack the funds, you can get a land loan from a bank or other financial institution.
Firstly, you should be aware that in order to obtain a land loan, you must pay a certain percentage of the total sale price, known as a down payment. The percentage varies depending on the lender and type of land you're purchasing.
So, today we will look at the down payment needed for land in Ontario, Canada
## How much down payment you need for land in Ontario, Canada?
Purchasing land in Ontario may be done for a variety of reasons, including the construction of your ideal home, the construction of apartment buildings, or even for business or agricultural use.
So, depending on your requirements, you can buy one of three types of land in Ontario: raw land, vacant land (zoned land), or Crown land.
As a result, the type of land will greatly influence how much of a down payment you will need to make. In order to purchase land in Ontario, Canada, you must make the following down payment:
- **For Raw Land**, (land that has never been developed before) the typical down payment required is 50%
- **For Vacant Land** (land that is serviced or partially serviced) the typical down payment required is 35%
- **For Crown Land** (which is public land owned by the provincial government), the down payment varies because it comes with a lot of restrictions and conditions.
**Down Payment for different types of land in Ontario -**
## Why is the down payment on land so much higher than that for homes?
The down payment for land is much higher, especially for vacant and raw land, because you are not directly tethered to the land, unlike with a building like a house.
Also, it is even more challenging for you to [obtain a loan for land](https://getnewhouse.ca/blog/land-loan-options-in-canada-best), particularly for raw land, since you won't be at risk of losing any assets, such as your home if you don't make your mortgage payments. And the lender worries that it will be difficult for him to find a buyer for that land if you don't make your loan payments.
## Down payment you need for land in Ontario, Canada
The down payment typically varies depending on the type of land you are purchasing; on average, it ranges from 35 to 40% of the purchase price, and it can even reach 50% for remote and inaccessible land.
Which is best forum to discuss Ontario Real Estate in Canada?
The overall strength of the economy in Ontario impacts the demand for housing and potentially influences prices; as a result, buyers, and sellers compete with each other to buy or sell homes. As a result, it is crucial to have a forum where one can seek the right advice from professionals who can identify market trends, the appropriate buying and selling price, and other elements that have an impact on the real estate market.
So, today we'll look at the best Canadian real estate discussion forum for Ontario, where you can find all the solutions to your real estate questions.
## Which is best forum to discuss Ontario Real Estate in Canada?
[**GetNewHouse**](https://getnewhouse.ca/) **is one of the Canada's biggest real estate social networks and fast-growing Canadian Real Estate Forum & Discussion Platform**.
It covers a wide range of topics related to Canadian real estate that are more useful for users with diverse interests or needs. The forum also covers nearly all of the popular cities and provinces where there is a high interest in the real estate market. Additionally, it has a section specifically dedicated to the Ontario market. Everything from the housing market to land taxes has been discussed, and the best part is that all questions are answered succinctly but completely by real estate experts with years of experience in Ontario real estate.
Numerous blogs and FAQs are available, covering not only Ontario but also more than 100 cities. Therefore, if you're looking to discuss Ontario real estate in Canada, GetNewHouse is the best forum with the best experts.
## What makes GetNewHouse.ca the best?
GetNewHouse.ca is best and fast-growing Real Estate Forum & Discussion Platform because -
- the queries are answered by real estate experts.
- it covers more than 100 cities.
- it has user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate and filters for easy search.
- thousands of questions have already been answered, but you are welcome to post your own.
## Best forum to discuss Ontario Real Estate in Canada
If you find that your query has not been addressed yet, feel free to post it at [**GetNewHouse**](https://getnewhouse.ca/faqs/all). Experts will respond to your query as soon as they can.
Do you pay Land Transfer Tax (LTT) when buying vacant land in Ontario, Canada?
People purchasing real estate in Canada, face a significant financial burden from the land transfer tax. When you buy land in Canada, you are required to pay a tax to the government or the municipality. The tax you pay is determined by the property's value, which is influenced by the type of land, and can differ significantly between the provinces where you are buying the land.
So, today we'll find out if buying vacant land in Ontario, Canada, is subject to Land Transfer Tax (LTT) or exempt from LTT.
## Do you pay Land Transfer Tax (LTT) when buying vacant land in Ontario, Canada?
Yes, you are required to pay Land Transfer Tax on any vacant land that you buy in Ontario. The taxes you pay on vacant land may be a bit different from the taxes you pay for other types of land. The amount of property tax you actually pay will depend on a number of factors, including the assessed value of your property, how it is used, and the applicable municipal tax rate.
Usually LTT on vacant land is calculated on the value of the property at the time of sale. But if you have a construction contract related to the purchase of the land, your transfer tax will be computed using the value of the land plus the value of the construction contract.
However, It is important to know that in Ontario, you will also be required to pay a municipal land transfer tax in addition to the provincial tax, that means doubling the amount of your final tax payment.
## Who pays Land Transfer Tax in Ontario, Canada?
The land transfer tax is the responsibility of the home buyer, not the home seller. When buying a home in Ontario, buyers should factor in the land transfer tax as one of their closing costs. These costs may also include the cost of getting a mortgage. Other closing costs for buyers include legal fees, registration fees, and home inspection fees, though land transfer tax makes up the majority of these.
## Land Transfer Tax when buying vacant land in Ontario, Canada
The vacant land is also subjected to Land Transfer Tax, which is calculated on the value of the property at the time of sale. However, a lot of other factors also influence the final tax, so one must conduct adequate research before buying real estate in Ontario.
Best Land Loan Options in Canada 2023
For many Canadians, investing in land can be a wise decision because it is said that "Real estate cannot be lost or stolen, nor can it be carried away". Land, whether for private or commercial use, can provide long-term benefits especially places like Canada. As a result nowadays, investment in land is considered as the safest if done with proper research and carefully. However, it is also known that buying land is costly, and many individuals don't have the enough money to buy that so they tend to go for borrowing money from their relatives or loan from the bank.
So, if you want to buy land in Canada and thinking to take loan then you must know the various types of loans especially for buying land. There are various types of land loans available in Canada, each of which is designed to allow people to refinance or purchase land there.
In this blog, you will explore the different options of land loans available to you, learn about the application cycle, and discover the interest rates associated with each decision. So, let's dive in.
## What is a Land Loan?
A land loan is basically a loan for buying land. It looks like a mortgage, but instead of buying a house, you're buying a land piece - could be a farm or just a vacant lot. But here's the one thing: depending on the lender's opinion and how well your finances appear, the land loan might either be secured or unsecured.
## Types of Land Loans in Canada
There are different types of land loans available in Canada. The most popular land loans are:
### **1. Raw or Vacant Land Loan**
If you want to buy a piece of land but it lacks infrastructure. This is where a raw land loan comes in. This loan type is primarily used to purchase undeveloped land with no plans or infrastructure. However, these loans are difficult to obtain because they carry a higher risk for the lenders because the land is more difficult to sell and conveys no pay. As a result, you'll almost certainly have to pay higher interest rates and make a larger down payment.
### **2. Serviced Land Loan or Lot Loan**
A serviced land loan is used to buy land with infrastructure such as electricity, water, and sewer. This type of loan is considered safer by lenders because it has some value and pay generation potential. As a result, serviced land loans may come with lower interest rates and a smaller [down payment requirements](https://getnewhouse.ca/article/how-much-down-payment-expected-for-land-ontario-canada).
### **3. Farm Land Loan or Agricultural Loan**
A farm land loan is used to purchase agricultural land, similar to a farm or ranch. This sort of loan is planned specifically for farmers and ranchers, and it can assist them with financing the purchase of farmland, hardware, and livestock. Farm land loans may accompany lower interest rates and down payment prerequisites as they are backed by the value of the farmland and the pay generated by farming.
### **4. Commercial Land Loan**
A commercial land loan is considered when we plan to buy land for commercial purposes, for example, building an office or retail space. This type of loan can assist business people with financing the purchase of land and development costs. Commercial land loans may comes with lower interest rates and down payment prerequisites as they are backed by the pay generated by the business.
## How to Qualify for a Land Loan in Canada?
Qualifying for a land loan in Canada can be more challenging than qualifying for a mortgage. Lenders consider land loans riskier as they are not backed by a physical plan that can generate pay. To qualify for a land loan, you may have to meet certain prerequisites, including:
- **Good Credit Score**
Having a good credit score is important while applying for a land loan. Lenders want to guarantee that you have a good track record of paying back obligations on time.
- **Adequate Income**
Lenders want to see that you have a stable pay and can afford the loan payments. They may anticipate that you should give proof of pay, for example, pay stubs or tax returns.
- **Down Payment**
Lenders may require a higher down payment for a land loan than a mortgage. A down payment of 20% or more may be supposed to get the loan.
- **Land Appraisal**
Lenders may require an appraisal of the land to guarantee that it is worth the loan amount. They may also want to know the potential for cash generating activities on the land.
- **Collateral**
Lenders may require collateral to secure the loan. This could incorporate other property or assets that you own.
## Where to Get a Land Loan in Canada?
There are lot of ways and options for getting a land loan in Canada. Yet, the most popular are-
### 1. Banks and Credit Unions
In Canada, the most popular options of land loans are banks and credit unions. Banks and credit unions offer a variety of land loan options and generally have explicit and strict requirements for credit scores, down payments, and different criteria that borrowers should meet to qualify for a loan.
### 2. Private Lenders
Another choice for land loans in Canada is to work with a private moneylender. Private lenders are individuals or companies that give loans without being part of a traditional financial institution. They typically have less restrictions and can be more adaptable with loan terms, however may charge higher interest rates to reduce the risk.
**Note** : While working with a private moneylender, it is important to take care of any outstanding concerns and research the bank to guarantee they are legitimate and reputable. You ought to also carefully audit the loan terms and understand the expenses and interest rates before agreeing to the loan.
## Land Loan Considerations
Before taking out a land loan, there are a couple of key considerations to remember, as it's the loan who drags towards the debt trap. So, you must know -
- **Purpose of the Land**
It is important to think about the reason for the land before taking out a loan. In the event that the land is for personal use or a small leisure activity farm, you may not require as much financing as you would for a large-scale development project.
- **Down Payment**
Many lenders require a down payment of at least 20% for land loans. This can be a significant amount, so it is important to factor this into your budget while considering a land purchase.
- **Interest Rates**
Interest rates for land loans can vary generally depends upon the moneylender, the loan term, and your credit history. It is important to look around and compare rates to guarantee you are getting the most ideal deal.
- **Loan Terms**
Loan terms for land loans can range from a couple of years to several decades. It is important to carefully audit the loan terms and guarantee you understand the repayment plan and any charges associated with the loan.
## Land Loan Options in Canada
Land loans can be a great choice for individuals and organizations hoping to purchase land in Canada. Whether you pick a traditional moneylender, a private bank, or a government-backed loan, it is important to carefully think about your options and pick the loan that best fits your requirements.
Before taking out a loan, it is important to carefully survey the loan terms, think about the reason for the land, factor in any down payments or charges, and guarantee you are getting the most ideal interest rate. With these factors as a top priority, you can make an informed decision and find the financing you really want to purchase your dream property.
Can a non-resident get a mortgage to purchase a house in Canada?
The Canadian real estate market is open to both residents of Canada and non-citizens who reside abroad. There are no restrictions on the kind or quantity of real estate that may be bought in Canada.
As a result, a lot of people are interested in buying real estate in Canada but are unable to do so due to a lack of available funds because buying a home or piece of property can be very expensive. Therefore, the majority of people require bank financing or a mortgage in order to buy a piece of land or a house.
So, today will determine whether a non-resident can get a mortgage to buy a home in Canada or not.
## Can a non-resident get a mortgage to buy a house in Canada?
Yes, non-residents who want to purchase a home in Canada can apply for a mortgage there. Although the interest rates are very similar, Canadian banks frequently demand a larger down payment from non-residents than they do from residents.
A **minimum of 35% of the home's value is typically required as a down payment** but these requirements may differ from bank to bank, with some being stricter than others.
However, in addition to the down payment, non-residents will often have to show the following as well:
- Employment verification letter (including income verification)
- Bank statements as proof of deposit(at least three months)
- Six months of financial statements or an international credit bureau report
- A Canadian bank account from which mortgage payments can be made.
There are several other lenders that offer mortgages. These lenders can offer a mortgage of up to 65% of the property’s value. You will also need a reference letter from your bank, bank statements for the previous three months, credit information, and tax returns to prove your ability to pay the mortgage.
Additionally, these different lenders may offer comparable products with different interest rates and terms. To make sure you're getting the best mortgage product for your needs, speak with several lenders.
Canada has substantial expat communities as well as many foreigners that visit for vacations, employment, or study for a short time. Anyone can purchase real estate in Canada, whether they are a citizen, a resident, or a non-resident. This means that you will be able to purchase land in Canada even if you are a non-resident who resides permanently in another nation.
But a frequent query that many individuals have is whether they must travel to Canada in order to purchase real estate while they are non-residents. So today we'll find out if you have to be physically present in Canada to purchase a property or not.
## Being a Non-resident, do I need to come to Canada to buy a property?
There are no restrictions on non-resident investors buying real estate or businesses in Canada. You are thus free to buy houses, businesses, commercial properties, or agricultural land. There is no requirement for residency or even physical presence in Canada. You can, in fact, look for properties online from anywhere in the world, work with an agent to do so, and even make a purchase.
However, you will need to travel to Canada at least twice if you want to buy a property there. The first time is to open a Canadian bank account so you can get Canadian financing. The second time is to sign all of the necessary paperwork. Foreign homebuyers are not permitted to grant powers of attorney for the purpose of remotely signing real estate documents.
**Important:** Until recently, anyone could purchase real estate in Canada. But, after the introduction of Foreign Home Buyer Ban effective from January 2023 any non-permanent residents and non-citizens won't be allowed to purchase residential property for a period of 2 years.
## Do you need to come to Canada to buy a property?
You can virtually anywhere in the world see a property online or by working with an agent to do so, and even make a purchase. However, there are specific phases of this process where you'll need to visit Canada, such as when you have to open a bank account, which, as we previously stated, is required for the purchase of real estate.
## Non-resident can get a mortgage to purchase a house in Canada
Yes, non-residents can get a mortgage in Canada to finance the purchase of a home in Canada.
And as far as mortgage interest rates go, both Canadians and non-residents are subject to the same rates as long as they meet the requirements for mortgage eligibility.
Can I buy a home before I arrive in Canada?
Canada has made it possible for anyone to buy land there. There are no restrictions on foreign investors buying real estate or businesses in Canada. You can purchase land there even if you are a non-resident who resides permanently in another nation. Anyone, whether a citizen, a resident, or a non-resident, is free to purchase real estate in Canada without restriction.
However, a lot of buyers struggle with the question of whether it's possible to purchase a home even if they aren't present in person. In order to assist those buyers, we will see if someone can purchase a home before arriving in Canada.
## Can I buy a home before I arrive in Canada?
**Yes, you can buy a house before moving to Canada** because neither residency nor physical presence is required to buy a home there. Although it won't be simple, finding a home before you even arrive in Canada but it is not impossible. It's important to remember that what you might consider adequate housing in your country of origin may not be at all what it is here.
So, it would be preferable to find a short-term rental property for your first month of residence so you could physically investigate family neighborhoods and employment options prior to purchasing a home.
## How can I find home before I arrive in Canada?
There are many options, such as asking a family member or friend who lives there for assistance or seeking assistance from housing assistance organizations that assist people in locating affordable housing. There are numerous rental websites and settlement agencies that offer assistance to newcomers in finding housing, employment, and any other services or information they require to settle down.
## Buy a house before moving to Canada
Yes, it is possible to buy a house before moving to Canada. There are many ways to start looking for housing before you arrive. However, it's advised to visit the property in person before making a decision about whether to rent it out or buy it because locations can look very different in person than they do in pictures.
**Important:** Until recently, anyone could purchase real estate in Canada. But, after the introduction of Foreign Home Buyer Ban effective from January 2023 any non-permanent residents and non-citizens won't be allowed to purchase residential property for a period of 2 years.
Being a Non-resident, do I need to come to Canada to buy a property?
Canada has substantial expat communities as well as many foreigners that visit for vacations, employment, or study for a short time. Anyone can purchase real estate in Canada, whether they are a citizen, a resident, or a non-resident. This means that you will be able to purchase land in Canada even if you are a non-resident who resides permanently in another nation.
But a frequent query that many individuals have is whether they must travel to Canada in order to purchase real estate while they are non-residents. So today we'll find out if you have to be physically present in Canada to purchase a property or not.
## Being a Non-resident, do I need to come to Canada to buy a property?
There are no restrictions on non-resident investors buying real estate or businesses in Canada. You are thus free to buy houses, businesses, commercial properties, or agricultural land. There is no requirement for residency or even physical presence in Canada. You can, in fact, look for properties online from anywhere in the world, work with an agent to do so, and even make a purchase.
However, you will need to travel to Canada at least twice if you want to buy a property there. The first time is to open a Canadian bank account so you can get Canadian financing. The second time is to sign all of the necessary paperwork. Foreign homebuyers are not permitted to grant powers of attorney for the purpose of remotely signing real estate documents.
**Important:** Until recently, anyone could purchase real estate in Canada. But, after the Foreign Home Buyer Ban effective from January 2023 the non-permanent residents and non-citizens won't be allowed to purchase residential property for 2 years.
## You need to come to Canada to buy a property
You can virtually anywhere in the world see a property online or by working with an agent to do so, and even make a purchase. However, there are specific phases of this process where you'll need to visit Canada, such as when you have to open a bank account, which, as we previously stated, is required for the purchase of real estate.
Is New Construction a Good Investment Property in Ontario, Canada?
When talking about getting a house or property as a newbie buyer or investor, many alternatives are available in the real estate market. However, if you want to acquire a new construction property in Canada, it can get hectic. On the brighter side, the real estate market is booming in Canada, thus, providing you with ample opportunities.
There are plenty of factors that need to be considered when choosing a new construction property. This ranges from the demographics, price of the property, location, and the various associated taxes. Also, simply buying a property is not enough, and we need to contemplate whether we are making a good investment for the future or not?
**Building New Properties** - **Ontario's Proposal**
----------------------------------------------------
Since Ontario is Canada's most densely populated province, there is always a prevailing need for new houses and properties. The aspiring home buyers are moving towards Ontario sub-urban cities like Brampton, Caledon, [**Pickering**](https://getnewhouse.ca/blog/is-pickering-ontario-good-place-live-safe/), Oshawa, [**Ajax**](https://getnewhouse.ca/blog/is-ajax-in-ontario-good-place-to-live-canada/), etc. to fulfill their housing dreams.
According to the predictions made by some real estate experts, Ontario will need around 1.5 million new homes in the next ten years, and 900,000 new homes will be needed for new residents. If the target is achieved, it could be instrumental in ending the province's housing crisis.
Not only will it help reduce the supply crunch in the [**housing market**](https://getnewhouse.ca/blog/will-housing-market-crash-in-canada-reasons/), but would act as a reservoir if any unconditional population spike happens in the future.
**New Construction or Pre-Construction Homes** - **Pros**
---------------------------------------------------------
There are many benefits when it comes to new construction homes. Like the freedom to design all by yourself and many more. Now let's look at the pros and cons of a new construction home. To begin with, here are few advantages of buying a new construction house:
1\. **Starting Your Search from Scratch**
-----------------------------------------
There's more to it than just moving into a house where no one has ever resided before. It is all clean, and all the equipment at your place is thoughtfully placed for your convenience.
Although it is not a prerequisite, however, if you like your personal space to be tidy and don't need some weird surprise from a resale house, it is suggested that you go with a new construction home.
**2\. Customization**
---------------------
Having a say over your house's design is basically what every homeowner needs. No contractor or interior designer knows your preferences better than you. Acquiring a new construction house allows you to choose everything from the color on the walls to the flooring structure.
All these customizations will cost you a fortune if you decide to have them installed in a pre-owned house. If you are an interior enthusiast and love to design your place according to your tastes, you will like buying a new construction home.
**3\. Less Upkeep Costs**
-------------------------
[**Newly constructed homes**](https://getnewhouse.ca/blog/pre-construction-condo-vs-resale-investment-better-gta-canada/) generally require very less maintenance. It's not like they are completely prone to repairs, but the likelihood of getting your plumbing system changed or having a dripping roof is less.
Furthermore, most construction companies include a variety of warranty coverage with their housing, including a short-term full structure protection plan and a longer-term external warranty. Of course, there is always a negative side to every positive thing.
**New Construction or Pre-Construction Homes** - Cons
-----------------------------------------------------
Some of the disadvantages of option for a new construction home are:
**1\. Choosing the Right Builder**
----------------------------------
Given the laws, expertise, and choices available to builders differ, purchasers' experience with new housing varies. It's possible that you may get a builder that has very little or no skills and has a minimal amount of experience under his belt.
When selecting a contractor for your new construction residence, look further than the images on their webpage and focus on finding additional information to make sure you're making the right decision.
**2\. Costly Upgrades**
-----------------------
When looking for a new construction home, the first valuation you see is the estate's initial price. It includes the establishment itself (with no elective add-ons, such as spare rooms or first-floor bump-outs), as well as the lot the residence will settle on and the landscape design that will surround it or not.
To give your house a look it deserves, you need to spend some serious money on upgrades. And all these upgrades will lead to a rise in your home's overall price.
Should You Buy a New Construction Home?
---------------------------------------
The experience of buying a new home is very crucial to a homeowner. Gather all the statistics, perform your research, and think accurately about what you want when purchasing a home now and in the future to determine if it's the correct option.
Add an expert professional with you to the meeting with the contractor's salesperson to have somebody to endorse for your preferences. The more you know before you start, the better you'll be able to maneuver the sometimes difficult process of buying a new house. Keep in mind all the crucial [**things before buying a pre-construction house**](https://getnewhouse.ca/blog/things-to-know-before-buying-pre-construction-condo-in-gta-canada).
What do you think about buying a pre-construction or new construction home? Do share your opinions on the same.
Which is The Best Place to Live in Canada for Indian Immigrants?
Are you planning to move to Canada? But wondering, **Which is the best place to live in Canada for Indian immigrants?** Here we present an exclusive list of some of the **popular 6 cities for immigrants to live and settle down**.
No doubt, Canada has been home to the largest population of **Indian immigrants**. Indians even have their street, specific market where you can buy any Hindi, Punjabi, Gujarati, etc. items and foods. Their language and traditions are now making grand within the communities. In fact, some places in Canada, don't let you feel home sick at all. You can follow your beliefs and culture, celebrate and enjoy like you would have done back in India.
For those who are still contemplating which cities to immigrate to within Canada. Here are the most popular cities for Indian immigrants with their skilled and economic resources.
Best 6 Cites to Live in Canada for Indian Immigrants
----------------------------------------------------
So, let's catch up with the details on the top cities for Indian immigrants wishing to move to Canada.
1\. Toronto
-----------
The capital of the Canadian province of Ontario. The most populous city in Canada and the fourth in North America. This is the most popular city for Indian immigrants and over 40% lives there. Because of the plethora of job opportunities available in different sectors like technology, telecommunication, security, financial sector, and healthcare. Also home acquired skills jobs are in high demand like a cleaner, residential cook and more. You also have a lot of [fun activities to do in Toronto](https://getnewhouse.ca/blog/what-are-best-fun-activities-in-toronto-in-ontario-in-canada-for-adults), that also make it a busy tourist destination.
The immaculate public transit system makes it easier for people, especially students to travel around the city and experience its beauty. That includes clubs, malls, cinemas, museums, and historical places.
Remember, Toronto is quite an expensive city. It could really pinch your pocket especially as a new immigrant from India. But don't worry, If you can't afford it here, you can have a look at the [**10 Best Toronto Suburbs for Families to Live & Grow**](https://getnewhouse.ca/blog/10-best-toronto-suburbs-for-families-to-live-and-grow).
2\. Vancouver
-------------
It is the most populous city in British Columbia, located on the pacific coast in western Canada. It is known for its beautiful nature, art scenery, and different thriving location for filming.
The excellent standard of their universities makes the city have numerous international student immigrants. In terms of housing affordability is one of the most expensive cities in Canada and the world but is the most livable city.
For an immigrant that loves to work in service industries, this city is the best option because it's their top tie. Others include construction, tourism, high technology, entertainment, manufacturing, mining, fishery & aquaculture, and forestry.
Temperature degrees won't be the least of your worry because it is moderate compared to other cities.
You may also like to learn about [**Top 10 Real Estate Companies in Canada**](https://getnewhouse.ca/blog/top-real-estate-companies-in-canada-largest/).
3\. Calgary
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Looking from the outside, Calgary might feel like an unusual destination for Indian immigrants whereas thousands of Indian workers and students live there. It is the largest city in Alberta province and the third-largest city in Canada.
In terms of the economy, Calgary thrives in the energy sector and ability switch to a green energy source to meet its energy consumption needs. Other prosperous industries include mining, engineers, mechanical, entrepreneurs, technicians, health, financial service, and tourism.
Calgary tends to receive a lot of snow in winter, which makes it more attractive for Indian immigrants who are not seen or used to snow. Living standard cost is pretty lesser compare to Vancouver and Toronto.
4\. Halifax
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Halifax is the capital province of Nova Scotia and is the largest municipality in its province and Atlantic Canada. Its port is one of the best harbors worldwide and significant in the Atlantic ocean.
Halifax is a major cultural center within its province and a home to many region's major cultural attractions. Such as art galleries, theatres, and museums. It also hosts several festivals.
It is easier for Indian immigrants to get a permanent residency in this province. By using Halifax- Provincial program or the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program. For immigrants who prefer a place away from hustle and bustle of city life, Halifax is the best option. The temperature is not as harsh compared to other cities in Canada.
5\. Montreal
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Montreal is the second-most populous city in Canada and the most populous in the Canadian province of Quebec. It is one of the best place to live and study in Canada because of its several parameters and top-notch university reputation.
For [**new immigrants**](https://getnewhouse.ca/blog/why-is-immigration-good-for-canada/) who want to travel with their families such as Indians who consider family as everything, Montreal is the best place to consider. The city is extremely safe with a low crime rate and holds abundant job opportunities.
Searching for a job or part-time job as an Indian immigrant is not a hassle. The Quebec provincial government also support families with a monthly allowance for their kid. The allowance covers child support for kids below 18, school supplement for children between 4 and 16 years old, and supplements for disabled children.
6\. **Waterloo**
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Waterloo is a city in the Canadian province of Ontario. It is one of the cities with the most cultural diversity in Canada with serval scenic views and places for younger people to have fun.
Indian international students are attracted to this city because of the famous University of waterloo. The majority of Indian immigrant has made this city their home.
Waterloo has a strong knowledge and service-based economy in significant insurance and high-technology sector.
**To sum up**
Choosing **the best place to live** or work in Canada as an Indian immigrant can be stressful. That's the reason we took the step to bring together the best places and their potential. So, do consider one of these top cities for Indian immigrants to settle down.
A New Country, New Job & New Beginning!
Keep in mind, settling in a new country comes with its own challenges! So, whether you are an Indian immigrant or from any other country, it may take some time to establish yourself at a new place. And, finding that perfect destination is not an easy task.
Initially renting a house would be a good decision. But gradually, buying a house may prove economical (only when affordable amidst the sky-rocketing prices in Canadian real estate). Don't forget to find out if [**new immigrants can buy a house in Canada**](https://getnewhouse.ca/blog/can-new-immigrant-buy-house-in-canada/).
Once you find the best place to live in Canada as an Indian immigrant, do share with us. Feel free to add your experiences and feedback.
Do I pay HST when I sell vacant land in Ontario Canada?
HST or Harmonized Sales Tax, is a single consumer tax in Canada that combines the federal goods and services tax (GST) and the provincial sales tax (PST). Currently, HST is used in five Canadian provinces: Ontario, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland. This means that if you own a business in one of these provinces, you must collect and remit the HST to the CRA (Canada Revenue Agency).
As many products and services are subject to HST, this also causes confusion among consumers regarding whether they will be required to pay HST for the sale of vacant land. Therefore, in order to better understand it, we will see today whether HST is applicable to the sale of vacant land.
## Do I pay HST when I sell vacant land?
The sale of vacant land in Ontario may or may not require the payment of HST. What does it mean? Normally, you don't have to pay the HST when selling vacant land, but there are some situations in which you do pay HST. So, let's look at when and when not to pay HST for the sale of vacant land.
**In the following situations you don't need to pay HST for the sale of vacant land:**
- vacant land sold for personal use by an individual or personal trust.
- If the seller is an individual and selling vacant land to a relative by dividing an existing piece of land
- The sale of either of the two parts is exempt if you divide a vacant piece of land into only two parts and have never before divided it or severed it from another piece of land you owned.
**The sale of vacant land will be taxed in the following circumstances:**
- If the land is being sold as capital property that was primarily used for a business or as part of regular business operations.
- If vacant land was previously divided or severed into more than two parts.
- or a sale that occurs as part of a trade, business, or other projects.
## HST on Sale of Vacant Land
Sale of vacant land may or may not be subjected to HST. However, if you're unsure about anything before selling or buying land, make sure to consult with a tax expert.