The potential condominium owner should know how much that needs to be set aside in order to purchase and comfortably live in the condominium that is being considered. It is also important to be aware of the costs that are incurred for each of the units that are being considered so that it would be possible to make comparisons.

Purchase Price:

For new construction, the purchase price may include:

• Unit sale price
• Upgrades (negotiable)
• Development charges
• PST on chattels (e.g. appliances) being purchased with the unit
• GST on the sale price
• Utility hook-up fees
• Landscaping fees
• In some provinces, two months’ common expenses to build the reserve fund
• Occupancy fees (from occupancy closing to title closing) which may include: - Estimated common expenses based on the disclosure statement budget - Estimated realty taxes on the unit - Interest on the balance is due on closing
• Warranty program enrolment fees

Any costs over and above the basic unit purchase price should be clearly outlined in the agreement of purchase and sale.

You should budget for these charges when you are considering buying. At final closing you will be required to pay the following costs:

• Remainder of purchase price
• Legal fees and disbursements
• PST and GST on extras or upgrades to unit finishes, equipment and systems if not included in purchase price
• Provincial land transfer tax

Many of these additional costs do not apply to re-sale units, since they were already paid and/or factored into the purchase price.

Recurring Costs:

There are more expenses involved in owning a condominium than just the purchase price. You need to include the following in your budget:

• Monthly condominium fees or common expenses
• Property taxes
• Unit and contents insurance
• Mortgage payments
• Amenity fees, such as storage, pool, extra parking, etc. if not included in the common expenses
• Utilities (if not included in common expenses)
• Telephone, cable and Internet access (if not included in common expenses)
• A contingency for emergency repairs
• Maintenance costs associated with the upkeep of your unit

Your Guide to Ottawa Condos

• What Is a Condominium?
• Types of Ottawa Condos
• Freehold Ottawa Condominiums
• What Do You Own & When You Buy a Condo?
• Condo Rules and Restrictions
• Moving From Single-Family to Multi-Unit
• Ottawa Condo Insurance
• Renting Ottawa Condos
• Choosing the Right Ottawa Condo
• Ottawa Condo Costs
• Ottawa Condo Checklist

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