Real estate transactions, inheritances, wills and legal advice all require the expertise of a notary, who plays a multifaceted role in these areas. However, this expertise comes at a price.
In this article, we will outline the approximate fees you may encounter for notary services. Please note that these prices are for informational purposes only. That being said, let’s dive in!
Real estate transaction: how much does a notary charge?
A real estate transaction involves several important stages to ensure a smooth process for all parties involved. In addition to real estate brokers, notaries are key professionals in the process, which is why their services come with a fee.
Indeed, in the process of buying or selling a property, notaries play a very important role, ranging from verifying titles to drafting authentic deeds. However, their expertise is not free of charge.
The amounts you will pay include several distinct fees:
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The notary's fees
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The file processing fees
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Applicable taxes (GST/QST)
What is the cost of notary fees in Quebec?
Notary fees include the charges for services provided by the professional. These services typically include:
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Verifying property titles
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Drafting the deed of sale
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Transferring funds held in trust
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Meetings with the buyer and the seller
In Quebec, notary fees are generally calculated in two ways:
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Flat fee: Fixed charges of approximately $1,500 to $3,000 are expected for the purchase of a single-family home.
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Percentage of the purchase price: The fees typically range between 1% and 2% of the property's value.
The notary fees can vary from one expert to another, as well as depending on the complexity of the transaction, which is why it is important to compare quotes from several professionals.
Additional transaction fees
Other transaction fees, also known as disbursements, are expenses incurred by the notary that must be reimbursed. These costs are related to the processing of your file, and include:
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Title search
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Obtaining copies of deeds
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Registering documents with the Land Registry
The total amount to be paid for all these fees typically ranges between $450 and $500, regardless of the property's value.
Who pays the notary fees in Quebec: the buyer or the seller?
In general, the buyer is responsible for the majority of the notary fees, including costs related to the registration of official deeds. However, the seller may also be required to pay certain fees in specific cases, such as the discharge of a mortgage.
What is the role of the notary during a real estate transaction?
The notary plays an essential role in ensuring the validity of all documents involved in the transaction. They receive and review various documents such as:
- Title deed
- Certificate of location
- Municipal tax statements
- Marital status documents
The notary checks these documents for any irregularities to prevent potential issues that could complicate the transaction. Additionally, the notary is responsible for:
- Cancelling any invalid mortgage.
- Preparing the new mortgage.
- Coordinating with financial institutions.
- Drafting the deed of sale.
- Registering the deed of sale in the Land Registry.
- Ensuring that all documents are signed by both parties involved.
Is it mandatory to use a notary for a real estate transaction in Quebec?
Yes, in Quebec, it is legally required for documents related to real estate transactions to be signed and validated by a notary. This requirement applies to the purchase and sale of all properties.
To simplify your search for a qualified notary, simply contact us to be connected with the best notaries in your area. This will allow you to compare their prices and services, helping you choose the professional that best suits your needs.
Who chooses the notary: the seller or the buyer?
Typically, the buyer chooses the notary who will oversee the transaction. While the notary is required to remain neutral, it is important for the buyer to ensure their interests are protected, especially if they owe a balance to the seller.
In cases where the property is a new condominium, the seller may choose the notary. Other scenarios may vary and are handled on a case-by-case basis.
If a conflict of interest arises, the notary must disclose it to all parties involved. The buyer and seller can then decide whether to continue with the same notary or not.
Notary fees in non-real estate matters
In addition to notary fees for real estate transactions, let’s explore the costs associated with notarial services in other contexts.
How much does a notarized will cost?
In Quebec, the notarial will is one of the 3 types of wills recognized and is the most common choice. The cost of a notarial will depends on the complexity of your situation and the notary’s experience.
Typically, you can expect to pay at least $300 for a simple will, with fees increasing for more complex cases.
The fee for preparing a notarial will typically include:
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Drafting your wishes according to legal standard.
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Safeguarding the original will for your lifetime.
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Providing a certified copy if needed.
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Handling the probate of the notarized will.
In comparison, probating a non-notarized will can cost more than $1,000.
How much does a protection mandate cost?
You can also ask a notary to create a protection mandate, also known as a mandate of incapacity. This document allows you to designate someone to manage your affairs if you become unable to do so.
Fees for drafting a notarized protection mandate can vary widely between notaries, typically ranging from $200 to $1,000, depending on the complexity of your situation.
While you can draft a protection mandate on your own without charge, there may be additional costs for legalizing the mandate and for any related legal proceedings.
How much does a succesion cost?
Dealing with an estate is never an easy task. The legal obligations surrounding the division of assets are numerous, and the liquidator often finds themselves in a delicate situation.
Additionally, there are several costs that may arise when settling an estate:
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Is the deceased's will not validated? It will cost over $1,000 for the verification.
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Will search with the Chamber of Notaries and the Barreau du Québec: typically under $25 each.
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Notary fees for accepting or renouncing the estate: These fees can range from several hundred dollars, depending on the complexity of the case.
In the event of a renunciation of the estate, the notary's involvement is essential to ensure that no action is taken that could be considered as tacit acceptance of the inheritance.
Comparative table of notary fees
Here is a summary of the various costs you might incur for notary services:
| Service | Price |
| Home purchase | |
| Notary fees | $1,500 to $3,000 (or 1% to 2% of the purchase price) |
| Transaction fees |
|
| Notarized will | $300 and up |
| Mandate of incapacity | Between $250 and $1,000 |
| Estate | |
| Validation of will (holographic or witnessed) | $1,000 and up |
| Will search | $25 each |
| Notary fees for estate settlement | Varies depending on case complexity |
Please note that all prices mentioned in this table are for informational purposes only. To obtain an accurate estimate of the fees you will need to pay, it is recommended to contact your notary directly.
Why is it important to use the services of a notary?
Using the services of a notary is essential because they are a public official who operates with impartiality and who follows strict regulations to uphold their role. Collaborating with a notary ensures that your transaction or project is handled under optimal conditions and in full compliance with current legal requirements.
Are you looking for a notary to help you with your real estate project?
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