Understanding Deed Transfer Tax in Nova Scotia (2025 Update)

A Local Guide for Buyers in Truro, Colchester, Cumberland & Pictou

When buying a home in Nova Scotia, one of the most overlooked expenses is the Deed Transfer Tax (DTT) — a mandatory tax paid by buyers at closing. Each municipality sets its own rate, so what you pay in Truro may differ from Amherst or New Glasgow.

Below is a clear, local breakdown for homebuyers in Truro, Colchester County, Cumberland County, and Pictou County, along with updated rules for Nova Scotia’s Provincial Non-Resident Deed Transfer Tax, effective April 1, 2025.

What Is Deed Transfer Tax?

DTT is a one-time fee paid by the buyer when a property deed is transferred into their name.
It is separate from your:

• down payment

• legal fees

• inspection costs

• title insurance

• moving expenses

Buyers must pay DTT at closing, and it generally cannot be added to your mortgage.

Deed Transfer Tax Rates — 2025

Colchester County Region

Cumberland County Region

Pictou County Region

Provincial Non-Resident Deed Transfer Tax (PDTT)

Effective April 1, 2025 — 10%

Nova Scotia also charges a 10% Provincial Non-Resident Deed Transfer Tax.
This applies when:

✔ The buyer is not a Nova Scotia resident at closing,
✔ The buyer does not become a Nova Scotia resident within 6 months, and
✔ The property has 3 units or fewer.

This 10% tax is charged in addition to the municipal DTT.

How the Provincial Non-Resident DTT Is Calculated

The 10% provincial tax is based on:

👉 The higher of:

• the purchase price, or

• the assessed value (PVSC)

✔ Whichever number is higher is the one used to calculate the tax.

Example 1 — Assessed Value Is Higher

• Purchase price: $385,000

• Assessed value: $420,000

• Municipal DTT (Truro 1.5%): $5,775

• Provincial PDTT (10% of $420,000): $42,000

Total at closing: $47,775

Example 2 — Purchase Price Is Higher

• Purchase price: $450,000

• Assessed value: $395,000

• Municipal DTT (1.0%): $4,500

• Provincial PDTT (10% of $450,000): $45,000

Total at closing: $49,500

Who Is Exempt From the PDTT?

You may be exempt if:

✔ You become a Nova Scotia resident within 6 months
✔ The property has 4+ units
✔ The property is inherited
✔ The transfer is between spouses or common-law partners
✔ You already own a portion of the property
✔ The property is non-residential (agricultural, commercial, etc.)

Important Rule for Multiple Buyers

If any buyer is a non-resident:

👉 The full 10% tax applies to the entire purchase price or assessed value.

There is no partial exemption.

Where to Check Other Municipal Rates in Nova Scotia

If you want to view DTT rates across the rest of the province, use the official provincial list:

👉 Nova Scotia Municipal DTT Rates
https://novascotia.ca/sns/pdf/ans-property-dtt-rates.pdf

Local Buyer Tips

• Budget early — DTT must be paid upfront.

• Always confirm the current rate before writing an offer.

• Non-resident buyers should calculate both municipal + provincial taxes.

• Ask your lawyer or REALTOR® if any exemptions apply.

Need Help Understanding Closing Costs?

Our team helps buyers across Truro, Colchester, Cumberland & Pictou understand deed transfer tax, closing costs, and every step of the buying process.

Truro Home Team – RE/MAX Fairlane Realty
Joanne Bouley — Owner / Managing Associate Broker – 902-899-2588
Sharon Corcoran — Broker / REALTOR® – 902-899-3501
Each office independently owned & operated. MLS®.

⚠️ Disclaimer

Municipal and provincial tax rates can change at any time. Buyers should confirm current rates directly with their lawyer, municipality, or the Land Registration Office before closing. This blog is for general information only and is not legal or financial advice.