Want to beat the HST? Buy or sell before July 1st and you could save yourself a lot of money. When the new harmonized sales tax comes into effect it means an additional tax on real estate commissions and legal fees. For example: let's say that as a seller your real estate commission is $10,0000. Right now, you pay just the GST of 5%. That's $500. After July 1st the tax payable with the new HST will be $1300. That's additional $800. That may not seem astronomical, but that could mean a new fridge, sofa, or television for your new home. I know it seems early, but we're about to head into the spring market when a lot of houses will start to come on the market. Get a head start and list early to take advantage of low inventory. Give me a call to discuss your options and happy house hunting!