Selling Without a Realtor in BC: The Complete 2026 Guide
British Columbia has one of the highest average home prices in Canada — which means the commission savings from selling FSBO are among the highest too. On a $1.1M Metro Vancouver home, a 5% commission is $55,000. Many BC sellers are keeping most of that by going the FSBO route.
Is It Legal to Sell Without a Realtor in BC?
Yes — completely legal. The Real Estate Services Act (RESA) governs licensed real estate professionals in BC, but it does not require homeowners to use one. You are entitled to sell your own home privately.
Required Disclosure: Property Disclosure Statement (PDS)
BC sellers are required to complete a Property Disclosure Statement (Form PDS) for most residential sales. You must disclose if you know of water ingress, structural defects, bylaw violations or unapproved renovations, environmental issues (oil tanks, asbestos, mould), outstanding work orders or permits, and strata disputes or special levies.
FINTRAC — Federal Identity Verification
When you sell without an agent, you must comply with FINTRAC requirements: verify the identity of the buyer, keep records for 5 years, and report large cash transactions. In practice, your real estate lawyer typically handles FINTRAC compliance at closing. Confirm with your lawyer before listing.
Property Transfer Tax (PTT)
PTT is paid by the buyer, not the seller. Understanding it helps you answer buyer questions:
| Property Value | PTT Rate |
|---|---|
| First $200,000 | 1% |
| $200,001 – $2,000,000 | 2% |
| Over $2,000,000 | 3% |
| Residential over $3,000,000 | Additional 2% (5% total on that portion) |
Strata Properties (Condos and Townhouses)
If you're selling a strata unit, you must provide: strata plan and bylaws, current meeting minutes (last 2 years), depreciation report, contingency reserve fund balance, any outstanding special levies, and Form B — Information Certificate (from strata corporation). Obtain Form B early — it can take 1–2 weeks and costs $35–$100.
BC FSBO Seller Checklist
Before Listing
- Complete Property Disclosure Statement (PDS)
- Gather strata documents (if applicable)
- Obtain a title search (your lawyer can do this)
- Check for outstanding permits or work orders at your municipality
- Book professional photos and research comparable sales
During the Sale
- Confirm FINTRAC compliance plan with your lawyer
- Have your lawyer review any offer before you sign
- Ensure deposit is held in trust
- Respond to subject removal conditions within agreed timelines
At Closing
- BC Notary or real estate lawyer handles title transfer
- Property Transfer Tax filed and paid by buyer's lawyer
- Mortgage payout and net proceeds disbursed through lawyer trust
- Keys handed over on completion date
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