September 12, 2018

Significant interest in a corporation or trust that acquires Real Estate

As of September 17, 2018, individuals with a significant interest in a corporation or trust that acquires real estate property may need to be identified on the property transfer tax return. In addition, the Province is establishing a public registry administered by the Land Title Survey Authority to record beneficial ownership of land, such as corporations and trusts.

During the transition stage, the Province will require all individuals who own a beneficial interest in property to disclose such interest. The Province will also be enacting legislation that will require corporations in B.C. to hold accurate and up-to-date information on beneficial owners of land in their own records office to be available to governmental authorities.

Although the Province has not announced any tax liability with respect to the foregoing, it may be that corporations and bare trusts may incur tax liabilities in the future. Clients intending to purchase through a corporation or trust are well advised to obtain advice from qualified tax advisors or a lawyer prior to entering into contracts of purchase and sale.

More information can be found at the following link: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/taxes/tax-changes/whats-new/property-taxes.