Calculate the real estate commission on a home sale in the Northwest Territories. This calculator shows the total commission paid, how it splits between the seller’s and buyer’s agents, and what the seller receives after commission.
Quick answer: On a $450,000 Yellowknife home, expect to pay approximately $22,500 in commission (5%) plus $1,125 GST, leaving you with $426,375 before other closing costs.
What percentage do most realtors charge in the NWT in 2026?
The typical real estate commission in the Northwest Territories is approximately 5% of the sale price. This is usually split equally:
- Seller’s agent: 2.5%
- Buyer’s agent: 2.5%
The full commission is paid by the seller from the sale proceeds at closing. Commission rates are negotiable and not set by law.
NWT commission examples (2026)
Yellowknife accounts for most real estate transactions in the NWT, with average home prices ranging from $430,000 to $480,000 in 2026.
| Sale Price | Commission (5%) | GST (5%) | Seller’s Agent (2.5%) | Buyer’s Agent (2.5%) | Seller Proceeds |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $350,000 | $17,500 | $875 | $8,750 | $8,750 | $331,625 |
| $425,000 | $21,250 | $1,063 | $10,625 | $10,625 | $402,687 |
| $450,000 | $22,500 | $1,125 | $11,250 | $11,250 | $426,375 |
| $500,000 | $25,000 | $1,250 | $12,500 | $12,500 | $473,750 |
| $600,000 | $30,000 | $1,500 | $15,000 | $15,000 | $568,500 |
How real estate commission works in the NWT
When you list your home with a real estate agent, you sign a listing agreement that specifies the commission rate. At closing, the commission is deducted from the sale proceeds and split between the listing brokerage and the buyer’s brokerage.
GST on commission
The NWT has no territorial sales tax — only 5% GST applies to real estate commissions. On a $21,250 commission, GST adds $1,062.50, making the total cost $22,312.50. See the NWT sales tax calculator for more.
Can you negotiate commission in the NWT?
Yes. Commission rates are not regulated and can be negotiated. With the NWT’s smaller real estate market, options may be more limited than in larger cities, but sellers can discuss rates with their agent.
No land transfer tax advantage
The Northwest Territories does not charge a land transfer tax, which is a significant saving compared to provinces like Ontario or BC. This makes overall transaction costs lower. Learn more about NWT mortgage affordability.
Additional selling costs in the NWT
- Legal fees — typically $1,000 to $2,000
- Mortgage discharge fee — if paying off the mortgage at closing
- GST on commission — 5% GST on agent commissions
Buying costs in the NWT
- No land transfer tax — significant cost saving
- Home inspection — highly recommended for northern properties
- Legal fees — $1,000 to $2,000
- Mortgage insurance — if less than 20% down; see the NWT mortgage insurance calculator
Frequently asked questions
What is the typical real estate commission in the NWT?
Approximately 5% of the sale price, split between the seller’s and buyer’s agents.
How much commission is paid on a $425,000 home sale?
$21,250 total — $10,625 to each agent.
Do buyers pay commission in the NWT?
Typically no. The seller pays the full commission from the sale proceeds.
Related guides
- NWT mortgage rates 2026 — Compare current rates in Yellowknife
- NWT mortgage affordability calculator — See how much home you can afford
- NWT mortgage insurance calculator — Calculate CMHC premiums
- NWT sales tax calculator — Only 5% GST applies (no territorial tax)
- NWT tax brackets 2026 — Territorial and federal rates
- NWT minimum wage 2026 — Current rates and history
- NWT capital gains tax calculator — Tax on property sales
- Down payment calculator — Plan your down payment
- Income needed to buy a home in Canada — Salary requirements by city
- Northern Residents Tax Deduction guide — Potential tax savings for NWT residents
