Life moves fast—and sometimes that means selling your home much sooner than planned. Whether it's a sudden move, change in finances, or simply realizing the home isn’t the right fit, selling within 12 months comes with unique hurdles, especially in BC’s complex market.Here’s what you need to know if you're planning a short-term sale.
Why Selling Within a Year Can Be Tricky
Putting your home back on the market so soon can bring more than just packing stress. In BC, financial penalties, shifting market conditions, and a new flipping tax can turn a quick sale into a pricey one.You might not have built much equity yet, but costs like realtor fees, legal expenses, and potential mortgage penalties still apply. Add in the BC Home Flipping Tax, which applies to homes sold within 2 years (with up to 20% owed on profits if sold within the first year), and the numbers can add up fast.There’s also the emotional toll—especially if you’re juggling a job move, family adjustments, or multiple logistics. Selling in under a year isn’t impossible, but it definitely requires strategy.5 Things to Think About Before Selling Within a Year
1. Know the Market and Time It RightIs it a buyer’s or seller’s market? Prices and demand fluctuate across BC. Selling in a hot market could mean quicker offers and better returns—while a cool market might mean longer days on the market and lower sale prices. Timing is everything.
2. Understand the True Costs
2. Understand the True Costs
Beyond the sale price, factor in agent commissions, legal fees, moving expenses, and early mortgage payout penalties. These can eat into your profit—especially if you’ve only owned the home for a short time.
3. Be Aware of Tax Implications
3. Be Aware of Tax Implications
The BC Home Flipping Tax, introduced in 2025, hits properties sold within 2 years—with the biggest impact (up to 20%) in the first year. Add potential capital gains tax or property transfer tax, and the financial side can get complicated fast. Talk to a tax advisor to understand what applies to you.
4. Price Strategically
4. Price Strategically
Avoid pricing based on emotion or what you hope to get. A local Realtor can help you set a competitive price based on market conditions and comparable sales. A well-priced home moves faster—critical when you're working with a short window.
5. Plan Your Next Steps Clearly
5. Plan Your Next Steps Clearly
Are you upsizing, downsizing, or relocating altogether? If you’re buying again, make sure your finances are in order and plan for possible overlaps. Selling a strata unit? Review documents like the depreciation report and strata minutes—buyers will want full transparency.
Work with a local Realtor who understands the ins and outs of BC’s fast-moving market. Whether you're upsizing, downsizing, or selling unexpectedly, I’ll help you move forward with confidence.Let’s make your next move a smooth one.
📞 Tazmeen Woodall | 604-760-7005
Let an Expert Guide You
Selling a home within 12 months of purchase isn’t always simple—but it doesn’t have to be stressful. The key is to be proactive: research current market conditions, understand the new BC Home Flipping Tax and other regulations, and make sure you're budgeting for all the costs involved, from realtor commissions to potential mortgage penalties.Work with a local Realtor who understands the ins and outs of BC’s fast-moving market. Whether you're upsizing, downsizing, or selling unexpectedly, I’ll help you move forward with confidence.Let’s make your next move a smooth one.
📞 Tazmeen Woodall | 604-760-7005