How does HST affect my real estate?

Harmonized Sales Tax has now been instituted across Canada and has caused much confusion. The federal government has recently sent out notices educating the public on what it does and does not affect, however, my commentary will be specifically to real estate. For those buying new, if you have take occupancy but have not registered or taken deed to your property then on the sale or taking deed of the property, HST will likely apply to your home. However, if it is under the $400,000 price point then it will be minimal as there are rebates in place. If you are selling your home, HST will apply to the real estate commission portion of your cost IF the sale occurred after July 1st, so if you sold your home and had a firm sale before that date, then it could be argued by your lawyer that HST is not applicable. All other services like legal, property inspection, accounting, moving and property management all have HST as of July 1st.