# Real estate deposit structures in BC

> Deposits in BC residential transactions typically run 5% of purchase price, held in trust by the buyer's REALTOR®'s brokerage.

**Source:** https://soldbycraig.ca/deposit-structures-bc-real-estate/  
**Author:** Craig Johnston, REALTOR® (BC Licence V99960) · The MACNABS · Royal LePage Elite West  
**Site:** https://soldbycraig.ca

---
Investor · Deposits

## Real estate deposit structures in BC — what's normal, what's negotiable.

Deposits in BC residential transactions typically run 5% of purchase price, held in trust by the buyer's REALTOR®'s brokerage. But the structure is negotiable — and getting it right protects both buyer and seller.

[Book a Strategy Call](/book-a-strategy-call-with-craig-johnston/)
[Call Craig — 604-202-6092](tel:+16042026092)

Quick Answer

What should you know about Deposit Structures Bc Real Estate?

Deposits in BC residential transactions typically run 5% of purchase price, held in trust by the buyer's REALTOR®'s brokerage. **Craig Johnston, Top 1% Team Member — Greater Vancouver REALTORS®** and 47+ year Tri-Cities resident, can walk you through the local context. Free Strategy Call ends with a written one-page plan in 24 hours.

Verified · Investor · Deposits

## The verified facts.

Typical deposit amount

5% of purchase price for resale. Lower (1-2%) for some new construction at signing, with milestone deposits later.

Held by

Buyer's REALTOR®'s brokerage trust account, OR a deposit holder named in the contract

Timing

Typically due within 24-48 hours of subject removal (firm deal). Some contracts use a 'concurrent with subject removal' structure.

Form

Bank draft or wire transfer most common. Personal cheques rare and risky.

Forfeiture

If buyer fails to close after subject removal, deposit is at risk. Seller may sue for damages beyond deposit if losses exceed it.

Refund

Deposit returned in full if subjects collapse during subject period (deal does not become firm). Returned at closing as part of buyer's funds.

Pre-construction deposits

Often 5% at signing + 5% at firm-up + 5%-10% milestones. Confirm the schedule with the developer's contract.

Increased deposits

Some sellers in hot markets request 10%+ deposit to filter for serious buyers.

## Talk to Craig — a 47-year Coquitlam resident and licensed REALTOR®.

No pressure. No obligation. Just a 30-minute call to talk through your specific situation and run the numbers.

[Book a Strategy Call](/book-a-strategy-call-with-craig-johnston/)
[Call 604-202-6092](tel:+16042026092)
[Email Craig](mailto:Craig@SoldByCraig.ca)

Tri-Cities monthly

## Get the honest Tri-Cities market read, monthly.

June 2026 Coquitlam detached HPI is $1,649,000, -4.8% YoY. What that means for your buy or sell decision — without the salesy fluff. One email per month. Unsubscribe anytime.

No spam, no listings flood, no marketing automation games. Genuine monthly update from a 47+ year Tri-Cities resident.

Best REALTOR® by area

## A specialist for your specific Tri-Cities city or neighbourhood.

[Coquitlam](/best-realtor-in-coquitlam/)
[Burke Mountain](/best-realtor-in-burke-mountain/)
[Westwood Plateau](/best-realtor-in-westwood-plateau/)
[Heritage Mountain](/best-realtor-in-heritage-mountain/)
[Port Moody](/best-realtor-in-port-moody/)
[Port Coquitlam](/best-realtor-in-port-coquitlam/)
[Anmore](/best-realtor-in-anmore/)
[Belcarra](/best-realtor-in-belcarra/)

[Or compare all Tri-Cities specialists →](/best-local-realtor-tri-cities/)