How the Primary Residence Exemption Really Works (EP 78) episode artwork

EPISODE · Apr 28, 2026 · 16 MIN

How the Primary Residence Exemption Really Works (EP 78)

from Retiring Canada · host Michael Isbister, CFP®

Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-startedFor many Canadians, their home and vacation property have become some of their largest financial assets. But when it comes time to sell, transfer, or settle an estate, many families are shocked to discover the potential tax consequences attached to those properties.In this episode of Retiring Canada, we discuss how the Canadian Primary Residence Exemption works and the planning strategies retirees and families should understand when multiple personal use properties are involved.You will learn what qualifies as a principal residence, why only one property per family unit can generally be designated in a given year, and how choosing the wrong property could result in unnecessary capital gains tax. We also walk through a detailed example involving a family home and vacation property, explain the “plus one” rule, and discuss several overlooked planning considerations involving properties owned before 1972, 1982, and 1992.We also explore the importance of tracking capital improvements, coordinating with accountants and executors, and why proactive estate and tax planning can help preserve more family wealth over time.This episode is for Canadian retirees, cottage owners, executors, and families who want to better understand how to minimize taxes and optimize the use of the Primary Residence Exemption. WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS?Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletterAs a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE!EPISODE RESOURCES:📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca

Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-startedFor many Canadians, their home and vacation property have become some of their largest financial assets. But when it comes time to sell, transfer, or settle an estate, many families are shocked to discover the potential tax consequences attached to those properties.In this episode of Retiring Canada, we discuss how the Canadian Primary Residence Exemption works and the planning strategies retirees and families should understand when multiple personal use properties are involved.You will learn what qualifies as a principal residence, why only one property per family unit can generally be designated in a given year, and how choosing the wrong property could result in unnecessary capital gains tax. We also walk through a detailed example involving a family home and vacation property, explain the “plus one” rule, and discuss several overlooked planning considerations involving properties owned before 1972, 1982, and 1992.We also explore the importance of tracking capital improvements, coordinating with accountants and executors, and why proactive estate and tax planning can help preserve more family wealth over time.This episode is for Canadian retirees, cottage owners, executors, and families who want to better understand how to minimize taxes and optimize the use of the Primary Residence Exemption. WANT EVEN MORE RETIREMENT PLANNING TIPS?Join thousands of other Canadians and subscribe to the ⁠Retiring Canada Newsletter.⁠https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletterAs a thank you, you'll receive a copy of our latest Retirement Guide AND MORE!EPISODE RESOURCES:📊 Work with Michael: https://fundamentalwealth.ca/get-started💻 Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-newsletter👉 Download Our Latest Retirement Guide: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/retirement-guide✏️ Submit Your Question: https://www.retiringcanada.ca/submit-your-question🌐 Retiring Canada Website: https://www.retiringcanada.ca

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How the Primary Residence Exemption Really Works (EP 78)

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The Lavigne Show The Lavigne Show Welcome to The Lavigne Show Podcast!We delve deep into the pursuit of justice in Canada, offering insightful discussions, interviews with guests from across the country and the world, and critical analyses of the legal system—all while saving you time.Catch the Show:For the full, unedited live experience, join TheLavigneShow onTheLavigneShow.comYouTubeRumbleXFacebook LiveTwitchBecome a Member for Exclusive Content at TheLavigneShow.comJoin Us in Pursuing the Truth Adventure In Your Ear Brainjuice Media Adventure In Your Ear is a weekly comedic radio play series. Bi-weekly a new episodic comedy adventure story will be released Wednesday. The stories are a part of our live once a month performances at James Street Pub in Ottawa, On Canada. FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/aiyepodcastTwitter: @AdvInEarInstagram: adventure_in_your_ear Lending Thoughts Bekim Merdita Welcome to the Lending Thoughts podcast, a Canadian Mortgage Broker’s top source for timely, industry-leading insights to help you become a better mortgage professional.Join Bekim Merdita, a trusted name in mortgages and the EVP of Rocket Mortgage Canada, as he hosts conversations with industry experts and leaders to keep you informed on the latest and greatest in the Canadian mortgage landscape.Let the Lending Thoughts podcast be your guide to growing your tactics, expertise, and ultimately, your business, in this highly competitive mortgage market. SLUSH podcast Matt Lynds Nerd life/ adult life (we think?!) - all mixed up together - give us a listen, once a week.Nova Scotia, Canada

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This episode was published on April 28, 2026.

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Learn more about the Fundamental Retirement Plan: https://www.fundamentalwealth.ca/get-startedFor many Canadians, their home and vacation property have become some of their largest financial assets. But when it comes time to sell, transfer, or...

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