Subjects are contractual conditions that must be satisfied or waived by the party benefiting from them before the transaction becomes firm.

Deposit

The amount, timing and holder are set out in the contract. It may form part of the eventual down payment if the transaction completes.

Common buyer subjects

  • Financing
  • Home inspection
  • Review of strata documents
  • Title or property disclosure review where appropriate
  • Sale of the buyer’s existing property where negotiated

Why they matter

Subjects create time for important due diligence. The wording and timelines are contract-specific, so buyers should understand exactly what each condition requires.

Subject-free risk

BCFSA warns that subject-free offers can expose buyers to serious risks because financing, inspection or strata review may remain unresolved.

Practical checklist

  • Use conditions that match the actual risks of the property and buyer.
  • Make deadlines realistic.
  • Do not assume the Home Buyer Rescission Period is a substitute for proper subjects.
  • Obtain legal/professional advice for unusual clauses.

EXAMPLE  A “subject to financing” clause may give the buyer time to secure satisfactory financing, but the exact protection depends on the clause wording and the buyer’s conduct.

Related Nuhaven Guides

Deposit vs. Down Payment

BC Home Buyer Rescission Period

Home Inspection: What Buyers Should Look For

IMPORTANT  This page provides general educational information only. It is not legal, tax, accounting, engineering, inspection, insurance, lending or financial advice. Rules and individual circumstances can change. Confirm material decisions with the appropriate qualified professional and current official source.

Last reviewed: August 24, 2026

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