Buying a newly constructed home in Ontario is about to get a whole lot cheaper for first-time home buyers. The federal government has announced a brand-new HST rebate designed specifically for first-time buyers purchasing a new-build home under $1 million. This is big news for anyone thinking about entering the market — and a major financial boost for buyers struggling with rising costs.
If you’re considering a new construction home in Ottawa, this new rebate could save you thousands of dollars and give you extra room in your budget for all the things builders don’t include.
The new rebate gives first-time home buyers a significant refund on the federal portion of the HST when they purchase a brand-new construction home priced under $1 million. The goal is to make homeownership more affordable, especially in markets like Ottawa where new-build prices continue to rise.
This rebate applies to:
Newly built houses
Newly built townhomes
Newly built condos
Builder inventory homes (quick possessions)
If the purchase price is under $1 million, first-time buyers can qualify.
Depending on the purchase price, this rebate can amount to thousands of dollars back in your pocket, making a noticeable difference when you’re staring down moving costs, upgrades, and the long list of “extras” builders love to charge for.
Builders rarely include many of the functional or aesthetic items buyers expect. The rebate gives first-time buyers extra budget room for things a home needs that builders DO NOT include in Ottawa like:
Eavestroughs (gutters) – often not included on new builds
Fencing – essential for privacy, pets, and kids
Landscaping – grading, sod, topsoil, garden beds
Air conditioning – upgrade or installation
Garage door opener – many builders leave this out
Additional electrical outlets, lighting, or pot lights
Water softener or purification system
Window coverings – blinds, shutters, curtains
Appliances – washer, dryer, fridge with upgrades
Deck or patio – many homes come with nothing
Storage organizers – closets, pantry, and garage systems
Moving truck
Furniture
Internet installation and startup costs
For first-time buyers, this rebate can significantly reduce the financial pressure of outfitting a brand-new home.
Ottawa continues to grow with major new-build communities in downtown Ottawa, Barrhaven, Orleans, Kanata, Riverside South, and Stittsville. With many homes priced close to — but still under — the $1 million mark, this rebate opens the door for more first-time buyers who were sitting on the sidelines.
As a local real estate professional, I can help buyers:
Understand which builders qualify
Navigate upgrade decisions
Maximize savings
Avoid paying for unnecessary add-ons
Take advantage of incentives while they last
The new HST rebate is a huge opportunity for first-time home buyers in Ottawa. If you’re considering a brand-new home, this could be the perfect moment to take the leap.
If you want help understanding how this rebate applies to your situation — or want to explore Ottawa’s best new-build communities — I’m here to guide you.
Ray Smiley | RE/MAX Hallmark Realty Group
613-818-1819
homeforsaleinottawa.com
