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GST Rebate for First-Time Home Buyers: What You Need to Know
If you’re a first-time home buyer, there’s a brand-new federal incentive that could save you thousands—and it’s officially in effect as of May 27, 2025.
In a move that’s set to make homeownership more accessible for Canadians, the federal government has introduced a new GST rebate program aimed at supporting first-time buyers in the new home market. At McKee Homes, we’re thrilled to share what this means for you and how it could be the perfect time to take your first step into homeownership.
What Is the FTHB GST Rebate?
The First-Time Home Buyer (FTHB) GST Rebate is a newly announced federal program that offers up to $50,000 in GST relief on the purchase of a new home. This initiative has been years in the making, championed by the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA), and officially announced just after the federal Throne Speech.
Here’s what the rebate includes:
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100% GST rebate for new homes priced up to $1 million
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Partial GST rebate for homes between $1 million and $1.5 million
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Applies to homes purchased from a builder, including those on leased land
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Available for purchase agreements signed between May 27, 2025, and 2031
Who Qualifies?
To take advantage of this rebate, at least one of the purchasers must:
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Be a first-time home buyer (hasn’t owned or lived in a home they or their spouse/partner owned in the last four calendar years)
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Be at least 18 years old, a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
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Use the new home as their primary place of residence
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Be the first person to occupy the home
This applies not only to those buying directly from a builder but also to individuals building their own home or purchasing shares in a co-operative housing corporation.
Why This Matters for You
The FTHB GST Rebate is a significant win for Canadians hoping to break into the housing market. For many, the added cost of GST on a new home has been a major barrier. With this change, first-time buyers could now save up to $50,000—savings that could go toward closing costs, furnishings, or simply staying on budget.
This move is expected to bring a surge of buyers into the market and help increase housing supply across the country.
What If You’ve Already Purchased but Haven’t Closed Yet?
CHBA is currently working with the federal government to expand eligibility to buyers whose purchase agreements were signed before May 27, 2025 but who haven’t yet taken possession. While this isn’t finalized, it’s a point of ongoing advocacy and one we’re watching closely on behalf of our customers.
Ready to Make a Move?
With this new rebate now in effect, there’s never been a better time to consider buying your first home. At McKee Homes, we have a wide range of new homes available in Airdrie that qualify under the rebate threshold, and our team is here to guide you through every step of the process—from exploring options to securing the rebate.
👉 Explore our new home listings or reach out to speak with a New Home Concierge today.
Questions? We’re Here to Help.
Buying your first home is a big milestone, and understanding new programs like the FTHB GST Rebate can feel overwhelming. That’s why our team is always happy to walk you through the details and help you make the most of every advantage available to you. For more information visit CHBA.