Barrie 
The Canada Revenue Agency is now accepting applications for the first-time home buyers’ GST/HST rebate, a measure aimed at lowering upfront costs for eligible buyers.
The rebate applies to newly built or substantially renovated homes, and in some cases, it can return up to $50,000.
For many buyers, that could mean recovering a portion of the federal tax paid at purchase. The process depends on how the home is acquired. If the property is purchased from a builder, the rebate may already be factored into the closing price, reducing the total price. If not, buyers can apply directly through their CRA account or by submitting Form GST190.
Those building their own homes also have a path to apply. If construction began on or after March 20, 2025, they can file using Form GST191, either online or by mail.
There is a deadline to keep in mind. Most applicants have up to two years from the date they take ownership, or finish construction, to submit their claim.
Builders are also part of the rollout. They can apply the rebate upfront for eligible buyers who signed purchase agreements on or after March 20, 2025. In cases where that didn’t happen, buyers can still go directly to the CRA to receive the amount.
The rebate structure mirrors the existing GST/HST new housing rebate but is specifically targeted at first-time buyers, adding another layer of support as housing affordability remains a challenge.
