Discover the Benefits of Canada’s New First-Time Home Buyer GST Rebate Program 

March 2026 – This article has been updated to reflect recent federal confirmation of the First‑Time Home Buyer GST Rebate and how it now applies to eligible buyers.

What First‑Time Buyers Need to Know

The First‑Time Home Buyer GST Rebate was announced in the spring of 2025, but recent federal updates have now confirmed how the program works and when it applies. Eligible first‑time buyers can receive up to $50,000 in GST savings when purchasing a qualifying new construction home.

The rebate applies to new homes priced up to $1 million, is gradually phased out on homes priced between $1 million and $1.5 million, and is available nationwide — including here in Alberta. The program is designed to reduce the upfront cost of homeownership and make buying your first home more attainable.

If you’re considering purchasing your first home, this rebate could make a meaningful difference. Visit a Cantiro show home in Edmonton or Calgary and speak with an Area Sales Manager to learn how you can take advantage of this program.

What Is the First‑Time Home Buyer GST Rebate?

The First‑Time Home Buyer GST Rebate is a federal program designed to reduce the cost of buying a newly constructed home by offering a rebate on the Goods and Services Tax (GST) for eligible first‑time home buyers.

The program applies to the same types of housing and follows similar eligibility criteria and conditions as the  existing GST/HST New Housing Rebate, with certain modifications to ensure that the rebate is targeted at first‑time buyers and eligible buyers may receive up to $50,000 in GST savings

It is intended to help first‑time buyers overcome upfront affordability challenges and move more confidently into homeownership.

Who Qualifies for the First‑Time Home Buyer GST Rebate?

To qualify for the First-Time Home Buyer GST Rebate Program, buyers must meet specific federal eligibility criteria when purchasing a newly constructed home.

In general, you may qualify if:

You are at least 18 years old and are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
You are a first‑time home buyer, meaning you — and your spouse or common‑law partner — have not owned and lived in a home within the required federal look‑back period
You are purchasing a newly built or substantially renovated home for use as your primary residence
The agreement of purchase and sale is entered into with the builder on or after May 27, 2025

Eligibility is determined at the federal level, and not all buyers will qualify. Buyers should confirm how the rebate applies to their individual situation based on purchase timing, ownership history, and home type. For full eligibility rules and application details, refer to the Government of Canada’s official guidance.

How Much Is the GST Rebate for First‑Time Home Buyers?

The amount of GST rebate depends on the purchase price of the home:

Homes up to $1 million
Eligible buyers may receive a full GST rebate
Homes between $1 million and $1.5 million
Eligible buyers may receive a partial GST rebate, gradually reduced as prices increase
Homes over $1.5 million
Not eligible for the first‑time home buyer GST rebate

In most cases, the rebate is applied by the builder at purchase, with the builder submitting the rebate to CRA on the buyer’s behalf. For many buyers, this represents meaningful savings that can help reduce the overall cost of homeownership.

For your convenience, here is a reference chart:

Why the First‑Time Home Buyer GST Rebate Matters

Beyond the immediate tax savings, the First‑Time Home Buyer GST Rebate plays an important role in helping buyers move forward with confidence.

Key benefits include:

Lower upfront costs – By reducing or eliminating GST on eligible new homes, the rebate lowers the overall cost of purchase — which can help buyers manage closing costs, preserve savings, or strengthen their financial position when buying their first home.

Greater affordability for first‑time buyers – The rebate is specifically designed to support first‑time buyers, helping bridge the gap between rising home prices and affordability, especially for newly built homes.

Increased confidence to enter the market – When combined with other first‑time home buyer programs, the GST rebate gives buyers clearer financial expectations and reduces uncertainty — making it easier to take the next step toward homeownership.

Does the GST Rebate Apply to New Homes Only?

Yes. The First‑Time Home Buyer GST Rebate applies only to newly built homes, including:

Homes purchased directly from a builder
Certain new homes built on leased land

Resale homes are not eligible.

Estimate What You Can Afford

Before buying, it’s important to understand your budget and financing options.

Cantiro offers mortgage and affordability calculators to help you estimate:

Purchase price ranges
Monthly payments
How incentives like the GST rebate may impact affordability

👉 Explore the calculators here

How the GST Rebate Works Alongside Other First‑Time Buyer Programs

The GST rebate is one part of a broader set of programs designed to support first‑time buyers.

You may also want to explore:

Click here to explore other first‑time home buyer programs, incentives, and grants
Click here for a step‑by‑step guide to buying your first home, from budgeting to possession
Click here for Cantiro’s Down Payment Savings Program, designed to help buyers save more efficiently

Together, these programs can significantly improve affordability and confidence for first‑time buyers.

next steps

Applying for the First-Time Home Buyer GST Rebate Program involves several steps:

Determine eligibility by reviewing the program criteria.
Contact an Area Sales Manager to begin the process and explore eligible Cantiro homes.

In the meantime, our team is here to support you. Visit any Cantiro show home in Edmonton or Calgary and speak with an Area Sales Manager to learn how to prepare and take full advantage of this exciting opportunity.