Up to $50K in Savings: New GST Rebate for First-Time Canadian Home Buyers (2025)

What Is the FTHB GST Rebate?

The FTHB GST Rebate allows qualifying first-time home buyers to recover up to 100% of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) paid on new homes. This can result in savings of up to $50,000, depending on the home's purchase price.


 Who Qualifies?

To be eligible for the rebate, you must:

  • Be at least 18 years old.

  • Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

  • Not have owned a home, or lived in a home owned by your spouse or common-law partner, in the current or previous four calendar years.

  • Use the property as your primary residence.

  • Be the first occupant of the home.

This rebate applies to:

  • New homes purchased from a builder.

  • Owner-built homes, including those constructed by hiring contractors.

  • Shares in a cooperative housing corporation (co-op).


 Key Timelines

To qualify:

  • The purchase or construction agreement must be signed on or after May 27, 2025, and before 2031.

  • Construction of the home must begin before 2031 and be substantially completed by 2036.


 Limitations

  • The rebate is available only once per individual.

  • If your spouse or common-law partner has previously claimed the rebate, you are not eligible.

  • Assignment sales are not eligible if the original agreement was signed before May 27, 2025.

  • Alterations to existing agreements to appear eligible may void the rebate.


 How to Apply

Eligible buyers can apply for the rebate through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) by completing the necessary forms:

  • For homes purchased from a builder:

    • Form GST190 – GST/HST New Housing Rebate Application for Houses Purchased from a Builder.

  • For owner-built homes:

    • Form GST191 – GST/HST New Housing Rebate Application for Owner-Built Houses.

    • Form GST191-WS – Construction Summary Worksheet.

Additional provincial rebate forms may be required, depending on your location.


 Need Assistance?

Navigating the home buying process can be complex, but you don't have to do it alone. As an experienced realtor, I am here to guide you through every step, from understanding your eligibility for the FTHB GST Rebate to finding the perfect new home that fits your needs and budget.

Feel free to reach out with any questions or to start your journey toward homeownership today.


Note: This information is based on the latest updates as of May 27, 2025. For the most current details and application procedures, please consult the official Canada Revenue Agency website.