Policy & Programs

Ontario HST Rebate on New Builds — Up to $130,000, With an Important Catch

April 28, 2026  ·  Matthew Shaw-Ward, Mortgage Agent Level 1
New home construction in Ontario

On March 25, 2026, Ontario announced a full 13% HST rebate on newly built homes up to $1 million in value. For purchase agreements signed between April 1, 2026 and March 31, 2027, buyers could receive up to $130,000 back — depending on the purchase price.

Who qualifies

The rebate applies to detached homes, semi-detached homes, condos, townhouses, and rowhouses purchased as a primary residence. Ontario covers the 8% provincial portion; the federal government is covering the 5% federal portion. Construction must start by December 31, 2028 and be substantially completed by December 31, 2031.

The catch: federal legislation hasn't passed yet

The CRA has publicly stated it will not accept rebate assignments on closings that occur before the federal legislation is formally in effect. Builders across Ontario are inserting delay clauses into purchase agreements until there is legal clarity. With potentially $130,000 on the line, the CRA is expected to scrutinize claims closely.

What to do if you're looking at a new build

The rebate is real, but the process isn't fully settled. Before signing a purchase agreement on a new build, have a real estate lawyer review the agreement — specifically how and when the rebate will flow through your transaction. On the financing side, understanding how the rebate affects your effective purchase price and down payment is worth discussing before you're committed.

Matthew Shaw-Ward | Mortgage Agent Level 1 | Lic. M25002611 | Verico The Mortgage Wellness Group Limited | Brokerage Lic. #11970

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