The Ontario government has just announced one of the most significant housing affordability measures in provincial history. Starting in 2026, the province is removing the full 13% Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) on eligible new homes valued up to $1 million. For Ottawa first-time buyers, this could mean savings of up to $130,000 on a new home purchase.
If you’re looking to buy your first home in Ottawa, this policy change creates an unprecedented opportunity. However, the details matter — and understanding eligibility requirements, timing, and the application process will be critical to capturing these savings.
What the HST Relief Means for Ottawa First-Time Buyers
Under the new provincial framework, buyers of eligible new homes will receive a rebate covering the full 13% HST. Specifically, the provincial government provides a top-up rebate covering the 8% Ontario portion, while the federal government covers the remaining 5% through parallel legislation.
For example, a new home priced at $800,000 in Ottawa would yield total HST savings of $104,000. For a home at $1 million, the maximum rebate of $130,000 applies. As a result, this effectively makes many new construction homes significantly more affordable than comparable resale properties.
The relief targets new construction, which aligns with the provincial goal of increasing housing supply. However, existing homes — which do not carry GST/HST anyway — remain unaffected by this change.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the HST relief on your Ottawa home purchase, you must meet certain conditions:
- New construction only: The relief applies to newly built homes from approved builders. Resale homes do not qualify.
- Price cap: Homes must carry a value of $1 million or less to receive the full rebate. Homes between $1 million and $1.5 million receive a reduced rebate.
- First-time buyer status: While the policy doesn’t explicitly require first-time buyer status, the relief primarily assists buyers entering the housing market.
- Owner-occupied: The home must serve as your primary residence.
Ottawa buyers should work closely with their real estate agent and lawyer to ensure all documentation is in place before closing. In particular, the builder applies the rebate at the time of purchase, but proper paperwork remains essential.
When Does This Start?
The province introduced the legislation in early 2026, and officials expect implementation later this year. Ottawa builders are already preparing for the change, and many have delayed closings to allow buyers to benefit from the new framework.
If you’re currently shopping for a new home in Ottawa, now is the time to act. Therefore, working with an experienced Ottawa real estate agent can help you time your purchase to maximize these savings.
How Home613 Can Help
Navigating the HST relief process requires expertise. Our team at Home613 tracks this policy closely and can connect you with builders who offer the rebate at closing. In addition, we help first-time buyers understand all available incentives, including the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive and RRSP withdrawal limits.
Compare opportunities across Ottawa neighbourhoods — see our First-Time Buyer Neighbourhood Guide or contact Home613 today to discuss your purchase timeline.
Ottawa New Construction: What’s Available
Ottawa’s new construction market offers various options for buyers seeking to benefit from the HST relief:
- Freehold homes: Single-family homes and townhouses in growing communities like Findlay Creek, Riverside South, and Kanata.
- Condominiums: New high-rise and low-rise condos in the downtown core, Kanata, and Orleans.
- Semi-detached: More affordable options in established neighbourhoods undergoing redevelopment.
The average price of a new home in Ottawa has historically exceeded resale prices, but the $130,000 HST relief narrows that gap considerably. For many first-time buyers, this makes new construction financially viable for the first time in years.
Key Takeaways
- The Ontario government is removing 13% HST on new homes up to $1 million, effective 2026.
- Ottawa first-time buyers could save up to $130,000 on eligible new homes.
- Homes between $1M and $1.5M receive a reduced rebate.
- The relief applies only to new construction, not resale homes.
- Work with an experienced Ottawa agent to navigate eligibility and timing.
Don’t miss this opportunity to save significantly on your first Ottawa home. In short, contact Home613 today to learn more about available new construction and how to take advantage of the HST relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for the HST relief on new homes in Ottawa?
Buyers of new homes priced at $1 million or less qualify for the full 13% HST rebate. The home must serve as your primary residence, and the builder administers the relief at closing.
How much can I save with the HST removal in Ottawa?
On a new home priced at $1 million, you could save up to $130,000. On an $800,000 new home, the savings would reach approximately $104,000. Specifically, the exact amount depends on the purchase price and eligibility.
Does the HST relief apply to resale homes in Ottawa?
No. Resale homes already carry no GST/HST in Canada. Instead, the new relief specifically targets new construction to encourage housing supply growth.
