Did You Buy Your First Brand New Home After March 19, 2025?
Okay, grab your coffee — because this one is worth reading carefully, especially if you or someone you know bought a brand new home last year.
Bill C-4, the Making Life More Affordable for Canadians Act, officially became law on March 12, 2026. And tucked inside it is something that could mean real money back for first-time buyers of brand new homes.
The short version: If you signed a purchase agreement on or after March 20, 2025 on a brand NEW home — you may be eligible for a full GST rebate of up to $50,000. In Ontario, combining federal + provincial savings, that number could reach up to $130,000. Yes — this applies to November 2025 buyers. You’re in the window.
Here’s what’s important to understand: because the law wasn’t passed yet when many of you closed, your builder couldn’t have applied the rebate at closing. That means it won’t just show up automatically — you need to apply for it yourself.
Who Qualifies?
✓ You signed your purchase agreement on or after March 20, 2025
✓ The home is brand new — newly built or substantially renovated (resale homes do not qualify)
✓ You are a first-time home buyer
✓ You intend to live there as your primary residence
✓ You are the first person to occupy the home after it’s built
What Do You Need to Do?
Since the law came into effect after many 2025 buyers closed, you’ll need to apply directly to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) using Form GST190. You will need:
- Your purchase agreement
- Your statement of adjustments
- Your closing documents
I know tax forms aren’t anyone’s idea of a great afternoon — but for up to $50,000 back (or more in Ontario), it is absolutely worth an hour of your time.
If you’re not sure whether you qualify or need help gathering your documents, reach out — I’m happy to walk through it with you. And if you know someone who bought their first new home last year, please share this with them. This is exactly the kind of news that deserves to travel.
