Statement from the Ottawa Real Estate Board on Ontario’s New HST Rebate for First-Time Home Buyers
October 28, 2025
Ottawa, ON – The Ottawa Real Estate Board (OREB) recognizes the Ontario government’s announcement that it is proposing a rebate of the full 8 per cent provincial part of the HST on qualifying new homes for first-time buyers. This tax-relief when implemented, will help make homeownership more attainable for many Ontarians.
OREB and our provincial partner, the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA), have long advocated for policies that support affordable homeownership, including targeted tax relief for first-time buyers. Today’s announcement reflects progress on an issue REALTORS® across Ontario have championed making it easier for young families and first-time buyers to enter the housing market.
The introduction of this rebate is a critical step in the right direction. The rebate, which applies to homes valued up to $1 million, will lower costs for first-time buyers and will encourage new home construction.
We acknowledge the efforts of Premier Doug Ford, Minister of Finance Peter Bethlenfalvy, and Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Rob Flack for their commitment to improving housing affordability in Ontario. This bold step will provide much-needed relief to first-time homebuyers and will help them achieve the dream of homeownership.
Going forward, OREB urges the province to continue its work to tackle the systemic challenges affecting Ontario’s housing market – including strengthening adjudicator capacity and case backlogs at the Landlord Tenant Board (LTB). These actions, combined with the proposed HST rebate, will help create a more balanced housing ecosystem where Ontarians can find the right home for every stage of life.
OREB is committed to working with all elected officials to advance solutions that lower barriers and make affordable housing accessible to all Ontarians.
Nicole Christy
Chief Executive Officer
OREB
