Who qualifies as a first-time buyer for the new GST/HST Rebate?
You must be 18+, a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, and neither you nor your spouse/common-law partner can have owned and occupied a home — anywhere in the world — in the current calendar year or any of the 4 preceding calendar years. You must also use the new home as your primary residence and be its first occupant. The rebate is one-time per person.
Key Points
Your spouse or common-law partner's ownership history disqualifies you on a joint application, even if you personally have never owned property.
The lookback applies to property owned ANYWHERE in the world — not just Canada.
The rebate is one-time per person for your lifetime: you cannot reset it by selling and re-buying.
Primary residence + first-occupant requirement means investment properties and homes already occupied by someone else are excluded.
Technical Research Verification
Our systems synchronized 2 data points and regulatory frameworks to verify this technical brief.
Related Questions
What's the difference between a co-signer and a guarantor?
A co-signer is on title and equally liable from day one; a guarantor stays off title and is only pursued after the primary borrower defaults.
How do lenders assess the creditworthiness of co-signers and guarantors?
Lenders thoroughly evaluate the financial stability of co-signers and guarantors to mitigate mortgage default risks.
What are the key debt service ratios and qualifying rates lenders use?
Debt service ratios (GDS/TDS) and qualifying rates are key to determining mortgage affordability.
Income Verification Standards: Renewal Hill Adherence
Self-employed borrowers have multiple paths to prove income:.