Ontario Home Buyer Incentives (Updated for 2025–2026)
Ontario buyers have access to several programs that reduce upfront costs, support down payment savings, and offer tax benefits when purchasing a home. Understanding each incentive helps buyers plan effectively, especially in higher priced markets across the GTA, Hamilton, and the Niagara Region.
If you are beginning your search, the First-Time Home Buyer Guide Ontario and Mortgage Financing Simplified provide complete information about mortgage qualification, minimum down payments, and closing procedures.
Overview of Ontario Home Buyer Incentives
Ontario’s home buyer incentives fall into four categories:
- Programs that increase your down payment
- Rebates that reduce closing costs
- Tax credits
- Renovation or secondary suite incentives
Most buyers benefit from the Home Buyers’ Plan, the First Home Savings Account, and the provincial land transfer tax rebate, while others use additional programs depending on location, property type, or future renovation plans.
Quick Comparison of Ontario Home Buyer Programs
Below is an improved, visually polished version of your incentives table.
It includes rounded corners, balanced spacing, and alternating shading, and it is fully scrollable on mobile devices.
Ontario Home Buyer Incentives at a Glance
Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP)
The Home Buyers’ Plan allows eligible purchasers to withdraw up to $60,000 from their RRSPs, or up to $120,000 for couples. Funds must be repaid over fifteen years. Withdrawals made by December 31, 2025 benefit from a temporary repayment grace period.
Outbound reference: Government of Canada Home Buyers’ Plan information.
Ontario Land Transfer Tax Rebate
Ontario provides a maximum refund of $4,000 for first-time buyers. Toronto buyers may also receive a municipal refund of up to $4,475. Lawyers apply these rebates at closing.
Outbound reference: Ontario.ca Land Transfer Tax Refund.
GST/HST New Housing Rebate
This rebate applies to certain new-construction homes and provides partial recovery of HST. Eligibility requirements vary based on occupancy, builder structure, and intended use.
Purchase Plus Improvements
Buyers may add the cost of approved renovations to their mortgage through a program such as the Sagen Purchase-Plus-Improvements offering, provided they supply contractor quotes and complete any required post-closing verification. Learn more about Sagen’s Purchase-Plus-Improvements program →
Secondary Suite Incentives
Programs in municipalities such as St. Catharines provide forgivable loans or funding to create legal secondary units. Conditions vary by region and program cycle.
<div style=”width:55px; height:4px; background:#F0582B; margin:34px 0;”></div>
Which Incentives Can Be Combined
Most buyers combine:
- FHSA
- HBP
- Land transfer tax rebates
- First-Time Home Buyers’ Tax Credit
Other programs operate independently and may have conditions limiting combinations.
For borrowers preparing to buy, the Mortgage Financing Simplified article provides guidance on the stress test, income verification, and down payment requirements.
<div style=”width:55px; height:4px; background:#F0582B; margin:34px 0;”></div
Yes. This is one of the most effective ways to increase your down payment.
No. Your lawyer must apply for them at closing.
No. These incentives apply to principal residences.
Some incentives allow shared ownership. Eligibility depends on occupancy and each buyer’s first-time buyer status.
Some incentives allow shared ownership. Eligibility depends on occupancy and each buyer’s first-time buyer status.
Ready to Plan Your Purchase?Plan Your Home Buying Strategy
We help buyers across the GTA, Hamilton, and Niagara evaluate incentives, strengthen down payments, and prepare for competitive offer scenarios. If you are planning a move within the next six to twelve months, now is the time to review your financing options and confirm which incentives apply to you.