Big news for Ontario homebuyers and the construction industry: Premier Doug Ford announced this morning that the province is temporarily removing the full 13% Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) on new homes valued up to $1 million — and this time, it’s open to all buyers, not just first-timers.

Here’s a complete breakdown of what was announced, who qualifies, and what it means for the Ontario housing market.

What Was Announced?

Premier Ford held a news conference in Mississauga today confirming that Ontario, in partnership with the federal government, will eliminate the full 13% HST on new home purchases for a one-year window running from April 1, 2026 to March 31, 2027.

This is a significant expansion of existing rebate programs. Previously, HST relief was targeted at first-time home buyers. Today’s announcement opens the rebate to all buyers of new homes in Ontario — whether you’ve owned a home before or not.

For Future Freure home buyers that means a maximum savings? Up to $130,000 back in your pocket.

Who Qualifies?

To be eligible for the full rebate, buyers must meet the following conditions:

• Purchase agreement signed between April 1, 2026 and March 31, 2027

• The home must be used as a primary residence or residential rental property

• The home must be valued at $1 million or under for the full rebate

• Construction must begin on or before December 31, 2028

• Construction must be substantially completed by December 31, 2031

If construction on your home began before March 31, 2026, you can still qualify — provided your purchase agreement is signed within the program window and construction wraps up by December 31, 2029. Contact Freure Homes to discover if you can qualify

What About Freure’s Larger Luxury homes?

The full rebate applies to homes under $1 million, but buyers of pricier properties aren’t entirely left out:

Home Value

Rebate Available

Up to $1,000,000 Full rebate — up to $130,000

$1,000,000 – $1,500,000 Full rebate (up to $130,000)

$1,500,000 – $1,850,000 Reduced / partial rebate

Over $1,850,000 Pre-existing rebate of $24,000

How Is This Being Funded?

Ontario is covering the 8% provincial portion of the HST, while the federal government has agreed to cover the 5% federal portion. Together, that wipes out the full 13%.

The province estimates the program will cost Ontario approximately $1.4 billion in foregone tax revenue. However, the federal portion of the relief requires passage of federal legislation to be fully confirmed — so buyers should stay tuned for updates on that front.

What Does This Mean for Freure Homebuyers?

The Ford government is banking on this measure to jumpstart a construction sector that has been struggling with high building costs and weak buyer demand. In Kitchener, Waterloo and surrounding areas, new condo sales have fallen to levels not seen in decades.

The province estimates the rebate could:

• Stimulate 8,000 additional housing starts in Ontario over the next year

• Support up to 21,000 jobs in the construction and related industries

• Boost Ontario’s real GDP growth by $2.7 billion

The Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) welcomed the announcement, calling it a move that will “significantly reduce upfront homeownership costs” and a major step toward unlocking affordability in Ontario’s housing market.

What Should Buyers Do Now?

Ford was direct in his message to prospective buyers: “Please get everything together, you have one year… talk to your bankers and start buying the homes.”

If you’re considering purchasing a newly built home in Ontario, here’s what to do:

1. Speak to a mortgage broker or lender to understand what you can afford with the tax savings factored in.

2. Consult a real estate lawyer to understand the timing requirements — particularly the April 1, 2026 start date for purchase agreements.

3. Contact Freure Homes to explore new homes that qualify under the program. We are always here to help

4. Watch for federal legislation confirming Ottawa’s portion of the rebate.

The Bottom Line

Ontario’s one-year HST holiday on new home builds is one of the most significant housing affordability measures the province has introduced in years. With savings of up to $130,000 available to any buyer — not just first-timers — this is a rare window of opportunity in a market that has been tough for buyers and builders alike.

The clock starts April 1, 2026. You have until March 31, 2027 to get a purchase agreement signed.

Freure Homes,
Discover Where you Belong

This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice. Consult a qualified professional to understand how these changes apply to your specific situation. Rebate eligibility is subject to passage of applicable federal and provincial legislation