If you are a first-time buyer eyeing a new townhouse or condo in Oakville or Burlington, the first-time home buyer GST rebate may be the most valuable program you have not fully priced in yet. Quick answer: eligible first-time buyers can get back 100% of the federal GST (or the federal part of HST) on a new home valued up to $1 million, with a partial rebate on homes up to $1.5 million, and Ontario offers a matching rebate on the provincial part of the HST. On a $900,000 new build, that federal piece alone is worth about $45,000. Here is how it works in Halton, and when a new build beats a resale.
What Is the First-Time Buyer GST Rebate, and Who Qualifies?
It is a rebate on the tax you pay when you buy, build, or substantially renovate a brand-new home as a first-time buyer. Per the Canada Revenue Agency, the federal rebate covers 100% of the GST on homes valued up to $1 million and phases down for homes between $1 million and $1.5 million. Ontario's version rebates the provincial part of the HST and follows the same eligibility conditions. It also works alongside the existing GST/HST new housing rebate, acting as a top-up when both apply.
Because this is a tax rebate, it only applies to new construction, not resale homes. Always confirm your eligibility and the exact amounts with your lawyer or accountant before you sign an agreement of purchase and sale.
Does a New Build Actually Cost Less Than a Resale in Oakville and Burlington?
Not always, but the gap is smaller than the sticker price suggests. New townhouses and condos in north Oakville, Burlington's Uptown and the Appleby GO corridor often list above comparable resale units, yet the rebate can erase a large part of that premium. Builders also quote prices differently: some include HST, some do not, and the rebate may be credited on closing or claimed afterwards. Ask every builder to show you the net price after the rebate in writing.
For context, Bronte's average sale price in the first quarter of 2026 was roughly $1.39 million according to TRREB, which is why many first-time buyers look to newer townhouse and condo communities instead of established detached streets.
Which Oakville and Burlington Neighbourhoods Make the Most Sense for First-Time Buyers?
Price drives the answer. Buyers who want an established neighbourhood often compare resale condos and townhouses in College Park, Falgarwood and River Oaks, which sit close to Sheridan College, shopping and the QEW. Those who prefer new construction tend to look at north Oakville and Burlington's GO-connected pockets, where the rebate is most likely to apply. West Oak Trails and Glen Abbey are strong family areas, though most homes there are resale and priced above the rebate threshold.
A resale home in a mature community comes with proven schools, trails and transit. A new build comes with a warranty through Tarion, modern energy efficiency and, with the rebate, potentially thousands less in tax. Neither is automatically better; it depends on your budget and timeline.
What Should You Watch for Before Signing a Pre-Construction or New-Build Agreement?
Timing is the biggest risk. Pre-construction closings can slip by a year or more, and your rebate eligibility is tied to the home being your first and your primary residence, so read the occupancy and closing terms carefully. Also check development charges, lot levies and closing adjustments that builders add on top of the price, and confirm your financing will still be in place at closing, not just today.
You can also combine this rebate with other programs. The FHSA and the RRSP Home Buyers' Plan can fund your deposit, and the Ontario land transfer tax rebate may apply on closing. Have your lawyer and mortgage professional review the full picture before you commit.
About the Author
Cory Martin is a top 1% REALTOR® nationwide and co-founder of Martin Group, specializing in data-driven residential strategy throughout Oakville, Burlington, and the GTA. With 18 years of industry experience, $310M+ in volume, and recognition in Top Agent Magazine, Cory provides authoritative insight on neighborhood valuations, local economic trends, and property acquisitions across Old Oakville, West Oak Trails, and College Park.
The Bottom Line
The first-time buyer GST rebate can make a new Oakville or Burlington townhouse or condo meaningfully more affordable, but only if you compare the net, after-rebate price against resale options and read the builder's contract closely. At Martin Group, we have helped Halton buyers for over 25 years weigh new builds against resale homes, and we are happy to run the numbers for you. Call us at (905) 338-2083 or visit themartingroup.ca to talk through your options.
