Buying your first home is a major life moment—one that comes with excitement, questions, and big decisions. The good news is that 2025 is offering more support, more savings opportunities, and a more balanced market than we’ve seen in years.
With new government incentives and a calmer pace across Ontario and Simcoe County, many first-time buyers are finding that this year provides a clearer and more achievable path to homeownership.
Below is a complete breakdown of all the programs available, including the newly introduced federal GST rebate.
Simcoe County and many parts of Ontario are experiencing increased inventory and reduced competition, giving first-time buyers something they haven’t had in a long time: room to breathe.
Today's market environment allows buyers to:
Compare options without rushing
Make decisions with more clarity
Negotiate more confidently
Explore more homes within their budget
Combine that with new tax savings and updated first-time buyer programs, and 2025 becomes a year where preparation and knowledge can truly make a difference.
Introduced May 27, 2025, the federal government now removes the 5% GST on newly built homes up to $1 million. Homes between $1 million and $1.5 million qualify for a partial rebate.
To qualify, buyers must be purchasing their first home and planning to live in it as their primary residence.
This update can significantly reduce the upfront cost of a new build.
Ontario is temporarily removing the provincial portion of HST on qualifying new homes under $1 million for first-time buyers.
This pairs well with the federal GST rebate, making new construction more attainable.
As of August 1, 2024, eligible first-time buyers can access a 30-year amortization period on newly built homes. This helps lower monthly payments, offering more flexibility for budgeting.
For HBP withdrawals made between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2025, the repayment grace period has been extended from two years to five.
This gives new buyers more time to adjust before repayments begin.
The FHSA remains one of the strongest tools available for building a down payment.
Contribute $8,000 per year (lifetime max $40,000)
Contributions are tax-deductible
Withdrawals for a home purchase are tax-free
Couples can combine accounts for up to $80,000 plus investment growth.
Buyers can withdraw up to $60,000 from their RRSP tax-free to put toward a first home, as long as the amount is repaid over 15 years.
This federal tax credit offers up to $1,500 to help offset closing costs such as legal fees, home inspections, and related expenses.
First-time buyers in Ontario may qualify for a rebate of up to $4,000 on the provincial land transfer tax.
Buyers purchasing within Toronto may receive an additional rebate of up to $4,475.
Simcoe County offers a balanced mix of affordability, community feel, and long-term growth. With expanding transit, more housing options, and a variety of neighbourhoods to choose from, buyers often find that the region offers a comfortable and attainable first step into real estate.
The combination of:
Lower price points than the GTA
A more relaxed pace of buying
Strong value in both resale and new construction
Continued investment in local infrastructure
makes Simcoe County a welcoming place for first-time buyers to begin their journey.
Buying your first home is a big step—and being well-informed can make the experience smoother and far less overwhelming. If you’d like help understanding which incentives you qualify for, how to prepare financially, or what opportunities exist in today’s market, our team is here to guide you.
A buyer appointment is a simple conversation where we help you explore your options, outline the process, and build a plan that fits your goals.
→ Book an Appointment We’d be happy to walk you through your next steps.