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Becoming a first-time homebuyer is an exciting milestone, but it can also be a daunting and financially challenging endeavour. Luckily, there are several programs and incentives available to help Canadian first-time homebuyers make their dreams of homeownership a reality. Today, we are going to explore 3 of the key programs that every Canadian first-time homeowner should know about.
1. The First-Time Home Buyer’s Tax Credit
The First-Time Home Buyer’s Tax Credit is a federal program designed to provide financial relief to first-time homebuyers. This non-refundable tax credit allows eligible individuals to claim a portion of their home purchase costs on their annual income tax return. The credits can help offset some of the expenses associated with buying a home, such as legal fees, land transfer taxes, and home inspection costs.
Visit the Government of Canada’s website to learn more about the First-Time Home Buyer’s Tax Credit.
2. The Home Buyer’s Plan
The Home Buyer’s Plan is another federal program that allows first-time homebuyers to withdraw up to $35,000 from their Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) to put toward the purchase of their first home. The best part? The withdrawals are tax-free as long as they are repaid within 15 years! This program can significantly boost your down payment, making homeownership more accessible.
Visit the Government of Canada’s website to learn more about the Home Buyer’s Plan.
3. The First-Time Home Buyer Incentive
Introduced by the Canadian government, the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive aims to make homeownership more affordable for first-time buyers in high-demand markets. Through this program, the government provides a shared equity mortgage, covering a portion of the home’s purchase price. This reduces the mortgage amount and, consequently, monthly mortgage payments.
Visit the Government of Canada’s website to learn more about the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive.
Other Grants & Programs for Canadian First-Time Home Buyers
In addition to federal programs, several Canadian province and territories offer their own grants and incentives for first-time homebuyers. These programs can vary widely and may include a down payment assistance program, rebates for energy-efficient home improvements, land transfer tax rebates, and more. To take advantage of these programs, talk to your trusted local REALTOR® and mortgage professional for more details.
Buying your first home in Canada can be an achievable goal with the help of various programs and incentives. From federal programs to provincial ones, there are many resources available to ease the financial burden of buying a home. To take full advantage of these programs, talk to your mortgage professional about the eligibility requirements associated with each. Their expertise will help you navigate the complexities of getting pre-approved for a mortgage to give you a realistic budget for starting your home search. And with the right knowledge and resources, you can turn your dream of homeownership into a reality!
