As a dedicated realtor based in Winnipeg, you’re always looking for strategic advantages to showcase to your clients. And here’s one that truly stands out: Canada’s First-Time Home Buyers’ GST Rebate for newly constructed homes. This generous rebate—offered fully or partially by the federal government—can save your clients up to $50,000. In today’s dynamic real estate market, highlighting this incentive can make a real difference between a listing selling quickly or fading off the radar.

In this in-depth blog post, we’ll explore:

1. The origin and purpose of the rebate

2. Who qualifies and who doesn’t

3. The rebate’s mechanics and financial impact

4. Why it matters to Winnipeg buyers

5. Your role as a realtor in coordinating everything

6. A clear roadmap for clients to access the rebate

7. Other relevant homebuyer support programs

8. A powerful call to action encouraging readers to get in touch

1. The Backstory: Why the Federal Government Introduced This Rebate

On May 27, 2025, the House of Commons adopted a motion introducing a new federal policy aimed at easing the financial burden on first-time homebuyers. The GST Rebate Incentive is specifically geared toward first-time buyers purchasing new homes—whether they’re built by a developer, owner-built, or part of a co‑op. It applies to homes priced up to $1 million for a full rebate, and up to $1.5 million for a partial rebate. The rebate is a direct refund of the 5% federal GST portion paid on the purchase price of a qualifying new home.

The goal? To support affordability and stimulate demand for new home construction across Canada, while giving first-time buyers a real financial boost and increasing mobility in a tight housing market. As the housing affordability crisis tightens across urban areas—including Winnipeg—this rebate is a timely tool to make purchasing a home more accessible.

2. Who Can Benefit from This Rebate?

Eligibility is the key to unlocking this incentive. Here’s exactly who qualifies:

• First-time homebuyers only
  Buyers must not have owned a home in the past five years—neither they nor their spouse/partner— as of the date of purchase.

• Canadian citizens or permanent residents, 18+
  Newcomers and older buyers are equally eligible—provided the first-time criteria is met.

• Purchase agreement dated on or after May 27, 2025
  This ensures the rebate supports new home purchases moving forward.
  (Sales before that date do not qualify.)

• Plans to use the home as primary residence
  The rebated purchase must be your main home—not an investment, vacation property, or rental unit.

• Home to be built by 2036
  Rebate applies to homes built and ready for occupation within 11 years of the purchase agreement.

This eligibility framework makes the rebate both meaningful and manageable, but it’s crucial for buyers to confirm their status upfront to avoid disappointment. That’s where your expertise comes in—you guide them through eligibility verification and documentation, ensuring they’re positioned for success from the start.

3. How the Rebate Works: Mechanics & Financial Benefits

Let’s break down the rebate’s financial impact:

1. Full rebate – Homes priced ≤ $1 million
   Buyers receive a 5% rebate—up to $50,000—on the GST included in the purchase price. This equates to serious mortgage principal reduction.

2. Partial rebate – Homes priced between $1 million and $1.5 million
   The rebate is phased out linearly—the closer to $1.5 million, the smaller the rebate.

3. No rebate – Homes priced ≥ $1.5 million
   The incentive phases out completely at $1.5 million.

Sample Scenarios

• A new build listed at $750,000: full 5% GST rebate → $37,500 back in the buyer’s pocket.

• A home at $1.3 million: phased rebate calculation applies, covering part of the GST.

• A property at $1.6 million: no rebate.

Why this matters

• Reduces loan size & monthly mortgage payments—right from the start.

• Increases price competitiveness—especially on new developments priced strategically under $1 million.

• Spurs new construction—developers may pass rebate benefits to buyers in their pricing or incentives.

4. Relevance to the Winnipeg Market

Winnipeg's real estate market offers an ideal backdrop for this incentive:

• Growing demand for new builds — Suburban communities like Sage Creek, Bridgwater, and Royalwood are seeing new townhome and single-family home projects priced under $1 million.

• Strong appeal to newcomers and young families — With interest rates still relatively low and affordability a priority, your clients are looking for cost-effective entry points.

• Competitive edge — Properties at $900K with a $45K GST rebate effectively become $945K in value—while offering buyers serious savings.

Real-world impact example
Consider a young family buying a brand-new townhome listed at $820,000. They walk away with a $41,000 rebate—covering closing costs, reducing mortgage amounts, and leaving room to add personal touches like landscaping or security enhancements.

5. Your Role as a Realtor: Value You Bring

Let’s explore how you can leverage this rebate as a trusted advisor and key resource:

📚 Educate & Inform

• Host webinars or workshops targeting first-time buyers.

• Create downloadable materials outlining eligibility, examples, and timelines.

• Include rebate details prominently in value-add email campaigns and social media.

🧭 Guide & Qualify

• Conduct a “First-Time Homebuyer Checklist” that quizzes clients on ownership history, citizenship/residency, and intent to occupy.

• Confirm purchase agreement timing (May 27, 2025 onward) before they sign.

⚖️ Strategic Pricing Advice

• Help clients focus on projects priced just under $1 million for full rebate access.

• Assist clients who prefer higher-priced homes in understanding the partial rebate and comparing net costs.

🤝 Coordinate with Professionals

• Connect clients with mortgage brokers who can build rebate assumptions into financing plans.

• Work with builders’ sales teams to clarify quote structures and timelines.

• Ensure lawyer or notary smoothly includes rebate information in closing documentation or applications.

📋 Paperwork & Submission Help

• Assist clients obtaining/filing forms: GST190 (for builder sales) or GST191 + worksheet (for owner-built homes).

• Keep track of documentation: purchase agreement, ID, declaration of first-time status.

6. Roadmap: Step-by-Step for Buyers

Here’s a simplified roadmap clients can expect to follow:

By presenting this roadmap clearly, you reduce confusion and empower clients to move ahead with confidence—and position yourself as a proactive, insightful realtor.

7. Other Financing Supports & Rebates

This GST incentive is powerful—but it's not the only tool in your clients’ toolbox. Encourage them to explore these programs in tandem:

Home Buyers’ Amount Tax Credit

• A non-refundable federal tax credit worth up to $1,500.

• Applies to any qualified home purchase, new or used—no need to be first-time in the past 5 years.

GST/HST New Housing Rebate

• Already available for substantial renovations or new-builds under ~$450,000.

• This new program doesn’t replace it—it layers on top if the client qualifies.

First Home Savings Account (FHSA)

• Tax-free savings tool allowing up to $40,000 in contributions for home purchase.

• Withdrawals—and income—are non-taxed if used for a first home.

🏦 CMHC Green or Incentive Mortgage Programs

• If the new home is energy-efficient or built to specific standards, buyers may qualify for lower mortgage insurance premiums.

When you present the full spectrum of incentives—GST rebate, federal credits, FHSA—you position your clients to make financially optimized decisions.

8. Positioning This Rebate in Your Marketing

You’re not just selling homes—you’re selling financial confidence. By anchoring your messaging around the GST rebate, you:

• Increase leads — Buyers drawn to bottom-line savings will reach out.

• Boost conversions — Your guidance smooths the path from interest to sale.

• Stand out — Few realtors promote this rebate explicitly in listings or ads.

Suggested marketing lines:

• “Up to $50,000 GST rebate available! Learn how your modest new home purchase in Winnipeg could qualify.”

• “The smart financial choice for first-time buyers: Maximize savings with Canada’s new home rebate.”

• “Work with an agent who knows the incentives. Contact me to make the most of your homebuying budget.”

🏁 Final Thoughts

Canada’s GST Rebate Incentive for first-time buyers is more than just a temporary perk—it’s a transformative financial advantage. In the competitive Winnipeg market, using this incentive in your client conversations gives you a clear edge.

Why it matters:

• Up to $50K in direct savings on new home purchases

• Reduces mortgage size and monthly payments immediately

• Supports buyers at every stage—from qualifying to closing

• Underscores your value as a proactive, knowledgeable realtor

By weaving this incentive into your sales strategy, showing how it works, and guiding clients seamlessly through the process, you enhance your service offering—and the speed and satisfaction of each transaction.

Want to Learn More or Explore Expert Advice?

I’m here to help!

Contact me today to explore:

• Whether you qualify for the GST rebate

• How it integrates with your mortgage plan

• Which new-build opportunities in Winnipeg offer the greatest benefits

• My personalized roadmap for navigating the process head to finish

When summer finally arrives in Winnipeg, you can almost feel the collective sigh of relief across the city. After months of snow, windchill, and icy sidewalks, we’re all itching to spend more time outdoors. Whether it’s enjoying coffee on the deck, hosting friends for a BBQ, or just soaking up the long daylight hours, your outdoor space becomes an extension of your home—and furnishing it well can completely transform how it feels.

As a local Realtor here in Winnipeg, I’ve seen firsthand how a thoughtfully designed patio or balcony can not only boost your home’s value but also your quality of life. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to choose stylish, durable, and climate-appropriate outdoor furniture for Winnipeg’s unique weather—plus a few local tips that make all the difference.

1. Understand Winnipeg’s Unique Climate Needs

Before you get swept away by Pinterest boards or showroom displays, it's essential to consider our climate. Winnipeg experiences extremes—scorching summers and bitterly cold winters—so any outdoor furniture you buy needs to stand up to both. We're talking UV rays, heavy rainfall, high humidity, and of course, snow.

Quick Climate Checklist for Winnipeg Outdoor Furniture:

• UV-resistant to avoid fading in summer

• Rust-resistant to prevent moisture damage in spring and fall

• Cold-crack proof for winter (especially cushions and plastics)

• Easy to store or cover when not in use

2. Define the Function of Your Outdoor Space

Start by asking yourself: What do I want to use this space for? This will drive every decision from the layout to the type of furniture you choose.

Common Outdoor Lifestyle Setups in Winnipeg:

• Relaxation Station: Lounge chairs, daybeds, hammocks, and side tables

• Outdoor Dining Hub: Dining tables with stackable chairs, umbrellas, or pergolas

• Family Zone: Modular sofas, toy-friendly storage benches, shade sails

• Entertaining Area: Sectional seating, fire pits, serving carts, and outdoor speakers

Pro tip: Measure your space before you shop. Winnipeg’s yard sizes vary greatly depending on the neighborhood—from River Heights bungalows to Sage Creek’s newer builds—so knowing your square footage helps you shop smarter.

3. Choose a Style That Reflects Your Personality

Gone are the days of clunky plastic chairs and mismatched patio sets. Today’s outdoor furniture is as design-forward as what’s inside your home. Whether your home’s style is contemporary, rustic, or traditional, there’s an outdoor equivalent to match.

Popular Outdoor Styles in Winnipeg Homes:

• Modern Prairie: Clean lines, teak finishes, metal legs

• Boho Garden: Macrame swings, woven textures, bold cushions

• Rustic Prairie: Deep-toned wood, wrought iron, lantern lighting

• Scandinavian Minimal: White frames, light wood accents, simple silhouettes

Don’t forget to layer in ambiance—string lights, portable lanterns, and durable outdoor rugs help pull the look together. And yes, even a few hardy potted plants (we love Manitoba Maple, Karl Foerster grass, or potted lavender!) can bring any setup to life.

4. Choose Materials That Withstand Winnipeg’s Weather

Material matters—especially in Winnipeg. You want furniture that can survive everything from heat waves to hail storms.

Here’s what to look for:

• All-weather wicker: Lightweight, classic, and resistant to fading

• Powder-coated aluminum: Rustproof and ideal for damp or wet areas

• Teak or acacia wood: Beautiful and durable, but needs yearly sealing

• Stainless steel: Strong and sleek, though heavier

• Polywood or recycled plastic: Eco-friendly, fade-proof, and durable

• Tempered glass tables: Good for dining sets but store indoors during winter

And for cushions: Look for fabrics labeled as solution-dyed acrylic (e.g., Sunbrella) for mildew resistance and fade protection.

5. Winter-Proofing Your Outdoor Furniture

Let’s be real: no outdoor setup in Winnipeg is complete without a solid winter plan. You’ll want to either store, cover, or relocate your furniture before the snow flies.

Winter Storage Tips:

• Store furniture in a garage, shed, or basement if possible

• Use heavy-duty, waterproof covers with ventilation flaps

• Store cushions separately in sealed bins or deck boxes

• Apply wood sealants or rust protectors in early fall

Taking these small steps in autumn can significantly extend the life of your outdoor investment—and save you money in the long run.

6. Smart Spending: Budget-Friendly Tips

Creating your dream outdoor setup doesn’t have to mean draining your wallet. Here are some ways to stay stylish and smart:

• Shop local marketplaces like Kijiji Winnipeg or Facebook Marketplace for gently used pieces

• Refinish old wooden furniture with weatherproof paint or stain

• Reupholster existing cushions with outdoor fabric

• Shop off-season (August/September) for the best clearance deals

• Consider multi-purpose furniture like benches with built-in storage

7. Add Local Flair to Your Outdoor Space

Why not bring a touch of Manitoba to your patio or backyard? Add prairie-inspired touches like:

• Locally made wooden furniture from Manitoba craftspeople

• Indigenous art or textiles

• Fire pits or chimineas for cool prairie nights

• Solar lights (plenty of sunlight in Winnipeg summers!)

• Raised herb gardens with hardy plants like mint, chives, and rosemary

These touches not only personalize your space, but they also give a nod to the place you call home.

8. Should You Consider a Gazebo or Pergola?

Yes—especially in sunny or mosquito-heavy months (a.k.a. July in Winnipeg). A gazebo, pergola, or even a retractable awning can provide comfort, shade, and definition to your outdoor living space.

Types to consider:

• Permanent wooden pergolas: Ideal for long-term investments

• Pop-up gazebos: Great for renters or occasional use

• Pergolas with retractable canopies: Offers flexibility in sun and shade

Check city regulations if you’re building a permanent structure. Some neighborhoods may have zoning rules around height or placement.

9. Bonus: Think About Resale Value

Outdoor living spaces are becoming more and more desirable among buyers in Winnipeg—especially post-pandemic. A well-designed backyard or patio can add major curb appeal and perceived value when it’s time to sell.

Buyer-attracting features include:

• Outdoor kitchens or BBQ areas

• Covered seating zones

• Low-maintenance landscaping

• Defined lounge areas

Even if you’re not planning to sell soon, it’s nice to know your outdoor setup is a sound investment.

Final Thoughts: Make the Most of Every Season

Whether you live in a character home in Wolseley, a townhome in Bridgwater, or a downtown condo with a cozy balcony, there’s always a way to make your outdoor space shine. The key is to balance style, comfort, and durability—so you can enjoy your setup now and for years to come.

Thinking of upgrading your home—or moving to a space with more room to enjoy the outdoors? I’d love to help you find a property that matches your lifestyle, your needs, and your vision for the perfect outdoor oasis.

Let’s chat! Reach out to me any time to talk real estate, backyard goals, or to book a viewing.

Buying a home is one of the biggest moves you'll ever make—financially and emotionally. And if you're buying in Canada, especially here in Winnipeg, it helps to know the rules of the game. Real estate isn’t just about finding a house you like and writing an offer. It’s about strategy, timing, and knowing when to play your cards—or hold them back.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or this isn’t your first rodeo, sharpening your negotiation skills can mean the difference between getting a great deal or stretching your budget unnecessarily. So let’s talk about what it really takes to buy smart in Winnipeg’s competitive real estate market.

Here are five negotiation tips every Canadian home buyer should keep in their back pocket.

1. Do Your Homework Before You Make an Offer

It’s tempting to fall in love with a home and jump in—but before you write that offer, stop and study the market.

Take a look at:

• What similar homes in the area have sold for

• How long listings are staying on the market

• Whether prices are trending up, down, or staying flat

Winnipeg has its own unique real estate rhythm—different from places like Toronto or Vancouver. Knowing the local trends helps you set realistic expectations and put together a smart offer.

If a home has been sitting on the market for a few weeks with no offers, there may be wiggle room on price. But if it just hit MLS yesterday and there’s already a lineup of showings, you may need to move quickly and come in strong.

Local insight is your best tool here. That’s why I always recommend working with someone who knows the Winnipeg market inside and out (more on that later).

2. Get Pre-Approved—Not Just Pre-Qualified

This is a big one that often gets overlooked.

A mortgage pre-qualification is a casual estimate of what you might be able to afford. A pre-approval, on the other hand, means your lender has actually reviewed your financials and given you the green light up to a certain amount.

Why does this matter in negotiation? Because sellers don’t want guesswork. They want certainty. A pre-approved buyer signals:

• You’re serious

• You’re ready

• There won’t be financing hiccups

And in some cases, a pre-approved buyer with a slightly lower offer may beat out someone who’s just starting the financing process. It gives you credibility—and that can go a long way in a market like Winnipeg.

3. Keep Your Poker Face On

Buying a home is exciting—but negotiation isn’t the time to get emotional. If you walk into a showing gushing about how it’s your dream home, the seller’s agent is going to clock that immediately.

Instead, play it cool. Be polite, be curious, but don’t reveal too much. Let your real estate agent do the talking, especially when it comes to submitting the offer or responding to counters.

The goal is to keep as much leverage as possible. If the seller thinks you’re emotionally attached, they may assume you’ll pay whatever it takes.

Your agent is your buffer here—use them.

4. Choose the Right Realtor and Let Them Lead

A solid realtor isn’t just someone who unlocks doors and writes offers. They’re your coach, your negotiator, and your best ally throughout the entire process.

Especially in a city like Winnipeg where the market can shift quickly, an experienced real estate agent will:

• Understand pricing trends

• Know how to structure offers that stand out

• Spot red flags in listings or negotiations

• Recommend timing strategies that work in your favour

They can also help you negotiate more than just the price. Things like:

• Possession dates

• Repairs or upgrades

• Appliances or furniture to be included in the deal

• Conditions that protect your interests

Negotiation isn’t just about dollars. It’s about terms that work for you. And your agent is the one who knows how to make those conversations happen.

5. Be Ready to Walk Away (Seriously)

This one’s tough, but important.

Sometimes, the best negotiation strategy is the willingness to walk away. If the deal doesn’t feel right—whether it’s the price, the inspection results, or just a gut feeling—you need to know when to say no.

Setting a firm budget and sticking to it is key. That budget should include room for closing costs, possible repairs, and a buffer for unexpected expenses.

If the seller won’t meet you halfway, and the numbers don’t make sense—let it go. There will always be another home. And funny enough, when sellers realize you’re serious about walking, they sometimes come back to the table with a better offer.

Bonus Tip: Be Prepared for the Emotional Rollercoaster

Buying real estate in Canada—especially as a first-time buyer—isn’t always a smooth ride. You might lose a house you love. You might have to negotiate harder than you thought. But when you’ve got a plan, a budget, and a great team, the right home will happen.

Every client I work with in Winnipeg brings a different story to the table, but the common thread? The most successful buyers are the ones who stay clear-headed, ask questions, and lean into strategy over emotion.

Let’s Make Sure You’re Negotiating From a Position of Strength

Buying a home isn’t just about finding the right property—it’s about negotiating the right deal. And the good news? You don’t have to figure it out on your own.

If you’re thinking about buying a home in Winnipeg, whether it’s your first or your next, let’s have a conversation. I’ll walk you through the process, help you avoid the common pitfalls, and give you the edge you need to buy smart.

Check us here: https://tysellswpg.com/about.html

I’m here to help you win in Winnipeg’s real estate market. Let’s make it happen.

Thinking about downsizing or aging in place here in Winnipeg? You’re not alone. Many homeowners across Canada are starting to rethink what home should look like as the years go by. And here’s the truth: you don’t need to wait until you need accessibility features to start creating a home that works for your lifestyle today and tomorrow.

Whether you're approaching retirement or simply planning ahead, making your home more accessible doesn’t mean giving up on aesthetics or comfort. In fact, the best upgrades are the ones that feel good now and make life easier down the line.

Here are 5 smart, practical upgrades to keep your home safe, stylish, and fully functional for years to come.

1. Entryways That Welcome Everyone

Let's start right at the front door—literally. Traditional entryways with steps, high thresholds, or tricky door handles can be tough to navigate as mobility changes.

Instead, consider:

• Replacing steps with a gradual ramp or sloped walkway

• Installing a zero-threshold front door (flush with the floor)

• Swapping round knobs for lever-style handles that are easier to grip

• Using a small threshold ramp if a full remodel isn’t in the budget

These changes might seem simple, but they make a huge difference—not just for you, but also for guests, delivery people, and family members of all ages. In Winnipeg’s snowy months, a well-designed, accessible entry is a game-changer.

2. Bathrooms Built for Safety and Peace of Mind

Let’s talk about the most accident-prone room in any house: the bathroom. Wet floors, slippery tiles, and tight layouts are a recipe for trouble if you’re not careful. But with the right upgrades, your bathroom can feel more like a personal spa retreat—and be safer too.

What to consider:

• A curbless (walk-in) shower: No step, no trip hazard

• Built-in shower bench and handheld showerhead for comfort and control

• Grab bars that match your design aesthetic—yes, stylish ones do exist!

• Comfort-height toilets for easier sitting and standing

• Non-slip tile or vinyl flooring to reduce falls

A bathroom that’s accessible doesn’t have to look institutional. With today’s finishes and fixtures, you can have a beautiful space that gives you peace of mind every time you step inside.

3. Kitchen Tweaks That Just Make Sense

Your kitchen is where the magic (and the mess) happens. And when it's designed with accessibility in mind, cooking and cleaning up becomes less of a chore and more of a joy.

Upgrade ideas:

• Lowering a section of your counter for seated meal prep

• Pull-out drawers instead of lower cabinets—so you’re not on your hands and knees digging for that mixing bowl

• Soft-close, D-shaped handles to reduce joint strain

• Touchless faucets for cleaner, easier use

• Under-cabinet lighting to brighten up workspaces

A functional kitchen setup not only boosts your comfort, it also adds real value when selling your Winnipeg home down the road.

4. Lighting That Works Smarter (Not Harder)

When it comes to safety, lighting plays a bigger role than most people realize. Inadequate lighting is one of the top causes of household falls. The fix? A mix of ambient, task, and motion-sensor lighting that works with your routine.

Top lighting upgrades:

• Motion-sensor lights in hallways, bathrooms, and closets

• Rocker light switches (instead of toggles) that are easier to operate

• Higher-placed electrical outlets to reduce bending and reaching

• LED night lights to gently illuminate walkways

Good lighting is one of those things you don’t think about—until you trip in the dark. Add it to your list early.

5. Embracing Smart Home Tech That Simplifies Life

Technology isn’t just for the tech-savvy—it’s for anyone who wants more ease and efficiency at home. And when it comes to accessibility, smart tech can take a lot off your plate.

Smart home wins:

• A thermostat that learns your habits and adjusts on its own

• Video doorbells for added safety and convenience

• Voice-activated assistants (like Alexa or Google Home) that can control lights, play music, or remind you to take meds

• Smart plugs that turn lights or appliances on/off with your phone or voice

These aren’t over-the-top upgrades—they’re realistic, affordable additions that improve quality of life now and later.

Planning Ahead Pays Off—Whether You Stay or Sell

One thing I always tell my clients here in Winnipeg: accessibility features aren’t just about you. They make your home more versatile, more comfortable for visitors, and more appealing to future buyers. Whether you’re planning to stay for the next 20 years or you see a move coming in the near future, smart accessibility upgrades are a wise investment.

And the best part? Most of these changes blend right into your design style—you’d never even know they were built with aging in mind.

Your Home Should Work for You

Your home should feel like a place that supports your lifestyle—now and into the future. These simple changes help you stay safe, independent, and comfortable, without sacrificing the style and charm that makes your space feel like you.

If you’re thinking about downsizing, buying a new home, or upgrading your current one for long-term accessibility here in Winnipeg, I’d love to help. Let’s talk about what matters most to you and find a home that fits your next chapter.

Ready to find your forever home in Winnipeg? Let’s chat.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or just exploring your options, I’m here to make the process smooth, smart, and stress-free. Contact us today https://tysellswpg.com/