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.