Ontario to expand HST rebate to all new homebuyers

Premier Doug Ford announced Ontario will extend the 13 percent harmonized sales tax rebate on new houses and condominiums to every buyer, not just first-time purchasers. The change removes the previous first-time buyer restriction, cutting purchase costs for anyone buying new construction. The policy lowers buyer costs, shrinks provincial revenue, and boosts demand for newly built homes. Critics say the move mainly benefits wealthier buyers and intensifies fights over local planning and Toronto governance.