Toronto, ON (March 23, 2026) – The Canadian Mortgage Brokers Association of Ontario (CMBA Ontario) welcomes the provincial government’s plan to waive HST on the purchase of all new homes, instead of only for first-time Ontario homebuyers.
“This is certainly a step in the right direction,” said Michelle Campbell, President of CMBA Ontario. “It’s not only a win for prospective homebuyers, but also a positive signal for investors and builders looking to play a bigger role in the development of Ontario.”
This announcement follows a precursory initiative introduced in the fall of 2025, which allocated $470 million over three years to give first-time Ontario homebuyers a tax break on the purchase of new homes. It also comes on the heels of a commitment by the federal government to allow first-time homebuyers to save up to $130,000 on a new home under $1 million, and lower rebates for homes costing up to $1.5 million.
Advocacy groups are hoping eligibility for the Ontario rebate reflects that of the federal program, so as not to include homes not occupied by the owner or for investment properties.
“CMBA Ontario is encouraged by the provincial government’s willingness to adapt its policies to reflect the challenging reality of Ontario’s housing market, address the ongoing affordability crisis, and deliver meaningful results for Ontarians,” added Campbell. “CMBA Ontario has long called for measures that will better support prospective homebuyers and will continue to advocate for strategies that strengthen our housing sector.”
CMBA Ontario encourages the provincial government to also address another fee hurting Ontarian homebuyers: Ontario’s land transfer tax rebate, which has been frozen at $4,000 since 2017. Since then, the average cost of a home in Ontario has increased by more than $300,000. Raising the rebate to $8,000 would correct its divergence from the pace of related costs and address another major obstacle to homeownership in Ontario.
As the provincial government prepares to return to the Legislature and for the release of Budget 2026, CMBA emphasizes the importance of investments, policies, and strategies that support responsible, qualified Ontarians in overcoming upfront cost barriers to homeownership, and incentivize investment in housing development. Better supply means better access – and that means a better outlook for prospective homeowners across Ontario.
About CMBA Ontario: CMBA Ontario provides mortgage broker professionals with a forum to work cooperatively, be er share resources, branding initiatives, programs and information and coordinate engagement of members to identify trends and develop solutions to common industry and regulatory issues. CMBA Ontario represents members to the federal and provincial governments and their agencies, and provides technological infrastructure, advertising material, and brand awareness to support provincial associations and their members. We are committed to working with governments and regulators to support a vibrant, stable, and affordable housing sector for all Ontarians.
