Five application types determine who files, what forms are needed, and the deadline for a new, substantially renovated, or co-op home rebate claim.
For builder-filed claims, buyers who agree to a rebate credit must sign Form GST190, while the builder submits documents, including adjustments and purchase agreement copies.
If builder does not credit the rebate, file online or by mail, adding Ontario's schedule if applicable, within 2 yr of transfer or possession.
Co-op share buyers always file their own claim, and some could apply later for the first-time buyer rebate if filings came before March 12, 2026.
If only the new housing rebate was credited, buyers could separately claim the first-time buyer rebate; modular, mobile, and floating homes require separate guidance.
Category: Latest Posts
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Canada’s First-Time Home Buyer Rebate
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When is the right time to buy?
Most Canadians believe there is no perfect time to buy a home, emphasizing readiness and financial fit over market timing. Economic uncertainty makes many cautious, but understanding borrowing power through mortgage pre-approval and consulting a mortgage advisor is key. Ongoing financial planning, including considering mortgage payments alongside other expenses, is crucial. Mortgage protection insurance can provide financial resilience against death, disability, or critical illness.
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Year-over-year average home price up close to 19%
The average residential home price in Medicine Hat rose 18.6% since September 2025, reaching $404,979. Detached homes increased over 17% to $463,070, semi-detached homes nearly 13% to $402,489, and apartments over 19% to $243,586. Row homes declined 4.4% to $245,600. Home sales dropped 15% to 81, while new listings rose 44% to 149. Months of supply increased 71% to over 2.6.
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How to Find a Mortgage Broker
When choosing a mortgage broker, start early in the homebuying process to explore suitable loan options. Seek recommendations from trusted sources and verify brokers' credentials through licensing databases and reviews. Ask detailed questions about rates, fees, backup plans for financial changes, and data security. Compare brokers based on experience, responsiveness, and communication style. Prepare financial documents like pay stubs, tax returns, and bank statements for the application.
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Small-Scale Infill Expands Canada’s Housing Supply
Small-scale infill had been taking a larger role in housing starts, even though larger developments still delivered most new construction across established neighborhoods.
Zoning changes allowing more homes on existing lots suggested supply could shift upward, especially where infill rules became more permissive within established neighborhoods.
The broader housing pattern showed more building on previously developed land, with new construction becoming denser and ground-oriented homes representing a smaller share.
Recent policy changes helped enable more missing middle housing, but project momentum still depended on fees, approval timelines, building rules, and financing.
Small-scale infill emerged as an important source of ground-oriented homes, while its longer-term growth still hinged on whether projects remained financially viable. -
Are Lower Rates Reviving Buyers?
Falling mortgage rates are improving affordability and encouraging more Canadians to resume postponed home-buying plans.
Household formation remains resilient despite slower national population growth this year.
More first-time buyers are expected to support activity across the broader resale market.
Market confidence is forecast to improve gradually through late 2026. -
Canadian Home Sales Adjust About 5% in 2026
A bank economist cut Canada's housing forecast, expecting home sales to ↓~5% in 2026 as higher government bond yields keep fixed mortgage costs elevated.
Avg. Canadian home prices are projected to stay roughly flat in 2026, then edge up by <2% in 2027 rather than rebound sharply.
The revised outlook kept 5-yr Canada bond yields near the mid-3% range through Late-Q4, with a gradual decline expected across 2027 overall.
Ontario and British Columbia were expected to see sales improve in 2027, while Alberta was expected to lead Canadian price growth overall.
The modest recovery depended on bond yields starting to ease in Late-Q4, alongside the central bank holding policy steady through 2027 overall. -
Textile Haunted House
Looking for a unique local outing this fall? The Textile Haunted House opens October 17 at Historic Ewart Duggan House in Medicine Hat, offering a softly spooky experience that is creative, atmospheric, and welcoming for visitors of all ages.
Created by Alberta artist Shanell Papp, the installation brings textile-inspired details into a historic home, transforming familiar rooms into an imaginative haunted-house experience. It is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy local art while exploring one of the community’s distinctive heritage spaces.
Admission is free, and the event runs from October 17 through October 31, 2026. Whether you are planning a family visit, a casual afternoon with friends, or a seasonal date idea, add this memorable local experience to your October calendar.
Learn more at https://www.esplanade.ca/esplanade-exhibitions-programs-and-shows/textile-haunted-house-2026, then share this post with someone who would enjoy a softly spooky adventure. As a local real estate professional, I love highlighting the events and places that make Medicine Hat feel like home.
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These are the most expensive neighbourhoods in Calgary right now
The most expensive Calgary neighbourhoods with at least five sales in September 2026 are Elbow Park ($2,386,500 median price), Altadore ($1,320,000), Aspen Woods ($1,252,000), Hamptons ($1,085,000), and Lake Bonavista ($944,000). Elbow Park remains the priciest, with its median price rising from $2,125,000 the previous month.
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10 Essential Tips for First-Time Homebuyers in Canada
First-time homebuyers in Canada should assess their finances, set a realistic budget including all costs, and save for a down payment to avoid mortgage insurance. Getting mortgage pre-approval clarifies borrowing limits and locks interest rates. Research the market thoroughly and consider first-time buyer incentives. A home inspection is essential, and be prepared for closing costs. Avoid overextending budgets, skipping pre-approval, ignoring hidden costs, and making emotional decisions.
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