HST New Housing Rebate in Nova Scotia: What Buyers Can Actually Claim
If you're buying a new or substantially renovated home in Nova Scotia, you may qualify for more than one HST rebate. Here's how the federal and provincial rebates work together — and a new federal rebate that could eliminate GST entirely for first-time buyers.
1. Federal GST/HST New Housing Rebate
Recovers part of the federal GST/HST portion paid on a new or substantially renovated home used as your primary residence. Eligibility and rebate amounts depend on the purchase price and how the home is used.
2. Nova Scotia First-Time Home Buyers' Rebate
A provincial rebate worth 18.75% of the provincial portion of HST paid, up to a maximum of $3,000. You must apply within 24 months of occupancy or purchase.
3. New: Federal First-Time Home Buyers' GST Rebate (2025)
A new federal rebate eliminates GST for first-time buyers on new homes valued up to $1 million, phasing out linearly between $1 million and $1.5 million — worth up to $50,000. It applies to qualifying agreements signed from May 27, 2025 through 2030, with construction substantially complete before 2036.
| Rebate | Amount | Applies To |
|---|---|---|
| Federal GST/HST New Housing Rebate | Partial recovery of GST/HST paid | New or substantially renovated primary residence |
| NS First-Time Home Buyers' Rebate | 18.75% of provincial HST, up to $3,000 | First-time buyers, apply within 24 months |
| Federal First-Time Home Buyers' GST Rebate (2025) | Up to $50,000, phases out $1M–$1.5M | New homes, agreements May 27 2025–2030 |
Frequently Asked Questions
In many cases, yes — the federal and provincial rebates are separate programs, and eligibility should be assessed for each based on your specific purchase.
Sources: Canada Revenue Agency (canada.ca), Department of Finance Canada, Province of Nova Scotia (novascotia.ca). Rebate rules can change; confirm current details before relying on them. Last reviewed 2026-08.
Not Sure Which Rebates You Qualify For?
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