First-Time Home Buyer Programs in Ottawa (2025)
Buying your first home is one of life’s biggest milestones—and one of the most exciting. But between saving for a down payment, qualifying for a mortgage, and understanding closing costs, it can feel overwhelming. As a local Ottawa REALTOR®, I help first-time buyers navigate every step of the process while taking advantage of every available rebate, incentive, and credit designed to make buying your first home more affordable.
Top First-Time Home Buyer Incentives in 2025
🏡 First-Time Home Buyer Incentive (FTHBI)
A shared-equity program with the Government of Canada, where the government contributes 5% (for resale) or 10% (for new builds) toward your down payment.
- Lowers your mortgage payments without increasing your down payment.
- You repay the same percentage when you sell or after 25 years.
💰 Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP)
Withdraw up to $60,000 per person from your RRSP tax-free to put toward your first home purchase.
- Repay over 15 years, interest-free.
- Ideal for buyers with existing RRSP savings.
🧾 First Home Savings Account (FHSA)
Save up to $8,000 per year (max $40,000) with tax-deductible contributions and tax-free withdrawals when buying your first home.
- Works well when combined with the HBP.
- Both partners can each open one account.
🪙 Ontario Land Transfer Tax Rebate
Receive a rebate of up to $4,000 on the provincial land transfer tax.
- Covers homes up to about $368,000 in value (partial rebates available above that).
- Applied automatically by your lawyer at closing.
🏘️ CMHC, Sagen & Canada Guaranty Mortgage Insurance Rebates
If you complete an approved home buyer education course, you may qualify for up to a 25% refund on your mortgage insurance premium.
- Ideal for insured mortgages under 20% down.
- Ask your lender or broker about eligibility.
Other Ways to Save
- Explore new-build and pre-construction incentives in Ottawa.
- Compare mortgage options from multiple lenders for the best rates.
- Buy in growing communities like Stittsville, Barrhaven, or Riverside South for better value.
How I Help First-Time Buyers
- Personalized home search with MLS® alerts
- Budget planning and mortgage pre-approval guidance
- Step-by-step support from offer to keys
- Trusted network of mortgage, legal, and inspection professionals
Ready to Start Your Home Buying Journey?
Buying your first home doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right plan and expert guidance, it can be an exciting and rewarding experience.
