Buying a home in 2026 can feel both exciting and challenging - especially with rising interest rates, evolving market dynamics, and changing government programs. The good news? There are new buyer incentives and support programs available to help make homeownership more affordable and accessible for a wide range of buyers in Winnipeg.
As a local real estate expert, I've put together this comprehensive guide explaining all the key incentives, rebates, grants, and support programs first-time buyers and other eligible homebuyers should know about in 2026. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a growing family, or an investor looking to understand market support, this article breaks it down clearly and practically.
1. New FTHB GST Rebate
- Full 5% GST exemption on new homes valued at $1 million or less (savings of up to $50,000).
- Partial exemption for homes valued between $1 million and $1.5 million - rebate phases out linearly so a home at $1.25 million would qualify for about a 50% rebate (roughly $25,000).
- No rebate on homes valued at or above $1.5 million.
Who Qualifies?
To be eligible, buyers must meet common-sense criteria:
- Be 18 or older, a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Have never owned a home - in Canada or abroad - in the current year or the four previous years (including through your spouse/common‑law partner).
- Use the home as your primary residence and be the first occupant after its completion
- The purchase agreement must be signed on or after May 27, 2025 and before 2031, with construction beginning before 2031 and completing by 2036.
- You can claim the rebate only once in your lifetime, and it’s denied if your spouse/partner has already claimed it.
Eligible property types include new homes purchased from a builder, owner‑built homes, and co‑op housing shares where first occupancy is intended.
How Much Could You Save?
|
Home Price Zone |
GST Paid (5%) |
Rebate Eligibility |
Net GST Cost |
|
Up to $1 million |
≈ $50,000 |
100% rebate (up to $50,000) |
$0 |
|
$1M – $1.5M |
$50K–$75K |
Sliding scale rebate |
Partial cost |
|
$1.5 million or more |
≥ $75,000 |
No rebate |
Full GST |
- A $1 million home carries $50k GST - fully rebated.
- A $1.25 million home carries $62,500 GST - rebated 50% ($31,250).
- At $1.5 million or more, no rebate is available.
How It Works
- Builder‑applied: Many builders will apply the rebate at closing, reducing your upfront GST cost.
- CRA application: If it’s not applied by the builder (or you're owner‑building), you must submit a rebate claim to the CRA.
- This new FTHB GST Rebate works in addition to the existing GST/HST New Housing Rebate, where applicable.
Why This Matters
- This measure immediately lowers the upfront cost of buying a new home by up to $50k.
- It's designed to assist first-time buyers and stimulate new construction, aligning with broader federal housing goals.
- Unlike previous programs with much lower thresholds (like $350k or $450k), this rebate reflects current housing prices and market realities.
2. Home Buyers' Plan (HBP) - RRSP Withdrawal Support
Another valuable program for first-time buyers remains the Home Buyers' Plan (HBP), which allows eligible homebuyers to withdraw funds from their Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) to put toward a down payment.
How It Works:
- Withdraw up to $35,000 per person ($70,000 for a couple)
- No immediate tax penalty
- Repay the withdrawn amount over 15 years
Why This Helps:
In Winnipeg's market - where down payment size matters - the HBP can boost your buying power without incurring extra tax, as long as you stay on top of repayments.
3. Manitoba Home Buyer's Tax Credit (HBTC)
The Manitoba Home Buyer's Tax Credit is another long-standing incentive that helps buyers save money at tax time.
What It Offers:
Qualifying homebuyers can claim a non-refundable tax credit on:
- Legal fees
- Land transfer taxes
- Other closing costs
What's New in 2026:
The HBTC thresholds and amounts have been adjusted for inflation, meaning a slightly larger credit for eligible buyers. This helps reduce the overall cost of buying a home - especially beneficial for first-time buyers navigating closing expenses.
4. City of Winnipeg Housing Incentives
As housing affordability remains a priority, the City of Winnipeg has introduced local incentive programs designed to encourage smart growth and homeownership.
Key Initiatives to Watch in 2026:
- Property Tax Rebates for New Builds – A temporary reduction in property taxes for new residential construction, helping developers deliver more affordable housing options
- Infill and Intensification Grants – Financial incentives for buyers purchasing newly built infill homes or investing in property redevelopment
- Affordable Housing Development Support – Programs partnering with private investors to expand affordable rental and ownership units
These programs vary by community and eligibility, so working with a knowledgeable Winnipeg realtor can help you navigate what's available where.
5. Energy-Efficiency Rebates and Grants
2026 also brings an increased focus on sustainable, energy-efficient housing. Buyers investing in newer or upgraded homes may benefit from provincial and federal rebates.
Common Rebates Include:
- Home Energy Retrofit Programs – Rebates for energy-efficient upgrades (e.g., windows, insulation, HVAC systems)
- Green Mortgage Incentives – Some lenders offer better terms for certified energy-efficient homes
- Clean Energy Adoption Grants – Help offset the cost of solar, heat pumps, or smart energy systems
These incentives help lower long-term utility costs while increasing resale appeal.
6. Mortgage Stress Test Adjustments
In recent years, stress test rules have been adjusted multiple times, and 2026 continues that trend. The goal is to balance financial stability with market accessibility.
What Buyers Should Know:
- The qualifying rate used for stress testing may be adjusted to reflect current lender rates
- It doesn't change your actual mortgage rate but determines how much you qualify for
- Recent adjustments aim to provide slightly more borrowing flexibility without compromising financial prudence
This update helps buyers qualify for larger mortgages while maintaining long-term affordability.
7. Incentives for Builders and Developers
Winnipeg's market is actively encouraging new housing stock - especially affordable and multi-family developments.
How This Impacts Buyers:
- Increased Inventory – More affordable units coming onto the market
- Competitive Pricing – Newer homes with incentives that can translate to better deals for buyers
- Developer Rebates – Occasionally includes reduced closing costs or special promotions
Good timing and strategic negotiations can help buyers benefit from these trends in 2026.
8. Programs for Specific Groups
Several incentives are available to targeted groups, offering additional support:
Veterans & Military Personnel
Special mortgage programs and preferential lending terms via select financial institutions help ease homeownership for those who've served.
Indigenous Homebuyers
Federal and provincial programs offer tailored funding and down payment assistance for Indigenous residents and communities.
Teachers, Nurses & Public Service Workers
Some lenders and municipal programs provide preferential rates or grants recognizing community service roles.
Being aware of specialty incentives can unlock benefits that many buyers overlook.
9. Rent-to-Own and Alternative Pathways
With affordability still top of mind, some developers and lenders are introducing rent-to-own pathways in 2026. These allow renters to gradually build equity toward a future purchase - a great option for buyers needing more time to save.
How It Works:
- Rent goes toward future down payment
- Locked-in purchase price
- Credit-building benefit
While not suitable for all buyers, these options can bridge the gap for those committed to homeownership but needing flexibility.
10. Tips for Buyers in 2026
Here's how to make the most of all the incentives available:
- Work with a knowledgeable Winnipeg realtor who understands local programs
- Get pre-approved early to leverage incentives in your offer strategy
- Evaluate long-term costs, not just upfront savings
- Ask for assistance - many programs require documentation and timing
- Stay updated - programs and eligibility thresholds can change mid-year
Final Thoughts
Homeownership in 2026 doesn't have to feel out of reach. With the right incentives, strategic planning, and expert guidance, buyers in Winnipeg have more tools than ever to make their dream home a reality.
From national supports like the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive and Home Buyers' Plan, to local rebates and energy-efficiency grants, there's a wide range of opportunities to reduce your cost of buying - and build long-term financial stability.
Ready to explore your options?
Contact a trusted Winnipeg realtor today to review current incentives, eligibility requirements, and personalized homebuying strategies for 2026!
Call: +1 (204) 999-2105
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