Freeland Proposes GST Exemption for First-Time Home Buyers

Former Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, a contender for the leadership of Canada’s Liberal Party, has unveiled a policy to exempt first-time home buyers from GST on homes worth up to $1.5 million if she becomes Prime Minister. The plan could save buyers up to $75,000.

Freeland’s announcement comes ahead of the Liberal leadership race conclusion on March 9, positioning it as a direct challenge to Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre.

In October, Poilievre pledged to exempt new homes worth up to $1 million from federal sales tax if the Conservatives form a government, estimating savings of $40,000 on homes priced at $800,000. Freeland’s proposal raises the threshold to $1.5 million, signaling a competitive policy approach to housing affordability.