HST on Resale Homes: What Every Ontario Buyer Needs to Know

HST on Resale Homes: What Every Ontario Buyer Needs to Know

Purchasing a resale home in Ontario is an exciting milestone, but it’s important to understand how taxes like the Harmonized Sales Tax, or HST, might come into play. Let’s take a closer look at how HST could affect your home purchase, particularly when it comes to the property’s prior use. Generally, when buying a resale home, HST does not apply to the purchase price. But there are exceptions, especially if the property was previously used for commercial purposes. For example, if the home was ever operated as an Airbnb or had any kind of commercial use, HST might be applicable, even if the property is now being sold as a residential home. It’s important to understand that the Canada Revenue Agency, or CRA, is more concerned with the property’s prior use rather than its current zoning. This means that even if the property is zoned residential, if it was used commercially in the past, HST could still be an issue. Because the implications of HST can be complex and situation-specific, I want to make it clear that I’m not a tax expert. If you think any of these situations might apply to the property you’re purchasing, I strongly recommend consulting with a tax professional or your lawyer to get accurate advice tailored to your circumstances. Understanding where HST might be applied, particularly with properties that have a history of commercial use, can help you avoid surprises and ensure you’re fully prepared. By staying informed and seeking professional advice, you can confidently navigate the resale home market in Ontario. For more information, reach out to us today. We’re here to help you every step of the way.