The Chatham-Kent Association of REALTORS® (CKAR) is proud to join REALTORS® across Ontario in applauding the Government of Ontario’s recent announcement to remove the provincial 8 per cent portion of the HST on newly built homes valued up to $1 million, a decision that will help more Ontarians achieve their dream of homeownership.
This announcement complements ongoing federal advocacy efforts led by the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and supported by CKAR representatives who met directly with policymakers in Ottawa last week.
Federal Focus: CKAR on Parliament Hill
Representing local REALTORS® and home buyers in our community, CKAR President-Elect Carrie Patrick, Executive Officer Janice Wieringa, and Director Carson Warrener travelled to Ottawa in late October for the 40th Annual CREA PAC Days 2025.
During their visit, the CKAR delegation met with MP Dave Epp to discuss practical measures to increase housing supply and affordability, including:
· Accelerating construction of “missing-middle” housing;
· Encouraging modular and prefabricated building solutions; and
· Strengthening collaboration between all levels of government to support sustainable growth.
These discussions reinforced Chatham-Kent’s leadership role in shaping national housing solutions and demonstrated REALTORS®’ commitment to affordability across Canada.
(Photo: CKAR President-Elect Carrie Patrick, Executive Officer Janice Wieringa, and Director Carson Warrener with MP Dave Epp during CREA PAC Days 2025.)
Provincial Progress: HST Rebate a Win for First-Time Buyers
The Ontario Government’s newly announced HST rebate will provide first-time home buyers with up to $80,000 in savings on newly built homes priced under $1 million. This initiative builds on broader affordability efforts at both the federal and provincial levels and represents real progress toward keeping homeownership within reach.
“For years, REALTORS® have advocated for standardized development charges and streamlined municipal processes. Bill 60 demonstrates that when government listens to industry expertise, everyone benefits.” – Barbara McCaughrin, President, Chatham-Kent Association of REALTORS
Local Impact: Strengthening the Chatham-Kent Economy
Every home transaction generates lasting benefits for the community. According to CREA’s Economic Impact of Home Sales in Ontario report, each MLS® home sale in Chatham-Kent contributes approximately $81,000 in spin-off spending – supporting jobs, small businesses, and local services.
(See attached: “The Economic Impact of MLS® Home Sales and Purchases in Chatham-Kent.”)
Looking Ahead
As governments continue working to increase supply and affordability, CKAR remains dedicated to engaging with policymakers, community partners, and REALTORS® to ensure the needs of Chatham-Kent residents are heard and acted upon.
Further details on the HST rebate are expected in the Ontario Fall Economic Statement on November 6, 2025, and CKAR will share updates as they become available.
To learn more, visit CKAR
