Quebec First-Time Buyer Guide 2024

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Buying your first home in Quebec comes with unique rules, federal programs, and — critically — the absence of a provincial first-time buyer rebate on droits de mutation. This guide covers every federal and provincial program available, plus the full cost picture for first-time buyers across Quebec.

⚠️ Quebec has NO first-time buyer rebate on droits de mutation.
Unlike Ontario (up to $4,000 rebate) or some other provinces, Quebec offers zero provincial refund on the welcome tax for first-time buyers. Every buyer pays the full amount — plan accordingly.

Federal Programs Available to Quebec First-Time Buyers

1. First Home Savings Account (FHSA)

The FHSA lets you contribute up to $8,000/year (lifetime $40,000) in tax-deductible savings. Withdrawals for a first home purchase are tax-free. This is the most powerful first-time buyer tool in Canada and is available to Quebec residents.

2. Home Buyers' Plan (RRSP Withdrawal)

Withdraw up to $35,000 from your RRSP tax-free for a first home purchase ($70,000 per couple). Must be repaid over 15 years. Works alongside the FHSA.

3. First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit (Federal)

A $100 non-refundable federal tax credit that saves approximately $1,500 on your federal tax bill the year you buy.

4. GST/HST New Housing Rebate

If you buy a newly constructed home under $450,000, you may be eligible for a partial GST rebate of up to $6,300.

What Quebec Does NOT Offer

Unlike Ontario (up to $4,000 land transfer tax rebate for first-time buyers) or BC (full PTT exemption on homes under $500K), Quebec provides zero provincial rebate on droits de mutation. Every buyer — first-time or not — pays the full welcome tax.

Droits de Mutation — First-Time Buyers Pay Full Amount

Purchase Price Range	Rate
$0 – $50,000	0.5%
$50,001 – $250,000	1.0%
$250,001 – $500,000	1.5%
$500,001 – $1,000,000	2.0%
Over $1,000,000	2.5%

Quebec Droits de Mutation Calculator

Enter the purchase price to calculate Quebec's welcome tax.

Purchase Price ($)

For full Quebec land transfer tax rates and tables, see our Quebec Land Transfer Tax Guide.

Total First-Time Buyer Cost Estimate (Quebec)

Item	$350K Home	$500K Home
Min. down (5%)	$17,500	$25,000
CMHC premium	$13,300	$19,000
Droits de mutation	~$3,250	~$6,250
Notary fees	~$1,500	~$1,700
Inspection	~$500	~$600
Total cash needed	~$36,000	~$53,000

Tips for Quebec First-Time Buyers

Max out FHSA contributions for at least one year before buying — you get a provincial and federal tax deduction
Consider combining FHSA + RRSP Home Buyers' Plan for maximum tax-free down payment savings
Get pre-approved before shopping — Quebec's competitive markets (Montreal, Gatineau, Quebec City) see bidding wars
Hire an OACIQ-licensed broker — buyer representation is typically at no cost to you
Budget for droits de mutation from day one — there is no rebate in Quebec

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Key Takeaways

No provincial first-time buyer rebate on droits de mutation in Quebec
Federal FHSA and HBP programs are available and valuable
Total upfront cash needed is typically 10–15% of purchase price including closing costs
July 1st is Quebec's traditional moving day — avoid closing late June if possible