Pre-Construction Homes in Ontario
New to pre-construction? Start here. These plain-language guides explain exactly how buying a brand-new home before it's built works in Ontario — deposits, Tarion warranty, HST, occupancy, closing and more — so you can buy with confidence. Built for first-time buyers and investors by Tej Thakor & Usha Parmar, Royal LePage Terra Realty.
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What is Pre-Construction?
Pre-construction means buying a home before it is built — directly from the builder,…
Benefits
Lock in today's price, pay your deposit over time, get a brand-new home with…
Risks & Things to Know
Construction delays, occupancy fees, closing costs, rate changes and assignment rules — the honest…
Buying Process
From VIP registration to final closing — every step of buying a pre-construction home…
Deposit Structure
Pre-construction deposits are paid in instalments — typically 15–20% over the first year. See…
Builder Incentives
Capped development charges, free assignment, extended deposits, design-centre credits and more — the incentives…
Occupancy vs Final Closing
Pre-construction condos in Ontario have TWO dates: interim occupancy (you move in and pay…
Condo vs Freehold
Condo or freehold pre-construction? Compare ownership, maintenance fees, occupancy, and who each is best…
High Rise vs Low Rise
High-rise condos, mid-rise, and low-rise/townhome communities — how they differ in price, amenities, fees,…
Assignment Sales
A plain-English Ontario guide to pre-construction assignment sales — how they work on both…
Tarion Warranty
A plain-English Ontario guide to the Tarion new-home warranty — what's included, the 1,…
HST Rebate Guide
How the HST rebate works on new homes in Ontario — the existing New…
Mortgage for Pre-Construction
How financing works for pre-construction: pre-approval up front, re-qualification near closing, rate holds, and…
First-Time Buyer Programs
FHSA, RRSP Home Buyers' Plan, and the Ontario + Toronto land transfer tax rebates…
FAQ
Answers to the most common pre-construction questions in Ontario — deposits, occupancy, Tarion, HST,…
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pre-construction?
Buying a home before it's built, directly from the builder off a floor plan, paying your deposit over time and closing months or years later. See our What is Pre-Construction guide.
How much deposit do I need?
Usually about 15–20% spread over the first year for end-users; investors and non-residents often need 20–35%.
What is interim occupancy?
For condos, the period when you move in and pay an occupancy fee before you legally own the unit at final closing.
Is my deposit safe?
Yes — new-condo deposits in Ontario are held in trust and protected under the Condominium Act and Tarion, up to program limits.
Do I pay HST?
New homes include HST, but end-users usually have the New Housing Rebate applied by the builder, so it's in the advertised price. Investors pay HST at closing and claim the rental rebate.
Can I sell before closing?
Often via an assignment sale, if your contract allows and the builder consents — usually for a fee, with possible tax/HST.
Does it cost me anything to use your team?
No — the builder pays the agent commission. You get VIP/Platinum access, the best floor plans, and contract guidance at no cost to you.