New data from April shows a sharp jump in new home sales across the Greater Toronto Area, coinciding with the early impact of Ontario’s temporary housing tax relief program. 

A total of 1,100 newly built homes were sold during the month, nearly three times higher than the same period last year, according to figures compiled by Altus Group for the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD).

The strongest growth came from single-family homes, including detached and semi-detached properties, which saw sales rise dramatically compared to the previous year. 

Condo sales also increased, but at a slower pace. Industry representatives say the early results suggest the tax measure is already influencing buyer behaviour and helping support demand in a market that had been slowing in recent years.

The program, which temporarily removes the 13% Harmonized Sales Tax on eligible new homes valued up to $1 million, is still awaiting full federal implementation before it can be fully applied. 

While the provincial legislation has already passed, federal approval is still in progress, leaving some uncertainty around how the rebate will ultimately be administered to buyers and builders.