For many first-time buyers, winter feels like a challenging season to shop for a home. Snow, cold weather, and shorter days can make the process seem overwhelming. The truth is that winter can be a great time to buy, depending on your goals and what kind of experience you want.

In our latest video, I share a simple yes-or-no guide to help you decide whether winter is the right moment to begin your search. Here are a few highlights from the video:

When Winter Works in Your Favour

• Less competition means you may have more breathing room during negotiations.
• Cold weather reveals how well a home performs. Drafts, insulation issues, and heating quality are easier to notice.
• Some sellers are motivated heading into the new year, which can create opportunities for buyers.

When Waiting for Spring Might Make Sense

• Winter inventory is often lighter, which can limit your ability to compare different neighbourhoods and home styles.
• Snow can hide important exterior features like roofs, decks, grading, and yard layouts.
• Neighbourhoods feel very different in spring and summer. Some buyers prefer to experience the area without snow or ice.

Every buyer’s situation is unique, and winter buying can work very well when you know what to look for. If you are considering a move this season, Melanie and I would be happy to walk you through your options and help you feel confident and prepared.

Watch the full video above, and reach out any time if you would like support with your first home purchase in Waterloo Region.

If you’re a first-time buyer in Waterloo Region, there’s been a lot of talk about new tax incentives that could make newly built homes more affordable. These changes are proposed only, but understanding what’s being discussed now can help you prepare for what may be coming.

What the federal government has proposed

The federal government has introduced a proposal that would return the full 5% GST on newly built homes purchased by eligible first-time buyers. Under the draft rules, this rebate would apply to new homes priced up to one million dollars, with a gradual phase-out up to one point five million. None of this has come into effect yet, but it represents meaningful potential support for buyers entering the market.

What Ontario has announced

Ontario has also indicated plans to remove the 8% provincial portion of HST for eligible first-time buyers on newly built homes up to the same price range. This provincial change would only move forward if the federal proposal comes into effect.

These announcements have created a lot of interest here in Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, and the surrounding communities for first time buyers we have talked with

New-build only: why this matters

Both the federal and provincial proposals apply only to newly built or substantially renovated homes. They do not apply to resale homes. This distinction is important for buyers comparing different paths to homeownership in Waterloo Region.

What this means for your buying strategy

While nothing is in effect yet, these proposals highlight the importance of reviewing your options early. If you’re considering a new-build home, it may be helpful to speak with your lawyer, lender, and builder about how any eventual rebate could affect timing, deposits, or budgeting. If you’re exploring resale homes, this information is still valuable, because it helps you compare both paths with more clarity.

From Kitchener’s growing condo market, to family-friendly neighbourhoods in Waterloo, to newer developments in Cambridge, first-time buyers have a wide range of choices. Understanding where proposed incentives may fit in is simply part of making an informed plan.

Clarity, confidence, and care

The most important thing to remember is that these changes are proposed and may evolve. You should not rely on them until they come into effect and your lawyer confirms eligibility. But staying informed now puts you in a stronger position when the time comes to make a decision.

We’re here to help you understand your numbers, review your options, and navigate the Waterloo Region market with confidence.

Melanie & Warren McNeil, REALTORS®
Peak Realty Ltd., Brokerage

For information only. Not legal, tax, or financial advice. Confirm all details with your lawyer, lender, or accountant.