Eligibility Criteria

Learn what eligibility criteria are in Canadian real estate, how they apply to rebates and incentives, and how to confirm qualification before applying.

Eligibility Criteria

May 22, 2025


What are Eligibility Criteria?

Eligibility criteria are the specific requirements a person must meet to qualify for government programs, rebates, mortgage products, or real estate incentives.

Why Eligibility Criteria Matter in Real Estate

In Canadian real estate, eligibility criteria apply to programs such as the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive, land transfer tax rebates, and mortgage insurance qualifications.


Common eligibility factors include:
  • Age and residency status
  • Income limits or debt thresholds
  • Home purchase price and location
  • Property type and occupancy (e.g., principal residence)


Failing to meet these requirements can disqualify applicants or result in a clawback of funds. Verifying eligibility before applying ensures smoother transactions and better financial planning.


Understanding eligibility criteria allows buyers to take advantage of cost-saving opportunities and secure the right financial tools.

Example of Eligibility Criteria in Action

A couple earning $170,000 is ineligible for the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive because they exceed the household income cap for their region.

Key Takeaways

  • Sets the rules for accessing programs or rebates.
  • May include income, citizenship, or residency.
  • Varies by program and region.
  • Must be verified before applying.
  • Key to unlocking homebuying benefits.

Related Terms

Additional Terms

Construction Loan

A construction loan is a short-term, interim financing option used to fund the building or major renovation of a property, with funds disbursed in. more

Certificate of Occupancy

A certificate of occupancy is an official document issued by a municipal authority confirming that a building complies with applicable codes and is. more

Bylaw Variance

A bylaw variance is official permission granted by a municipal authority allowing a property owner to deviate from local zoning or building bylaw. more

Absorption Rate

Absorption rate is a metric that measures the rate at which available properties are sold or leased in a specific market over a given period.. more

Corporate Restructuring

Corporate restructuring refers to the reorganization of a company’s operations, assets, or liabilities, often under court supervision, to improve. more

Consumer Proposal

A consumer proposal is a formal, legally binding agreement in Canada between an individual and their creditors to repay a portion of their debt over. more

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