First-Time Buyer Programs for Edmonton Condos
First-time buyers can combine several federal programs, and Alberta adds an advantage of its own: no land transfer tax. Together they can make an average-priced Edmonton apartment condo reachable with a modest down payment.
The programs at a glance
| Program | What it does | Limit |
|---|---|---|
| First Home Savings Account (FHSA) | Tax-deductible contributions; tax-free withdrawal for your first home | $8,000 a year, $40,000 lifetime, per person |
| RRSP Home Buyers' Plan | Borrow from your RRSP tax-free; repay over 15 years | Up to $60,000 per person |
| First-Time Home Buyers' Tax Credit | A non-refundable credit in the year you buy | $10,000 claim, worth up to $1,500 |
| 30-year insured amortization | Lower monthly payments on an insured mortgage | First-time buyers and buyers of new builds |
| GST New Housing Rebate | Recovers part of the 5% GST on a new build | Partial rebate on lower-priced new homes |
| First-time buyer GST relief on new homes | Additional federal GST relief for first-time buyers of new homes | Confirm current status and eligibility |
Program rules change. Confirm details with your lender, accountant or the Government of Canada before relying on them.
How a couple could stack them
Two first-time buyers could each use an FHSA (up to $40,000 each over time) and the Home Buyers' Plan (up to $60,000 each). On an Edmonton apartment condo averaging about $209,000 in September 2026, the minimum 5% down payment is about $10,400 — so even partial use of these programs can cover the down payment and closing costs.
Alberta advantage
Alberta has no land transfer tax and no provincial sales tax on homes. Buyers pay Land Titles registration fees and, on new builds only, GST.
Down payment and mortgage insurance
The minimum down payment is 5% of the first $500,000 and 10% of the portion above. With less than 20% down you'll need mortgage default insurance, which is usually added to the mortgage. See the full cost breakdown and examples in our Buyer Guide.
Quick Answers
Can I use my FHSA and RRSP Home Buyers' Plan together?
Is there a land transfer tax in Alberta?
What is the minimum down payment on an Edmonton condo?
General information for Alberta condo buyers, not legal, tax or financial advice. Confirm details with your REALTOR®, lawyer, lender or accountant.
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