Here are two tax-time advantages available for upcoming first-time buyers and those who took the plunge in 2014.

1. The 90-day boost. If you’re buying your first home now and it’ll be at least 90 days before your move, let’s talk. The Federal Home Buyers’ Program (HBP) and a tax refund can boost the funds you have available for your purchase. First, make as big an RRSP contribution as you can – up to your contribution limit or $25,000 per person. You can even use your downpayment savings for this.  Big RRSP contribution means a great 2014 refund. Then, after 90 days, you can go back into your RRSP and redeem your contribution under the HBP program. So you’ve got your original downpayment funds back PLUS a nice fat tax refund. You’ll need to pay the withdrawn funds back on a repayment plan, but this strategy can make a substantial difference in the affordability of home ownership!
2. $750 for first-time buyers. Don’t leave money on the table if you bought your first home last year! You may be able to take advantage of the Home Buyers Tax Credit (HBTC) when you file your tax return. The $5,000 non-refundable HBTC provides up to $750 in federal tax relief. You qualify if neither you nor your spouse (or common-law partner) have owned and lived in another home for the past five years. For more information, visit the Action Plan website at www.actionplan.gc.ca/en/initiative/first-time-home-buyers-tax-credit.