Toronto company helps homeowners get up to $30K in HST rebates

Did you complete a major renovation on your home in the last two years?

Toronto-based company Rebates4U is showing its clients how to get thousands of dollars back in HST rebates on home construction and renovation projects.

Homeowners who have built a brand new home or addition to an existing home, or those who have renovated 90 per cent of an existing home, may qualify for an HST home rebate worth thousands of dollars.

The Canadian government also offers rebates to those who have purchased a newly built home or condo as an investment.

"Most people don't even know it exists," Michael Beallor, cofounder of Rebate4U, told CTV Toronto's Pat Foran.

The rebates cover only a portion of the total HST spent on building materials, contractors and professional fees, but can go as high as $30,000, Beallor said.

Beallor said his company has helped clients get more than $20 million in rebates over the last two years.

"I have a rebate cheque for $16,000 for a client. I think they will be really happy," Beallor said.

The company charges 20 per cent commission, and only gets paid if the homeowner is given a rebate cheque. It's free to check if you're eligible to apply for a rebate.

Homeowners can also apply for the rebate themselves, though the process is complicated, Beallor said.

The application is available online.

"In recent years, homebuyers have been challenged by the (Canada Revenue Agency) so it's increasingly important to ensure that you've received the correct rebate," a message on Rebate4U's website says.

With a report from CTV Toronto's Pat Foran