How to Get a FREE Smart Thermostat: Your Guide to SaskPower's Energy Assistance Program Are you a Saskatchewan homeowner looking to save money on your energy bills? Here's some exciting news: SaskPower's Energy Assistance Program is offering FREE smart thermostats to eligible households! As your local real estate expert, I'm thrilled to share this valuable opportunity that can help you reduce your energy costs and increase your home's efficiency. this is my past clients actual thermostat  from saskpower (jan 22, 2025) + these items  What's the Energy Assistance Program? SaskPower's Energy Assistance Program is designed to help Saskatchewan residents upgrade their homes with energy-efficient technology at no cost. The crown jewel of this program? A free smart thermostat that can help you save up to 23% on your heating and cooling costs! Who Can Apply? You may be eligible if you:- Own or rent a home in Saskatchewan (including Saskatoon and Swift Current)- Have active SaskPower, City of Saskatoon, or Swift Current Light & Power service- Meet the program's income qualification guidelines- Have a compatible heating/cooling system Program Benefits: 1. Professional InstallationYou'll receive complete professional installation of your new smart thermostat at absolutely no cost. 2. Energy SavingsSmart thermostats can learn your schedule and automatically adjust temperatures, leading to significant savings on your energy bills. 3. Remote ControlControl your home's temperature from anywhere using your smartphone – perfect for our unpredictable Saskatchewan weather! How to Apply: 1. Visit SaskPower's official website2. Complete the Energy Assistance Program application form3. Provide required documentation4. Schedule your free installation Expert Tips: As a real estate professional serving both Saskatchewan and Alberta, I've seen firsthand how energy-efficient upgrades can increase home value. Smart thermostats not only save you money monthly but can also be a valuable selling feature if you decide to list your home in the future. Ready to Take Action? 1. Start Your Application: Visit SaskPower's website to begin your application process. 2. Get a Home Value Assessment: Curious how energy upgrades affect your home's value? [Click here to get a free home evaluation](link-to-your-evaluation-form). 3. Need Support? Whether you're in Saskatchewan or Alberta, I'm here to help! Contact me, Hasan Sharif, at 306-850-7687 (SK) or 403-808-9705 (AB) for personalized real estate guidance. Bonus Tip: Don't forget to check out SaskPower's other energy-saving programs that could help you save even more! 👉 Discover Your Home's Current Value - Free Assessment! First time home buyer in saskatoon - fill out this form: Here  About the Author:Hasan Sharif is a dedicated real estate professional with eXp Realty, serving both Saskatchewan and Alberta. With extensive knowledge of the local market and energy efficiency programs, Hasan helps homeowners make informed decisions about their real estate investments. Visit RedLeafHomes.ca for more valuable resources. Phone: 306-850-7687 (SK) | 403-808-9705 (AB)Instagram: @nasahctus email: hasan.sharif@exprealty.com  

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The Ultimate Guide to Canada’s First Home Savings Account (FHSA) Start Saving for Your First Home Today with Canada’s FHSA Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but the financial hurdles can feel overwhelming. That’s where Canada’s First Home Savings Account (FHSA) comes in—a groundbreaking savings tool designed to help first-time homebuyers save efficiently and confidently. If you’re in Alberta, Saskatchewan, or anywhere in Canada, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about the FHSA and how it can bring you closer to owning your dream home. What is the First Home Savings Account (FHSA)? Launched in April 2023, the FHSA combines the benefits of an RRSP and a TFSA to help Canadians save for their first home. With annual contributions of up to $8,000 and a lifetime maximum of $40,000, the FHSA provides: Tax-Deductible Contributions: Reduce your taxable income while you save. Tax-Free Withdrawals: Use your savings and investment earnings tax-free when buying your first home. Investment Growth: Grow your funds tax-free through stocks, ETFs, GICs, and more. Who Can Open an FHSA? To qualify for an FHSA, you must: Be a Canadian resident aged 18 to 71. Be a first-time homebuyer, meaning you haven’t owned or lived in a home you or your spouse/common-law partner owned in the last four years. Pro Tip: Even if you’re not ready to buy, opening an FHSA now lets you accumulate contribution room for future use. How Does the FHSA Work? Annual Contribution Limits: Maximum of $8,000 per year, with unused room carried forward. Lifetime contribution cap of $40,000. Withdrawals: Funds must be used for a qualifying home purchase. Withdrawals are tax-free for purchases or builds within a year. Investment Options: Diversify your savings in mutual funds, GICs, stocks, or ETFs. Let your money grow tax-free until withdrawal. Time Limit: You have 15 years to use your FHSA funds or transfer them to an RRSP/RRIF. Why the FHSA is a Game-Changer for First-Time Buyers 1. Tax Advantages: Contributions lower your taxable income, and withdrawals for home purchases are tax-free. 2. Higher Savings Potential: Use the carry-forward provision to maximize contributions in future years. 3. Flexibility: Even if you don’t end up buying a home, you can transfer unused funds to your RRSP without affecting your contribution limit. 4. Combine with Other Programs: Pair your FHSA with the Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP) to access up to $75,000 for a down payment. Step-by-Step: How to Open and Maximize Your FHSA Choose a Financial Institution: Major banks like TD, BMO, and RBC offer FHSAs. Compare account options to find the best fit for your investment needs. Start Saving Early: Open your account as soon as you’re eligible to begin growing your savings. Invest Strategically: Consider a mix of low-risk (e.g., GICs) and higher-growth (e.g., ETFs) investments. Track Your Contributions: Stay within annual and lifetime limits to avoid penalties. Plan Your Withdrawal: Ensure you’re withdrawing for a qualifying home purchase to maintain tax-free benefits. FHSA vs. TFSA vs. RRSP: What’s the Difference? Feature FHSA TFSA RRSP Purpose First home purchase General savings Retirement savings Tax Deduction Yes No Yes Tax-Free Withdrawals For qualifying homes only Any purpose No (except HBP) Contribution Limits $8,000/year; $40,000 total $6,500/year (2023) 18% of income (max ~$30k) Common Mistakes to Avoid with Your FHSA Missing the Contribution Deadline: Contributions don’t roll over indefinitely; ensure you’re maximizing your yearly limit. Not Investing Your Savings: Keeping funds in a basic savings account may limit growth potential. Using Funds for Non-Qualifying Withdrawals: This can result in tax penalties and lost benefits. Delaying Account Opening: Start early to take advantage of tax-free growth. Future Article Ideas to Build Your Real Estate Knowledge Maximizing the Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP): A Step-by-Step Guide. Best Investment Strategies for FHSAs: GICs vs. ETFs. TFSA vs. FHSA: Which is Better for First-Time Homebuyers? How to Combine FHSA and HBP for a Bigger Down Payment. Understanding Carry-Forward Rules for FHSAs. Take the Next Step Toward Homeownership The FHSA is a powerful tool to help you achieve your dream of homeownership. Whether you’re planning to buy in Calgary, Saskatoon, or beyond, getting started today will put you one step closer to owning your first home. Let’s make it happen together. Contact our team to learn more about saving for your first home: Email: hasan.sharif@exprealty.com Phone: 403-808-9705 Start your journey to homeownership with confidence. Open your FHSA today!  

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TFSA vs. FHSA: Which is Better for First-Time Homebuyers? When it comes to saving for your first home in Canada, two powerful tools stand out: the Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) and the First Home Savings Account (FHSA). Both offer significant tax benefits and can accelerate your journey to homeownership, but they serve different purposes. This guide will help you decide which one—or both—is the right fit for you. Understanding the Basics: TFSA and FHSA Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) Introduced in: 2009 Purpose: Flexible savings for any goal—home, retirement, or travel. Contribution Limit: $6,500/year (2023), no lifetime cap. Unused room carries forward. Key Benefit: Withdrawals are tax-free and can be used for any purpose. Best For: Short-term and versatile savings goals beyond homeownership. First Home Savings Account (FHSA) Introduced in: 2023 Purpose: Dedicated to saving for your first home. Contribution Limit: $8,000/year, up to a $40,000 lifetime cap. Unused room carries forward. Key Benefit: Tax-deductible contributions and tax-free withdrawals for qualifying home purchases. Best For: Dedicated homebuyers seeking maximum tax savings. How TFSA and FHSA Differ Feature TFSA FHSA Tax Deduction No Yes Withdrawal Flexibility Any time, any purpose Tax-free only for first home purchases Contribution Limits Annual: $6,500; No lifetime cap Annual: $8,000; Lifetime: $40,000 Replenishing Limits Yes, after withdrawal No, lifetime cap applies Eligibility Any Canadian resident 18+ Canadian residents 18-71; First-time homebuyers When to Use a TFSA Flexible Savings: Ideal if you’re saving for multiple goals like a home, vacation, or emergency fund. Unlimited Reinvestment: Contribution room replenishes, so you can withdraw and save again without losing benefits. No Pressure to Buy: If you’re unsure about purchasing a home soon, the TFSA offers long-term flexibility. When to Use an FHSA Dedicated Home Savings: Perfect for those committed to buying their first home. Tax Savings: Contributions reduce taxable income, making it ideal for higher-income earners. Enhanced Purchasing Power: Combine FHSA savings with the Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP) to access up to $75,000 tax-free. Should You Combine Both? Yes! Using both accounts strategically can maximize your savings potential: Use the FHSA for tax-deductible contributions and tax-free withdrawals. Use the TFSA for additional savings flexibility or to cover closing costs and moving expenses. Example: Contribute $8,000 annually to your FHSA and $6,500 to your TFSA. In 5 years, you’d have $40,000 (FHSA) + $32,500 (TFSA), providing a total of $72,500 toward your first home. Strategic Tips for First-Time Homebuyers Start Early: Open an FHSA as soon as you’re eligible to maximize contribution room. Invest Wisely: Both accounts allow investments in GICs, stocks, or ETFs. Choose options that match your risk tolerance. Know the Deadlines: The FHSA must be used within 15 years or before age 71. Plan Withdrawals: Withdraw FHSA funds for your down payment and TFSA funds for other home-buying expenses. Future Articles to Explore How to Combine FHSA, TFSA, and HBP for Maximum Savings Best Investment Strategies for FHSA and TFSA Accounts Top Tax Benefits of Using FHSA for First-Time Buyers How to Use TFSA Withdrawals to Cover Home Closing Costs FHSA Case Studies: Real-Life Examples of First-Time Buyers Take Action Today Saving for your first home can feel overwhelming, but with the right tools and strategies, it’s entirely achievable. Whether you choose a TFSA, an FHSA, or both, the key is to start now and stay consistent. Let’s Get Started Together: Email: hasan.sharif@exprealty.com Phone: 403-808-9705 Unlock the power of TFSA and FHSA accounts to achieve your dream of homeownership. Contact us for personalized advice!

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First-Time Home Buyer’s Guide to Alberta & Saskatchewan Buying your first home is a big deal—especially in provinces like Alberta and Saskatchewan, where you’ll find a balance of affordability, government programs, and diverse housing options. Below is a step-by-step look at how the home-buying process works and what you need to know to make your first purchase easier and smarter. 1. Know Your Budget (Pre-Approval) Why It’s Important:A mortgage pre-approval tells you exactly how much money a lender is willing to give you. This helps you set a price range before you start looking at homes. How It Works: Contact a mortgage broker or bank. Provide financial info (income, debts, etc.). Get a letter confirming your maximum loan amount. Bonus:If you lock in a rate now but interest rates drop later, many lenders will let you switch to the lower rate before you finalize your mortgage. 2. Government Programs & Incentives Below are some money-saving programs you should know about: First-Time Home Buyers’ Tax Credit A non-refundable credit that can save you up to $1,500 on your taxes. Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP) Withdraw up to $35,000 from your RRSP ($70,000 if you’re buying with a partner) without paying taxes upfront. You pay it back into your RRSP over time. First Home Savings Account (FHSA) Combines RRSP and TFSA benefits: contributions are tax-deductible, and withdrawals (for your first home) are tax-free. You can contribute up to $8,000 a year, with a lifetime max of $40,000. 30-Year Amortization (New Builds) For some newly built homes, insured mortgages can sometimes be stretched to 30 years. Means lower monthly payments but more interest in the long run. No Land Transfer Tax in Saskatchewan You pay smaller registration fees instead, which can save money at closing. 3. Pick the Right Realtor Why It’s Free for You:Typically, the seller pays both realtors’ commissions. As a buyer, this means you get expert help at no direct cost. How They Help: Show you homes matching your budget and wish list. Handle paperwork and negotiate deals on your behalf. Guide you on local market trends in Calgary, Edmonton, Regina, Saskatoon, and beyond. 4. Finding Your Perfect Home Make a List: Must-Haves: Location, number of bedrooms, nearby schools, etc. Nice-to-Haves: Finished basement, big backyard, extra garage space. Market Differences: Alberta: Typically higher home prices than Saskatchewan, but still cheaper than Ontario or BC. Saskatchewan: Often more affordable homes, and no formal land transfer tax. Urban vs. Rural: Urban: Close to jobs, amenities, public transit—but can be pricier. Rural: More land and lower prices, but fewer conveniences. 5. Making an Offer When you find the right home: Offer Price: Decide how much to bid. In a seller’s market (high demand, low supply), you might need to offer close to or above asking. Possession Date: Day you officially get the keys—must be a business day. Deposit (also called “earnest money”): Usually paid within a few days of the seller accepting your offer. It goes towards your down payment if the deal closes. Conditions: Financing: Protects you if your lender doesn’t finalize the loan. Inspection: Lets you back out or renegotiate if the home has major issues. Sale of Current Home: If you need to sell your place first (less common for first-timers). 6. Condition Period What It Is:A window (often around 7–10 days) where you check off your conditions. If all is good, you waive them, and the sale becomes “firm.” Typical Checks: Financing: Lender confirms the house and your finances are okay. Inspection: A professional inspects the property for any serious problems. Condo Docs (if applicable): Review building finances and bylaws to avoid surprises like special assessments. 7. Getting Ready to Move Timeline:After you waive conditions, you might have a few weeks or months until possession. Use this time to: Transfer accounts (utilities, internet, etc.). Arrange movers or rent a truck. Confirm your final financing details with your lender. Stay Steady:Avoid changing jobs or making large purchases (cars, furniture on credit) before possession day, as it can mess up your mortgage approval. 8. Possession Day (Closing Day) What Happens: Your lawyer and lender handle final paperwork and money transfer. You get the keys, typically around noon, but delays can happen. Tip:Don’t schedule movers or delivery trucks exactly at 12:00. Funding can take extra time. Celebrate:You’re officially a homeowner! Alberta & Saskatchewan: Pros & Cons Pros Affordable Options: Generally cheaper than Ontario or BC. No Land Transfer Tax in SK: You pay small registration fees instead. Economic Growth: Alberta’s tech and energy rebound; Saskatchewan’s strong resources sector. Programs & Incentives: Plenty of help for first-timers (tax credits, mortgage insurance flexibility). Cons Economic Fluctuations: Oil and agriculture can shift quickly, affecting jobs and home prices. Competitive Urban Markets: Calgary, Edmonton, Saskatoon, Regina can see bidding wars if inventory is low. Extra Closing Costs: Inspection, lawyer fees, registration fees (SK) or possible land transfer-related costs (AB). Location Trade-Offs: Rural affordability vs. fewer amenities. Next Steps & Future Resources Want more details? Consider these articles: First Home Savings Account (FHSA) Step-by-step on how to open, contribute, and withdraw tax-free. 30-Year Amortization: Pros & Cons Lower monthly payments vs. paying more interest overall. New $1.5M Insured Mortgage Cap How it helps buyers with under 20% down in competitive markets. Condo Living vs. Single-Family Homes Comparing fees, maintenance, lifestyle, and resale value. How to Navigate a Seller’s Market Tips for winning in a bidding war and staying within budget. Leveraging Equity Refinancing tips for renovations, investments, or debt consolidation. Simple Conclusion Homeownership in Alberta or Saskatchewan is within reach—just follow these steps, lean on government programs, and work with professionals who know the local markets. Preparation is key: Get pre-approved, Explore incentives, Find a trusted realtor, Lock down the perfect home with a solid offer, Check all conditions, Get ready to move, Celebrate your new space! If you have questions or need tailored advice, reach out to a local real estate expert or mortgage broker. The more you know, the smoother your journey to becoming a first-time home buyer will be.    

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Allows Saskatchewan homeowners to save up to $2,100 in provincial income tax by claiming a 10.5% tax credit on up to $20,000 of eligible home renovation expenses. Applies to Saskatchewan Residents only.  Learn More Under this non-refundable tax credit, Saskatchewan homeowners may save up to $2,100 in provincial income tax by claiming a 10.5 per cent tax credit on up to $20,000 of eligible home renovation expenses. Eligible expenses include the cost of labour and professional services, building materials, fixtures, equipment rentals, and permits. This tax credit is administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) as part of the Saskatchewan personal income tax system. The tax credit can be claimed through your annual tax return. To learn more, contact the Canada Revenue Agency directly at Phone: 1‑800‑959‑8281 (English) or 1‑800‑959‑7383 (French). To Qualify Claim Credit on Tax Returns Documentation Eligible Expenses Ineligible Expenses 1. To Qualify Renovations must be to your principal residence, which must be located in Saskatchewan. Renovation expenses must be incurred between October 1, 2020, and December 31, 2022. The renovation must be substantially completed by December 31, 2022. At the time of the renovation(s), you must own, alone or jointly with another person, the housing unit (or share of the capital stock of a co-operative housing corporation that you acquired solely for the right to inhabit the housing unit owned by that corporation). You, your current or former spouse or common-law partner, or any of your or your spouse/common-law partner's children must ordinarily inhabit the housing unit during the eligibility period. In general, renovations must be of an enduring nature and integral to the dwelling or to the land that forms part of the dwelling. Land of one-half hectare or 1.24 acres, including the land upon which your housing unit stands and any portion of the adjoining land, will generally be considered part of your eligible dwelling for purposes of this tax credit. 2. Claim Credit on Tax Returns Claim the credit on your 2021 and/or 2022 personal income tax returns: Total qualified expenses incurred between October 1, 2020, and December 31, 2021, in excess of $1,000 (base amount), but not more than $12,000 can be claimed on your 2021 tax return (maximum claim of $11,000 for 2021). Total qualified expenses incurred between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2022, in excess of $1,000 (base amount), but not more than $10,000, can be claimed on your 2022 tax return (maximum claim of $9,000 for 2022). The tax credit can be split among eligible family members, but the total amount claimed cannot exceed the maximum allowable. Eligible family members include you and your spouse or common-law partner and you or your spouse/common-law partner's children who are under 18 years of age at the end of 2021. If you sell and purchase an eligible dwelling during the eligibility period, qualified expenses that you incur for both dwellings will be eligible (however, each dwelling must have been your permanent residence at the time the renovations occurred). The maximum total of qualified expenditures that you can claim is $20,000. If you earn rental or business income from part of your eligible dwelling, you can only claim the amount for expenses incurred for the personal-use areas of your dwelling. For expenses incurred for common areas or that benefit the housing unit as a whole (e.g., re-shingling a roof), divide the expense between personal use and income-earning use and claim the personal-use portion. Example of splitting the tax credit between family members: You and your spouse enter a contract for the purchase and installation of a new furnace after October 1, 2020, and pay $9,500 for this renovation. On your 2021 tax return, calculate the tax credit as follows: Total qualified expense of $9,500, less the $1,000 base amount = $8,500. Either you or your spouse can claim the entire $8,500 or you can each claim a portion of it. For example, if you claim $3,500, your spouse can claim the remaining $5,000. 3. Documentation Eligible expenses must be supported by documents such as receipts or invoices and should clearly identify: the vendor/contractor including business address and (if applicable) their GST/HST registration number the type and quantity of goods purchased and/or services provided the dates when the goods and/or services were purchased or delivered Invoices must by marked "paid" or be accompanied by other proof of payment such as credit card slips or cancelled cheques. 4. Eligible Expenses Examples of eligible expenses: painting the interior or exterior of a house re-shingling a roof kitchen, bathroom, and/or basement renovations flooring (carpet, linoleum, hardwood, laminate, etc.) windows and/or doors furnace, boiler, woodstove, fireplace, water softener, water heater, and/or oil tank central air conditioner permanent home ventilation permanent reverse osmosis system septic system and/or wells electrical wiring upgrades (e.g., changing from 100 to 200 amps) home security system (monthly fees do not qualify) solar panels and panel trackers standby generators, automatic garage door openers, and electric vehicle charging units – provided these items are permanently affixed to your home or garage (if the unit is portable and can be moved between homes, garages or other structures it does not qualify) building a garage, deck, fence, garden/storage shed, gazebo, and/or an addition to your home building a new driveway and/or retaining wall (or resurfacing a driveway) exterior shutters and awnings underground sprinklers pool liners and/or solar heaters and heat pumps for pools (does not include solar blankets) landscaping (e.g., sod, perennial shrubs and flowers, trees, tree and stump removal, large rocks, crushed rock, permanent garden lighting, permanent water fountain, permanent ponds, large permanent garden ornaments) fixtures (e.g., blinds, shades, shutters, lights, ceiling fans) electronic devices that are installed as a fixture and are necessary and primarily used to operate another eligible expenditure (e.g., a device that is a fixture and is necessary and primarily used to operate solar panels, air conditioning systems, home security devices, or ventilation systems) asbestos removal from house or garage associated costs to the above such as installation, permits, professional services, equipment rentals, the amount of GST/PST paid, and incidental expenses (e.g., work performed by electricians, plumbers, carpenters, architects, etc. will generally constitute an eligible expense) for condo owners and co-operative housing corporation members, your share of the cost of eligible renovations to common areas will qualify for the tax credit if certain conditions are met (see Information Bulletin for more details) 5. Ineligible Expenses Examples of expenses which are not eligible: renovations to a cottage or cabin unless it is your principal residence the value of your own labour for do-it-yourself projects payments to a close relative or other person not at arm's length, unless that person is registered for GST purposes routine repairs and maintenance typically performed on an annual or more frequent basis maintenance contracts (e.g., furnace and/or pool cleaning, snow removal, lawn care, etc.) appliances, furniture, draperies, hot tubs, and mechanical items not considered an enduring addition to your home (e.g. fridges, stoves, couches, etc.) TVs, computers, tablets, smart devices, speakers, streaming devices, cellphones, gaming systems, and other audiovisual electronics items that have a value independent of the renovation, such as construction equipment and/or tools any financing costs (e.g., interest payments) associated with the renovation(s)

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The grant program will provide 35 per cent of the total price to construct a new secondary suite at an owner’s primary residence, to a maximum of $35,000 for a qualifying suite. Applies to Saskatchewan residents only.  learn more. The Saskatchewan Secondary Suite Incentive (SSI) grant program is designed to increase the availability of rental units in our communities, improve housing affordability and generate supplementary income for homeowners. The grant program will provide 35 per cent of the total price to construct a new secondary suite at an owner’s primary residence, to a maximum of $35,000 for a qualifying suite. A qualifying secondary suite is a new separate dwelling unit located on the premises of the owner’s primary residence and for purposes of the SSI program includes a secondary suite within the residence, or a laneway home, garden suite, or garage suite. The qualifying suite must meet the requirements of a secondary suite according to the National Building Code of Canada and any other national, provincial and municipal bylaws, codes and standards. The homeowner or builder must have received all required permitting and legal approvals necessary for the unit to be used as a rental property. Only one secondary suite unit for the owner’s primary residence will be considered for the grant. If hiring a builder, the homeowner is encouraged to search the Provincial Sales Tax Registry to verify the business holds a valid PST vendor’s licence. The SSI is administered by the Ministry of Finance. Participants of this program may also be eligible for the Provincial Sales Tax (PST) Rebate for New Home Construction. Benefits Eligibility How to Apply Further Information 2. Eligibility The SSI grant program provides a grant of 35 per cent of eligible costs to construct a new secondary suite at an owner’s primary residence. The grant amount is capped at a maximum of $35,000 for a qualifying suite. A qualifying secondary suite is a new separate dwelling unit located on the premises of the owner’s primary residence. For purposes of the SSI, a qualifying suite includes a secondary suite within the residence, or a laneway home, garden suite, or garage suite. Only one secondary suite unit for the owner’s primary residence will be considered for the grant. A qualifying suite must meet the requirements of a secondary suite according to the National Building Code of Canada and any other applicable national, provincial and municipal bylaws, codes and standards. The homeowner or builder must have received all required permitting and legal approvals necessary for the unit to be used as a rental property; however, the program eligibility criteria will not require verification that the suite has been rented before the grant is paid. Eligible costs are those incurred from April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2026, that are directly related to the construction or the renovation of an existing space, which results in a new qualifying secondary suite, and includes the cost of standard appliances (i.e. washer, dryer, refrigerator, stove and dishwasher) up to a maximum of $5,000. Examples of eligible costs include engineering and architectural services, materials and contract labour related to construction, interior finishing, electrical, plumbing and mechanical work, and standard appliances. The applicable PST must have been paid on all eligible costs. The SSI will be administered by the Ministry of Finance, and eligible applicants may access funding through the SSI program alongside existing Saskatchewan incentives, including the expanded Provincial Sales Tax (PST) Rebate for New Home Construction, provided the applicant meets the prescribed eligibility criteria for each program. The cost of renovating an existing secondary suite or the primary residence are not eligible. Other ineligible costs include minor appliances (e.g. microwaves), draperies, tools and cleaning products. The SSI program is open to homeowners who construct a new qualifying secondary suite on the premises of their primary residence, with eligible costs incurred from April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2026, to accommodate projects that have already been initiated. Construction of the secondary suite must be completed on or before March 31, 2027, and applications must be received by Finance on or before March 31, 2027.  

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