Liberals promise helping hand to first-time homebuyers through grants, loans

vHAMILTON — Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau says a re-elected Liberal government would help renters become homeowners through $1 billion in loans and grants.

During an election campaign stop in Hamilton, Ont., Trudeau says the money would help develop rent-to-own projects with an array of partners, creating a pathway to home ownership for renters in five years or less.

The Liberals say their plan would help young Canadians afford a down payment faster by introducing a tax-free First Home Savings Account.

Election Dispatch: Sign up for a daily update on the campaign
It would allow Canadians under 40 to save up to $40,000 toward their first home, and withdraw it tax-free to put toward their purchase, with no requirement to repay it.

The plan also includes a Housing Accelerator Fund, which would make $4 billion available to help large cities speed up their housing plans, with a target of 100,000 new middle-class homes by 2024-25.

Trudeau strained to be heard at times during the announcement as a chorus of hecklers shouted and booed.