Buying a home
Your guide to buying a home in Calgary
A clear, step-by-step plan from pre-approval to possession day, with local advice at every turn.
Start here
Buying should feel exciting, not overwhelming
Whether it's your first home, a move-up to a lake community, or a relocation from out of province, a good plan makes all the difference. I'll help you understand the market, set a comfortable budget, and move quickly and confidently when the right home appears.
As your buyer's agent, my job is to represent your interests: researching values, spotting issues before they become problems, and negotiating the best possible price and terms.
The process
Six steps to your new front door
Get pre-approved
Meet with a lender or mortgage broker to confirm your budget and lock in a rate hold. Budget for closing costs as well as your down payment.
Define your must-haves
We'll talk through neighbourhoods, schools, commute, lot size and lifestyle, including whether lake access or a gated community is right for you.
Search & get alerts
Receive new listings that match your criteria the moment they hit the market, including homes not yet widely advertised.
Tour homes
In-person or video showings with an honest take on condition, value and resale potential for every home we see.
Make a winning offer
A pricing strategy backed by comparable sales, smart conditions for financing and inspection, and firm, respectful negotiation.
Close & move in
I'll coordinate with your lawyer, lender and inspector so possession day is smooth, then hand you the keys.
Lake & gated communities
Buying in a lake community
Calgary's lake communities offer private beaches, paddling, fishing and winter skating for residents. Access is tied to your address through a residents' association with an annual fee, typically registered on title.
- Confirm the current annual fee and any planned special assessments
- Review the association's rules for boats, docks and guests
- Compare waterfront premiums with "walk-to-the-lake" value
- For gated or bare-land condo communities, review the bylaws and reserve fund
Buyer FAQ
Common questions
How much do I need for a down payment?
In Canada the minimum is 5% of the first $500,000 and 10% of the portion above that, up to $1.5 million. Homes priced at $1.5 million or more need 20% down. With less than 20%, mortgage default insurance is required. Your lender or broker can confirm what applies to you.
What closing costs should I plan for?
Plan for legal fees, title insurance, a home inspection, property tax and utility adjustments, and moving costs. Alberta has no land transfer tax, only modest land titles registration fees, which keeps closing costs lower than in many provinces.
Does it cost me anything to work with a buyer's agent?
In most Calgary transactions the buyer's agent is paid from the commission offered through the listing. We'll review a written buyer representation agreement together before we start, so everything is transparent.
How long does it take to buy a home?
Many buyers find a home within a few weeks to a few months. Once an offer is accepted, possession is usually 30 to 60 days later, but it can be shorter or longer depending on what both parties need.
Should I sell first or buy first?
It depends on your finances and the market. We can look at bridge financing, conditional offers and timing strategies that protect you either way.
What will your payments be?
Try different prices, rates and down payments with the mortgage calculator.
Free buyer consultation
Let's plan your search
Tell me a little about what you're looking for. I'll follow up within one business day with next steps and a set of listings that match.
- No obligation, no pressure
- New-listing alerts tailored to you
- Neighbourhood and school insights