Buying a home in Alberta is exciting — but your mortgage can either set you up for long-term success or become a costly headache. After 15+ years in real estate, I’ve seen some buyers make the same avoidable mistakes that cost them thousands. Let’s make sure you’re not one of them.

1️⃣ Only Looking at the Lowest Posted Rate

It’s tempting to lock in the mortgage with the lowest interest rate you see online, but here’s the catch — that rate might come with restrictive terms that don’t work for your situation.

What to check instead:

• Prepayment privileges (can you pay extra without penalties?)

• Portability (can you take your mortgage with you if you move?)

• Penalties for breaking the mortgage early

• Fixed vs. variable flexibility

💡 Pro Tip: A slightly higher rate with better terms can save you thousands over time.

2️⃣ Skipping Mortgage Pre-Approval

House hunting without a pre-approval is like filling your grocery cart without knowing what’s in your bank account — it’s risky. Without pre-approval:

• You could fall in love with a home you can’t afford

• Sellers may take your offer less seriously

• You risk delays (or losing the home) if financing falls through

Get pre-approved before you shop so you know your budget and can act fast when the right property comes along.

3️⃣ Forgetting About Extra Costs

Your mortgage isn’t the only thing you’re paying for. Buyers often forget about:

• Legal fees

• Land transfer and registration costs

• Home inspection fees

• Moving expenses

• Initial home repairs or furniture

💡 Budget Tip: Set aside 1.5–3% of your home’s purchase price for closing and moving costs.

Final Thoughts

The mortgage process can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. When you look beyond the rate, get pre-approved, and plan for extra costs, you set yourself up for a smoother purchase — and a more secure future.

📩 Want to avoid costly mistakes? DM me MORTGAGE and I’ll send you my Mortgage Buyer’s Checklist.

FAQ: Mortgages in Alberta

Q: Should I choose a fixed or variable mortgage in Alberta?
A: It depends on your risk tolerance. Fixed offers stability, while variable can save money if rates drop — but it’s riskier.

Q: How long does mortgage pre-approval last?
A: Typically 90–120 days, depending on the lender.

Q: Can I negotiate my mortgage terms?
A: Absolutely — work with a broker who can shop multiple lenders and negotiate on your behalf.

Related Topics

• [Top 5 Mistakes That Cost Calgary Sellers Money]

• [3 Things I Wish More Buyers Knew Before Making an Offer]

• [Zoning 101 for Acreage Buyers in Alberta]

• [Buying Acreage in Winter vs Summer: Big Differences]

What you need to know before making the move

Relocating to Alberta can feel like a fresh start — stunning landscapes, a booming job market, and a generally lower cost of living compared to many other provinces. But while the province offers plenty of perks, it’s not without its surprises.

To help you budget wisely, here are some of the hidden costs you might not expect when moving to Alberta.

1. Property Taxes & Municipal Fees

Alberta doesn’t have a provincial sales tax, which is a big win for many newcomers. However, property taxes here can vary widely between municipalities. In some areas, these rates are higher than what people anticipate — especially in smaller towns with limited tax bases.

Pro Tip: Check the municipal tax rate for the exact area you’re moving to, and factor in local utility fees that may be added to your property tax bill.

2. Winter Prep & Home Maintenance

If you’re moving from a milder climate, Alberta winters can be a shock — not just for you, but for your budget. Snow removal services, extra heating costs, and winterizing your home all add up.

Examples of winter expenses:

• Furnace maintenance and filter changes

• Heated driveway systems (optional, but a luxury some invest in)

• Insulating pipes to prevent freezing

• Snow blowers or professional plowing

3. Vehicle Registration & Insurance Changes

When you move to Alberta, you’ll need to register your vehicle here — and that means paying registration fees and possibly getting an out-of-province vehicle inspection.

Insurance rates can also change, depending on your driving record and the area you move to. For example, rural areas may see lower rates than busy city centres, but your mileage may vary.

4. Lifestyle & Cost-of-Living Adjustments

You may save money on certain things in Alberta, but you could also find yourself spending more in other areas — especially if you’re embracing the province’s outdoor lifestyle.

Think:

• Ski passes and winter sports gear

• Hiking and camping equipment

• Seasonal wardrobe changes (winter coats, boots, gloves, etc.)

5. Professional & Legal Fees

Relocating isn’t just about moving your belongings — it often means navigating paperwork, legal requirements, and possible professional consultations.
You might need:

• Real estate legal fees

• Moving company charges

• Short-term rental costs while you find a home

Final Thoughts

Alberta is a fantastic place to call home, but going in with a clear understanding of all the costs will save you stress and financial headaches. By budgeting for these hidden expenses ahead of time, you can focus on what really matters — enjoying your new life in one of Canada’s most beautiful provinces.

📌 Related Reading:

• Buying Acreage in Winter vs Summer: Big Differences

• Top 5 Mistakes That Cost Calgary Sellers Money

• Zoning 101 for Acreage Buyers in Alberta

Everything You Need to Know Before You Buy Rural Property

Buying an acreage near Calgary or anywhere in Alberta? Before you sign on the dotted line, you need to understand zoning—because it controls what you can (and can’t) do on your land. Making assumptions about zoning is one of the biggest—and costliest—mistakes acreage buyers make.

🏠 What is Zoning?

Zoning is how municipalities regulate land use. It determines if your property is residential, agricultural, commercial, or another category, and it sets rules about what activities and structures are allowed.

🏡 Residential vs Agricultural Zoning

✔️ Residential zoning often has stricter limits on animals, outbuildings, and home businesses.

✔️ Agricultural zoning usually allows for more animals, larger shops, and sometimes flexibility for certain commercial uses like horse boarding or small farms.

⚠️ Common Restrictions to Watch For

Even in agricultural zones, you might face:

✔️ Limits on the number or type of animals (horses, goats, chickens)

✔️ Restrictions on shop sizes, secondary suites, or guest houses

✔️ Rules on whether you can subdivide or add a second dwelling

✔️ Requirements for setbacks from property lines, roads, or water bodies

🗺️ Check the Zoning Before You Buy

Zoning can vary even within the same rural community or county. Always:

✅ Contact the county or municipal office for the most up-to-date zoning details

✅ Ask about permitted uses, discretionary uses, and recent bylaw changes

✅ Confirm whether past uses on the property align with current zoning—grandfathered uses don’t always transfer to new owners

🏡 Why Zoning Matters

Misunderstanding zoning can leave you with property you can’t use the way you planned—or cost you thousands in bylaw fines, rezoning applications, or changes you didn’t budget for.

📩 Want My Acreage Zoning Guide?

DM me “ZONING” and I’ll send you my Acreage Zoning Guide, packed with Alberta-specific tips to help you buy rural property with confidence.

Related reading:

• Equestrian Property Must-Haves in Southern Alberta

• What It’s Really Like to Live in an Acreage Outside Calgary

Top Reasons to Move to This Alberta Gem

Just 20 minutes west of Calgary, Cochrane offers breathtaking views, small-town charm, and a vibrant community. Whether you’re considering a move or just curious, here’s why locals love calling Cochrane home.

🏞️ Stunning Rocky Mountain Views

Wake up every day to sweeping mountain backdrops. Cochrane’s location on the edge of the Rockies means incredible scenery is part of daily life.

🏘️ Friendly, Tight-Knit Community

Cochrane’s welcoming neighborhoods and active community spirit make it easy to feel at home. Locals love events like Cochrane Light Up and the Farmers’ Market.

🛍️ Historic Downtown Cochrane

Quaint shops, local cafes, and restaurants line the historic downtown. It’s perfect for strolling, shopping, and enjoying the town’s western heritage.

🚴 Outdoor Lifestyle

With the Bow River, Glenbow Ranch, and miles of pathways, Cochrane is a paradise for hiking, biking, fishing, and exploring. It’s an outdoor enthusiast’s dream.

🏡 Family-Friendly Living

Great schools, parks, playgrounds, and affordable homes make Cochrane an ideal place to raise a family. It’s one of Alberta’s fastest-growing communities for good reason.

🏞️ Small-Town Feel, Big-City Access

Cochrane’s location provides the best of both worlds: peaceful living with Calgary’s amenities just a short drive away.

📩 Want My Cochrane Relocation Guide?

DM me “COCHRANE” and I’ll send you my Cochrane Relocation Guide, packed with insights on neighborhoods, schools, and everything you need for a smooth move.

Related reading:

• Why Locals Love Living in Okotoks

• Best Suburbs of Calgary for Families in 2025

What Buyers Can Expect in Calgary’s 2025 Market

Have a budget of $700,000 and want to buy in Calgary? Whether you crave inner-city vibes, suburban comfort, or space outside the city, here’s what $700K can get you right now.

🏙️ Inner-City Homes

For $700K in neighborhoods like Altadore, Killarney, or Renfrew, expect:

✔️ Modern 2–3 bedroom townhomes with stylish finishes

✔️ Older detached homes with 2–4 bedrooms needing updates

✔️ Smaller lots but great walkability to shops, restaurants & downtown

🏘️ Established Suburbs

In areas like Evergreen, Tuscany, or Signal Hill, you’ll find:

✔️ Spacious 4-bed, 3-bath detached homes on quiet streets

✔️ Updated kitchens, finished basements & landscaped yards

✔️ Family-friendly neighborhoods with parks & schools nearby

🌳 Newer Communities

Communities like Legacy, Livingston, or Cornerstone offer:

✔️ Brand-new 3–4 bed, 2.5-bath homes with modern layouts

✔️ Double garages, builder warranties, and energy-efficient features

✔️ Smaller lot sizes but lower maintenance & modern amenities

🏞️ Acreages Near Calgary

Just outside the city, $700K can buy:

✔️ Older homes on 1–3 acre parcels

✔️ Room for hobbies like horses or gardening

✔️ Expect some updates or TLC needed—acreage homes in this range are often dated

💰 What Affects What You Can Get?

✔️ Location (inner-city vs suburbs vs rural)

✔️ Home age & condition

✔️ Lot size & amenities

✔️ Market competition—higher in some neighborhoods

📩 Want My Custom Property List?

DM me “700K” and I’ll send you a Custom Property List tailored to your budget, needs & favorite Calgary areas.

Related reading:

• What $500K Gets You in Calgary vs Airdrie

• Best Suburbs of Calgary for Families in 2025

Buy Your Next Home Before Selling Your Current One—Without the Stress

Found your dream home before your current one has sold? Bridge financing can help you move smoothly by covering the gap between buying and selling. Here’s what you need to know about bridge loans in Alberta.

💰 What Is Bridge Financing?

A bridge loan is a short-term loan that lets you purchase your new home before your existing property sale closes. It “bridges” the financial gap so you don’t miss out on your next opportunity.

📅 How Long Does Bridge Financing Last?

Most bridge loans in Alberta are designed to cover 30–90 days. This gives you time to sell your current home without rushing—or accepting an offer below market value.

🏦 Key Requirements

✔️ Firm Sale Agreement: You must have an unconditional sale on your existing property. Lenders won’t approve a bridge loan if your current home isn’t under contract.

✔️ Equity: The equity in your current home helps determine how much you can borrow.

✔️ Creditworthiness: Lenders will still check your financial profile.

💸 Costs to Expect

Bridge loans typically have higher interest rates than standard mortgages. However, paying a few weeks of interest can be worth it to avoid losing your next home—or being forced to settle for a quick, low-priced sale.

⚖️ Pros & Cons of Bridge Financing

Pros:

✔️ Secure your new home without waiting

✔️ Avoid rushed selling decisions

✔️ Maintain flexibility during your move

Cons:

✔️ Higher interest rates

✔️ Must have a firm sale agreement

📩 Want My Bridge Financing Guide?

DM me “BRIDGE” and I’ll send you my Bridge Financing Guide, covering step-by-step details, lender insights, and tips for moving without stress.

Related reading:

• Buying & Selling at the Same Time? Here’s My Strategy

• How to Time the Market Without Losing Sleep

Hidden Expenses Acreage Buyers Need to Budget For

Acreage life offers peace, space, and privacy—but it comes with unique maintenance costs many city buyers don’t anticipate. Before you buy rural property in Alberta, here’s what you need to know so you’re not caught off guard.

🛠️ Driveway Upkeep

Long gravel or dirt driveways can wash out or develop ruts after rain or snow. Regular grading, adding gravel, or repairs can cost several hundred dollars each year—or more if you hire a contractor.

🚜 Septic System Maintenance

Septic systems need pumping every 2–5 years ($300–$600 each time), and unexpected repairs or replacements can cost thousands. Neglecting maintenance can cause expensive and messy problems.

💧 Wells & Water Treatment

Annual well testing ensures your water is safe. Filters, water softeners, or treatment systems often need maintenance or replacement. Major well repairs or drilling a new well can run into five figures.

❄️ Snow Removal

City snowplows don’t clear private rural lanes. Long driveways may require a snowblower, tractor, or professional snow clearing service—which can add significant winter costs.

🌳 Trees & Fences

Acreages with mature trees require trimming or removal of dead or dangerous limbs. Fence repairs, especially on large properties, can cost thousands if sections need replacement.

📑 Other Costs to Consider

✔️ Pest control for mice, wasps, or wildlife

✔️ Increased heating costs for larger or draftier rural homes

✔️ Insurance premiums may be higher for rural properties due to distance from emergency services

📩 Want My Rural Living Cost Guide?

DM me “RURAL” and I’ll send you my Rural Living Cost Guide, packed with detailed budgeting tips so you can enjoy acreage life without financial surprises.

Related reading:

• What It’s Really Like to Live in an Acreage Outside Calgary

• Zoning 101 for Acreage Buyers in Alberta

Avoid surprises and protect your sale with the right documents.

When you’re selling a home in Alberta, there’s one requirement many sellers don’t fully understand: providing proof that your property complies with municipal bylaws. That proof typically comes from an RPR (Real Property Report) or, in some cases, title insurance—but the difference between them can mean the success or failure of your sale.

Here’s what every Calgary seller needs to know before listing.

📑 What is an RPR?

An RPR is a detailed land survey prepared by an Alberta Land Surveyor. It shows your property’s boundaries, structures (like decks, garages, and fences), and confirms whether your home complies with municipal rules.

Sellers are usually required to provide an up-to-date RPR with a certificate of municipal compliance, which proves there are no bylaw violations or encroachments.

🔒 What is Title Insurance?

Title insurance is an insurance policy that can protect buyers and lenders against certain issues—like undisclosed encroachments or zoning non-compliance—if an RPR is missing or outdated.

Some buyers and lenders accept title insurance in place of an updated RPR. But it’s not always guaranteed, and it doesn’t correct bylaw issues; it only covers certain risks financially.

⚠️ Why This Matters for Sellers

If your RPR is outdated (for example, if you’ve added a deck, garage, or fence), you’ll either need to update it or negotiate to provide title insurance.

The wrong choice can:

• Delay your closing

• Lead to last-minute renegotiations

• Even cause your sale to collapse

Understanding whether your RPR is current—and if not, whether title insurance is an option—will help you avoid costly surprises.

🏡 Key Takeaways for Calgary Sellers

✔️ Have an updated RPR ready before listing whenever possible.

✔️ Know when title insurance is acceptable—and when it’s not.

✔️ Discuss your options early with your REALTOR® and lawyer.

📩 Want My Free Seller’s Guide?

DM me “RPR” and I’ll send you my Seller’s Guide to RPR vs Title Insurance, so you know exactly what buyers expect—and how to keep your sale on track.

Related reading:

• Pricing Strategy 101 for Calgary Sellers

• The Truth About Staging in a Hot Market

If you're dreaming of wide-open spaces, peaceful pastures, and riding your horse right from your backyard—you're not alone. Southern Alberta offers some of the most breathtaking rural properties in Canada, and many buyers are looking to make their equestrian dreams a reality.

But buying a horse-friendly acreage isn’t as simple as falling in love with a view. Here's what you need to know before investing in an equestrian property near Calgary or across Southern Alberta.

1. ✔️ Confirm Zoning & Land Use Bylaws

Just because there’s land doesn’t mean you can legally keep horses on it. Always confirm:

• Land use designation (e.g., Agricultural, Country Residential, etc.)

• Animal unit allowances (varies by municipality)

• Any restrictions on outbuildings, corrals, or manure storage

Check with your county or municipality—Foothills County, Rocky View, Wheatland, and others all have different rules.

2. 💧 Understand the Water Situation

Horses drink a lot of water. A reliable well or cistern system is essential. Key considerations:

• Well yield (5+ gallons/minute is ideal for homes with livestock)

• Water testing for quality and flow

• If using a cistern: delivery frequency, cost, and tank capacity

Don’t forget about frost-free hydrants, automatic waterers, or backup options.

3. 🛠️ Evaluate Fencing, Shelters & Barns

A horse property without fencing is a major expense waiting to happen. Look for:

• Safe, secure perimeter fencing

• Functional outbuildings: barns, lean-tos, tack rooms, hay storage

• Proper orientation for wind and weather protection

If you’re building from scratch, get quotes in advance—costs can add up quickly.

4. 🚜 Year-Round Access & Drainage

Rural roads and muddy paddocks aren’t fun in the spring thaw.

Make sure the property has:

• All-season driveway access

• Good drainage around shelters and high-traffic areas

• Space for trailers or equipment to turn around safely

Poor drainage can lead to hoof problems, barn flooding, and expensive fixes.

5. 📍 Location, Location… Hay?

Being close to veterinarians, farriers, feed stores, and hay suppliers can make country life a lot easier.

Bonus: Proximity to indoor or outdoor arenas if you ride competitively.

Even if you don’t plan to compete, having nearby services adds convenience—and value.

Final Thoughts

Buying a horse property in Alberta is a big decision, but when done right, it’s a dream come true.

Make sure you're working with a REALTOR® who understands acreages, zoning bylaws, and what truly makes a great equestrian property.

🎁 Want My Free Equestrian Buyer Checklist?

DM me “HORSE” on Instagram or TikTok and I’ll send it your way!

Or reach out directly at kristenedmunds.ca

Let’s find a property that’s perfect for you and your horses.

The Spring 2025 housing market update from CREB® confirms what many Calgary buyers and sellers are already experiencing—demand is red hot, and inventory is struggling to keep up. With price growth showing no signs of slowing and migration fueling competition, now more than ever, strategic real estate advice is crucial. Here's what you need to know.

1. Calgary’s Market Momentum Is Strong

Calgary remains one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities, with population growth projected to top one million households by 2046. This demand surge continues to push sales up in the face of limited listings, especially in the detached, row, and semi-detached sectors.

• Sales rose 13% year-over-year in the first quarter of 2025.

• New listings only increased by 9%, intensifying competition.

• Months of supply remained below two, keeping conditions firmly in seller’s territory.

2. Price Growth Driven by Supply Constraints

Despite affordability advantages over cities like Toronto and Vancouver, Calgary is seeing record-breaking prices due to sustained low inventory. The benchmark price reached $580,700, a 9.6% year-over-year increase.

• Detached homes: $717,100, up 12%.

• Row homes: $447,900, up nearly 20%.

• Apartments: $324,000, up 13%, but growth has cooled due to increased supply.

3. Regional Snapshot: Markets Near Calgary Stay Hot

The surrounding areas saw similar dynamics, with most regions reporting increased sales and price gains.

• Airdrie: Sales rose 28%; inventory remains tight.

• Cochrane: Prices up 11% year-over-year, led by detached homes.

• Chestermere & Okotoks: Sales increased, though at a slower pace; semi-detached and row sectors are especially popular due to relative affordability.

4. Migration and Jobs Fuel Housing Pressure

Net migration remains a key market driver, bolstered by strong job growth. With unemployment dropping to 6.5% in Q1 2025, new Calgarians are quickly entering the home-buying market, particularly those seeking entry-level or mid-range properties.

5. What Buyers and Sellers Should Know This Spring

• For Buyers: Expect ongoing competition, especially under $700K. Pre-approvals and flexible terms can help you move fast in multiple-offer scenarios.

• For Sellers: Well-priced and well-presented homes are selling quickly. Strategic pricing is key to generating interest while maximizing returns.

• For Investors: Row homes and duplexes remain strong performers with attractive rental yields and lower price points than detached properties.

Final Thoughts: Strategy Is Everything in Spring 2025

The Spring 2025 market offers opportunity—but only for those prepared to act quickly and strategically. Whether you're planning to buy, sell, or invest in Calgary or the surrounding areas, the current conditions demand expertise and guidance.

📩 Want a detailed breakdown of how these trends impact your specific property or neighborhood?
Contact Me Today!

Source CREB.com

If you're buying a house or duplex in Alberta, especially in Calgary or surrounding areas, you'll likely hear the term Real Property Report—also known as an RPR.

But what is it exactly, and why is it so important?

🧾 What Is a Real Property Report (RPR)?

An RPR is a legal document prepared by a certified land surveyor. It shows the exact location of permanent structures on the property—like the house, garage, deck, fence, or shed—in relation to property lines.

It also includes any easements, rights-of-way, and additions made since the last survey.

✅ Why It Matters for Buyers in Alberta

A current RPR with municipal compliance is critical. It confirms that:

• Structures don’t encroach on your neighbour’s property or city land

• Additions (like decks or sheds) follow city bylaws

• There are no hidden liabilities attached to the property

Without one, you could face:

• Costly legal disputes

• Forced removal of non-compliant structures

• Delays in resale or refinancing

🏠 Do You Always Need an RPR?

For detached homes and duplexes in Alberta: Yes.

For condos or townhomes under condo plans: Usually not required.

Pro tip: Ask if the seller has an updated RPR with compliance at the time of offer. If not, negotiate who provides it—or consider title insurance as a backup (but not a perfect replacement).

📋 What to Look for on an RPR

• A visible compliance stamp from the municipality

• Survey date (older reports may not reflect recent additions)

• Properly marked lot lines and setback compliance

• No encroachments onto city land or easements

Final Thoughts

An RPR might seem like a technicality, but it’s one of the most important due diligence steps in buying a home in Alberta.

Still have questions or want a free checklist of what to look for?

📩 DM me “RPR” and I’ll send you the exact guide I use with my Calgary buyers.

If you’re looking at acreages in Calgary or surrounding areas, one of the first things you’ll need to understand is the property’s water source. Most acreages aren’t connected to city water—so it’s usually either a well or a cistern.

So… what’s the difference? And which one is better?

1. Wells: Independent, But Not Always Reliable

Wells draw water from underground aquifers, which means you aren’t dependent on truck delivery or refill schedules.

Pros:

• Unlimited use (within natural supply)

• No delivery fees

• Can be high quality with good flow rate

Cons:

• Must test for flow rate and quality (hardness, bacteria, etc.)

• Can run dry or need repairs

• Sometimes requires shocking or treatment systems

2. Cisterns: Predictable and Controlled, But Paid

A cistern is a large holding tank, typically installed in a basement or underground, that is filled by water truck delivery on a regular basis.

Pros:

• You control what water goes in

• Ideal where well quality or yield is poor

• Simple filtration systems

Cons:

• Ongoing cost of water deliveries

• May run out if not topped up

• Some rural insurance providers have stricter policies

3. What’s Better for Acreage Living Near Calgary?

It really depends on the location and the system’s condition. In areas with strong aquifers (like parts of Bearspaw or Springbank), wells are often preferred. In others—like certain spots in Rocky View County—cisterns are more reliable due to poor water tables.

As a general rule:

• A well is great if the flow rate is strong and water quality is proven.

• A cistern is better if you value control, predictability, and don’t mind deliveries.

Final Thought: Always Inspect and Ask Questions

Before buying, always:

• Ask for water test results and flow rate (for wells)

• Review cistern size, age, and maintenance logs

• Talk to neighbors about their water experience in the area

Want to avoid surprises?

💧 DM me “WATER” and I’ll send you my Acreage Water Checklist—perfect for buyers in Calgary and rural Alberta.