Calgary has become one of the most talked-about cities in Canada—and for good reason. With a booming job market, more affordable housing than major metros like Vancouver and Toronto, and unbeatable access to nature, moving to Calgary is on the radar for families, professionals, and remote workers alike.

But before you pack up your life and head west (or east!), let’s break down what you really need to know about relocating to this dynamic Alberta city.

Why Are So Many People Moving to Calgary?

Calgary’s population has grown steadily over the last decade, and recent market shifts have made it even more attractive. Here's why:

• ✅ Affordability: Home prices are significantly lower than in cities like Toronto and Vancouver

• ✅ Lifestyle: Access to nature, big skies, and a laid-back pace without sacrificing opportunity

• ✅ Jobs: A diverse job market with growth in energy, tech, construction, health care, and remote work

• ✅ Family-friendly: Excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community

The Cost of Living in Calgary (What to Expect)

While Calgary is more affordable than most major Canadian cities, it’s not cheap—and you should come prepared:

• 🏡 Housing: The average price for a detached home is still accessible compared to most major markets, especially in suburbs like Airdrie, Cochrane, or Chestermere

• 💡 Utilities: You’ll see both natural gas and electricity on your monthly bill—expect higher costs in winter

• 💸 Property taxes: Alberta has no provincial sales tax (PST), but property taxes can be higher than expected

• 🚗 Transportation: Most residents rely on a vehicle. Calgary Transit serves the city, but it's not as comprehensive as transit systems in larger metros

What’s the Weather Really Like?

If you’ve never lived in Alberta, you’re in for a weather rollercoaster. Calgary is known for:

• ❄️ Cold winters (hello, -30°C), but

• 🌬️ Chinooks—warm winds that can raise temperatures by 15–20 degrees in a single day

• 🌞 Sunshine—Calgary sees more sunny days per year than any other major Canadian city

• 🌱 Dry climate—great for those who don’t love humidity

Bottom line? Dress in layers and prepare for mood swings from Mother Nature.

The Calgary Lifestyle: What You’ll Love (and What Might Surprise You)

Calgary has a unique personality. It blends a cosmopolitan downtown core with small-town friendliness and rural charm. Here’s what stands out:

• 🤝 People are friendly. Like, actually friendly. Don’t be surprised if strangers hold doors or say hello

• 🎡 The Calgary Stampede—whether you love rodeos or not, it’s a cultural event you’ll experience at least once

• 🐎 Outdoor access—you’re an hour from the Rockies, 10 minutes from foothill trails, and surrounded by nature

• ☕ Local businesses thrive—especially in neighborhoods like Kensington, Inglewood, and Marda Loop

Where Should You Live in Calgary?

Your perfect community depends on your lifestyle. Here are a few top picks:

• 🏙️ Inner City (Beltline, Hillhurst, Inglewood): Great for young professionals who want to be close to downtown

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly (Evanston, Auburn Bay, Mahogany): Known for schools, parks, and newer homes

• 🌾 Acreages & Lifestyle Properties (Springbank, Bearspaw, Foothills County): Ideal for buyers seeking space and privacy outside the city

Looking to sell and buy at the same time? I specialize in helping clients transition smoothly between properties—especially those moving into Calgary or out into acreages.

Before You Move: Know These Relocation Tips

• ✅ Get pre-approved—Alberta’s lending rules are different than other provinces

• ✅ Research job licensing—especially in healthcare, education, or trades

• ✅ Plan for timing—the market moves fast, and closing dates vary

• ✅ Work with a local expert—Calgary is unique, and every neighborhood offers something different

Ready to Explore a Move to Calgary?

Whether you’re relocating from across the country or just looking for a fresh start, I help buyers move to Calgary with clarity, confidence, and strategy.

📩 DM me “RELOCATE” or click below to download my free Moving to Calgary Guide—built for real buyers like you.

👉 [Insert your lead magnet link or contact form]

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Calgary a good place to live in 2024?
Yes! Calgary offers a high quality of life, strong job growth, and more affordable housing than most major Canadian cities.

Q: What should I know before moving to Calgary?
Expect cold winters, a dry climate, and car-dependent living. But you’ll also enjoy friendly people, amazing scenery, and a thriving job market.

Q: Where do most people move from?
Many newcomers are relocating from British Columbia and Ontario due to high housing prices and changing job dynamics.

Is acreage living in Alberta your dream—or a reality check in disguise?

Thinking of leaving the city for space, serenity, and sunsets? You're not alone. More and more homebuyers are exploring the idea of living on an acreage near Calgary—and for good reason. The appeal of wide-open space, privacy, and a slower pace is real.

But before you pack up for the foothills or rural Alberta, it’s important to understand what acreage living really involves. As a Calgary-based REALTOR® with 15 years of experience—and a rural upbringing—I help buyers make this transition with confidence and clarity.

Let’s break down the real pros and cons of acreage life so you can decide if it’s truly the lifestyle for you.

✅ Why People Love Living on an Acreage Near Calgary

There’s a reason acreage living is on the rise, especially as remote work becomes more common and families seek more room to grow.

Here’s what makes it so attractive:

• Space to breathe: Say goodbye to shared fences and city noise. Enjoy larger lots and true privacy.

• Stunning natural views: From foothills to open skies, you’ll enjoy scenic backdrops year-round.

• Freedom to create: Outbuildings, gardens, horses, chickens, shops—you name it. With fewer restrictions, the land is yours to shape.

• Peace and quiet: No constant traffic or noise pollution. Just you, your space, and the great outdoors.

• Connection to nature: Daily walks, stargazing, and wildlife sightings become part of everyday life.

⚠️ What to Expect When Buying an Acreage in Alberta

Acreage living also comes with a learning curve and unique responsibilities that city dwellers don’t usually face. Here's what you need to know:

💧 Water & Septic Systems

Unlike city homes, acreages typically rely on private wells and septic systems. These require maintenance, occasional inspections, and a basic understanding of how they work. If something goes wrong—it’s your responsibility to fix it.

❄️ Snow Removal

That long gravel driveway may look charming in summer—but come winter, you become the snowplow. Expect to invest in equipment, hire a contractor, or plan time for clearing snow yourself.

🚗 Commuting & Services

Living outside Calgary means longer drives for groceries, school, and work. Emergency services, deliveries, and even garbage pickup may be delayed or handled differently. Make sure your daily routine is compatible with a more rural setup.

📶 Internet & Utilities

Some rural areas still experience slow or spotty internet and cell service. That said, satellite and rural broadband options are improving—just confirm serviceability before buying.

🧰 More Self-Reliance

There’s no condo board or landlord to handle things. From fixing fences to troubleshooting your well pump, acreage life rewards independence and a can-do attitude.

🧡 The Hidden Perk: A Stronger Sense of Community

Despite all the space, acreage communities often have a surprising upside: tight-knit, supportive neighbors. People wave. They help each other. It’s less anonymous than the city, and more personal.

🤔 Is Living on an Acreage Near Calgary Right for You?

If you’re dreaming of more freedom, more space, and a quieter way of life—acreage living in Alberta might be exactly what you need.

But it’s not for everyone. It takes planning, awareness, and the right support to make it work—especially if you're also selling a home in the city or managing a complex transition.

That’s where I come in.

As a local expert with deep rural knowledge and a track record of guiding clients through buy/sell transitions, I can help you make a confident move—without surprises.

📋 Free Download: Acreage Buyer Checklist

Ready to explore acreage properties near Calgary?
📩 Download my free Acreage Buyer Checklist for everything you need to know before you start shopping.

Whether you’re looking in Foothills County, Rocky View, Cochrane, Okotoks, or Chestermere, I’ll help you find a property that fits your lifestyle—without the guesswork.

👉 DM me “ACREAGE” on Instagram and I’ll send it your way!

🔍 Frequently Asked Questions

What are the downsides of living on an acreage near Calgary?

You’re responsible for your own water, septic systems, snow removal, and property maintenance. Commute times are longer, and internet may not be as reliable. It's a more independent lifestyle.

Is acreage living worth it in Alberta?

If you value privacy, outdoor space, and the freedom to create your own lifestyle, acreage living can be incredibly rewarding. Just be prepared for a different pace and more hands-on responsibility.

📞 Want to Talk About Acreage Life?

Let’s connect. I’d love to hear about your dream lifestyle and help you figure out if an acreage is truly the right move.
📲 Book a consultation, follow me on Instagram @KristenEdmunds.RealEstate, or shoot me a DM with “ACREAGE” to get started.

Figuring out how much house you can afford can be challenging, but it is one of the most important steps when planning to buy a home. Understanding your budget ensures you do not become "house poor"—a term used for individuals who buy a home beyond their financial reach and struggle to cover other living expenses. This guide will help you make informed decisions and balance buying a home with maintaining a healthy budget.

Understand Your Financial Picture

Before you start browsing listings, getting clear on your financial situation is crucial. Here’s how you can begin:

1. Calculate Your Income
   Add up all sources of income, including salary, bonuses, rental income, and any other earnings. This gives you an idea of what you have to work with every month.

2. Review Your Expenses
   Look at all your regular expenses, such as groceries, transportation, entertainment, and savings contributions. Understanding these will help you identify how much you can spare for a mortgage payment.

3. Check Your Credit Score
   Your credit score impacts the mortgage rate you can secure. A higher score can lead to a lower interest rate, saving you thousands over the loan's life.

The Importance of the Down Payment

A down payment is the lump sum you pay upfront when buying a home. It affects your loan amount and whether you'll need mortgage insurance. Here's what to know:

• Homes Up to $500,000:
  A 5% down payment is required. This means saving $25,000 for a $500,000 home.

• Homes $500,000 to $999,999:
  You need 5% of the first $500,000 and 10% of any amount over that. For instance, a $750,000 home requires $25,000 on the first $500,000 and $25,000 on the remaining $250,000, totaling a $50,000 down payment.

• Homes $1 Million or More:
  A 20% down payment is standard. This equals $200,000 for a $1,000,000 home.

First-time buyers might not have a large down payment. However, they should remember that putting down less than 20% requires mortgage loan insurance.

Budgeting Beyond the Purchase Price

Buying a home involves more than just paying the sale price. Budget for extra costs:

1. Closing Costs:
   These include lawyer fees, land transfer taxes, and other administrative charges, typically ranging from 1.5% to 4% of the purchase price.

2. Moving and Setup Expenses:
   Consider costs like hiring movers, utility setup fees, and initial purchases such as furniture or appliances.

3. Emergency Fund:
   Set aside funds for unexpected repairs or costs that may arise after moving in.

Choose the Right Mortgage

Securing the best possible mortgage is vital. Here's how:

1. Shop Around:
   Compare rates from different lenders to find the best deal. Even a small difference in interest rates can greatly affect the total amount you pay over time.

2. Consider Different Types:
   Look into fixed-rate and variable-rate options. Understand how each works and their pros and cons based on your financial outlook.

3. Get Pre-Approved:
   A pre-approval gives you a better idea of what a lender might offer and shows sellers you're serious, making your bid more attractive.

Assess What You Can Comfortably Afford

When deciding what you can afford, think about your daily life, not just the mortgage payment.

1. Use the 28/36 Rule:
   Experts suggest that your housing costs should not exceed 28% of your gross monthly income. Additionally, your total debt payments should not surpass 36% of your income.

2. Prioritize Needs Over Wants:
   Understand the difference between essential features (like number of bedrooms) and nice-to-haves (like a pool). Focus on what adds real value to your family life.

Location Matters

Knowing where you want to buy is as important as what you want to buy.

1. Neighbourhood Insights:
   Research the best neighbourhoods for safety, schools, and convenience. Location can impact property value and growth potential.

2. Property Types:
   Decide what suits you best—a single-family home, condo, or townhouse. Each has unique costs tied to its property type, like HOA fees for condos.

Utilize Professional Guidance

Working with a real estate expert can significantly ease the home-buying process. Here’s what they offer:

1. Buyers Agent Expertise:
   They provide access to listings, honest advice, and negotiation experience ensuring stress-free transactions.

2. Financing Connections:
   Agents often know mortgage brokers who can offer guidance suited to your needs.

3. Market Knowledge:
   Agents familiar with your area can offer insights that save you money and help you find a home that fits well with your life goals.

Take Advantage of First-Time Buyer Programs

For starters, there are government programs that aim to make this journey easier.

1. First Home Savings Account (FHSA):
   This account lets you save specifically for a down payment, with some tax advantages that can make it faster to reach your goal.

2. Tax Rebates:
   Look into available tax rebates for first-time buyers that can add extra savings when buying your home.

Conclusion

Knowing how much home you can afford involves thoughtful planning and budgeting. By following these steps, you can find a home that meets your needs and remains within your financial reach. With the right information and support, the path to homeownership can be a rewarding journey. Always remember, being prepared and informed is the best way to enjoy your new home with peace of mind.

Buying a new build is exciting, but if you also have a home to sell, the process can become a bit more complex. From timing your sale to managing financial risks, there’s a lot to consider—especially with the unique timelines involved in new builds. Here’s what you need to know to navigate this process smoothly and protect your investment.

Understand the Timing Challenges

1. Spec Homes (Quick Possession Homes)
If you’re purchasing a spec home, the timeline is typically shorter—anywhere from immediate possession to 3–6 months. This makes coordinating the sale of your current home a bit easier, as possession dates are more predictable.

2. Custom-Built Homes
With custom builds, the timeline is much longer (8–18 months), and the possession date is often approximate until the builder provides a final notice. Most builders only give a 30-day notice of possession, meaning you’ll need to be prepared to act quickly. If you’re relying on the sale of your current home to fund your new purchase, you’ll need to list and sell your home within that 30-day window. This adds urgency to the process, making it crucial to work with a REALTOR® who can help you plan effectively.

Plan for Market Risks

The real estate market can shift significantly over the 8–18 months of a custom build timeline. Here’s how to mitigate potential risks:

• Evaluate Market Trends: Work with your REALTOR® to understand current and projected market conditions.

• Be Conservative with Value Assumptions: Don’t rely on today’s high market value to remain unchanged—plan for potential fluctuations.

• Have a Backup Plan: Be prepared to adjust your strategy if the market changes unexpectedly, whether it’s selling sooner or exploring bridge financing.

Consider Bridge Financing

Bridge financing can be an effective solution for buyers who need equity from their current home to complete the purchase of their new build. This short-term loan allows you to buy the new home while waiting for your current home to sell. Your REALTOR® and mortgage broker can guide you in evaluating whether this option is suitable for your financial situation.

Strategic Timing for Selling Your Current Home

Timing the sale of your current home depends on your individual circumstances and the builder’s timeline:

• Selling Early: Listing your home well before your new build is complete gives you more control over the sale process but may require temporary housing.

• Selling Closer to Possession: Waiting until the builder provides the 30-day possession notice may minimize disruption, but it’s risky if your home doesn’t sell quickly.

Your REALTOR® can help you decide the best timing strategy based on your needs and market conditions.

Account for GST on New Builds

New builds are subject to GST (5% in Alberta), which many buyers overlook. Depending on the builder, GST may or may not be included in the advertised price. Be sure to confirm this detail and budget accordingly. A knowledgeable REALTOR® can help ensure you’re fully informed of all costs.

Work with a REALTOR® for a Seamless Process

Managing the sale of your current home while buying a new build requires careful coordination. A REALTOR® will:

• Analyze market trends to help you price your current home competitively.

• Provide guidance on timing your sale to align with your builder’s timeline.

• Help you navigate the 30-day possession notice and act quickly to list and sell your home if needed.

• Offer strategies like bridge financing and temporary housing options.

Final Thoughts

Selling your home while buying a new build can be a challenging process, but with the right planning and a trusted REALTOR® by your side, it’s manageable. By preparing for market risks, timing your sale strategically, and understanding the 30-day possession notice, you can confidently transition into your new home.

Have questions or need help navigating this process? I’d love to assist! Let’s work together to create a plan that ensures your new build journey is smooth and successful.

Dreaming of wide-open spaces, a little extra privacy, and the beauty of rural life? Buying an acreage is a unique and rewarding experience, especially in the beautiful Calgary area. But before you make that investment, here are five essential things to keep in mind to ensure the acreage you’re buying is the perfect fit for you.

1. Access to Utilities & Essential Services

Acreage living is quite different from city life, especially when it comes to utilities and essential services. Unlike urban properties, acreages often rely on private systems for things like water and sewage. It’s essential to understand:

• Water Supply: Many acreages depend on wells, cisterns, or water coops. Make sure to inspect the water quality and understand maintenance needs.

• Sewage and Waste: Acreages usually have septic systems instead of municipal sewage. Understanding how these systems work and the maintenance they require can save you time and unexpected costs.

• Garbage Services: Check if garbage and recycling services are available, or if you’ll need to arrange for private waste management.

2. Property Maintenance Requirements

Acreages come with vast outdoor spaces, which often means more work to keep the property looking its best. When considering acreage living, think about:

• Landscaping: Who will handle tasks like mowing, pruning, and managing weeds? Larger properties might require more equipment or help.

• Snow Removal: Driveways on acreages can be long and sometimes steep, which makes snow removal essential in winter months.

• General Maintenance: Fencing, tree care, and land upkeep are ongoing responsibilities. Make sure the maintenance fits within your lifestyle and budget.

3. Zoning & Land Use Regulations

Zoning rules for rural properties can impact your plans. Whether you’re interested in farming, building additional structures, or raising animals, zoning regulations play a big role.

• Check Zoning Types: Zoning can range from agricultural to residential. Each type comes with specific restrictions on what you can and cannot do.

• Future Plans: If you’re planning any future additions or modifications, make sure to verify these with the local planning authority to avoid surprises down the road.

4. Nearby Development and Future Plans

One of the biggest attractions of buying an acreage is privacy and space, but be aware of future developments that may impact the area.

• Infrastructure Changes: Nearby road expansions, commercial buildings, or housing developments can affect property value and the rural atmosphere.

• Community Growth: Research future projects by checking with municipal planning departments. Staying informed about potential changes can help you make the best long-term decision.

5. Access and Commute Times

Acreages are often located away from city centers and may involve longer commute times. It’s important to factor in:

• Commute to Work or School: Calculate travel times to ensure the location fits your daily routine and lifestyle needs.

• Accessibility: Consider proximity to main roads, winter road conditions, and ease of accessing services like grocery stores, hospitals, and schools.

Final Thoughts: Ready to Find Your Perfect Acreage?

Buying an acreage is about more than just finding a home; it’s about creating a lifestyle that fits your unique needs and goals. With the right planning and preparation, owning an acreage can be one of the most rewarding real estate decisions you make.

If you’re interested in exploring acreage options around Calgary or have questions about making the transition to rural life, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m here to guide you through every step and ensure your dream property becomes a reality.

Entering into an Exclusive Buyer Representation Agreement is a significant step for any homebuyer. This agreement outlines not only my commitment to providing focused and professional representation but also details the rights, responsibilities, and protections you’ll have as a buyer.

In this post, I’ll cover each key element of the agreement so you can feel confident in what this document entails and how it benefits you.

1. What is the Exclusive Buyer Representation Agreement?

This agreement is a formal arrangement between you and the brokerage, through me as your designated agent. By signing, you’re granting me the exclusive right to assist you in finding and purchasing a property that matches your search criteria.

As your designated agent within a designated agency brokerage, I am exclusively committed to you. This distinction is essential in Alberta’s real estate market, as designated agency ensures that even though I work within a larger brokerage, I represent only your interests in the transaction, separate from other agents in our office.

2. Key Responsibilities of Your Designated Agent

Upon signing, I will provide exclusive services to help you navigate the home-buying process. This includes:

• Property Search and Evaluation: I actively search for properties that meet your criteria, provide market evaluations, and discuss each property’s pros and cons.

• Offer Preparation and Negotiation: When you’re ready to move forward on a property, I’ll guide you in creating a competitive offer, negotiate terms on your behalf, and manage all necessary paperwork.

• Market Updates and Professional Advice: I’ll keep you updated on market conditions and provide honest advice to empower your decisions.

  
  

3. Conflict of Interest and Transaction Facilitation

A conflict of interest may arise if I represent both a buyer and a seller for the same property. In such a case, I will inform both parties and present options, such as acting as a transaction facilitator. In a transaction facilitation role, I’d act neutrally to help bring the deal to completion without representing either party’s specific interests. If either party does not agree to facilitation, I would continue to represent the client with whom I signed the agreement first, unless we agree otherwise in writing.

4. Compensation and Commission Details

Typically, the seller pays the buyer’s agent commission, so most buyers don’t incur out-of-pocket expenses for this service. However, there are exceptions, like For Sale By Owner (FSBO) properties or instances where the seller offers a lower commission than the rate agreed upon in our brokerage agreement.

In such cases, I’ll negotiate my commission with the seller on your behalf. If needed, we can amend our agreement to reflect any modifications so that you’re not left covering the difference, or, if necessary, we may discuss the possibility of you covering the shortfall. For a more detailed explanation of these scenarios, see my Buyer’s Agent Commission and Compensation blog post.

5. Indemnification Clause

Under this agreement, you agree to indemnify and protect me and my brokerage from any legal claims arising from consents or acknowledgments made within this agreement, as well as any claims resulting from our good faith reliance on information you provide. This means that, if issues arise from these aspects, you would be responsible for covering related legal fees or other expenses.

6. Property Recordings and Privacy

It’s important to note that some properties you view may have active recording devices, including video and audio. Our brokerage, including myself, may not always be aware of these devices, so we can’t control whether you’re recorded by the property’s owners. By signing, you agree to release and hold us harmless from any privacy claims related to recordings made by the seller during your viewings.

7. Confidentiality Obligations

Confidentiality is at the core of my service to you, and this obligation doesn’t end when our agreement concludes. I am committed to protecting all personal and financial information related to your transaction, both during our agreement and afterward. Any confidential information shared during the transaction remains secure and is only disclosed with your written consent or as required by law.

8. Additional Terms and Show Home Visits

In some cases, there may be additional terms in the agreement that clarify specific expectations. For example, if you’re interested in new builds or pre-sale properties, I ask that you contact me before visiting show homes or sales centers. Many builders require an agent to be present at your first visit to secure representation and avoid exclusion from the sales process.

9. Early Termination Scenarios

The agreement will end automatically when you complete a purchase. However, several other circumstances can lead to early termination:

• If I or the brokerage materially breach the agreement, you can end it with written notice.

• If my real estate license is suspended, cancelled, or if our brokerage goes bankrupt, the agreement will terminate.

• You also have the option to end the agreement if our board membership status changes in a way that affects our ability to fulfill our obligations.

10. Document Attachments and Amendments

Any additional documents, such as the Consumer Relationship Guide, are attached to the agreement and form part of it. This guide provides valuable information on the different types of relationships you can have with a real estate agent, including designated agency, and what each relationship means for your rights and obligations. If any changes are needed to the agreement, amendments must be made in writing and signed by both parties to be valid.

For more insights into the different agency relationships and how they affect your rights as a buyer, feel free to check out my blog post, Understanding Your Relationship with a Real Estate Agent: A Guide for Buyers and Sellers.

11. Agreement Finalization and Communication Methods

To finalize the agreement, both you and I will sign, acknowledging that we’ve reviewed each part of the agreement and fully understand its terms. This includes your preferred communication methods for exchanging information—whether in person, by mail, or electronically. We recognize that each of these methods may involve certain risks, which we will discuss so you’re comfortable with the process. Additionally, we agree that electronic signatures are legally binding and will function the same as traditional ink signatures.

In Summary

The Exclusive Buyer Representation Agreement is an essential document that formalizes the commitment between you and your agent, ensuring you receive dedicated, confidential, and expert representation. This agreement provides peace of mind, clarity, and structure throughout your real estate journey.

If you have questions or would like to review the agreement together, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help ensure every aspect of your buying experience is transparent and supportive.

For more information on compensation and commission scenarios, please refer to my detailed post here, where I cover what happens in cases where commission differs from our original agreement.

When buying a property, one of the least-discussed yet essential topics is buyer’s agent commission. While most buyers won’t pay this fee directly, certain situations may vary, making it important to understand how compensation works and what options exist if the seller’s offered commission doesn’t align with our agreement.

In this post, I’ll explain the typical process for buyer’s agent compensation and outline alternative solutions for scenarios where adjustments may be needed.

How Buyer’s Agent Fees Work in a Typical Transaction

In most real estate transactions, the seller pays the buyer’s agent commission through the listing brokerage. This payment, typically factored into the sale price, is arranged upfront by the seller and their agent to encourage buyer representation and ease the transaction process. Once the sale is complete, the agreed-upon commission is paid to the buyer’s agent.

This standard arrangement allows buyers to access professional services without additional costs. However, there are exceptions, especially when a seller is not offering the full commission agreed to in our Exclusive Buyer Representation Agreement or when dealing with a For Sale By Owner (FSBO) property where no commission is offered.

Homebuilders and New Construction

Homebuilders do not fall under the same compensation structure as realtor-represented listings. If you’re working with a real estate agent and are interested in new build or preconstruction options, it is essential to take your real estate agent with you on your initial visit to the homebuilder. By registering with the builder at that first meeting, your agent can represent your best interests, ensuring proper compensation through the builder and avoiding any potential out-of-pocket costs to you as the buyer under our exclusive buyer representation agreement.

When Seller Compensation Differs from Our Agreement

If the seller’s offered commission doesn’t match what we agreed upon in the Buyer’s Brokerage Agreement, the agreement gives me the right to negotiate the fee directly with the seller. Here are the most common options we may explore:

1. Negotiating with the Seller

   In many cases, I can work with the seller or their agent to negotiate the agreed-upon commission, which allows you to avoid covering the difference out of pocket. This negotiation helps ensure that my services remain accessible to you without added expense, even when the seller’s commission offer is lower than expected.

2. Modifying the Agreement

   Occasionally, we may choose to adjust our Buyer’s Brokerage Agreement to accept the lower commission offered by the seller for a specific property. This option can be a practical solution, particularly when the difference is minimal or when the property meets your needs well. Modifying the agreement in this way helps avoid any additional costs to you as a buyer.

3. Buyer-Paid Commission

   If neither negotiation nor modification works, you may be asked to cover the difference between the seller’s offered commission and our original agreement. This scenario, while less common, may arise when a seller is unwilling or unable to pay the full commission. By considering this possibility in advance, we can avoid surprises later and move forward with clarity.

Key Takeaway: What to Expect

For most buyers, commission fees are covered by the seller, making the buyer’s agent services effectively free of charge. However, if the seller’s compensation differs from our agreement, we’ll review your options and select the most suitable approach—whether that’s negotiating with the seller, modifying the agreement, or discussing the possibility of a buyer-paid commission.

By having these conversations early on, you’ll have a clear understanding of potential costs and gain peace of mind knowing that your interests are well-protected.

Have Questions? Let’s Chat!

Understanding commission and compensation can be complex, but I’m here to make the process transparent and stress-free. If you have any questions about how commissions work or want to explore your options in more detail, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we’ll ensure your home-buying experience is smooth, professional, and tailored to your needs.