Avoid Surprises with This Complete Buyer’s Guide

Saving for a down payment is just one part of buying a home in Calgary—but many buyers forget to budget for the hidden costs that can add thousands to their final bill. These expenses can catch even experienced buyers off guard. Here’s what you need to plan for so you can buy with confidence.

⚖️ Closing Costs

Expect to pay 1–3% of your home’s purchase price in closing costs, which can include:

✔️ Legal fees

✔️ Title insurance

✔️ Land title registration

✔️ Adjustments for prepaid property taxes or condo fees

🔍 Home Inspections & Appraisals

Even if your lender requires an appraisal, you should still budget for a home inspection—both are essential for protecting your investment.

🚚 Moving Expenses

Don’t forget to factor in the cost of:

✔️ Moving trucks or professional movers

✔️ Packing supplies

✔️ Potential storage fees if there’s a gap between moving dates

🛠️ Immediate Repairs & Upgrades

Even homes listed as “move-in ready” can require:

✔️ Fresh paint

✔️ Small repairs

✔️ Appliance replacements

✔️ Safety updates like locks or smoke detectors

🔌 Utility Hookups & Deposits

When you move in, many utility providers require deposits for services like:

✔️ Electricity & gas

✔️ Water

✔️ Internet & cable

📈 Other Costs to Watch

✔️ Condo document review fees if you’re buying a condo

✔️ Insurance premiums

✔️ Optional home warranties

🏡 Why Budgeting for Hidden Costs Matters

Planning for these expenses helps you:

✅ Avoid financial surprises

✅ Feel confident in your home purchase

✅ Protect your investment long-term

📩 Want My Hidden Costs Checklist?

DM me “COSTS” and I’ll send you my Home Buyer’s Hidden Costs Checklist so you’re fully prepared for your next move.

Related reading:

• The Hidden Costs of Buying a Home in Calgary

• What’s a Real Property Report? Why It Matters When Buying in Alberta

A Clear Guide for Calgary Residents and Newcomers

If you’re wondering whether to rent or buy a home in Calgary this year, you’re not alone. Calgary’s housing market in 2025 presents unique challenges—and opportunities—that make this decision more important than ever. Here’s what you need to know before making your move.

💸 Renting in Calgary: When It Makes Sense

Renting can be the smarter choice if you:

✅ Need flexibility for career or life changes

✅ Plan to stay in Calgary for less than three years

✅ Can’t comfortably cover a down payment or closing costs

✅ Want to avoid home maintenance or unexpected repairs

Calgary’s rental market has seen rising prices in recent years. Depending on your lifestyle, renting can either help you save for a future purchase or leave you chasing ever-increasing monthly costs.

🏠 Buying in Calgary: Benefits to Consider

Buying can make more sense if you:

✅ Plan to stay in your home at least 3–5 years

✅ Have a stable income and savings for down payment & closing costs

✅ Want to build equity instead of paying rent

✅ Prefer stability and control over your living space

Buying locks in your monthly payments (if you choose a fixed mortgage), helps you build wealth, and can shield you from unpredictable rent increases.

📊 Calgary 2025 Market Trends

• Calgary’s real estate market continues to show steady demand, with inventory shortages in some price brackets.

• Rent prices are rising in many neighborhoods due to high demand and low vacancy rates.

• Mortgage rates remain elevated compared to previous years but have stabilized, making careful cost comparison essential.

📍 How to Decide: Rent vs Buy

• Compare current rent prices vs mortgage payments in your target area.

• Factor in upfront costs: down payment, closing costs, moving expenses.

• Calculate how long you plan to stay—owning makes more sense if you’ll be in the home long enough to offset these initial expenses.

• Consider lifestyle flexibility vs the benefits of building equity.

📩 Want My Calgary 2025 Rent vs Buy Guide?

DM me “RENT OR BUY” and I’ll send you my Calgary Rent vs Buy Guide, complete with side-by-side cost breakdowns and neighborhood-specific comparisons.

Related reading:

• The Hidden Costs of Buying a Home in Calgary

• How to Time the Market Without Losing Sleep

A Calgary Buyer & Seller’s Guide to Smart, Stress-Free Moves

Everyone wants to buy low and sell high—but in real estate, trying to perfectly time the market can feel like chasing a unicorn. The good news? You don’t need perfect timing to have a successful, confident transaction. Here’s how to approach timing the Calgary market without losing sleep.

✅ 1. Know Your Why

Are you upsizing, downsizing, relocating, or investing? Your personal goals and timeline matter more than market cycles. Trying to wait for the absolute “bottom” or “top” can keep you stuck—and sometimes cost you opportunities.

📊 2. Watch Key Market Indicators

While you can’t predict the future, you can stay informed.

• Inventory levels (supply vs demand)

• Days on market (how quickly homes sell)

• Average sale-to-list price ratios

• Local economic news impacting housing

These can give you a sense of whether the market favors buyers or sellers.

🗓️ 3. Stay Flexible

A rigid move date can force you into a rushed decision or missing the right opportunity. Setting a range—like “summer 2025” instead of a specific week—lets you adapt if the perfect home or buyer appears.

🤝 4. Have a Solid Plan

If you’re buying and selling, coordinating these moves is key. A clear strategy with your REALTOR® helps reduce risk, avoid double moves, and lower financial stress.

⚖️ 5. Remember: The Best Time Is When It’s Right for You

The market will always move up and down. Focus on what works for your life, budget, and goals—and make decisions with expert guidance.

📩 Want My Free Market Timing Guide?

DM me “TIMING” and I’ll send you my Market Timing Guide, packed with strategies for Calgary buyers & sellers who want to move smart—no crystal ball required.

Related reading:

• Pricing Strategy 101 for Calgary Sellers

• The Hidden Costs of Buying a Home in Calgary