Avoid Costly Mistakes and Make Confident Home Buying Decisions

Making an offer on a home is one of the most exciting — and stressful — steps in the home buying process. After helping Calgary buyers for over 15 years, I’ve seen the same common mistakes over and over again. The good news? They’re easy to avoid when you know what to look out for.

Here are the 3 things I wish more buyers knew before making an offer so you can protect your investment and increase your chances of landing your dream home.

1. Get Pre-Approved, Not Just Pre-Qualified

Why this matters:

• Pre-qualification is a quick calculation based on self-reported income and debt. It’s an estimate — not a guarantee.

• Pre-approval involves a lender reviewing your income, credit, and finances. You’ll receive a written commitment, which tells sellers you’re serious and ready to buy.

Benefits of pre-approval:

• Gives you a clear and accurate budget

• Makes your offer more competitive (especially in Calgary’s hot markets)

• Allows you to act quickly when you find the right home

2. Understand the Market You’re Buying In

The Calgary real estate market shifts constantly. Whether it’s a seller’s market, a buyer’s market, or somewhere in between, your offer strategy needs to adapt.

• Seller’s Market: Homes sell fast, often above asking price. You may need to offer quickly and consider fewer conditions.

• Buyer’s Market: More homes to choose from and more room to negotiate on price, conditions, and possession dates.

• Balanced Market: Moderate competition with fair negotiation opportunities.

Knowing market conditions ensures your offer is competitive without overpaying or missing out on opportunities.

3. Don’t Skip Due Diligence

When emotions run high, buyers are tempted to skip important steps. Don’t do it.

• Home Inspection: Identifies hidden issues that could cost thousands later.

• Condo Document Review (if applicable): Reveals the financial health of the condo corporation and potential upcoming repairs.

• Zoning and Bylaws: Helps ensure the property suits your future plans (like adding a garage, suite, or outbuilding).

Taking the time to complete these steps protects your investment and gives you peace of mind.

Buying a home is exciting, but preparation is key.

• Get pre-approved so you know your real budget.

• Understand the market so you know how to negotiate.

• Never skip due diligence, even if it slows things down.

Want to avoid costly mistakes and feel confident about your offer?
📩 DM me “BUYER TIPS” and I’ll send you my complete Buyer’s Guide — filled with strategies, checklists, and expert advice to help you navigate Calgary’s real estate market.

Related Reading

• First-Time Home Buyer Tips in Calgary

• How to Choose the Right Calgary Community

• 5 Common Home Buying Mistakes to Avoid

What Buyers Need to Know Before Skipping This Critical Step

In a competitive market, waiving a home inspection might seem like the only way to win a bidding war—but it can leave you with thousands in unexpected repairs and zero recourse. Before you sign an offer without an inspection, here’s what you need to know.

🚨 Hidden Problems Can Cost You Big

Issues like mold, roof damage, foundation cracks, old wiring, or plumbing leaks may not be visible during a showing—but they can mean huge repair bills later. An inspection helps you uncover these problems before you buy.

💸 You Lose Negotiating Power

Without an inspection report, you can’t request repairs, credits, or price adjustments if problems exist. An inspection gives you leverage to protect your budget.

⚖️ Peace of Mind Is Priceless

Even if your dream home looks perfect, an inspection confirms it’s safe and sound. Knowing what you’re buying means fewer surprises—and less stress.

❗ Skipping the Inspection Means Accepting the Unknown

Once you close, all repairs become your responsibility. If major issues surface afterward, they could wipe out your savings or cost you more than you planned to spend.

🏠 When Might Waiving Make Sense?

In rare cases—like new builds with warranty coverage or condos where major systems are covered by the building—you might consider skipping an inspection. But even then, you should consult your REALTOR® first.

📩 Want My Home Inspection Checklist?

DM me “INSPECTION” and I’ll send you my Home Inspection Checklist, with key items to check and questions to ask—so you can buy with confidence.

Related reading:

• The Hidden Costs of Buying a Home in Calgary

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