Steps For Buying A Home In Alberta

Are you buying a home in Alberta? This step-by-step guide walks you through the entire process—from getting pre-approved and exploring the right communities to making an offer and moving into your new home. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or relocating from another province, this resource shows you what to expect when purchasing property in Alberta, so you can make informed decisions and move forward with confidence.

1. Find a Trusted Alberta REALTOR®

Connect with a knowledgeable real estate professional who understands your goals, lifestyle, and timeline. This is especially important if you’re relocating from another province.

2. Get Pre-Approved with a Mortgage Broker or Your Bank

Determine your budget early by working with a mortgage professional. A pre-approval gives you clarity and confidence when you start home shopping.

3. Start Shopping for Homes

Explore listings on REALTOR.ca and get set up with an auto search through Alberta’s Pillar9 MLS® system, which provides real-time property alerts tailored to your criteria.

4. Sell Your Ontario Home (Start Early!)

If relocating from Ontario (or another province), begin the process of selling your current home early to keep your timeline on track.

5. Request Video Tours of Properties

If you’re shopping from out of province, your REALTOR® can preview properties for you and send detailed video walkthroughs so you can make informed decisions from a distance and continue to narrow down your top properties to view in person.

6. Book a Home Shopping Trip to Alberta

Plan a visit to tour homes in person. Schedule showings with your REALTOR® and take the opportunity to explore neighbourhoods and get a feel for your future community.

7. Write an Offer on the Home You Love

Once you’ve found the right home, your REALTOR® will help you write and submit a strong, well structured offer. In addition to the standard Home Inspection and Financing Conditions – you may consider other inspections and tests to be written into your offer. Check out the downloadable resource “Buyers Conditions Checklist” at makeyourmovecalgary.ca for more considerations.

8. Offer Accepted – Enter the Condition Period

Once the seller accepts your offer, you enter the due diligence phase where conditions such as financing and inspections are completed.

9. Book Inspections & Confirm Financing

During the condition period, you’ll want to finalize the mortgage approval as well as book the home inspection and any other inspections you agreed upon during the offer.

10. Firm Up Your Offer

Once all conditions are met and waived, your offer becomes firm. You’re officially on the path to owning your new home!

11. Organize Your Move

Book a moving company, POD, shipping container, or relocation service well in advance—especially if you’re planning a long-distance move.

12. Cancel Utilities at Your Current Home

Make arrangements to cancel utilities and other services at your old home as of your move-out date.

13. Set Up Utilities, Internet & Taxes in Alberta

Arrange for your new home services, including:
– Electricity and natural gas
– Water and waste services
– Internet and cable
– Municipal property tax setup

14. Work with Your Alberta Lawyer

Your real estate lawyer will guide you through the fi nal paperwork, transfer of funds, and land title registration leading up to possession. Be prepared for this additional cost generally starting at $2000 and can be as much as $4500-$5000 due at the time of closing.

15. Travel to Alberta

If possession doesn’t align with your arrival, stay in a hotel, short term rental, or with friends. Be prepared for a few days without your belongings if they’re being shipped.

16. Possession Day!

Meet your REALTOR® around noon on possession day to receive your keys! Congratulations—you are officially a homeowner in Alberta! It’s time to settle in and fall in love with your new Province!

Note: This checklist is a resource to help you in the home buying process. It is not a substitute for professional legal or real estate advice. Please consult with your REALTOR® and/or lawyer for your purchase. 

Need a more personalized approach to planning your move to Calgary? Reach out! We’d be happy to schedule a call to help you further.