A First-Time Buyer’s Checklist for Southwest Calgary
From your pre-approval to your first walk-through, the steps that make buying your first home in southwest Calgary simpler.
Buying your first home is exciting, and a little overwhelming. This checklist walks you through the steps in the order they usually happen, with a few southwest Calgary specifics along the way.
1. Get pre-approved
A mortgage pre-approval tells you what you can comfortably afford and locks in a rate for a period of time. Try the mortgage calculator on this site to get a feel for payments, then speak with a lender or broker.
2. Save for more than the down payment
Alberta has no land transfer tax, but you will still need money for legal fees, title insurance, a home inspection and moving costs. Budgeting 1.5 to 2 per cent of the price for closing costs is a sensible start.
3. Choose your community
- Signal Hill: established streets and good value.
- West Springs: walkable shops in West District.
- Springbank Hill and Aspen Woods: newer homes with mountain views.
4. Book an inspection
Even in a newer home, an inspection can catch issues with grading, roofing or the furnace before they become your problem.
Ready to start? Get in touch and we will build a plan around your budget and timeline.