Why Buy With Us
Real Estate Made Easy. Really.
When you work with CalgaryListings Group, you're not just getting an agent — you're gaining a full-service team that understands every angle of the buying process. We want you informed, confident, and protected at every step.
Nothing is 100% foolproof — but we make it our mission to ensure you are the most informed buyer about your new home that you can be. From first-time buyers to luxury clientele, we treat everyone the same and leave no stone unturned to find your new home.
Our buyers are currently saving an average of 1.5% more compared to buyers working with the average agent — approximately $9,360 in savings on an average-priced Calgary home. Based on Calgary MLS® data 2023–2024.
Financing
Know Your Numbers Before You Search
Getting pre-approved before you start house hunting sets you up for success. It shows sellers you're serious, gives you a clear budget, and speeds up the entire process when you find the right home.
We work with Al Zayat, a trusted Calgary mortgage broker who helps our buyers find the best rates and mortgage structure for their situation. One conversation can save you thousands.
Sample Calculation
Home price$850,000
Down payment (20%)$170,000
Mortgage amount$680,000
Rate (est. 4.89%) · 28 yr am.~$3,890/mo
* Estimate only. Speak with a mortgage broker for accurate figures based on your situation.
Common Questions
Buyer FAQ
Why should I hire a REALTOR® when buying a home in Calgary?
Working with a local
Calgary REALTOR® gives you a serious edge. They know the Calgary housing market inside and out, have access to properties the public might not see, and help you avoid costly mistakes. From viewing homes to negotiating offers, a good REALTOR® makes the entire home-buying experience smoother and more efficient.
Do I have to pay a REALTOR® as a buyer in Alberta?
In most Calgary real estate transactions, the seller covers the commission for both the buyer's and seller's agents. That means you get the expertise of a full-service team at no direct cost to you. We always confirm how fees are handled upfront before anything is signed.
Do I need to sign a contract with a REALTOR® in Alberta?
Yes — in Alberta, buyer representation agreements are required. These agreements protect both you and your REALTOR® by clearly outlining the services you'll receive and how long the relationship lasts. It's all about transparency and trust — and we walk you through it in plain language before you sign anything.
Should I get pre-approved before talking to a REALTOR®?
Yes — getting pre-approved for a mortgage before you start house hunting sets you up for success. It shows sellers you're serious and gives you a clear budget so you can focus only on homes you can actually afford. We can connect you with trusted Calgary mortgage brokers who make this process fast and easy.
How will a REALTOR® help with making an offer and negotiating?
A skilled
Calgary REALTOR® helps you write offers that are competitive but fair. We guide you on what price to offer, what conditions to include, and how to handle counteroffers. Our job is to get you the best deal while keeping your interests front and centre — and our track record shows it works.
How long does it usually take to buy a home in Calgary?
The timeline varies, but on average buyers spend anywhere from a few weeks to a few months finding and closing on a home. The current Calgary market moves quickly in many price ranges. We help you move as fast — or as carefully — as you need, depending on your goals and market conditions.
What's the difference between a REALTOR® and a real estate agent?
The main difference is that a REALTOR® is a licensed real estate agent who is also a member of a national association and follows a strict code of ethics. So while every REALTOR® is a real estate agent, not all agents are REALTORS®. Choosing a REALTOR® means choosing a higher standard of professionalism.
What hidden issues should I watch for when buying a Calgary home?
Some things aren't visible at first glance. We help uncover risks like asbestos in older homes, unpermitted renovations, outdated electrical or plumbing systems, RPR issues, and problematic condo documents. We guide you on when to walk away and when a home is genuinely worth it — even with its quirks.
We've helped countless families make a seamless transition to life in Calgary. From job markets to recreation to lifestyle fit, we know how to match your goals with the right community. We can do virtual tours, provide neighbourhood deep-dives, and guide you through the entire process remotely if needed.
What if things aren't working out with our REALTOR®?
We believe in earning your trust — not locking you in. If things aren't working out, have an honest conversation first. You may be able to end the agreement depending on the terms in your contract. More importantly — interview us before committing. We want to make sure we're a fit for you just as much as you want to make sure we're the right team.
How much down payment do I need to buy a home in Calgary?
The minimum down payment in Canada depends on the purchase price. For homes under $500,000 you need 5% down. For homes between $500,000 and $999,999 you need 5% on the first $500,000 and 10% on the remainder. Homes priced at $1 million or more require a minimum of 20% down. Keep in mind that any down payment under 20% requires CMHC mortgage default insurance, which adds a premium to your mortgage. The more you put down, the lower your monthly payments and the less you pay in insurance.
What are closing costs when buying a home in Calgary?
One of Alberta's biggest advantages for buyers is that there is Your main closing costs will be legal fees, which cover the purchase transaction and mortgage registration and vary based on purchase price and mortgage amount. We recommend budgeting around $3,000 to cover legal fees on the high side. You'll also want to budget for title insurance, a home inspection ($400–$600), and any adjustments for prepaid property taxes or condo fees. All in, most buyers budget 1.5%–2% of the purchase price for closing costs.
What is the First Home Savings Account (FHSA) and the Home Buyers' Plan?
These are two powerful federal programs that can significantly boost your down payment. The First Home Savings Account (FHSA) lets first-time buyers contribute up to $8,000 per year (maximum $40,000 total) in a tax-free account — contributions are tax-deductible and withdrawals for a home purchase are tax-free. The Home Buyers' Plan (HBP) lets you withdraw up to $60,000 from your RRSP tax-free to use toward a home purchase, which you repay to your RRSP over 15 years. Used together, these programs can add up to a significant down payment advantage. We always recommend speaking with a mortgage broker — like Al Zayat — to map out the best strategy for your situation.
What credit score do I need to buy a home in Calgary?
Most lenders require a minimum credit score of 600–620 to qualify for a mortgage, though this gets you limited options. A score of 680 or above qualifies you for most standard mortgage products at competitive rates. Above 720 typically gets you the best available rates. If your credit score needs work, a good mortgage broker can help you build a plan before you start house hunting — even a few months of focused credit improvement can make a meaningful difference to your rate and purchasing power.
Is Calgary currently a buyer's or seller's market?
Calgary's market conditions shift by price range and property type — which is why working with an agent who tracks current data matters. Generally, Calgary has been a strong market driven by population growth, interprovincial migration, and limited supply relative to demand. Some price segments are more competitive than others. We track current CREB data monthly and can give you a real-time read on conditions in the specific communities and price ranges you're targeting. Contact us for an up-to-date market snapshot.
What is CMHC mortgage insurance and do I need it?
CMHC mortgage default insurance is required whenever your down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price. It protects the lender — not you — in case of default. The premium ranges from 2.8% to 4% of the mortgage amount depending on your down payment, and is typically added to your mortgage balance. It's not something to fear — it's what allows many buyers to get into the market with less than 20% down — but it is an added cost worth understanding before you commit to a purchase price.
What happens during a home inspection in Calgary?
A home inspection is a visual assessment of the property's condition carried out by a licensed inspector — typically taking 2–3 hours. They'll evaluate the roof, foundation, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, insulation, windows, and more. You'll receive a written report with photos outlining any deficiencies. We always recommend including a home inspection condition in your offer, particularly for resale homes. Budget $400–$600 for a standard inspection. We have a trusted network of Calgary inspectors we can refer you to.
Should I waive the condition of financing in a multiple offer situation?
This is one of the most important decisions you'll face in a competitive market — and it's not one to take lightly. Waiving financing means you're committing to the purchase regardless of whether your mortgage is approved. We never advise waiving this condition unless you have a rock-solid pre-approval, a thorough understanding of the property, and have discussed the risk with your mortgage broker. There are ways to compete effectively in multiple offers without removing conditions that protect you — that's exactly the kind of strategic guidance we provide.
Can I buy a home in Calgary as a newcomer to Canada?
Yes — many newcomers successfully purchase homes in Calgary. The key factors are your residency status, employment history in Canada, credit history, and down payment. If you don't yet have an established Canadian credit history or employment record, some lenders require a larger down payment (up to 35%). There are newcomer mortgage programs designed specifically for this situation. We've helped many families
new to Canada navigate their first purchase here, and we can connect you with a mortgage broker experienced in newcomer lending.