Following is an "abbreviated" account of the Buying Process, from the time you decide to make your purchase to the time you take possession of your dream home.  I have chosen to make the web copy abbreviated simply to make this page a little less cumbersome.  If you'd like a detailed version of the Buying Process, simply email me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it   and I'd be happy to send you a "no obligation" copy.

1.  You’ve Decided to Buy – Now What! 

Purchasing a home is probably the biggest financial decision you will ever make. Whether this is your first purchase or you are moving on to a different home that better meets your needs, this decision must be made carefully.

The first questions you must ask yourself are, why do you want to buy and can you afford to buy?  Having a clear sense of your reasons for buying will help you choose the right home.

2.  Preparation for the Purchase

Once you’ve decided to make the purchase, your next step is to prepare for the purchase.  First, you must talk to your bank or Mortgage Broker and get “pre approved” for a mortgage.  One of the worst things that can happen, is to finally find the home of your dreams, only to realize you don’t qualify for the mortgage.  Get pre approved and I will only show you homes that fall within your financial capabilities.  To prepare for your mortgage pre approval, you must build a “green file” that contains all your important financial documents.

Just remember, if you're considering a new home, now is not a good time to make sudden career changes or large purchases. You want to approach home buying from a position of financial stability.

3.  Choosing A Realtor to Help

Remember, to Real Estate Buyers in the Province of Alberta, a REALTOR is FREE.   When you choose your home from our MLS System, my fees are paid by the Seller.  You won't owe me a cent. 

This is great news, because the buying process requires making many important financial decisions, understanding complex issues and completing a lot of paperwork.  It helps to have an expert in your corner when undertaking such a large purchase.  I can guide you through the entire process, and make the transaction as stress free as possible.

Here are some important factors to consider when choosing me as your REALTOR:

• I am a full-time agent who has experience completing hundreds of transactions similar to yours.
• I love my business. 
• I am familiar with the area.
• I have time to devote to you.
• I am patient with Buyers.  I do not force you into the first home you look at.
• I have an ABR (Accredited Buyer Representative) designation, which means that, unlike most other Realtors, I have been formally trained to deal with Buyers in Real Estate.
• I continually strive to improve my business and gain knowledge of the latest real estate trends.
• I am a trained negotiator and will do my best to get you the perfect property for the lowest price.
• I will return your calls promptly! Time is money when attempting to buy a home.
• I will listen attentively to your needs and concerns.

4.  It's Time To Go Shopping

Once you've got your preparations out of the way, it's time to find the home of your dreams.  Based on the information you give me, I will set you up with a “Perfect Home Finder Search”.  Whenever a new property gets listed that meets the exact requirements you specified, you will immediately be notified by email, with all the details of that home.  This system is so fast you'll receive an email within minutes of it being listed.

Once we've picked out a new home, I can help you make an offer that the seller will accept. 

It may be comforting to know, that I am a REALTOR THAT EXPLAINS meaning I will give you a complete and thorough explanation of the Purchase Agreement.  As an Accredited Buyer’s Representative, it is my duty to ensure that you understand fully, all legal issues involved with presenting an offer.   

Also, keep in mind, that with your offer, you will be required to put down an “Initial Deposit”.  This amount varies according to the value of the home and is held “in trust” as a type of security to the Seller that you are committed to go ahead with the purchase.  This deposit goes towards the purchase price of the home, and sits in a trust account until possession date.   Please note that your initial deposit is not deposited until you and the Seller agree to a price and terms.  If you can’t come to terms on a deal, nobody takes your initial deposit.

5.  What Happens Once Your Offer Has Been Accepted!!

In most cases, your offer will have “Conditions”.  This means that you've come to terms with the Seller regarding price, terms and conditions and have agreed to purchase the property, but only if certain Conditions, such as the bank or lending institution approving your mortgage for this particular home and a home inspection, are met.  Other conditions may also be included in the offer.

A transaction of this size will have to be overseen by a lawyer to ensure that you are covered legally.  There will be a fee for this service.  If you don’t have a lawyer of choice, I can provide you with the names of qualified real estate lawyers.

Once your conditions have been met, and you have removed them (again I will help you with this process), the property is, for all intents and purposes SOLD!  Now, you must wait patiently for possession date, allowing the Seller time to remove their contents and make the home ready for your possession.  

6.  The waiting is finally over!

Possession date is finally here, and you're ready to move into your new dream home.  However, in the weeks leading up to possession date, several items need attention.  I can provide you with a detailed list of those items.

For a detailed version of THE BUYING PROCESS or a MOVE IN CHECKLIST, please email me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  You will be under no obligation and the checklist will be sent to you in pdf format, by email, immediately.