Calgary, located in the Canadian province of Alberta, is one of the wealthiest cities in Canada. With a booming population, clean air, and gorgeous rocky mountain scenery, this is a very attractive place to purchase a home. Calgary offers a low unemployment rate, affordable homes, no sales tax, above average salaries, and friendly people.

Buying a home is an adventure. It is also a simple process if you break it down into a few, easy to follow steps.

Your home purchase is an investment in you and your family’s future prosperity. Following some simple home buying guidelines will assure your success.

Here are six steps to follow when searching for Calgary homes for sale.

Step 1. Set Up a Meeting With a Realtor

In order to find a home that meets your expectations and needs, you and your realtor need to discuss your situation in detail. An agent is strongly recommended in any home purchase. They know many things about the real estate market that the average home purchaser does not.

Your agent is there to help you. Be specific when expressing to them what you are seeking in a home. This is a big investment, so give it the consideration and time it deserves.

Step 2. The Required Steps to Make Financial Arrangements for Your Home Purchase

Your agent can offer suggestions on financing. One popular financing option is the use of a mortgage broker. They offer multiple loan types, and options will include fixed or variable interest rates. You’ll want to inquire about all costs involved, including early payoff penalties, closing expenses, and attorney fees.

Inquire about any costs associated with locking in an interest rate. Knowing the amount of funds you are approved for is a determining factor in the home buying process.

Step 3. Searching for Properties

Now you begin the fun process of home shopping. Your realtor will compile a list of prospective properties. As new properties are introduced into the market, you will also be informed of those. In the process, you will eliminate some homes, and create a list of the homes you like most.

Do not get discouraged if you do not find a house immediately. You want to view several properties. Then you will be sure to find the perfect home.

Step 4. Make an Offer on the Property

Once a property is selected, the selling history is researched and compared with similar sized properties in the area. This helps you determine an offer price. Your offer will include specific terms and sale conditions, your offer price, and an adequate amount you are willing to pay as a deposit to secure the home.

Once the offer is prepared, your realtor will present it to the seller. If the offer is accepted, the seller and buyer will sign and execute the offer. If a counter offer is submitted, you will then evaluate and decide if you accept. If so, the counter offer is then signed by both parties.

Step 5. Finalization of the Offer Terms and Conditions

Your realtor will now begin the process of gathering all information to satisfy the conditions of the sale. The process usually includes the arrangement of a home inspection, and gathering information required by the lender. Once all conditions are satisfied, the property is marked sold and removed from the market.

Step 6. Taking Possession of Your New Home

The overall process from offer to possession can take 30 to 60 calendar days. The attorney will handle the final documents and closing legalities. You will need to make arrangements for providing the down payment amount. You will need to purchase homeowner’s insurance and provide proof of insurance to the lender.

Make plans to put the new home utilities in your name and terminate utilities at your prior residence. Don’t forget to have your mailing address changed. Your agent will meet with you on the day of possession, and together you will inspect the property to be sure all is as expected.

After that, you can move in and start enjoying your new home right away!

Tom Sherry is a Calgary real-estate agent. You can find more tips on finding Calgary homes for sale. Also search listings in Calgary by visiting Tom’s website by clicking here