Buying Tips

Buying a home in Canada? You need to know about the Underused Housing Tax Act. This tax targets vacant homes owned by non-Canadians, but some Canadian owners need to file too.

Who pays? What properties count? The rules can get tricky, especially when there are additional taxes in some provinces and municipalities.

Don't get caught by surprise. Let's break down exactly who needs to worry about this tax and who can skip it.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with an attorney, tax, or financial advisor before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

Quick Notes on Vacant Home Taxes in Canada

• The Underused Housing Tax (UHT) is a 1% annual tax on vacant Canadian residential properties, mainly affecting non-Canadian

Looking for a faster, cheaper way to buy a new home? Modular homes might be the answer. These houses get built in a factory, then put together on land you own. They're often less expensive than regular homes and better for the environment.

But there's a catch. Getting a loan can be trickier, finding the right land adds another challenge, and selling later might not be as easy.

So is the money you save now worth these potential headaches? Let's break down the real pros and cons of modular homes to help you decide.

What is a Modular Home?

A modular home is simply a house built in sections at a factory, then delivered and assembled on your property. Think of it as getting your home in "modules" that fit together.

These homes come in lots of

If you’re searching for a profitable investment property in Calgary, townhouses offer several advantages. Townhouses cost less than single-family homes, making them perfect for first-time investors who want to break into real estate.

But before you sign that purchase agreement, you must know the pros and cons. Yes, rental rates are rising (which is great for you as a landlord). But townhouses don't grow in value as fast as houses, and those community fees can eat into your profits.

Let's look at what makes townhouses worth considering—and what might make you think twice.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

Townhouse Tips: Investing in

Townhouses are one of the best ways to invest in Calgary real estate when you want to own a property while still living in the heart of the city. 

They’re perfect for first-time home buyers, novice investors, and anyone looking for a sensible home in urban areas. 

A townhome is a multi-floor home that shares at least one wall with neighbouring properties. They typically range from 1,500 to 1,700 square feet—giving you more space than most condos but with less maintenance than a house. As a townhome owner, you'll own both the inside and outside of your unit, plus the land underneath.

Think of them as the best of both worlds: more space and ownership than a condo; less expensive than a single-family home. 

Here’s what you need to know before

The right spot in Calgary means everything when buying a house. A great location gives you easy access to what you need daily. It affects your home's future value, too.

Think about it—would you rather have a beautiful house in a neighbourhood you hate or an okay house in an area you love? Most people choose the better location every time.

Let's look at how you can determine which of Calgary's dynamic neighbourhoods is right for you.

Quick Tips for Calgary House-Hunters

• Check how close you'll be to grocery stores, schools, and parks in different Calgary communities
• Look at local school options for both CBE and Calgary Catholic School District
• Use the Calgary Police Service crime map to see which areas feel safest
• Test your

Putting less than 20% down on your new Calgary home? You'll need mortgage insurance. Most Calgary homebuyers use CMHC insurance when they don't have a big down payment. But what exactly is it, and how much will it cost you in today's hot Calgary market?

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed mortgage or home loan professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

What Is CMHC Insurance & How Does It Work?

CMHC insurance is a protection policy that lets you buy a home with less than 20% down payment by covering the lender in the event of mortgage default.

In Canada, down payment requirements vary based on home price. For homes under $500,000, you need at least 5% down. For homes between $500,000 and

Choosing the best time to get a mortgage can make a huge difference in your approval odds and the interest rate you'll pay. And when you're buying your first home, timing often feels more than ever.

Timing your mortgage application is a personal decision based on your unique financial situation, and while interest rates can't be perfectly predicted, you can optimize your chances of securing favourable terms by focusing on factors within your control like improving your credit score, saving a larger down payment, and maintaining stable employment.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed mortgage or home loan professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

The Short Answer: Timing Your Mortgage

When considering whether to build a new house or renovate an old one, homeowners face a pivotal decision that impacts their budget and everyday lives. Building from scratch typically offers customization and the assurance of modern features, but it's a hefty investment with a longer timeline. On the other hand, planning home additions and renovations can enhance the unique charm of an existing home and may require less capital upfront, yet the risk of unforeseen complications looms large. Homeowners must also consider the long-term implications of their choice on their lifestyle and financial health. Decide whether building a new house or renovating an old one is right for you.

Buying vs. Renovating: 5 Things to Consider

• Building a new home

As sustainability becomes a top priority in the construction industry, eco-friendly building materials are gaining popularity for their ability to reduce environmental impact while maintaining durability and efficiency. Whether you're constructing a new home, renovating an existing space, or simply exploring greener alternatives, using sustainable materials can lower carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency, and create healthier living environments. Check out some of the best eco-friendly construction materials available today as we highlight their benefits and why they’re a smart choice for builders and homeowners alike.

8 Eco-Friendly Building Materials You Should Look Into

• Cork: A renewable resource that provides excellent insulation and

When deciding between building a new home and purchasing an existing one, you’ll likely face a complex set of considerations including customization, cost, and timing. Building a new home makes it easier to tailor every aspect to your specifications, ensuring that the final product is aligned with your lifestyle needs. On the other hand, buying an existing home can be less of a financial burden and also offers the immediate gratification of a quicker move-in. But what are the hidden costs and surprises that might sway your decision one way or the other?

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

Notes on New Construction vs. Existing Home