Do I pay GST when buying a vacant lot in Beaumont, Alberta?

It depends on who's selling. If the seller is a private individual (not a builder or developer), GST typically doesn't apply. If the lot is being sold by a builder or developer, GST usually does apply. Always confirm this in writing before you offer - it can affect your final price by tens of thousands of dollars.

How much is my home worth in Edmonton right now?

Home values depend on recent sales in your specific neighbourhood, not city-wide averages - a home in Sherwood Park won't price the same way as one in Beaumont, even a few kilometres apart. The most accurate number comes from a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) based on homes that sold in the last 60-90 days near you. I provide these free, with no obligation.

How long does it take to sell a home in Edmonton right now?

It depends on price point and neighbourhood, but most well-priced homes in Edmonton and Sherwood Park are selling within 30-45 days in today's market. Overpriced homes sit longer and often sell for less than if they'd been priced right from day one. I can tell you exactly what's happening in your specific area with a quick market check.

What's the difference between a Real Property Report and Estoppel Certificate?

A Real Property Report (RPR) applies to conventional properties and shows the physical layout of the land and buildings. An Estoppel Certificate applies to condos (including bareland condos) and confirms condo fees, reserve fund status, and any pending special assessments. Buyers need the right one for their property type - using the wrong document can delay or derail closing.

Resale or New Build in Edmonton?

Resale or New Build in Edmonton? How to Choose in Fall 2026

Every first-time buyer I work with reaches the same fork in the road. Do you buy a home someone has already lived in or one nobody has? Neither answer is wrong. The right one depends on your timeline, your budget and how you feel about weekend projects.

Buying a resale home

A resale is any pre-owned home in an established community. Think Glenora, Strathcona, Riverdale, Mill Woods or Castle Downs.What works in your favour

Location. Older neighbourhoods tend to sit closer to the river valley, downtown, the university and LRT lines.
Lot size and mature trees. You usually get a bigger yard and more privacy. Nobody can rush a 40-year-old maple.
Speed. Many resale purchases close in 30 to 90 days.
Finished extras. Fencing, landscaping, blinds and a deck are often already in place.
Infill. A newer home in an older neighbourhood is an option but it usually costs more.

What to watch for

Roofs, furnaces, hot water tanks, windows and foundation seals all age. Ask how old each one is.
Older homes usually have less insulation and older windows, so heating bills climb in January.
Floor plans can be closed off with smaller closets and garages and fewer bathrooms.
Get a home inspection. Then get a home inspection.

Buying a new build

You have two routes here. You can buy a quick-possession (spec) home or choose a lot and build from scratch. Popular Edmonton communities include Windermere, Chappelle, Secord, Rosenthal and Decoteau. I also work with buyers in Beaumont and Leduc where new communities are an option too.What works in your favour

Layout and choice. Open floor plans, walk-in closets, kitchen islands and space for a home office. Build from scratch and you pick the finishes.
Energy efficiency. New homes are built to current energy codes, so they generally cost less to heat than an older home.
Warranty. Alberta requires new homes to carry warranty coverage. That means 1 year on labour and materials, 2 years on delivery and distribution systems, 5 years on the building envelope and 10 years on structure. Check the exact coverage with the builder.
Legal suite potential. Many builders plan basements for a legal suite. Confirm zoning and permits before you count on rental income.

What to watch for

Timeline. A spec home may take 1 to 3 months. A full build can take 7 to 12 months or more. Weather and supply issues can push the date back.
Costs after closing. Landscaping, fencing and window coverings are rarely included in the price.
Construction zone. Expect dust, noise and unpaved roads. Schools and shopping often arrive a few years later.

Side by side

ResaleNew buildMove-in timeline30 to 90 daysSpec home: 1 to 3 months. Full build: 7 to 12+ monthsExtra costs after closingLow. Yard and fence are usually doneHigher. Landscaping, fence and blinds are on youMaintenance riskHigher. Older systemsLower. Covered by warrantyHeating costsModerate to highLow to moderateCommunityMature trees and established schoolsStill being built

Four questions to ask yourself

When do you need to move? If you want to be settled before the snow flies, a resale or a quick-possession spec home is the safer bet. Winter and builder schedules do not get along.
How do you feel about projects? If a weekend of fixing things sounds like a punishment, lean toward a new build.
What does your commute look like? Work near downtown or the U of A or rely on transit? Look at central resale or infill. Comfortable driving the Henday? An outer community fits well.
Have you priced the extras? Get quotes for fencing, landscaping and window coverings before you sign. A bare yard in November is where many new-build buyers realize they budgeted for the house and forgot the outside.

The short version

Choose a resale if you want an established location, a bigger yard and a quick possession date without a second round of spending after closing.Choose a new build if you want a modern layout, better efficiency and your own finishes and you can live in a community that is still under construction.Either one can be a smart purchase. Tour a few resale homes and a few show homes before you decide. You will know faster than you think.Not sure which way to go? Call me at 780-297-8437 and we will sort it out together.Book a free 15 minute call.Brenda Patton, REALTOR®
Homes & Gardens Real Estate Limited
brendarpatton.com