Visiting an open house is your chance to gather important information about a property before making one of the biggest financial decisions of your life. Here are the essential questions you should ask at every open house in Calgary.
1. Why is the seller moving?
Understanding the seller's motivation can help you gauge urgency and potentially negotiate a better price. Common reasons include job relocation, upsizing, downsizing, or financial changes.
2. How long has the property been on the market?
Properties that have been listed for a long time may indicate issues or be more open to negotiation. Ask about any previous offers and why they fell through.
3. Are there any known issues with the property?
In Alberta, sellers must disclose known material defects. Ask specifically about the roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical, HVAC system, and any history of water damage or mold.
4. What are the average utility costs?
Ask for approximate monthly costs for hydro, gas, water, and any other utilities. This helps you budget accurately for your total housing costs.
5. What is included in the sale?
Clarify which appliances, fixtures, and other items are included. In Alberta, chattels vs fixtures can be a source of confusion during negotiations.
6. What are the property taxes?
Property taxes in Calgary vary by assessment value. Ask for the current annual amount and whether there are any pending reassessments.
7. Have there been any major renovations?
Ask about recent renovations and whether permits were obtained. Unpermitted work can cause issues with insurance and future resale.
8. What is the neighbourhood like?
Ask about nearby schools, transit, shopping, parks, and the general character of the neighbourhood. Visit at different times of day if possible.
Pro Tip
Bring a notebook or use your phone to take notes at each open house. After visiting multiple properties, details can blur together. Having organized notes helps you compare properties objectively when it's time to make a decision.