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As a first-time buyer in Calgary, you'll want to get pre-approved for a mortgage before you begin your search in earnest. This tells you exactly what you can afford and signals to sellers that you're a serious buyer. Calgary's entry-level market includes a healthy supply of condos and townhomes typically priced between $200,000 and $500,000, while detached homes in communities like Saddle Ridge, Coral Springs, Evanston, and Airdrie (just outside city limits) often offer more square footage for the dollar. Keep an eye on condo fees if you're considering apartment-style units — these monthly costs affect your overall affordability and must be factored into your mortgage qualification.
First-time buyers in Alberta may be eligible for several financial assistance programs worth researching early. The federal First Home Savings Account (FHSA) and Home Buyers' Plan (HBP) can help with your down payment, while the Alberta Land Transfer (Land Title Transfer) fees are among the lowest in Canada — a genuine advantage compared to buyers in Ontario or B.C. Working with a REALTOR® who specialises in first-time buyers can help you navigate home inspections, condition removal timelines, and the offer process, all of which can feel overwhelming when you're purchasing property for the first time.
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In Canada, the minimum down payment is 5% on homes priced up to $500,000. For homes between $500,000 and $999,999, it's 5% on the first $500,000 and 10% on the remainder. Homes priced at $1,000,000 or more require at least 20% down. Any down payment under 20% requires mortgage default insurance (CMHC insurance), which adds a premium to your mortgage.
First-time buyers tend to gravitate toward communities that balance affordability with amenities and transit access. Popular options include Evanston, Skyview Ranch, Saddle Ridge, and Redstone in the northeast and north, as well as Walden, Mahogany, and Cranston in the southeast. For condo buyers, Beltline, Downtown East Village, and Bridgeland offer urban lifestyle options at relatively accessible price points.
It depends on your budget, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Condos and townhouses typically have lower purchase prices and require less maintenance, making them a practical entry point into the market. However, monthly condo fees add to your carrying costs, and you'll have less control over the building and common areas. A detached home gives you more space and autonomy but usually comes with a higher price tag and more upkeep responsibility.
Several programs can reduce your upfront costs. The federal First Home Savings Account (FHSA) lets you contribute up to $8,000 per year (lifetime limit $40,000) tax-free toward a first home purchase. The Home Buyers' Plan (HBP) allows you to withdraw up to $60,000 from your RRSP tax-free for a down payment. The First-Time Home Buyers' Tax Credit provides a $1,500 federal tax credit in the year of purchase. Alberta does not charge a land transfer tax, which saves Calgary buyers thousands compared to most other provinces.
The timeline varies, but most first-time buyers spend one to three months searching before finding the right property. Once an offer is accepted, the typical possession period in Calgary is 30 to 60 days, though this is negotiable. Getting your mortgage pre-approval and connecting with a REALTOR® before you start searching seriously can shorten the overall process considerably.
Closing costs in Calgary typically run between 1.5% and 4% of the purchase price. Key expenses include a home inspection ($400–$600), legal/notary fees ($1,200–$2,000), title insurance (around $200–$400), and a property appraisal if required by your lender. You'll also need to budget for moving costs, immediate repairs or updates, and setting up utilities. If your down payment is under 20%, your CMHC mortgage insurance premium will be added to your mortgage amount.
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