By IQnewswire 
If you’re relocating to Calgary—whether from another part of Canada or from abroad—you’ll quickly notice that buying a home here feels different from purchasing in many other major markets. Alberta is known for its affordability, low taxes, and buyer-friendly real estate system. Still, when budgeting for your move, it’s important to understand the closing costs you’ll encounter when purchasing a home.
To get the most accurate local insight, I spoke with Erin from PassGo Real Estate, who works closely with clients relocating to Calgary. She mentioned that her closing cost calculator is an easy way for buyers to get a clear estimate tailored to their budget and property type. According to Erin, Alberta’s closing costs are generally lower than those in other provinces, but newcomers should still plan for several key expenses—especially if they’re unfamiliar with how home purchases work in Alberta.
Why Closing Costs in Calgary Are Different
Unlike Ontario or British Columbia, Alberta does not charge a provincial land transfer tax. This immediately reduces closing costs by thousands of dollars, making Calgary especially appealing for families, first-time buyers, and anyone relocating from high-cost markets like Toronto or Vancouver. Calgary buyers instead pay minimal land title registration fees, which significantly lowers the overall closing budget.
Another difference is that real estate lawyers handle more components of the transaction in Alberta. This simplifies the process for newcomers, who may be accustomed to notaries or multiple intermediaries in their former province or country. International buyers may face additional verification requirements, but these rarely increase fees—just the amount of documentation required.
Common Closing Costs Buyers Should Expect
While not presented as a checklist, there are several predictable costs most buyers will encounter. These typically include legal fees, title insurance, municipal adjustments, and inspection costs. To make things clear, here are some of the most typical expenses Calgary buyers should be ready for:
- Legal fees for title transfer, mortgage registration, document preparation, and disbursements
- Title insurance to protect against fraud, registry issues, or undisclosed property defects
- Property tax adjustments based on possession date
- Home inspection fees
- Appraisal fees (only if required by the lender)
- Condo document review costs for condo purchasers
- Land title registration fees
These costs vary slightly depending on the purchase price, property type, and whether a buyer is moving from within Canada or from abroad.
Legal Fees and Lawyer Requirements
Every home purchase in Calgary requires a real estate lawyer to complete the closing process. Typical fees range from $1,000 to $1,800 depending on the complexity of the file. These fees cover title searches, mortgage registration, reviewing contracts, handling trust funds, and communicating with lenders and sellers. Buyers who are moving from abroad may need additional identity verification, which doesn’t significantly increase the fee but does add steps to the process.
Protecting Yourself With Title Insurance
Title insurance in Alberta is a one-time cost that protects homeowners from issues that may not be visible during the title search. These concerns are more common than many newcomers expect, especially in older Calgary neighborhoods. Problems like unpermitted renovations, inaccurate surveys, unpaid liens, or errors in property records can become expensive if uncovered after closing. A typical title insurance policy costs between $250 and $450 and lasts for as long as you own the home.
Understanding Property Tax Adjustments
Property tax adjustments are a normal part of closing in Calgary. If the seller has prepaid their property taxes for the year, you reimburse them for your portion from the possession date forward. This can range from a small amount to several hundred dollars depending on the time of year you take possession.
Additional Fees for Condo Buyers
For anyone moving to Calgary and purchasing a condo—particularly common for people relocating from larger cities—there are extra considerations. Condo buyers should plan for professional document review, which includes examining the reserve fund study, bylaws, budgets, insurance summaries, meeting minutes, and financial statements. These reviews typically cost between $300 and $500 and are essential for understanding the building’s long-term financial health.
Buyers should also be aware of potential future costs a condo may face. Common examples include:
- Special assessments that may arise from major repairs
- Planned fee increases due to rising operating expenses
- Reserve fund contributions if the building is aging
Understanding these possibilities helps newcomers make informed decisions when comparing condo buildings.
Considerations for International Buyers
Calgary continues to draw international buyers for its value, safety, and economic stability. International purchasers should be prepared for additional banking verification, extra identity checks, and more detailed paperwork before closing. A lender may require a property appraisal, and proof of funds must follow Canadian anti-money-laundering rules. These requirements do not significantly increase closing costs, but they do influence the timeline and overall experience.
Some international buyers also choose to consult with an accountant or immigration-focused advisor to understand how their purchase fits into broader financial planning. While optional, it can be helpful for those moving assets across borders.
Estimating Your Total Closing Costs Accurately
Most Calgary homebuyers can expect closing costs to range from one to two percent of the purchase price. However, because Alberta avoids land transfer taxes, the final amount tends to be on the lower end of that range. Buyers purchasing condos, seeking appraisals, or completing additional legal steps may see slightly higher totals. This is why Erin’s closing cost calculator is particularly useful—it gives newcomers a precise estimate based on their actual situation rather than general national averages.
Planning Your Move With Confidence
Understanding closing costs early in your home-buying process makes relocating to Calgary far smoother. Alberta’s buyer-friendly system, combined with transparent legal processes and minimal transfer fees, helps keep total costs predictable. By working with local professionals and using tools designed for Calgary’s market, you’ll have a clear picture of what to expect long before you take possession of your home.