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Your pre-visit checklist

Before you walk into a sales centre

Buying new construction is one of the biggest purchases you'll make, and the show home is built to sell, not to inform. Run this checklist before your first visit. The first item is the one most buyers don't know — and it's the one that protects you.

  1. 1. Sort out representation before you sign in

    The agent in a builder's show home works for the builder, not for you. In new construction, how you make first contact can decide whether you keep your right to a buyer's agent — register or sign in on your own, and one often can't be added afterward. A buyer's agent reviews the contract, compares builders objectively, and represents you through to possession, typically at no cost to you, because the builder pays the commission. The catch: confirm representation before you register at a show home. If you're not already working with me, reach out first and I'll register you.

  2. 2. Price the home the way you'll actually build it

    The "starting from" price is usually a base model on a standard lot with builder-grade finishes. Lot premiums, elevation choices, and design-centre selections (flooring, cabinets, counters, lighting) commonly add 10–20% or more. Before you compare two builders, price each home the way you'd really build it — same lot type, same finish level.

  3. 3. Read the spec sheet for standard vs. upgrade

    If the spec sheet is vague about what's included versus an upgrade, the final price will surprise you. Ask for the standard-inclusions list in writing, and mark what you'd want to change.

  4. 4. Understand the deposit and how it's protected

    Know how much, when it's due, and how it's held. New homes in Alberta carry deposit protections under the New Home Buyer Protection Act — make sure you understand them before you hand anything over.

  5. 5. Know the warranty (Alberta 1-2-5-10)

    Every new home built in Alberta since 2014 carries warranty coverage: 1 year on labour and materials, 2 on delivery and distribution systems, 5 on the building envelope, and 10 on key structural components — provided by a licensed warranty provider, not the builder directly. How a builder handles claims matters as much as the coverage itself.

  6. 6. Watch the red flags

    Timeline pressure ("this lot or price is only good today"), vague inclusions, and no dedicated client-care contact for the build and warranty period are all worth slowing down for. A good builder's deal survives a night's sleep and a contract review.

Going to look at a new build?

Reach out before your first sales-centre visit. I'll register you, compare builders on the things public data can't show, and represent you through to possession — typically at no cost to you as the buyer.

Book a buyer strategy call

About this checklist. General information for Edmonton-area new-home buyers — not legal, financial, or construction advice. Warranty details summarize Alberta's New Home Buyer Protection Act program; confirm specifics with the builder's warranty provider and your own advisors. Trevor Tardif is a licensed REALTOR® with REAL Broker AB Ltd, Edmonton, Alberta.