First-Time Home Buyer Checklist for Alberta

What Builders Don’t Always Tell You (And Why the Right Home Matters for Every Chapter)

Buying your first home is a major milestone — one that marks the beginning of a brand-new chapter. While the excitement is real, many first-time buyers in Alberta quickly realize there’s more to the process than choosing a floor plan or picking finishes.

This first-time home buyer checklist for Alberta is designed to give you clarity, confidence, and honest insight into what to expect — so you can focus on finding a home that fits not just today, but the chapters ahead.

At McKee Homes, we believe in Homes for Every Chapter — because your first home should support where you are now and where life is going next.

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Step 1: Understand What You Can Comfortably Afford (Not Just What You’re Approved For)

Mortgage pre-approval is an important first step, but it doesn’t always reflect your real monthly comfort level.

Beyond your mortgage payment, be sure to factor in:

• Property taxes (which vary by municipality)

• Utilities and energy costs

• Home insurance

• Transportation and lifestyle expenses

• Savings for the unexpected

First-time buyer insight: Your first home should feel exciting, not financially stressful. Choosing a home that fits your budget today allows room to grow into future chapters with confidence.

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Step 2: Know Your Down Payment Options in Alberta (and Get the Right Guidance)

Many first-time buyers assume they need 20% down — but that’s not always the case. Understanding your options early can make homeownership feel far more achievable.

Alberta down payment basics:

• 5% down on homes priced up to $500,000

• 10% down on the portion above $500,000

Additional options may include:

• First-Time Home Buyer Incentive (shared equity program)

• RRSP Home Buyers’ Plan

• Builder incentives that can help reduce upfront costs

Because every financial situation is different, having the right advice matters. At McKee Homes, we work with trusted mortgage brokers who specialize in helping first-time buyers understand their options, navigate incentive programs, and determine what makes the most sense for their current chapter — and the ones ahead.

Getting clear guidance early helps remove uncertainty, avoid surprises, and set you up for a smoother home-buying experience.

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Step 3: Plan for Closing Costs (And One Less Thing to Worry About)

Closing costs are often overlooked by first-time buyers, but they typically range from 1.5%–3% of the purchase price and are due at possession.

Common closing costs in Alberta include:

• Legal fees and disbursements

• Land title registration

• Property tax adjustments

A McKee Homes advantage: As part of our commitment to supporting first-time buyers, McKee Homes covers your legal fees. That’s one less upfront cost to plan for — and one more way we help make your first chapter of homeownership feel more manageable.

Understanding your total costs early helps reduce stress and ensures a smoother transition into your new home.

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Step 4: New Build vs. Resale — Which Fits Your Chapter?

One of the biggest decisions first-time buyers face is whether to buy resale or build new.

Benefits of building a new home:

• Modern layouts designed for today’s lifestyles

• Improved energy efficiency

• Alberta New Home Warranty protection

• The ability to personalize finishes and features

For many first-time buyers, building new offers peace of mind and a home designed to adapt to future chapters — whether that’s a growing family, working from home, or changing lifestyle needs.

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Step 5: Get Expert Guidance on Upgrades With Our In-House Interior Designers

Choosing upgrades is one of the most exciting parts of building your first home — but it can also feel overwhelming without the right guidance.

That’s why McKee Homes offers access to in-house interior designers who are there to help you make confident, informed decisions that align with your lifestyle, budget, and long-term plans.

Upgrades often worth considering during the build:

• Electrical and lighting enhancements

• Kitchen cabinetry and layout selections

• Structural options that are difficult to change later

Upgrades that can often wait:

• Decorative light fixtures

• Feature walls

• Landscaping (in many cases)

Our interior design team works with you to explain what adds long-term value, what can be phased in later, and how your choices today can support future chapters — so you’re never making decisions alone.

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Step 6: Understand Build Timelines — and Stay Informed Every Step of the Way

Timing plays a bigger role in the home-building process than many first-time buyers expect.

Build timelines can affect:

• Mortgage rate holds

• Rental or lease notice periods

• Move-in planning

• Possession day coordination

At McKee Homes, we believe communication is key. That’s why we provide regular updates throughout the build process, keeping you informed as milestones are reached and ensuring you feel prepared and confident leading up to possession day.

These updates help you plan ahead, stay organized, and enjoy the journey right up until you receive the keys to your new home.

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Step 7: Know What Your New Home Warranty Covers

All new homes in Alberta come with mandatory warranty coverage, but understanding how it works matters.

Be sure to ask:

• What’s covered and for how long

• How warranty requests are handled

• What support looks like after possession

At McKee Homes, our commitment doesn’t end on possession day — because every chapter deserves ongoing care and support.

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Step 8: Choose a Builder Who Supports Every Chapter

As a first-time buyer, questions are part of the process — and they should always be welcomed.

Choosing the right builder means working with a team that:

• Explains costs and timelines clearly

• Encourages informed, pressure-free decisions

• Provides support before, during, and after possession

• Understands that your first home is just one chapter in a longer journey

At McKee Homes, we focus on building relationships, not just houses. Our approach is rooted in the belief that homeowners deserve guidance and support that extends beyond move-in day — because the right home should grow with you through every chapter of life.

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Final Thoughts: Your First Home Is Just the Beginning

Your first home is an exciting milestone, but it’s only the start of your homeownership journey. Choosing the right home — and the right builder — helps ensure you’re supported through every stage of life.

At McKee Homes, we build Homes for Every Chapter, from first-time buyers to growing families and beyond. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or ready to take the next step, having the right information and guidance makes all the difference.

If you’re considering buying your first home in Alberta and want honest, pressure-free advice, the McKee Homes team is always here to help.