Are you ready to make your dream home a reality? Building a new house in Calgary is an exciting journey. It’s important to know what to expect during the construction process. Many people in Calgary choose to build a new home for various reasons, like the types of homes available, budgets, and locations1.
Whether you’re buying your first home or investing in real estate, the home building process in Calgary can be both exciting and challenging.
Building your new house with Calgary home builders takes time. You can customize things like the layout, finishes, colors, and fixtures. It’s smart to have a clear agreement with your builder and understand the process before starting. Building a new home involves many professionals and can be affected by weather, supply chain, and material prices1.
Building a custom home in Calgary usually takes about a year2. The timeline can change based on the home’s size, location, and other factors2. Calgary’s municipalities issue permits and check that homes meet provincial codes1.
Key Takeaways
- Building a new home in Calgary allows for customization of layout, finishes, and features
- The construction process involves various professionals, trades, and contractors
- Influences like weather, supply chain, and material pricing can impact the construction timeline
- Calgary municipalities issue permits and conduct inspections to ensure compliance with provincial codes
- The total timeline for building a custom home in Calgary is typically at least 12 months
Choosing to Build a New Home in Calgary
Building a custom home in Calgary is an exciting journey. It lets you create a space that fits your unique needs and tastes. It’s important to think about the pros and cons to make sure it’s a good experience.
Advantages of Building a New Home
One big plus of building a new home in Calgary is the chance to customize every part of it. You can pick the layout, finishes, and fixtures. This means your home will match your lifestyle and style perfectly.
Building a new home also means you can add energy-saving features from the start. With top-notch insulation and smart tech, you can cut down on energy bills and help the planet3.
New homes in Calgary often come with strong warranties. These protect you from construction problems. This is great for first-time buyers or those putting a lot into their dream home.
Considerations Before Starting the Construction Process
Before starting, think about your budget and how you’ll finance your home. Calgary builders often work with lenders that offer special deals, like credits for upgrades or lower costs3. It’s smart to check out different lenders to find the best deal for your custom home3.
Also, consider how long you want the build to take. Weather and supply chain issues can affect timelines. Pick a builder that fits your schedule3. Remember, custom homes might take longer to build3.
Choosing the right builder is key. Look into their reputation, read reviews, and check their credentials3. Consider hiring an independent inspector to look over your new home before you buy, to spot any problems early3.
| Consideration | Action Steps |
|---|---|
| Budget and Financing |
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| Construction Timeline |
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| Builder Selection |
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By thinking about these things and taking action, you can make building your dream home in Calgary a smooth and rewarding experience.
Finding the Right Calgary Home Builder
Choosing the right builder for your dream home in Calgary is a big decision. It affects the success of your project. With many builders to pick from, take time to research and compare them. This ensures you find one who matches your vision, budget, and how you like to communicate.
Research and Compare Calgary Home Builders
Start by asking friends, family, and coworkers who are happy with their builders for suggestions4. Websites like the Calgary Region Home Builders’ Association and the Alberta New Home Warranty Program can also help. Look at their experience, what they specialize in, and the homes they build. For example, McKinley Masters Customs Homes has built luxury homes in Calgary for 30 years, showing their skill and teamwork4.
Verify Builder Credentials and References
After picking a few builders, check their licenses and references. A valid license means they meet the legal requirements to work in Calgary4. Look at their past projects to see their quality and style4. Ask for references and what past clients think of their work, including communication and problem-solving skills4.
Visit their current projects to see their work up close4. This shows you their quality, attention to detail, and how they manage their sites. Remember, even new homes in Calgary need inspections to find any issues before you buy5.
Schedule Consultations with Potential Builders
After checking out builders, set up meetings to talk about your project. Share your vision, budget, and timeline. This helps everyone work together clearly6. The builder should tell you if your plans are possible and give you a cost estimate. This estimate might include extra costs for things like flooring or appliances5.
Ask for written quotes from each builder that list what they’ll do, the materials, labor costs, and when it will be done4. Remember, the cost of building a home in Calgary can change based on the lot’s location. Things like being near parks or water can cost more5.
During these meetings, notice how each builder talks to you, how flexible they are, and how they solve problems. These are key to handling unexpected issues during construction4. A builder who is open, quick to respond, and solves problems well will make building your home smoother and more fun.
By doing your homework, comparing, and talking to builders, you’ll be ready to choose the best one for your new home. Remember to value clear communication, paying attention to details, and a shared dream for your home as you start this exciting journey.
Designing Your Dream Home
Designing your dream home is an exciting part of building a new home in Calgary. You’ll work closely with your builder to make a home that shows off your style and meets your needs. Calgary offers many design options, from traditional to modern styles.
Selecting a Floor Plan and Home Style
Choosing a floor plan and home style is the first step in designing your dream home. Think about how many bedrooms and bathrooms you need, the size of your living areas, and whether you want an open layout or separate rooms. Your builder will show you different floor plans to find the best one for you7.
Calgary has a wide range of home styles, from cozy bungalows to big two-story homes. Take time to look at different styles and pick one that fits your taste and the area you live in.
Customizing Your Home’s Features and Finishes
Customizing your home’s features and finishes is a fun part of building a new home. You can make your home unique with your style. You’ll decide on things like cabinets, countertops, flooring, and light fixtures.
Your builder will offer standard options, but you can also upgrade some things to get the look you want. Remember, some upgrades might cost more, so think about what’s most important to you and work with your builder to stay within your budget8.
Incorporating Energy-Efficient and Sustainable Elements
When designing your dream home, think about adding energy-efficient and sustainable features. These can lower your environmental impact and save money on bills. Calgary builders are skilled in making homes that are good for the planet and comfortable for you and your family.
Some features to consider include:
- High-efficiency windows and doors
- Improved insulation in walls, attics, and foundations
- Energy Star-rated appliances
- Low-flow plumbing fixtures
- Solar panels or solar-ready design
- Sustainable building materials
Adding these elements to your home design makes it more eco-friendly and cost-effective. It will be a great home for you and your family for many years.
Veranda Estate Homes aims to exceed client expectations by offering fixed-price building and keeping clients updated throughout the construction process8.
Marre Design has built over 300 custom homes in Calgary, offering a quick design process. Clients can see their dream home in 3D at 80% completion during the Reveal phase and give feedback during the decision phase. This leads to faster completion times7.
Understanding the New Home Construction Contract
Before starting your new home project in Calgary, it’s key to know the contract with your builder. This document covers your new home’s details, the building process, when it will be done, and how you’ll pay. Understanding the contract helps avoid disagreements during and after building.
Key Components of a Construction Contract
A good construction contract has several important parts. It should list the work to be done, the materials used, and any special features you want. It also needs a timeline for finishing, with important dates and milestones.
The contract must talk about changes to the original plan. Builders might change the design or layout without your okay9. But, you should be able to ask for changes or make decisions on customizations without extra fees9.
Payment Schedule and Financing Options
The contract will also cover how you’ll pay for your home. In Calgary, you can pay with cash or use a progress draw contract10. Progress draw contracts are common, where you get money in stages based on building progress10.
These payments happen at important steps, like when the foundation is laid or the roof goes on10. Knowing the payment schedule and having money ready is crucial.
| Construction Milestone | Typical Draw Percentage |
|---|---|
| Slab poured or roof structure completed | 20-30% |
| Exterior completed and site secured | 30-40% |
| Final inspection and house completion | 30-40% |
When looking at calgary construction financing, remember interest rates can be high, up to 26%9. It’s smart to have a lawyer check the contract for you. They can explain the costs and help you understand the contract fully9.
Warranties and Protection for New Homeowners
Your contract should talk about warranties and protection for you as a homeowner. In Calgary, all new homes, including condos and vacation homes, must have warranty coverage.
New home warranty in Alberta includes one year for labour and materials, two years for delivery systems, five years for the building envelope, and 10 years for major parts.
Make sure your new home checklist calgary includes checking the calgary home warranties from your builder. Know what’s covered, for how long, and what you need to do to keep your warranty good.
By really understanding your new home contract, you can avoid surprises or disagreements during building. Ask your builder about anything you don’t get before signing. Getting legal advice can also protect your rights and interests.
Navigating the Permit and Inspection Process in Calgary
Starting a home building project in Calgary means you must know about permits and inspections. These steps make sure your project meets safety and local rules. Building permits check that structures are safe and follow health, fire, and safety laws set by Calgary11.
How long it takes to get a building permit depends on your project’s size. For small changes, Calgary says it should take 21 days if you have all your documents ready11. But bigger projects might need up to 56 days for a permit, if you submit all the necessary documents11.
When you apply for a permit, you’ll need to give several documents. These include architectural and mechanical drawings, and forms for asbestos and sustainable development11. You’ll also need to show you’ve paid for the development site servicing. Most building work, like fixing or changing walls, needs a permit12.
The National Building Code says some businesses need permits, especially if they change type12. Any changes to commercial or industrial buildings need planning approval before a permit is given12.
When you apply for a permit in person, you can pay in two ways:
- Paying the full permit fee upfront
- Paying 25% upfront for fees over $10,000, then the rest before getting the permit12
During construction, inspections will check your work to make sure it meets codes. A final inspection is done when the home is finished. If it’s safe, you get an occupancy permit.
For some projects, you might need a professional to design and check the work. Stamped plans are needed for certain projects12. Also, you might need a development permit for changes in use or exterior work that wasn’t approved12.
The City of Calgary has rules for Permitted and Discretionary uses in the Land Use Bylaw. Approvals are needed for activities that follow the rules or need special permission.
Knowing the permit and inspection process in Calgary helps you manage your project well. It ensures your project meets all safety and legal standards.
Stages of New Home Construction in Calgary
Building your dream home in Calgary goes through several stages. Each stage is important for making your dream come true. Knowing these stages helps you understand the construction process better. The average time to build a custom home in Calgary is 9-12 months13. The pre-build process takes about 4 months13.
Site Preparation and Foundation
The first step is preparing the site and laying the foundation. This takes about a month13. The land is cleared, leveled, and prepared for your home’s base. Then, the foundation is poured, which can be a slab, crawl space, or basement, based on your design and the land.
Framing and Roofing
After setting the foundation, the framing starts. This builds the home’s skeleton with wood or metal studs. It also includes putting in the roof, windows, and doors. This stage takes about 3 months to finish13.
Mechanical Systems (Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC)
With the framing done, it’s time for the mechanical systems. This means installing plumbing, electrical wiring, and HVAC systems. These systems make your home work and stay comfortable.
Insulation and Drywall
Next, insulation is added to make your home energy-efficient and cozy. Then, drywall is put up, taped, and finished for smooth walls and ceilings. This part takes about 2 months13.
Interior and Exterior Finishes
This stage gives your home its final look. It includes installing floors, tiles, carpets, cabinets, and countertops. Outside, it’s about adding siding, brick, or stone, and installing gutters and downspouts. This takes about 2 months13.
Final Touches and Landscaping
In the last stage, finishing touches are added, like installing fixtures and faucets. The landscaping is also done, including grading, planting, and outdoor features like patios or decks.
Building a custom home in Calgary can take from three to four months in good conditions. But it can take longer in winter or with bigger homes or special materials, up to nine months or more14. Homeowners can choose how much to be involved in the process, from trusting the builder fully to being very hands-on14.
Communication with Your Builder Throughout the Process
Building a new home in Calgary is exciting but needs clear communication with your builder for a smooth process. Your builder will keep you updated and involved, sharing progress and discussing important decisions with you.
Good communication is key for a great home building experience. Your builder will have regular meetings to go over the construction timeline, discuss changes, and help you choose finishes and materials. These meetings let you ask questions, share your likes, and make smart choices about your home.
Regular Progress Updates and Meetings
Expect to get updates often from your builder, through meetings, calls, or emails. These updates will tell you about the construction’s current stage, upcoming milestones, and any delays. Weather in places with long winters can cause construction delays15.
At these meetings, your builder will talk about the construction budget and any changes that might affect the cost. It’s important to have a clear construction budget from the start15. The cost of building a custom home in Calgary varies a lot, depending on size, location, design, materials, and finishes. Setting a budget early helps you make choices that fit your finances16.
Addressing Concerns and Making Decisions
As the homeowner, you’re key in making decisions. Your builder will help you pick materials, finishes, and fixtures that fit your vision and budget. Think about the quality of materials, not just the cost, when comparing builders15.
If you have concerns during construction, talk to your builder. A good builder will listen and fix any problems or make changes. Keep talking with your builder to find solutions that work for you.
Your home will go through several calgary home inspections during construction. These checks make sure your home meets building codes and standards. Your builder will handle these inspections and tell you the results.
By keeping in touch with your builder and taking part in decisions, you can make sure your new home in Calgary is just what you want. Trust your builder’s knowledge but always ask questions and share your thoughts along the way.
Preparing for Move-In Day
Your new home in Calgary is almost ready. You’ll get a possession letter about 35 days before you move in17. This letter has key info to make moving day go smoothly.
Start by checking with your builder about final inspections and your occupancy permit. Builders give you a checklist for the new home inspection17. This helps spot any issues or things that need fixing before you move.
Next, plan your move by hiring movers and updating your address. Make a list of what you need, like furniture and decor, for a cozy home from the start.
Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone. By staying organized and talking with your builder, you can make it stress-free.
When moving to a new home in Calgary, think about the different types of properties. Calgary has 417 homes for sale, priced from $450,000 to $2,960,00018. These homes have 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and average 1,800 sq ft18.
Calgary’s new homes come in many styles, like houses, bungalows, and luxury homes18. Consider neighborhoods like Glendale and Fairview for your new home18.
Working with top real estate agencies like RE/MAX can help you find the right home18. They guide you through the process and match you with a property that suits your needs.
| Factor | Importance |
|---|---|
| Location | Close to schools, shops, and transport |
| Price Range | Make sure it fits your budget |
| Home Warranty | Protection against defects and issues |
Home warranties in Calgary cover many parts of the new home17. Check the warranty from your builder, like Genesis homes, to know what’s covered and for how long.
Think about these factors and work with your builder and agent for a smooth move into your new Calgary home.
New Home Construction Process in Calgary
Building a new home in Calgary takes several steps, each needing careful planning. From preparing the site to adding the final touches, knowing the process is key for homeowners starting this journey.
The foundation is a key part of building a new home in Calgary. The type of foundation depends on the ground and climate. Common types include slab-on-grade and full basement foundations19. Sunset Homes uses Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) for their homes, which is energy-efficient and good for the environment19. Building the foundation takes about one to two weeks, including installing footings and aligning walls for concrete19.
After the foundation, framing and roofing come next, followed by installing plumbing, electrical, and HVAC. Insulation and drywall are added next, making the home ready for finishes. Weather affects some construction steps, like concrete curing, which takes a month20. Painting is also weather-dependent, as cold weather can cause paint to peel20.
As the home builds, rough grading is done to keep water away from the foundation. This happens after the concrete is set and the ground is dry20. Final grading is then done quickly, usually by the homeowner unless in the contract20.
Sunset Homes educates homeowners about building a custom home, offering lots of information for a great experience19. They guide homeowners through each step, from foundations to finishes19.
For a smooth build, work closely with your builder and ask questions. Keeping in touch and knowing the progress helps you feel confident about your new home in Calgary.
| Construction Stage | Duration | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation | 1-2 weeks | Ground conditions, climate, ICF for energy efficiency |
| Framing and Roofing | 3-6 weeks | Structural integrity, weather protection |
| Mechanical Systems | 2-4 weeks | Plumbing, electrical, HVAC installation |
| Insulation and Drywall | 2-3 weeks | Energy efficiency, interior wall preparation |
| Interior and Exterior Finishes | 4-8 weeks | Painting, flooring, cabinetry, siding, landscaping |
Understanding the new home construction process in Calgary and working with a good builder like Sunset Homes makes building your dream home possible19.
Settling into Your New Calgary Home
Getting ready to move into your new Calgary home? There are a few key steps to make sure everything goes smoothly. Your builder will help you finish any remaining tasks and guide you on keeping your home in great shape for years ahead.
Final Walk-Through and Inspection
Before you take over your new home, you’ll do a final walk-through with your builder. This is a vital step to check everything is as you expected. You’ll be with the Project Manager and Home Service Technician, who will explain how to take care of your new home21.
Addressing Deficiencies and Warranty Coverage
If you find any problems during the final walk-through, your builder will fix them before you move in. Calgary home warranties cover some issues that might happen after you get your new home. Make sure you know what your warranty covers and how to make claims if needed. Builders like Trico offer a guide to help you understand the construction and financial terms of your new home22.
Maintenance and Upkeep for Your New Home
As a new homeowner, keeping up with maintenance is key to keeping your home in great shape. Here are some important tasks to remember:
- Regularly check and clean the outside of your home, including the roof, gutters, and siding
- Keep your HVAC system running well by changing filters and getting professional check-ups
- Fix any leaks or water damage quickly to stop bigger problems later
- Keep your home’s inside clean and looking good, including regular cleaning and touch-ups on paint and finishes
By being proactive with maintenance, you can keep your Calgary home safe and happy for a long time. If you have questions or concerns, always ask your builder for help. For example, if you built with Trico, they’ll get back to you within 24 hours to help22.
Conclusion
Building a house in Calgary is a thrilling journey. It lets you make your dream home fit your style and needs. You’ll go through steps like picking the right builder and managing the design and construction phases. Calgary’s construction sector is booming, meeting the city’s growing housing needs23. With more people moving in, there’s a big interest in new homes23.
When financing your new home, think about a Builder Completion Mortgage. It lets you secure an interest rate for up to 12 months24. Homes over $500,000 need a 5% down payment on the first $500,000 and 10% on the rest24. If your down payment is under 20%, you’ll need CMHC mortgage insurance24. First-time buyers can use up to $35,000 from their RRSP through the Home Buyers’ Plan24.
Keep in touch with your builder during construction and go to regular meetings to check progress. After it’s done, do a final check and fix any issues before moving in. In 2023, Calgary built 15,393 new homes, an 11% jump from the year before23. With the average home price expected to hit about $745,000 in 2024, now is a great time to invest in your dream home23.
Building a new home in Calgary is a big step. It needs careful planning, focus on details, and a good partnership with your builder. By understanding the process and making smart choices, you can build a home that shows your style and improves your life for years.
FAQ
How long does it typically take to build a new home in Calgary?
Building a new home in Calgary takes about 6 to 12 months. This depends on the home’s size, weather, and the availability of materials and workers. From starting the project to the final check, it usually takes this time.
What are the advantages of building a custom home in Calgary?
Building a custom home lets you design a space that fits your needs and style. You can pick the layout, style, and details like cabinets and paint colors. This way, your home is truly yours.
How do I find a reputable home builder in Calgary?
Start by researching and comparing builders in Calgary. Look for ones known for quality and happy customers. Check their licenses and insurance, and ask for references. Meet with builders to talk about your project and see how they communicate.
What should I consider when designing my new home in Calgary?
Think about your lifestyle, family size, and future needs when designing your home. Choose a layout and style that fits your taste and budget. Consider adding eco-friendly features like efficient appliances and solar panels to save money and help the environment.
What are the key components of a new home construction contract?
A construction contract should cover the work scope, materials, timeline, payment details, and warranties. It should also outline both the builder’s and homeowner’s duties and any plans for unexpected issues.
What permits and inspections are required for new home construction in Calgary?
You’ll need various permits and inspections for a new home in Calgary. These include building, electrical, and plumbing permits, and inspections at different stages. Your builder should handle these permits and inspections.
How can I stay informed about the progress of my new home construction?
Keep up with your home’s construction by talking regularly with your builder. Go to meetings, ask for updates, and speak up if you have questions or concerns. Your builder should keep you in the loop about important steps and any delays.
What should I do to prepare for move-in day?
Get ready for move-in day by checking with your builder about final inspections and getting your occupancy permit. Plan your move, including hiring movers and setting up utilities. Make a list of what you need for your new home, like furniture and decor.
What should I expect during the final walk-through of my new home?
In the final walk-through, you’ll check the home with your builder and point out any issues. This is your chance to make sure everything is done right and the home looks good. Note any problems and work with your builder to fix them.
What kind of warranty coverage is provided for new homes in Calgary?
Alberta requires a warranty for new homes that covers defects and structural problems. This includes one year for work and materials, two years for systems, five years for the building envelope, and ten years for the structure. Know your warranty and how to make claims if needed.
Source Links
- Building a new home – https://www.alberta.ca/building-a-new-home
- The Timeline for Building a Custom Home in Calgary – Sunset Homes – https://www.sunsethomes.ca/blog/the-timeline-for-building-a-custom-home-in-calgary/
- 5 Tips for Buying a New Build in Calgary – https://www.kernickhomes.com/blog/5-tips-for-buying-a-new-build-in-calgary/
- Choosing the Right Builders to Build Your Home, McKinley Masters | KW: luxury home builder Calgary – https://mckinleymasterscustomhomes.com/choosing-the-right-builder-to-build-your-home/
- What You Might Not Know About Buying a New Construction Home in Calgary – https://www.calgaryhousefinder.ca/blog/what-you-might-not-know-about-buying-a-new-construction-home-in-calgary/
- 5 Tips for Building a Custom Home | Ellergodt Design – https://beginwithdesign.com/blog/5-tips-for-building-a-custom-home/
- Our Custom Home & Interior Design Process | San Francisco & Calgary – https://www.marredesign.com/our-process
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- The Beginners’ Guide to Calgary Building Permits – https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/beginners-guide-calgary-building-permits-kevin-padillo
- Changes to existing buildings – https://www.calgary.ca/development/commercial/alterations.html
- The Average Timeline of a Custom Home Build – https://blog.augustafinehomescalgary.com/blog/average-timeline-custom-home-build-q2
- How Long Does It Take To Build A Custom Luxury Home In Calgary? | Riverview Custom Homes – https://riverviewcustomhomes.ca/news/how-long-does-it-take-to-build-a-custom-luxury-home-in-calgary/
- Three Mistakes to Avoid when Choosing a Calgary Custom Home Builder – Sunset Homes – https://www.sunsethomes.ca/blog/three-mistakes-to-avoid-when-choosing-a-calgary-custom-home-builder/
- Building Your Dreams: Answering Your Top 5 FAQs About Custom Homes in Calgary – Braemyn Homes – https://braemyn.com/blog/building-your-dreams-answering-your-top-5-faqs-about-custom-homes-in-calgary/
- Buying a new home: taking possession and moving in – Genesis Land – https://www.genesisland.com/buying-a-new-home-taking-possession-and-moving-in/
- What to Do First When You Move Into a New House – https://www.kernickhomes.com/blog/what-to-do-first-when-you-move-into-a-new-house/
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- Home Building Basics: Seasonal Construction – Broadview Calgary Homes – https://www.broadviewhomescalgary.com/home-building-basics-seasonal-construction-a1/
- From Start to Finish: The New Home Journey with Shane Homes – Shane Homes – https://www.shanehomes.com/our-blog/from-start-to-finish-the-new-home-journey-with-shane-homes/
- Buying your First Home in Calgary | Trico Homes – https://tricohomes.com/buying-first-home-calgary/
- New Home Construction Calgary – Turn Key Homes & Renovations – https://turnkeyrenovations.ca/new-home-construction-calgary/
- Getting a Mortgage to Build a New House – Broadview Calgary Homes – https://www.broadviewhomescalgary.com/getting-a-mortgage-to-build-a-new-house/
