Selling your home in Calgary? Whether you're upsizing, downsizing, or heading out of the city, it helps to know exactly what to expect from day one to moving day.

Here’s a clear, step-by-step timeline of the home selling process — plus tips along the way to help you stay ahead of the curve.

✅ Step 1: Preparation (1–2 Weeks)

Before your home hits the MLS, we get it ready to shine.

What happens:

• A walkthrough to assess your home’s condition

• Professional styling (yes, I provide this with every listing)

• Deep cleaning, minor repairs, and decluttering

• Photography, videography, and marketing assets

Tip:
In Calgary’s competitive market, well-presented homes get more showings and stronger offers. Don’t rush this stage—it’s worth it.

📢 Step 2: Listing Goes Live (Day 1)

Your home hits the market and buyers start to notice—fast.

What happens:

• Your listing appears on MLS, REALTOR.ca, and across social media

• Showings begin, often within hours

• Open houses (if appropriate for your home and schedule)

Tip:
Be flexible with showing times—more eyes = more potential offers. And yes, we’ll manage everything so you don’t have to be stressed about logistics.

💬 Step 3: Receiving and Negotiating Offers (Days 3–14)

Depending on market conditions, offers can come in quickly or after a few showings.

What happens:

• We review all offers carefully (price, conditions, possession date, deposit, etc.)

• You accept, counter, or reject

• Once an offer is accepted, the home is considered conditionally sold

Tip:
The highest price isn’t always the best offer. I’ll help you spot red flags and choose the strongest terms overall.

📄 Step 4: Conditional Period (Typically 7–10 Business Days)

The buyer now has time to satisfy any conditions written into the offer.

Common conditions in Calgary:

• Home inspection

• Financing approval

• Review of condo documents (for condos/townhomes)

Tip:
Have your Real Property Report (RPR) with City of Calgary compliance ready—it’s a legal requirement for most sales and can cause delays if it’s missing or outdated.

🔒 Step 5: Going Firm

Once all conditions are met and waived in writing, your home is officially sold.

What happens:

• The deal becomes legally binding

• Lawyers start prepping the conveyancing documents

• You start packing!

Tip:
Stay on top of paperwork and logistics here. Book movers early and arrange your utility disconnections and change of address.

🏁 Step 6: Possession Day (Usually 30–60 Days After Acceptance)

Time to hand over the keys.

What happens:

• The buyer’s lawyer transfers funds to your lawyer

• Once confirmed, your REALTOR® delivers the keys to the buyer

• You celebrate a successful closing!

Tip:
Leave the home in clean, broom-swept condition. A good handoff makes a great impression (and avoids any last-minute issues).

Final Thoughts: Calgary-Specific Advice

• Market shifts fast. Timing matters. A hot neighbourhood one month can cool down the next—get localized insight before listing.

• Spring and fall are Calgary’s busiest selling seasons, but well-staged homes sell year-round.

• Detached homes in family-friendly communities like Tuscany, Auburn Bay, or Evergreen tend to see fast action if priced right.

Thinking of Selling? Let’s Make It Simple.

I don’t just stick a sign in your yard and hope for the best. I guide you through every step—from prep and pricing to negotiating and closing—with a full-service approach and real local expertise.

📞 Curious what your Calgary home is worth? Let’s talk. Reach out today for a free market assessment and customized plan to get your home sold fast and smart.

Stuart Bartwicki

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