Looking for an affordable Home or Investment Property here is a list of House for Sale in Calgary NE priced under $500,000 . Please E-Mail or Call Glen and the Team if you would like to view any of these homes or if you would like information on any house that we may have coming to market. Click to link down to – Do You Need A Home Inspection?
First Time Home Buyer " Houses " NE Calgary
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2732 11 Avenue SE in Calgary: Albert Park/Radisson Heights Detached for sale : MLS®# A2038706
2732 11 Avenue SE Calgary T2A 0E6 
$199,900Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- A2038706
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 1,003 sq. ft.
***Attention buyers. This is a Partial interest sale (50% of total ownership)*** Located on a 40'x120 R-2 lot this location is just minutes from downtown and located close to schools, shopping and quick access to deerfoot trail and all other amenities. This view lot is a great opportunity for a savvy investor. Offered well below market value for 50% interest. More detailsListed by RE/MAX REAL ESTATE (MOUNTAIN VIEW)- Glen Godlonton
- CIR Realty
- 403-829-9500
- glen@godlonton.com
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94 Martindale Boulevard NE in Calgary: Martindale Detached for sale : MLS®# A2049494
94 Martindale Boulevard NE Calgary T3J 2X5
$245,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- A2049494
- Bedrooms:
- 4
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 1,097 sq. ft.
Exceptional value and opportunity to own in the family-oriented community of Martindale! Ideally located with a bus stop right out front and kitty-corner from a variety of shops and a restaurant. Schools, parks and playgrounds are all within walking distance! This 3+1 bedroom home is well laid out with endless possibilities as an investment property or a starting slate for you to put your creative touches on. Nestled amongst mature landscaping and privately fenced, appealing to young families with lots of room for the kids to play. Off-street parking adds to the allure with room for a future garage. The main floor consists of a bayed living room and a kitchen that is open to the dining room, perfect for entertaining. 3 spacious and bright bedrooms are on the upper level, sharing the 4-piece bathroom. A ton of extra space is found in the finished basement. The rec room is huge and can easily be divided by furniture to include a media area, games room, play space, gym, office and more. A 4th bedroom is also on this level. Centrally situated within this friendly community boasting many parks, sports courts, an ice rink and a skate park plus take full advantage of the multitude of programs offered in the neighbouring communities of Falconridge and Castleridge. More detailsListed by eXp Realty- Glen Godlonton
- CIR Realty
- 403-829-9500
- glen@godlonton.com
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4309 5 Avenue SE in Calgary: Forest Heights Row/Townhouse for sale : MLS®# A2052721
4309 5 Avenue SE Calgary T2A 3B5
$295,000Residential- Status:
- Pending
- MLS® Num:
- A2052721
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 1,039 sq. ft.
SUPERB and updated townhouse with NO CONDO FEES!! This very well maintained townhome boasts 1,500 sq ft of developed living space that features THREE great-sized bedrooms and 1 bathroom with GORGEOUS off white walls, and wonderful material finishes all around - perfect for those who are looking to purchase their first property, downsize or even to invest. Entering the main floor, you'll be amazed by how bright the home feels, all thanks to the beautiful neutral finishes and all of the LARGE NEW WINDOWS that gives the home that extra touch of SIMPLE LUXURY. On this level, you'll have access to the BRIGHT & AIRY Living, Dining and Kitchen layout with fresh designer paint colors and high-quality laminate floors. Fixing your eyes on the amazing CHEF'S KITCHEN area, you can't help but notice the gorgeous SHAKER cabinetry with silver brass finish handles and stainless steel appliances - any chef would be INSPIRED to cook and entertain in this GREAT KITCHEN! Across the Kitchen, you'll find a great dining area with a beautiful large window. The spacious living room is SUPER COZY and features a HUGE window for great natural light all day. Moving up to the upper level is where you'll find TWO great-sized bedrooms with a clean and well maintained 4-piece main bathroom. The primary bedroom RETREAT dazzles with a great-sized closet and lots of natural light from the large window. The basement is finished with a laundry area and a spacious recreation room great a HOME GYM, media room or a kid's play area. Heading outdoors, you'll love the large landscaped front yard - great for Summer BBQs and lounging to enjoy the afternoon sunlight. Forest Heights is a great community built around traditionally inspired themes, designed to provide an enduring community lifestyle in the Southeast of Calgary. With many local amenities, plenty of green space, and a community complete with great access to transit, shops, groceries and restaurants - all making this developed and charming community great to settle in. Don't wait - CALL TODAY to book your PRIVATE TOUR!! More detailsListed by MAXWELL CAPITAL REALTY- Glen Godlonton
- CIR Realty
- 403-829-9500
- glen@godlonton.com
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3046 32A Avenue SE in Calgary: Dover Semi Detached (Half Duplex) for sale : MLS®# A2054902
3046 32A Avenue SE Calgary T2B 0J3
$299,900Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- A2054902
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 815 sq. ft.
***AMAZING VALUE - HUGE LOT - BACKS ON TO PATHS/PARK*** This duplex has a total of 3 bedrooms, a full 4 pce bathroom and amazing location right by the park! The main floor has a good size kitchen and living area. The upper level has 3 good sized bedrooms and a full bathroom. Great location! Amazing tenants willing to stay! Schedule your showing today. More detailsListed by RE/MAX REAL ESTATE (CENTRAL)- Glen Godlonton
- CIR Realty
- 403-829-9500
- glen@godlonton.com
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68 Fonda Drive SE in Calgary: Forest Heights Semi Detached (Half Duplex) for sale : MLS®# A2052377
68 Fonda Drive SE Calgary T2A 6E4
$329,000Residential- Status:
- Pending
- MLS® Num:
- A2052377
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 962 sq. ft.
Welcome to this immaculate semi-detached bi-level home boasting 962 sqft above grade backing onto green space. Featuring 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms! This home has been recently updated with new paint, wide plank flooring and tiles throughout. The kitchen is large and features lots of cabinetry. Very clean with large living room, the main floor features a large laundry room and 4 pc bathroom. The basement is mainly unfinished except for a full 3 pc bathroom. Don't miss out on one of the most affordable half duplexes in Calgary with now condo fees and your own private backyard and a parking pad in the front big enough for 2 cars! Call today! More detailsListed by 2% REALTY- Glen Godlonton
- CIR Realty
- 403-829-9500
- glen@godlonton.com
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38 Abergale Close NE in Calgary: Abbeydale Semi Detached (Half Duplex) for sale : MLS®# A2049377
38 Abergale Close NE Calgary T2A 6J1
$334,900Residential- Status:
- Pending
- MLS® Num:
- A2049377
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 906 sq. ft.
This 2 bed/1 bath semi-detached home with single detached garage and RV parking has been recently updated, including a new hot water tank and furnace in 2022 and newer roof of approx. 4 years. Ideal for a smaller family looking to move into the area, this home is a short distance to Abbeydale School and Community Association, playgrounds, ball diamonds, shopping, transit, as well as 16 Ave and Stoney Trail. The unfinished basement is a blank canvas for your future planning. More detailsListed by DIVERSIFIED MANAGEMENT SOUTHERN- Glen Godlonton
- CIR Realty
- 403-829-9500
- glen@godlonton.com
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222 Pinemeadow Road NE in Calgary: Pineridge Detached for sale : MLS®# A2047985
222 Pinemeadow Road NE Calgary T1Y 4N9
$339,000Residential- Status:
- Pending
- MLS® Num:
- A2047985
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 1,136 sq. ft.
A solid 2 story house with no residential homes at front. LONG LOT (130'). Front part of the main floor has a living room with BAY WINDOW and a dining room. Step inside are the large open kitchen with eating area and a convenient laundry room. Upstairs, there are a spacious master bedroom plus 2 other bedrooms and a full bath. VINYL windows. Basement has minimizing development with some drywalls put up. Rear deck. Fenced SOUTH back yard. The lot is very long (130 ft) where you can park a few cars, and/or RV parking, With renovations, the house could become a cozy and nice living home!! More detailsListed by CIR REALTY- Glen Godlonton
- CIR Realty
- 403-829-9500
- glen@godlonton.com
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71 Falchurch Road NE in Calgary: Falconridge Semi Detached (Half Duplex) for sale : MLS®# A2053953
71 Falchurch Road NE Calgary T3J 1G6
$339,900Residential- Status:
- Pending
- MLS® Num:
- A2053953
- Bedrooms:
- 4
- Bathrooms:
- 3
- Floor Area:
- 860 sq. ft.
Amazing opportunity! Best priced single family home in Falconridge...NO CONDO FEES! Fully developed bi-level w/over 1600 sq.ft of developed living space. Functional floorplan w/large living room w/big front window. Dining room can accommodate a table and is open to the kitchen and living room. Primary bedroom w/room for a king bed plus patio doors leading out to the deck. 2-pc ensuite is a huge bonus. 2nd bedroom is well sized & 4-pc bath and laundry finish off the floor. ILLEGAL 2 BEDROOM BASEMENT SUITE w/private entrance is spacious w/good kitchen, large living room, 2 bedrooms & full bath. Front parking pad has enough room for 2 cars and keeps them off the street. South facing backyard w/alley access and gate allows you to park your toys in the yard. Big items have already been addressed w/newer shingles, windows & high efficiency furnace in the last 10-15 years More detailsListed by RE/MAX REAL ESTATE (MOUNTAIN VIEW)- Glen Godlonton
- CIR Realty
- 403-829-9500
- glen@godlonton.com
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304 Penbrooke Crescent SE in Calgary: Penbrooke Meadows Detached for sale : MLS®# A2045461
304 Penbrooke Crescent SE Calgary T2A 3T7
$340,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- A2045461
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,097 sq. ft.
Spacious 3 Bedroom Bi-Level With Partially Finished Basement And A Detached Double Garage. Great Opportunity For Some Sweat Equity. Located On A Corner Lot, On A Quiet Street In Penbrooke And Close To All Amenities. More detailsListed by RE/MAX REAL ESTATE (CENTRAL)- Glen Godlonton
- CIR Realty
- 403-829-9500
- glen@godlonton.com
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3061 30A Street SE in Calgary: Dover Detached for sale : MLS®# A2055392
3061 30A Street SE Calgary T2B 0S8
$347,898Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- A2055392
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 777 sq. ft.
Beautiful 3 bedroom bi-level, Recently renovated , NEW ROOF, NEW FURNACE, NEW HOT WATER TANK, New Paint, New floors with in last few years . The lower level has a 1 bedroom illegal suite. Fantastic investment property or first time home buyer. Located within steps of school, community centre and parks. Don't miss out will not last at this price. More detailsListed by RE/MAX REAL ESTATE (MOUNTAIN VIEW)- Glen Godlonton
- CIR Realty
- 403-829-9500
- glen@godlonton.com
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48 Dovercliffe Way SE in Calgary: Dover Detached for sale : MLS®# A2047792
48 Dovercliffe Way SE Calgary T2B 2C6
$349,900Residential- Status:
- Pending
- MLS® Num:
- A2047792
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 3
- Floor Area:
- 1,104 sq. ft.
**HANDYMAN SPECIAL** Here is a fantastic opportunity to put in a sweat equity value-add into a DETACHED HOME under $350K! This property is currently revenue generating with tenants that have been there for 7 years and are looking to stay. The following items have already been completed in the last 7 years: new shingles, new water heater, new furnace motor, new fence with gates, new kitchen stove, fridge, washer and dryer. The property offers over 1500 sq. ft. of developed living space and features 3 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, including a fully-finished basement with a full bathroom, a storage shed, and a double gravel rear parking pad. The location is ideal, with easy access to schools, shopping, public transportation, playgrounds, and other amenities. More detailsListed by eXp Realty- Glen Godlonton
- CIR Realty
- 403-829-9500
- glen@godlonton.com
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1531 Maitland Drive NE in Calgary: Marlborough Park Detached for sale : MLS®# A2054792
1531 Maitland Drive NE Calgary T2A 5V2
$350,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- A2054792
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 1,008 sq. ft.
Handy Man Special, Sold as is where is, Renovations started but not completed. All offers presented Friday June 9, 2023 at 5:00 PM . New shingles in 2022, Some new windows already installed. Please use the offer to purchase in the supplements More detailsListed by RE/MAX REALTY PROFESSIONALS- Glen Godlonton
- CIR Realty
- 403-829-9500
- glen@godlonton.com
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3426 35 Avenue SE in Calgary: Dover Semi Detached (Half Duplex) for sale : MLS®# A2055420
3426 35 Avenue SE Calgary T2B 2J5
$360,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- A2055420
- Bedrooms:
- 4
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 743 sq. ft.
This charming 4 bedroom home is situated on a quiet, non through road, with a beautiful abundance of mature foliage. This home is ideal for the first time home buyer, couple, roommates or growing family. The main floor has received a fresh coat of paint including the kitchen cabinets. All oak trim has been sanded and re-stained and newer flooring has been installed throughout the main. The open concept living room and dining area compromise a generous flowing space. The electric fireplaces offers a cozy comfortable space for movie night. Functional kitchen with reverse osmosis system, plenty of counter space, breakfast bar and built in pantry. Sliding glass patio doors off the kitchen fill the area with natural light. Enjoy your morning coffee or that well deserved brew at the end of the day from the comfort of your south facing balcony. The original 2 bedrooms up have been converted into one massive master bedroom. An incredible space for those guys or gals with an extensive shoe collection or wardrobe;). Easily converted back to a 2 bedroom if one was so inclined. Cheater door from the master to the 4 piece bath. The main bath hosts a generous sized counter top for all your necessities. The lower level is compromised of 3 additional bedrooms. One huge bedroom with walk in closet which could also be utilized as a rec room. 2 more generous sized bedrooms and an additional 4 piece bath complete your tour of the basement. Front drive parking, oversized single garage and an additional parking pad in the rear. The fully fenced and landscaped yard offers plenty of privacy. Dog run beside the garage. Dog house and shed is included. Walking distance to ST. Damien Elementary school (k-6), daycare, other amenities and public transportation. Playground just down the street. West Dover school (k-6), Holy Cross (k-9), Dover Community Centre, Dover Beach Volley ball courts, Valleyview spray park and walking paths also nearby. Make your move before the new school year begins. Contact your favourite realtor today to call this home your own. More detailsListed by CIR REALTY- Glen Godlonton
- CIR Realty
- 403-829-9500
- glen@godlonton.com
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2813 12 Avenue SE in Calgary: Albert Park/Radisson Heights Semi Detached (Half Duplex) for sale : MLS®# A2053702
2813 12 Avenue SE Calgary T2A 0G4
$360,000Residential- Status:
- Pending
- MLS® Num:
- A2053702
- Bedrooms:
- 4
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 833 sq. ft.
Welcome to this stunning 4-bedroom home that boasts an enchanting blend of elegance and functionality. Located in a desirable neighborhood, this residence offers a truly exceptional living experience. With 2 bedrooms on the upper level and 2 on the lower level, this spacious abode provides ample space for a growing family or for hosting guests. beauty of the hardwood flooring that adorns the basement, exuding warmth and character throughout. The focal point of the cozy living room is a wood-burning fireplace, perfect for chilly evenings, creating a serene ambiance and inviting atmosphere. The upper level features vinyl flooring, offering both durability and easy maintenance. The elegant tiled floors in the common areas further enhance the charm and style of the home, adding a touch of sophistication to the overall aesthetic. One of the highlights of this property is the main floor balcony, an ideal spot for enjoying your morning coffee or relishing in the serenity of the neighborhood. It provides a tranquil outdoor space to unwind and soak up the sunshine, making it perfect for relaxation or entertaining friends and family. This home is conveniently located near schools and a bike path, making it ideal for families with children or those who enjoy an active lifestyle. The egress windows in the basement bedrooms ensure safety and provide natural light, creating bright and welcoming spaces. Additionally, the property's proximity to the Max Bell Arena allows for easy access to sports and recreational activities. The close proximity to amenities such as shopping centers, restaurants, and parks adds convenience to your daily life. More detailsListed by REAL BROKER- Glen Godlonton
- CIR Realty
- 403-829-9500
- glen@godlonton.com
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230 Radley Place SE in Calgary: Albert Park/Radisson Heights Semi Detached (Half Duplex) for sale : MLS®# A2041436
230 Radley Place SE Calgary T2A 5X6
$368,000Residential- Status:
- Pending
- MLS® Num:
- A2041436
- Bedrooms:
- 4
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 809 sq. ft.
Attention: Investors and First-time buyers!! This home has an EXCELLENT location which is close to all amenities: Walking distance to Fr. Lacombe High school , elementary schools and C-Train (Franklin station) . Few steps to bus stop and playgrounds/parks. There are 4 bedrooms and 2 full bathroom. This humble abode has Large living room + laminate floors on the main floor + good size kitchen and dining area Other features include: Separate side entrance to the basement + Newer windows +Newer roof + newer water tank Huge backyard for your family to relax and enjoy .Spacious parking area which can accomodate three vehicles. More detailsListed by CIR REALTY- Glen Godlonton
- CIR Realty
- 403-829-9500
- glen@godlonton.com
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55 Radcliffe Crescent SE in Calgary: Albert Park/Radisson Heights Semi Detached (Half Duplex) for sale : MLS®# A2041455
55 Radcliffe Crescent SE Calgary T2A 6A9
$369,900Residential- Status:
- Pending
- MLS® Num:
- A2041455
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 3
- Floor Area:
- 1,032 sq. ft.
Excellent Location in this Semi-detacjed home located in Raddison Heights . Few steps to Fr. Lacombe High school and Elementary schools. Walking distance to bus stop and C-Train station (Franklin Station )Main level has bright kitchen area, 1/2 bath and spacious living room. Upper level has 3 bedrooms and a shared bathroom. The basement has another room, and living room with Full bathroom. Fully fenced back yard with mature trees to enjoy specially on summer days. Amenities in minutes: close to shopping, Walmart, Marlborough station, T&T Pacific mall, Lucky supermarket. Few minutes drive to Deerfoot , Stoney trail, and Downtown!! Come take a look for yourself and book a showing NOW! More detailsListed by CIR REALTY- Glen Godlonton
- CIR Realty
- 403-829-9500
- glen@godlonton.com
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47 Erin Croft Crescent SE in Calgary: Erin Woods Detached for sale : MLS®# A2048815
47 Erin Croft Crescent SE Calgary T2B 2T8
$374,988Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- A2048815
- Bedrooms:
- 4
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,114 sq. ft.
LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION Welcome to this remarkable home in vibrant Erin Woods, Calgary! With a finished basement, an open design, a double detached garage, and a big fenced backyard with a deck, this 4-bedroom residence offers a comfortable and versatile living space. The vibrant neighborhood provides a friendly atmosphere and a sense of community. The finished basement adds valuable living area, while the open design creates a bright and spacious ambiance throughout. The four bedrooms offer ample space for family and guests, ensuring everyone has their own sanctuary. Outside, the well-maintained yard, complete with a big fenced backyard and deck, provides a great space for outdoor activities and entertaining. Don't miss the opportunity to make this remarkable house with a double detached garage your new home. Contact you favourite agent today to schedule a showing in this vibrant neighborhood. More detailsListed by RE/MAX REAL ESTATE (MOUNTAIN VIEW)- Glen Godlonton
- CIR Realty
- 403-829-9500
- glen@godlonton.com
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3046 Doverville Crescent SE in Calgary: Dover Semi Detached (Half Duplex) for sale : MLS®# A2039411
3046 Doverville Crescent SE Calgary T2B 1T9
$378,000Residential- Status:
- Pending
- MLS® Num:
- A2039411
- Bedrooms:
- 4
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 997 sq. ft.
Investing or looking to buy? This 2 Storey Semi Detached property, with great quiet neighbors, could be your next purchase. Immediate possession available! Fully finished with 2 Baths, 3 Bedrooms upstairs and 1 down (with an egress window). Eat in Kitchen with lots of counter space and newer appliances. Downstairs is tile carpeted and ready to set up your games room or Den. Enjoy the huge fenced backyard with the little ones or for hosting a BBQ with family and friends. Back alley access to the Double Detached garage built in 2009 with concrete floor, 60 amp power and 220v service is perfect for the car or welding enthusiast. Close to Schools and Shopping. Call your Realtor today! More detailsListed by CIR REALTY- Glen Godlonton
- CIR Realty
- 403-829-9500
- glen@godlonton.com
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19 Margate Place NE in Calgary: Marlborough Detached for sale : MLS®# A2054351
19 Margate Place NE Calgary T2A 3E4
$379,000Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- A2054351
- Bedrooms:
- 4
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 912 sq. ft.
Well situated home in Marlborough with illegal basement suite and single detached garage. Great opportunity for an investor. More detailsListed by REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS INC.- Glen Godlonton
- CIR Realty
- 403-829-9500
- glen@godlonton.com
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67 Fallswater Road NE in Calgary: Falconridge Detached for sale : MLS®# A2038386
67 Fallswater Road NE Calgary T3J 1B2
$379,900Residential- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- A2038386
- Bedrooms:
- 5
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,033 sq. ft.
Fantastic opportunity for first-time buyers, investors, and contractors. This renovated bungalow offers 3 bedroom and 4pc full bathroom on the main level, and fully developed basement featuring two additional bedrooms and another 4pc full bathroom. Great layout with the back door that works as a separate entrance to the basement. Huge backyard to enjoy outdoor activities. Perfect location close to playground, schools, parks, and public transit. More detailsListed by MAXWELL CAPITAL REALTY- Glen Godlonton
- CIR Realty
- 403-829-9500
- glen@godlonton.com
Data was last updated June 8, 2023 at 04:05 PM (UTC)
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Real Estate Tips
Do You Need A Home Inspection?
An examination of a real estate property’s condition, usually performed in connection with the property’s sale. A qualified home inspector can assess the condition of a property’s roof, foundation, heating and cooling systems, plumbing, electrical work, water and sewage, and some fire and safety issues. In addition, the home inspector will look for evidence of insect, water or fire damage or any other issue that may affect the value of the property.
Home Inspection Explained
A home inspector is often hired by a potential home buyer to provide a written report regarding a property’s condition, including an assessment of necessary or recommended repairs, maintenance concerns or other issues. A home inspection is an examination of the property’s condition, and should not be confused with a home appraisal, which determines the value of the property.
The Home Inspection Condition
Your first clue that a home inspection is important is that it can be used as a condition in your offer to purchase. This condition provides that if significant defects are revealed by a home inspection, you can back out of your offer, free of penalty, within a certain time frame. The potential problems a home can have must be pretty serious if they could allow you to walk away from such a significant contract.
What a Home Inspection Examines
Inspectors vary in experience, ability and thoroughness, but a good inspector should examine certain components of the home you want to purchase and then produce a report covering his or her findings. The typical inspection lasts two to three hours and you should be present for the inspection to get a firsthand explanation of the inspector’s findings and, if necessary, ask questions. Also, any problems the inspector uncovers will make more sense if you see them in person instead of relying solely on the snapshot photos in the report.
The inspector should note:
- whether each problem is a safety issue, major defect, or minor defect
- which items need replacement and which should be repaired or serviced
- items that are suitable for now but that should be monitored closely
A really great inspector will even tell you about routine maintenance that should be performed, which can be a great help if you are a first-time homebuyer.
While it is impossible to list everything an inspector could possibly check for, the following list will give you a general idea of what to expect.
Exterior
- Exterior walls – The inspector will check for damaged or missing siding, cracks and whether the soil is in excessively close contact with the bottom of the house, which can invite wood-destroying insects. However, the pest inspector, not the home inspector, will check for actual damage from these insects. The inspector will let you know which problems are cosmetic and which could be more serious.
- Foundation – If the foundation is not visible, and it usually is not, the inspector will not be able to examine it directly, but they can check for secondary evidence of foundation issues, like cracks or settling.
- Grading – The inspector will let you know whether the grading slopes away from the house as it should. If it doesn’t, water could get into the house and cause damage, and you will need to either change the slope of the yard or install a drainage system.
- Garage or carport – The inspector will test the garage door for proper opening and closing, check the garage framing if it is visible and determine if the garage is properly ventilated (to prevent accidental carbon monoxide poisoning). If the water heater is in the garage, the inspector will make sure it is installed high enough off the ground to minimize the risk of explosion from gasoline fumes mingling with the heater’s flame.
Roof – The inspector will check for areas where roof damage or poor installation could allow water to enter the home, such as loose, missing or improperly secured shingles and cracked or damaged mastic around vents. He or she will also check the condition of the gutters.
Interior
- Plumbing – The home inspector will check all faucets and showers, look for visible leaks, such as under sinks and test the water pressure. He or she will also identify the kind of pipes the house has, if any pipes are visible. The inspector may recommend a secondary inspection if the pipes are old to determine if or when they might need to be replaced and how much the work would cost. The inspector will also identify the location of the home’s main water shutoff valve.
Electrical – The inspector will identify the kind of wiring the home has, test all the outlets and make sure there are functional ground fault circuit interrupters (which can protect you from electrocution, electric shock and electrical burns) installed in areas like the bathrooms, kitchen, garage and outdoors. They will also check your electrical panel for any safety issues and check your electrical outlets to make sure they do not present a fire hazard.- Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) – The inspector will look at your HVAC system to estimate the age of the furnace and air conditioner, determine if they function properly and recommend repairs or maintenance. An inspector can also give you an idea of the age of the home’s ducting, whether it might have leaks, if your home has sufficient insulation to minimize your energy bills and whether there is any asbestos insulation.
Water heater – The home inspector will identify the age of the heater and determine if it is properly installed and secured. The inspector will also let you know what kind of condition it is in and give you a general idea of how many years it has left.- Kitchen appliances – The inspector will sometimes check kitchen appliances that come with the home to make sure they work, but these are not always part of the inspection. Be sure to ask the inspector which appliances are not included so that you can check them yourself.
- Laundry room – The inspector will make sure the laundry room is properly vented. A poorly maintained dryer-exhaust system can be a serious fire hazard.
- Fire safety – If the home has an attached garage, the inspector will make sure the wall has the proper fire rating and that it hasn’t been damaged in any way that would compromise its fire rating. They will also test the home’s smoke detectors.
- Bathrooms – The inspector will check for visible leaks, properly secured toilets, adequate ventilation and other issues. If the bathroom does not have a window and/or a ventilation fan, mold and mildew can become problems and moisture can warp wood cabinets over time.
Home Inspection Shortcomings
A home inspection can’t identify everything that might be wrong with the property – it only checks for visual cues to problems. For example, if the home’s doors do not close properly or the floors are slanted, the foundation might have a crack – but if the crack can’t be seen without pulling up all the flooring in the house, a home inspector can’t tell you for sure if it’s there.
Furthermore, most home inspectors are generalists – that is, they can tell you that the plumbing might have a problem, but then they will recommend that you hire an expert to verify the problem and give you an estimate of the cost to fix it. Of course, hiring additional inspectors will cost extra money. Home inspectors also do not check for issues like termite damage, site contamination, mold, engineering problems and other specialized issues.
After the Inspection
Once you have the results of your home inspection, you have several options.
If the problems are too significant or too expensive to fix, you can choose to walk away from the purchase, as long as the purchase contract has an inspection condition.- For problems large or small, you can ask the seller to fix them, reduce the purchase price, or to give you a cash credit at closing to fix the problems yourself – this is where a home inspection can pay for itself several times over.
- If these options aren’t viable in your situation (for example, if the property is bank-owned and being sold as-is), you can get estimates to fix the problems yourself and come up with a plan for repairs in order of their importance and affordability once you own the property.
The Bottom Line
A home inspection will cost you a little bit of time and money, but in the long run you’ll be glad you did it. The inspection can reveal problems that you may be able to get the current owners to fix before you move in, saving you time and money. If you are a first-time homebuyer, an inspection can give you a crash course in home maintenance and a checklist of items that need attention to make your home as safe and sound as possible. Don’t skip this important step in the home-buying process – it’s worth every penny