New Build Homes — The IKEA Furniture of Real Estate?

New builds are shiny. They smell like fresh paint and new carpet. They come with sparkling appliances no one’s ever burned a casserole in. Honestly, it feels like moving into a model home straight out of a magazine.

But here’s the thing: like IKEA furniture, they sometimes require a little patience, a little assembly, and a willingness to read the fine print.

The Pros

• Customization: Pick your finishes, flooring, and fixtures. Want gold faucets? Go for it.

• Energy Efficiency: New homes are built to higher standards. Your utility bills will thank you.

• Warranty: Builders in Alberta provide new home warranties — meaning if something goes sideways, you’ve got protection.

The Cons (AKA The “Assembly Required” Part)

• Timelines Shift: Construction delays happen. Weather, supply chain issues, and city permits can all push back possession dates.

• Hidden Costs: Upgrades add up fast. That quartz countertop? Gorgeous. Also an extra few thousand dollars.

• Location Trade-Offs: New builds are often in developing areas. Which means more construction around you for a while.

My Role as Your Realtor

A lot of people think they don’t need a realtor for a new build — the builder has staff, after all. But remember: their job is to represent the builder. My job is to represent you. I’ll review contracts, flag tricky clauses, and make sure your best interests are front and center.

Bottom line: new builds can be amazing. Just go in with eyes open (and maybe a backup plan if you’re still living with your in-laws while you wait for possession).