For sellers
Selling a Home in Calgary with the evidence on the table
Derek Bryer begins with what has sold around you and tells you why he recommends each step after that, from preparation to the offer you accept.
Order of events
Six steps from first price to closing
- Step 01
Look at what has sold nearby
Before any number is chosen, Derek gathers recent sales of similar homes close to yours and the listings you would compete with. You see the same evidence he does. If his view of value differs from yours, he explains the gap before you sign anything. The free home valuation page is a good place to begin.
- Step 02
Decide what work is worth doing
With more than 20 years in residential construction behind him, Derek can walk through the house and point out items a buyer is likely to notice, from worn finishes to drainage around the foundation. He is not an inspector, an engineer, an insurance adjuster or a contractor, so for anything structural or costly you will want the right professional to look at it.
- Step 03
Present the home clearly
Photographs, floor plans and a plain description of the layout help a buyer picture daily life in the home. We choose what to show based on the property in front of us, whether that is a townhouse in Evanston, an acreage near Springbank Hill or a condominium downtown.
- Step 04
List where buyers look
The MLS listing carries much of the weight, and the remaining marketing exists to send people to it. Derek tells you what each piece of marketing is meant to do so you can decide whether it earns its place in your plan.
- Step 05
Hear from Derek about showings
You get a message from Derek, written by him, when there is something to report: who viewed the home, what they said and what has changed nearby. If the listing is quiet he says so and explains what he would adjust.
- Step 06
Compare offers on every term
Price is one line among several. Deposit, conditions, possession date and any request to leave items behind all change what an offer is worth. We lay these out side by side, then stay with the file through to the closing with your lawyer.
Why the first price matters
A price you can explain
Buyers compare your home with others on the same screen. A price they can match to nearby sales reads as credible, while one they cannot match raises questions before anyone books a showing.
For that reason Derek shows you the sales behind his recommendation. Review them yourself, ask about any that look different from your home and decide with the full picture. Our Calgary house prices page gives background on how prices are tracked.
If you are weighing a move, the downsizing guide and the estate home guide cover situations with extra steps. Owners of larger homes can read the luxury homes guide.
Selling in a particular situation?
Some sales call for extra planning
-
Moving Up
Two transactions, one timeline and a gap that has to be covered.
Learn more -
Downsizing
A long-held house, a smaller next home and a move in the right order.
Learn more -
Estate Sales
A sale run by a personal representative, usually in a hard year.
Learn more -
Luxury Homes
Few comparable sales and materials that have to justify the price.
Learn more
Seller questions
How is a list price chosen?
From recent sales of comparable homes, the listings competing with yours and the features of your property. Derek shows you the sales behind the figure so you can judge it for yourself.
Another agent gave me a higher number. What should I ask?
Ask for the sales that support it. A figure without evidence is a guess, and you are entitled to see the reasoning from each agent you meet.
What is a written service agreement?
Alberta's real estate rules call for a written agreement that sets out the services a licensee provides and how that licensee is paid. Derek goes through it with you before you sign. RECA publishes a Consumer Relationships Guide that explains the working relationships open to a seller.
What does selling cost?
The compensation written into the service agreement, legal fees, any preparation you choose, moving costs and a fee to discharge your mortgage if you have one. Derek puts an estimate in writing before you list, and your lawyer confirms the legal costs.
My home is owned by a married person. Does that change anything?
Under Alberta's Dower Act a married owner generally needs the spouse's written consent to dispose of a homestead, and the consent is registered with the transfer. Speak with a lawyer about your own situation well before listing.
I am selling an estate property. Is that different?
It can be, since someone with legal authority for the estate has to sign and a lawyer is usually involved from the start. Our estate home guide covers the general steps, and Derek works alongside your lawyer.
General information. This page describes how Derek works with sellers. It is not legal, tax or financial advice. Confirm details with a lawyer, an accountant or the relevant agency. See about Derek or get in touch.
Licensing. Derek John Bryer, Associate, EXP Realty of Canada Inc. O/A eXp Realty. Licensed by Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA). Member of the Justin Havre Real Estate Team.
Book a 30-minute valuation conversation
Derek brings recent sales near your home and explains what he sees. You can ask questions, and a message to him is answered by him.