Kateryna came to Canada from Ukraine in 2010, so she knows first-hand what it is like to start over in a new country. She helps newcomers understand how buying a home works here, which communities fit their family and budget, and what to prepare — in English, French, Ukrainian, Russian or Spanish.
Why families choose Calgary
- No provincial sales tax in Alberta — only the 5% federal GST.
- A large, growing city with jobs in energy, technology, logistics, construction and health care.
- The Rocky Mountains about an hour's drive away, hundreds of kilometres of pathways and plenty of sunshine.
- A wide choice of homes: inner-city condos, townhouses and family homes in newer communities with lakes, parks and schools.
Can I buy a home if I am not yet a permanent resident?
Canadian citizens and permanent residents can buy without restrictions. For other buyers, the federal Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act applies in Calgary; it is currently extended to January 1, 2027.
The law has exceptions. Among them: temporary residents who hold a valid work permit (or are authorized to work) with at least 183 days of validity remaining on the day of purchase and who have not bought more than one residential property, as well as refugees and protected persons. Many newcomers on open work permits — including Ukrainians who came under CUAET — can qualify under the work-permit exception if they meet these conditions.
Rules change and every situation is different. Before signing an offer, confirm your eligibility with a real estate lawyer; Kateryna will make sure this is checked early in the process.
Getting a mortgage as a newcomer
- Many Canadian banks and lenders have newcomer mortgage programs that can work with a short Canadian credit history.
- Expect to show proof of income or employment, your immigration documents and the source of your down payment.
- Start building Canadian credit early: a Canadian credit card used and paid in full every month helps.
- A mortgage pre-approval shows you your real budget; Kateryna can introduce you to mortgage specialists who work with newcomers.
Choosing a community
- Commute: CTrain lines and major roads make some communities much easier for daily travel.
- Schools: Calgary's public and Catholic school boards assign designated schools by address — check them before you buy.
- Home type: newer suburbs offer more space for the price; inner-city areas offer walkability.
- Browse current listings and read the FAQ.
Calgary Home Buyer’s Guide 2026
Down payment and CMHC rules, first-time buyer programs, Alberta closing costs, prices by district and checklists.
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