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Pre-Listing and Home Inspection Preparation

So you’ve accepted an offer with a home inspection, what’s next? Time to get ready and have your home put it’s best foot forward! In a perfect world, this was all done before listing, but we live in a world where Firefly only got one season, so here we are. 

A lot of these fixes seem tiny, but this is all about optics. The scariest home inspection reports are the long ones, buyers start fretting about every item (rightfully), and see the scope of work that needs done to make the home right again. It’s death by a thousand cuts, except it’s the home you’re trying to sell. Compared to the inspections that have only a couple of big items, these long lists can be intimidating. 

By making this segmented, hopefully it helps provide you with an achievable to do list that can be done relatively quick. I’m going to break it down by price, so that depending on the situation you have a better idea about what can or cannot be done.

Before taking any of these on however, it is important that you do a little self-evaluation; is this something you can, or want to do? Will your unwillingness to do this impact the quality of your work? If you don’t know how to do something, you can either learn to do it, or hire someone. A lot of these are pretty straightforward, however, there is nothing wrong with hiring someone. It will cost you a little bit more, but you will save time, and usually have a higher quality product at the end. 

Just something to consider. 

Under $200

Under $200

The cheap and easy, these are my favourite repairs. 

Price isn’t everything, these relatively cheap fixes will help your home show better. Buyers will be more attracted to a home that is obviously well maintained. It is unlikely these items will get negotiated on, however, if the buyer sees these items and the more expensive one, they may just want a bulk price reduction.

  1. Replace your Furnace Filter. In most cases, no higher than MERV 8, higher than that can cause undue stress on your system. $13 (2 pack)

  2. Windows and Screen. Make sure your windows all open and close, repair any torn bug screens $6 (patch kit)

  3. Caulking. Dryrotten or torn caulking gets caught by just about every home inspector. $15 for Caulk, $9 for scraper/spreader, $10 for the caulk gun. This is the one task I will usually hire out for my own home. 

  4.  Receptacle and switch face plates. Make sure they’re all protected. $2-$10

  5. Smoke Detectors. If this is expired, you should replace it anyways for safety. $40 each

  6. Clogged Drains. You can snake them, or hire someone to do that, because it can be nasty. $19 for a Drain Snake (tool)

  7. Leaky Shower Heads. Sometimes it is as simple as tightening the screw, or taking the head off and applying some plumbers tape. Worst case scenario, you have to replace it. $2-$50

Under $500

Little pricier, little bit more of a important part. These items may get flagged as something the buyer should do sooner rather than later, so can impact negotiations.

  1. Duct Cleaning - this is different from furnace cleaning, duct cleaning is for the ducts and clears out dust, pet dander, and any toys dropped in the ducts. Furnace cleaning is for the mechanical portion of the furnace. $200+

  2. Have your furnace and fireplace serviced. $200 for the Technician’s time, sometimes $200 for parts (most of the fixes I’ve seen done were around $70 for the part). If they find out you need a new furnace, this cost will obviously balloon into the thousands. It is better to find out about it now, rather than scare off the buyer. 

  3. Hire a handyman to do all of the under $200 items

  4. Electrical. Got some broken or loose plugs, maybe an exterior light that had a high-speed interaction with a basketball? Get them fixed! 

  5. Sump Pump. Does it work? Less important, but helpful when the inspector catches it - do you have a spare pump ready to install? 

Under $5,000

These are the big items that buyers may negotiate on.

Woah big price jump! Homes are a bit of an all or nothing when it comes to time and money, it’s either a cheap fix, or not. Because these can also vary a lot more, I won’t be adding prices, sorry! 

  1. Exterior Repairs. Now is the time to fix that loose piece of siding, or the soffit that flew away. 

  2. Grading. Your home doesn’t need new weeping tile and latest water control technology to control the water around your home, you need to fix the grading so the water flows away from the home. 

  3. Windows. Do you see condensation in your window? Maybe a big ugly crack? Might be time to replace it. 

  4. Roofing. Is it due to be replaced? Maybe some shingles need reaffixed. 

If this seems like a lot of work, that’s because it is. It is better to spread these items out over the span of a couple months (ideally, as soon as they become a problem, or in the months before you list your home). You’ll notice that a lot of these items would be a pain to get done before the possession date, so these are way better to get done before you even list. It will help your home stand out against the competition. 

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New property listed in Rural Foothills County

I have listed a new property at 304241 278 AVENUE W in Rural Foothills County. See details here

Welcome to your slice of paradise! Nestled on 7.7 acres of ready to use pasture, located in the rolling Foothills, this 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home is ready for it’s next owners. 30 Minutes to Calgary or Okotoks, located amongst treed seclusion, you can truly unwind here Step inside to a warm and inviting main floor where you'll find a spacious den (suitable for use as a bedroom), a full 4-piece bathroom, convenient main floor laundry, and plenty of storage. The functional kitchen features a pantry and flows seamlessly into the dining area, making it ideal for everyday living or entertaining. The impressive living room is filled with natural light from large windows and is anchored by a beautiful brick wood-burning fireplace. Vaulted ceilings and the open-to-above design create an airy, spacious feel while maintaining the cozy character of a country cabin. Upstairs, the loft-style bonus room overlooks the living room below and offers endless possibilities as a home office, library, studio, or sitting room where you can take in the surrounding views. The spacious primary retreat includes a generous walk-in closet and an oversized 4-piece ensuite, creating a peaceful space to unwind at the end of the day. The fully finished basement adds even more living space with a large recreation room, an additional bedroom complete with its own walk-in closet, a full 4-piece bathroom, and abundant utility and storage space—perfect for guests, teenagers, or extended family. Large windows throughout the home fill every level with natural light, meaning you'll rarely need to turn on a light during the day. Outside, you’ll find the ready-for-horses barn, with an automatic watering trough, a dedicated tack room (or she shed, or man cave!), and the 2 car garage. This property is fully fenced and ready for horses, with a fenced path for the horses to get from the back pasture to the front. Whether you're relaxing on the porch with your morning coffee, curling up by the fire after a day outdoors, or watching wildlife wander through the trees, this property offers the peaceful country lifestyle you've been dreaming of.

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Open House. Open House on Saturday, July 4, 2026 12:00PM - 2:00PM

Please visit our Open House at 917 High Park WAY NW in High River. See details here

Open House on Saturday, July 4, 2026 12:00PM - 2:00PM

Welcome home to this lovely, well thought out and well cared for home in Highwood Village. This home is in the perfect location if you are looking to be close to schools and pathways, or if you need quick access to the highway. The main floor boasts a large living room and well thought out kitchen and dining room. The kitchen is well lit with natural light, and provides lots of counterspace for all of your cooking or baking needs. You’ll want to be outside enjoying the warm weather (when it gets here) on the massive back deck, or enjoying yard games on the large lawn. On the main floor, you’ll also find the 2 piece bathroom and laundry room, providing plenty of space for tackling laundry. Upstairs, you’ll find 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The primary bedroom is massive, and allows for a lot of privacy with it’s own 4 piece ensuite and walk in closet. The 2 additional bedrooms are well sized, with their own closets, and large windows. With large windows upstairs and down, you’ll be able to welcome all the natural light you could wish for. Downstairs, the basement has been finished with brand new Vinyl Plank Flooring, and has enough space for a weight rack and an air hockey table. There are 2 extra bedrooms in the basement, providing a total of 5 bedrooms to the home; perfect for a large family, for visiting family, or use the extra bedrooms as an office space. This home provides plenty of opportunity, and is turn-key ready to move in. The flooring on the main floor and basement are brand-new, the hot water tank was replaced in 2025, and the furnace was recently checked and given a clean bill of health. Want to spend some time in the garage? Or need space for a trailer? The 24x22 garage provides enough space to park vehicles, or function as a shop, without taking up all the parking! There is additional RV parking to the side of the garage, and you own the back lane, so if you need to park an additional vehicle, you won’t have an issue. Call your favourite realtor to book a viewing!

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New property listed in Sunrise Meadows, High River

I have listed a new property at 211 43 Sunrise LOOP SE in High River. See details here

Welcome home! You won't find a more welcoming condo in all of High River. Centered around a welcoming community, The View at Sunrise is an amazing 55+ apartment building, complete with games room, fitness room, common dining area, and a theater room. The home has a full well laid out kitchen, open living room with Air Conditioning. The 2 bedrooms have large windows to welcome in lots of natural light. The primary bedroom comes complete with a 4 piece ensuite. The main bathroom has the stacked in-unit laundry machines. Your parking stall is underground, and in a great spot being right beside your caged storage unit, and a quick walk to the elevator. Make this amazing home yours, and call your favourite agent to book a showing!

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New property listed in Seton, Calgary

I have listed a new property at 216 474 Seton CIRCLE SE in Calgary. See details here

Welcome home! This is a pet-friendly condo, so your pets are more than welcome! You can have up to 2 pets without board approval, combined with the fenced front yard, this home is great for you and your pets! This home is perfectly situated to take advantage of all Seton has to offer. Walking paths out your front door, Seton’s private Community Center across the street, quick access to highways, and the worlds LARGEST YMCA just up the road. The living room and kitchen are the heart of this home, they are both naturally lit, and have plenty of space to cook and host. The 2 bedrooms are at the back of the home, and provide enough space for a queen sized bed in each, and the closets provide plenty of storage. The 4 piece bathroom is bright and comes complete with quartz counters, and a tub shower combo. This home is the pinnacle of easy maintenance, with tough materials used throughout, and low condo fees, this is a great home for a first time homebuyer, or someone looking to downsize. Call your favourite agent to book a private viewing!

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New property listed in Highwood Village, High River

I have listed a new property at 917 High Park WAY NW in High River. See details here

Welcome home to this lovely, well thought out and well cared for home in Highwood Village. This home is in the perfect location if you are looking to be close to schools and pathways, or if you need quick access to the highway. The main floor boasts a large living room and well thought out kitchen and dining room. The kitchen is well lit with natural light, and provides lots of counterspace for all of your cooking or baking needs. You’ll want to be outside enjoying the warm weather (when it gets here) on the massive back deck, or enjoying yard games on the large lawn. On the main floor, you’ll also find the 2 piece bathroom and laundry room, providing plenty of space for tackling laundry. Upstairs, you’ll find 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The primary bedroom is massive, and allows for a lot of privacy with it’s own 4 piece ensuite and walk in closet. The 2 additional bedrooms are well sized, with their own closets, and large windows. With large windows upstairs and down, you’ll be able to welcome all the natural light you could wish for. Downstairs, the basement has been finished with brand new Vinyl Plank Flooring, and has enough space for a weight rack and an air hockey table. There are 2 extra bedrooms in the basement, providing a total of 5 bedrooms to the home; perfect for a large family, for visiting family, or use the extra bedrooms as an office space. This home provides plenty of opportunity, and is turn-key ready to move in. The flooring on the main floor and basement are brand-new, the hot water tank was replaced in 2025, and the furnace was recently checked and given a clean bill of health. Want to spend some time in the garage? Or need space for a trailer? The 24x22 garage provides enough space to park vehicles, or function as a shop, without taking up all the parking! There is additional RV parking to the side of the garage, and you own the back lane, so if you need to park an additional vehicle, you won’t have an issue. Call your favourite realtor to book a viewing!

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New property listed in Sunrise Meadows, High River

I have listed a new property at 349 Sunrise TERRACE NE in High River. See details here

**Back on Market due to Pet Approval** Welcome home to this Air Conditioned, 2 bedroom townhome! This condo complex is great for families, as schools are nearby, and it has a central, private, playground. It also makes a great home for young professionals looking for a roommate! Complete with a new Hot Water Tank, new fridge, washer/dryer, and flooring, this home is turn-key ready for its new owners. The foyer provides a welcoming entrance, and comes complete with a coat closet, into the naturally lit living room, you’ll find plenty of space for however you want to furnish it. And in the kitchen, you’ll find all stainless steel appliances, wood cabinets, and granite countertops, all in beautiful condition. The dining room leads straight to the East balcony, and the storage room. Upstairs, you’ll find the centrally located washer and dryer, 4 piece bathroom, and 2 large bedrooms. One of the bedrooms comes complete with a spacious walk in closet. This home has no shortage of storage either, with 2 linen closets upstairs, the coat closet, and the storage under the stairs. Your 2 assigned parking stalls are right outside, making it a quick trip from door to door! Contact your favourite agent to book a private showing!

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New property listed in Sunalta, Calgary

I have listed a new property at 301 2020 11 AVENUE SW in Calgary. See details here

Welcome home! This 3rd floor, 1 bed, 1 bath home is situated perfectly for those who work downtown, and want to be close to all Calgary has to offer. With nearby transit, shopping, and street parking for guests, it makes a great launchpad for your weekend, or a great starting point before the work week. Entering the home, your stacked in-unit washer and dryer are to your right, further down the hall is the 4 piece bathroom, and the primary bedroom that could fit a king sized bed and a dresser. Or, if you need more storage, a queen sized bed and a large dresser! Emerging from the bedroom, you’ll find the open layout kitchen and living room. The kitchen has lots of cabinet space, and a space-saving folding table attached to the island for maximum function and comfort. The living room is huge and ready for whatever you need, gym? Easy. Board game setup? Done! The possibilities are endless. The balcony is right out the sliding door, and lends space for a BBQ. On the 2nd floor, you’ll find the dedicated storage room, in case you have seasonal decorations you want tucked away. Your parking stall is located outside on the back of the building, and gives quick alley access to get you where you need to go. Out front of the building is public angled parking. This is a very well maintained building, with a very well run condo corporation and reasonable fees. Call your favourite agent for a private viewing!

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New property listed in Vulcan

I have listed a new property at 314 Whispering WAY in Vulcan. See details here

Welcome to Whispering Creek Condominiums in the golf community of Whispering Creek, Vulcan, an exclusive adult (55+) community. Say goodbye to cutting grass and shoveling snow as your condo fees look after those chores. No commitment to start building and $30 per month covers maintenance on the vacant lot. Vulcan is conveniently located 1 hour from Calgary or Lethbridge but with a hospital, golf course, shopping, medical services, you might never need to leave town! Backyard faces south. GST is applicable

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