First-Time Homebuyer Moving Checklist for Calgary

Congratulations on buying your first home in Calgary! The weeks between your offer being accepted and your possession date are a whirlwind. This checklist keeps you organized so nothing falls through the cracks.

As Soon as Your Offer Is Accepted

• Confirm your possession date with your lawyer and realtor
• Get moving quotes from 2-3 licensed Calgary movers and book your preferred company
• Start decluttering your current space — less to move means lower costs and easier unpacking
• Purchase home insurance (required before possession — your mortgage lender will need proof)

4-6 Weeks Before Possession

• Set up utilities for your new address: ENMAX (electricity), ATCO/Direct Energy (gas), internet/cable
• Notify Canada Post of your address change and set up mail forwarding ($74.50 for 12 months)
• Update your address with your bank, employer, CRA, driver's licence (Alberta registry), and vehicle registration
• If leaving a rental, give written notice to your landlord (typically 30-60 days required)
• Start collecting packing supplies — check Facebook Marketplace and local buy-nothing groups for free boxes

2-3 Weeks Before Possession

• Start packing non-essential items room by room
• Confirm your moving date, time, and crew details with your moving company
• If your new home is a condo, contact the property management company to reserve the elevator and loading dock
• Arrange for someone to receive deliveries if your possession time is different from when movers arrive
• Deep clean your current home if you need to get your damage deposit back

Possession Day

• Pick up your keys from your lawyer's office (usually available by noon on possession day)
• Do a walkthrough of your new home before the movers arrive — check that it's been cleaned, all fixtures are in place, and utilities are working
• Check that smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors work
• Note the condition of the home on camera in case you need to reference it later

First Week in Your New Home

• Change the locks or have them re-keyed — you don't know who has copies of the existing keys
• Locate and label your electrical panel, water shut-off valve, and gas shut-off
• Meet your neighbours — this is especially helpful in Calgary where community is strong
• Register for City of Calgary waste and recycling services if not automatic
• Update your vehicle registration and driver's licence at an Alberta registry

Calgary-Specific Tips for First-Time Buyers

• Property taxes: Calgary property taxes are billed annually or can be set up as monthly automatic withdrawals through TIPP (Tax Installment Payment Plan)
• Waste collection: Calgary uses a cart system — black (garbage), blue (recycling), green (compost). Check your collection day at calgary.ca
• Snow clearing: You are responsible for clearing the sidewalk adjacent to your property within 24 hours after snowfall
• Community associations: Most Calgary neighbourhoods have active community associations. Membership fees are typically $25-$50/year and provide access to programs, rinks, and community events