When you're buying or selling in Edmonton, it's easy to assume all real estate representatives work the same. But there's a critical difference—your legal rights depend entirely on whether you're a client or a customer.

What's a Client?

A client has signed a written representation agreement with a REALTOR®. That means they benefit from fiduciary duties—loyalty, confidentiality, disclosure, full representation, and competence.

What's a Customer?

As a customer, the agent must deal with you fairly and honestly, but that's it. They don’t owe you loyalty, must only disclose what’s legally required, and aren't obligated to advocate for your best interests.

Why It Matters

  • Negotiation Power: A client’s agent fights for your position, whereas…

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You’ve spent years building equity in your Edmonton home. Now you’re ready to sell—and naturally, you want the best possible price. But here's the truth that doesn't get talked about enough:

The single greatest advantage you can give yourself in any sale is a skilled negotiator in your corner.

Why Negotiation Matters More Than Ever

The real estate market isn’t just about listings and offers—it’s a battleground of psychology, timing, and positioning. Today’s buyers are informed, strategic, and often represented by experienced agents. If your REALTOR® isn’t matching that level of expertise, you could be the one leaving money on the table.

The Mistake Most Sellers Make

Some sellers believe a good home "sells itself." While curb appeal…

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You're ready to sell your Edmonton home. Maybe it's a property you loved, maybe it's been a rental, or maybe you're finally upgrading. Whatever the reason, one thing remains critical: what you disclose to potential buyers can make or break the sale—and your legal safety.

What Is Disclosure?

Disclosure means revealing known material facts about your property. This includes things like water damage, foundation issues, renovations without permits, prior insurance claims, or anything that could affect the property's value or safety.

In Alberta, while it's technically a "buyer beware" province, sellers are still obligated to disclose known latent defects—issues that aren't visible or discoverable during a regular home inspection. If you knowingly…

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Understanding Commission Options When Listing a Home

There’s more than one way to pay your REALTOR®, but not all methods are created equal. Here's what you need to know:

1. Performance-Based Model

This model ensures your REALTOR® only gets paid after you’ve accepted an offer and the buyer has taken possession. It means your agent is motivated to get you the best price and service possible—your success is their success. This commission amount is negotiated at the onset between the seller and the agent.

2. Flat Fee or “Mere Posting”

This option asks you to pay upfront, regardless of whether your home sells. Need staging, photography, or negotiation help? That’s extra. Plus, many sellers forget they’re still expected to pay the buyer’s agent…

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Why You Need a REALTOR® to Sell Your Edmonton Home – Top 10 Reasons

Selling a home isn’t just about square footage and comps—it’s emotional. You’ve built memories here. Every creak in the floor and corner of the kitchen holds a moment. So why risk selling it alone?

Here are 10 reasons why hiring a REALTOR® to sell your Edmonton home is more than just a smart move—it’s essential:

  1. Emotional Anchor: REALTORS® keep you grounded when emotions rise. They offer calm, experienced advice when stress peaks.
  2. Market Mastery: They understand real estate listings and local trends, knowing exactly how to price your home for maximum value.
  3. Strategic Pricing: Overprice and your house sits. Underprice and you leave money behind. REALTORS® strike the sweet…

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Shop Local

Local personalization combines two growing trends that clients love and leads to more repeat and referral clients which should make up the vast majority of any relationship based business. Choosing an Edmonton owned and operated business with a top tier track record can reap many rewards beyond the current transaction. When it comes to real estate look for a locally owned one right up to the top echelons this includes the agent, brokerage and company headquarters.  A strong local culture in a business increases use of other local businesses as well for example signage, promotion, accounting, photography, 3D tours, measurements, charities and fuel to name a few. The benefits of supporting local include reduced carbon footprint, job…

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Radon Asbestos & DNA

Home owners are availing themselves of lab science due to factors such as increased awareness of Radon, the leading cause of lung Cancer in non-smoking Canadians, according to the Canadian Cancer Society. As well asbestos encountered during renovations from Drywall, Drywall mud, textured ceilings, heat duct tape, ceiling tiles and older square stick on floor tiles to name a few have home owners looking for cost effective solutions to avoid exposure. Add to that increased advances in DNA research which can be used to determine areas where a person may be predisposed to certain health conditions and through supervised protocols improve health, it is not a stretch to assume an increase in demand for these tests.

…

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When is the Best Time of Year to List a Home for Sale on the Market?

I often get asked "when is the best time to list a property, should I wait until the Spring?" The answer beyond a pat, "it depends" is really, "the best time of the year to list your home is when you want to." I'll give you the pros and cons of doing it at different times of the year, namely Fall/Winter or Spring/Summer. I'll also cover the three aspects to listing a home that don't change no matter the time of year.

Listing in the Fall/Winter means there is less competition from other listings and the fewer buyers out there are motivated and ready for the most part. Of course it is colder and some of the buyers are looking for the "off peak market deal". With Spring/Summer…

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Why Calling the Sign Might Cost You – Edmonton REALTOR® Advice

You're driving through an Edmonton neighborhood when you see it—a beautiful house for sale. You call the number on the sign, hoping to get a good deal. But here’s what most buyers don’t realize: that call could cost you.

Who Does the Listing Agent Work For?

The agent on the sign is legally and ethically committed to the seller. Their job? Get the seller the highest price and best terms—not to represent or protect your interests.

What You Risk Without Your Own REALTOR®

When you approach a listing without your own representation, you’re on your own—legally and strategically. The seller’s agent has one job: to protect the seller’s interests, not yours.

You might think you're…

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