Guide · Calgary new builds
Calgary Move-In Budget Guide
Complete breakdown of expenses beyond your down payment and closing costs. What to actually budget for when moving into your new Calgary home.
Many buyers budget for down payment and closing costs but forget the $10,000-30,000+ needed for move-in expenses. This guide helps you plan for everything from furniture to utilities.
Immediate Move-In Costs
Expenses you'll face within the first week of possession.
| Expense | Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Moving Company | $500 - $2,500 | Local move; more for out-of-city |
| Lock Rekeying | $150 - $400 | All entry points; security priority |
| Utility Deposits | $200 - $500 | May be required for new accounts |
| Internet Installation | $0 - $150 | Often waived with contracts |
| Deep Cleaning Supplies | $100 - $300 | Or hire cleaners: $200-400 |
| Subtotal | $950 - $3,850 |
Essential Furniture & Appliances
Items you'll likely need if moving from a smaller space or starting fresh.
Bedroom Essentials
Living Room
Dining Area
Appliances (if not included)
Budget Tip: Prioritize Purchases
You don't need everything at once. Focus on essentials first (bed, seating, basic kitchen items) and add other pieces over time. Watch for holiday sales and consider quality secondhand furniture.
Home Maintenance Essentials
Tools and equipment every homeowner needs.
| Category | Items | Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Toolkit | Hammer, screwdrivers, pliers, tape measure, level, drill | $150 - $400 |
| Yard Equipment | Lawn mower, rake, shovel, hose, sprinkler | $400 - $1,000 |
| Snow Removal | Snow shovel, ice scraper, de-icer, snowblower (optional) | $50 - $800 |
| Ladder | Step ladder + extension ladder for gutters | $150 - $400 |
| Safety Equipment | Fire extinguisher, first aid kit, flashlights | $100 - $200 |
Ongoing Monthly Costs
Budget for these recurring expenses beyond your mortgage payment.
| Expense | Monthly Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Property Tax | $200 - $500 | ~0.8% of assessed value annually |
| Home Insurance | $100 - $250 | Higher for hail-prone areas |
| Electricity | $100 - $200 | Varies by usage and season |
| Natural Gas | $80 - $250 | Higher in winter months |
| Water/Sewer/Garbage | $80 - $150 | City of Calgary billing |
| Internet | $60 - $120 | Depends on speed/provider |
| Maintenance Reserve | $200 - $400 | 1-2% of home value annually |
| Total Monthly | $820 - $1,870 | Beyond mortgage payment |
First-Year One-Time Costs
Expenses that typically come up in your first year of homeownership.
Landscaping
Sod, trees, shrubs, mulch, basic garden setup
Fence Installation
Often shared cost with neighbors; check builder specs
Window Coverings
Blinds, curtains, or shutters for all windows
Deck/Patio
If not included; varies greatly by size and materials
Garage Organization
Shelving, hooks, storage systems
Budget Summary Calculator
Recommended Move-In Reserve
This is in addition to your down payment and closing costs. Having this reserve prevents financial stress and allows you to address issues without going into debt.
Source note
- Sources
- Jurisdiction
- Alberta, Canada (Calgary and surrounding municipalities)
- Applies to
- New construction homes purchased from a builder in Calgary and the surrounding Alberta municipalities.
- Last reviewed
- 2026-09-03
- Limitations
- General information written for Alberta buyers. It does not describe any specific builder's contract, any specific lot, or your financial situation.
- What you should verify
- The exact wording of your purchase agreement, the builder's current incentive sheet, warranty enrolment for the specific home, and any figure you intend to rely on.
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