Education4 min read

Understanding Quick Possession Homes: A Complete Guide for REALTORS®

Learn everything you need to know about quick possession homes, including how to identify them, what to expect, and how to best serve your clients.

HT
Homebassador Team

Quick possession homes represent a unique opportunity in Calgary's real estate market. As a REALTOR®, understanding these properties can help you better serve clients who need to move quickly or want to avoid the wait times associated with pre-construction purchases.

What Are Quick Possession Homes?

Quick possession homes are newly built or nearly completed homes that are available for immediate or near-immediate occupancy. Unlike pre-construction homes that may take months or years to complete, quick possession homes are typically move-in ready within 30-90 days.

Benefits for Your Clients

Immediate Occupancy

Your clients can move in quickly, which is ideal for:

  • Relocating professionals
  • Families with school enrollment deadlines
  • Buyers selling their current home with closing dates
  • Investors seeking rental income

New Home Advantages

Quick possession homes offer all the benefits of new construction:

  • Modern design and finishes
  • Builder warranties
  • Energy-efficient features
  • No previous wear and tear
  • Latest building codes and standards

How to Identify Quality Quick Possession Opportunities

Builder Reputation

Research builders with strong track records in Calgary:

  • Check past projects and client reviews
  • Verify warranty and service history
  • Look for established builders with local presence

Location Considerations

Evaluate the community and location:

  • Proximity to amenities (schools, shopping, transit)
  • Future development plans
  • Neighborhood demographics
  • Resale value potential

Home Features

Assess the specific features:

  • Layout and functionality
  • Included upgrades and finishes
  • Lot size and orientation
  • Energy efficiency ratings

Working with Builders

Understanding Builder Incentives

Builders often offer incentives for quick possession homes:

  • Commission structures
  • Closing cost assistance
  • Upgrades and finishes
  • Extended warranties

Communication Best Practices

Maintain clear communication:

  • Establish direct builder contacts
  • Understand showing procedures
  • Clarify possession timelines
  • Document all agreements

Tips for Showing Quick Possession Homes

Preparation

  • Schedule showings during daylight hours
  • Verify access procedures with builder
  • Bring measuring tools and floor plans
  • Prepare questions about finishes and inclusions

During the Showing

  • Point out quality features and finishes
  • Discuss warranty coverage
  • Explain builder service processes
  • Address any client concerns immediately

Follow-Up

  • Provide detailed property information
  • Connect clients with builder representatives
  • Facilitate any additional questions
  • Assist with offer preparation

Common Questions from Buyers

"Why are these homes available now?"

Common reasons include:

  • Spec homes built for immediate sale
  • Buyer financing fell through
  • Builder inventory management
  • Model homes being sold

"What's included in the purchase?"

Typically includes:

  • Standard builder finishes
  • Appliances (as specified)
  • Landscaping (varies)
  • Builder warranty

"Can we make changes?"

Limited customization may be possible:

  • Some finish upgrades
  • Appliance upgrades
  • Additional features (if time permits)
  • Discuss options with builder

Market Considerations

Pricing

Quick possession homes may be priced differently:

  • Market-based pricing
  • Potential incentives
  • Included upgrades value
  • Comparison to pre-construction

Timing

Consider market timing:

  • Seasonal factors
  • Inventory levels
  • Interest rate environment
  • Local market conditions

Best Practices for REALTORS®

Stay Informed

  • Regularly check builder inventory
  • Build relationships with builder sales teams
  • Attend builder events and updates
  • Use platforms like Homebassador for current listings

Client Education

  • Explain quick possession benefits
  • Set realistic expectations
  • Provide market context
  • Address concerns proactively

Documentation

  • Maintain detailed property records
  • Document all communications
  • Keep track of incentives and terms
  • Ensure proper contract execution

Conclusion

Quick possession homes offer valuable opportunities for REALTORS® and their clients. By understanding these properties, building relationships with builders, and effectively communicating benefits to clients, you can successfully navigate this segment of Calgary's new home market.

Stay connected with Homebassador for the latest quick possession inventory and builder updates to better serve your clients.