Terri Champagne, REALTOR®

Whether you’re a seasoned seller or putting your first home on the market, understanding the legal details around your property is key to a smooth sale. One important topic that often comes up but isn’t always fully understood is the Dower Act—especially in Alberta.

No matter your generation—Boomer, Millennial, or Gen Z—knowledge is power when it comes to protecting yourself and your family during a home sale. This article breaks down what Dower rights are, why they matter, and how they could affect you if you’re selling your home.

What Are Dower Rights?

In Alberta, Dower rights are designed to protect a married spouse who isn’t listed as an owner on the title of the matrimonial home. Even if only one spouse’s name appears on the property title, the other spouse still has legal rights regarding major decisions about the home.

This means the non-owning spouse must consent to important actions like selling, leasing, mortgaging, or transferring the property. These protections are codified in Alberta’s Dower Act to ensure that spouses are treated fairly in decisions that impact the family home.

Why Does the Dower Act Matter to Sellers?

If you’re selling your home and your spouse lives there with you—but isn’t on the title—you’ll need their formal consent to proceed. This consent is given by signing two specific documents:

• A Dower Consent form

• A Dower Affidavit

These forms confirm the non-owning spouse agrees to the sale, and the process cannot move forward without them.

Key Points About Dower Rights in Alberta

• Protection for Non-Owning Spouse: Prevents a spouse not on title from being excluded from decisions affecting the family home.

• Consent Requirement: The non-owning spouse must sign off on selling, refinancing, or mortgaging the home.

• Life Estate Rights: If the owning spouse passes away, the non-owning spouse may have the right to live in the home for their lifetime.

• Applies Only to Legally Married Couples: These rights do not apply to common-law partners.

• Limited to the Matrimonial Home: The law applies only to the primary residence where the married couple lives, not to other properties owned.

Why We Want to Educate All Sellers

At its heart, the Dower Act is about fairness and respect within the family home. Whether you’re a Boomer downsizing, a Millennial selling your starter home, or Gen Z stepping into your first property sale, understanding these rights helps you avoid surprises and ensures a smooth transaction for everyone involved.

Being informed means you can confidently navigate the paperwork, legal requirements, and timelines involved—making the entire experience less stressful and more transparent.

Ready to Sell? Let’s Make It Simple

If you’re thinking about selling your home in Alberta, understanding Dower rights is just one part of the process—and I’m here to help you every step of the way. From explaining legal details to coordinating paperwork and negotiating the best deal, my goal is to make your sale seamless and stress-free.

Have questions about Dower rights or the selling process? Reach out today for a friendly, no-pressure conversation. Together, we’ll ensure your sale is smooth, fair, and exactly what you need it to be.

Contact me now to get started:

Terri Champagne, REALTOR

📞 403.614.7554 | 📧 terri@melstar.ca | 🌐 terrichampagne.ca

Buying your first home is a big deal—and if you’re a Millennial or Gen Z buyer ready to take the plunge, you might be asking one very important question:

Should I buy a brand-new home or go with a resale property?

Both choices come with serious perks (and a few trade-offs). As your go-to real estate matchmaker, I’m breaking it down so you can feel confident navigating the market—and making the best decision for your lifestyle, goals, and budget.

🛠️ The Case for New Construction

If you love clean lines, energy-efficient upgrades, and the smell of brand new everything, new construction might be calling your name.

✅ Pro #1: All the Modern Features

New builds typically come with smart tech, open layouts, and energy-efficient appliances already built in. Think: smart thermostats, EV charging stations, quartz countertops, and walk-in pantries. You don’t need to renovate to get your dream aesthetic—it’s already there.

✅ Pro #2: Fewer Surprises

Everything’s new—roof, furnace, plumbing, electrical. That means fewer repairs in the first 5–10 years and often builder warranties to back it up. You’ll likely spend less time on weekend DIY projects and more time living your best life.

✅ Pro #3: Customization

Some builders let you pick your floor plan, finishes, and upgrades before construction is complete. It's like designing your own home—without having to swing a hammer.

⚠️ Things to Watch:

• Longer timelines (especially in pre-construction)

• Higher price per square foot

• Landscaping and community amenities may still be under development

🏡 Why Resale Homes Still Hit Different

There’s something about walking into a home with history and character—it just feels lived in, loved, and established. For many buyers, resale homes offer value that can’t be replicated with new construction.

✅ Pro #1: Established Neighborhoods

Tree-lined streets, nearby schools, mature landscaping, and a strong sense of community—these are things you just can’t fast-track with new development. Plus, you’ll have a better idea of how the area really lives.

✅ Pro #2: Bigger Lots, Lower Costs

Older homes often sit on larger lots and may offer more square footage for your budget. There's also more room to negotiate on price, especially if the home needs a few updates.

✅ Pro #3: Built-In Charm

Crown molding, original hardwood, cozy fireplaces—if you appreciate vintage charm and character, resale is where it’s at. You won’t get that kind of soul in a spec build.

⚠️ Things to Watch:

• Potential for hidden maintenance costs

• Less energy-efficient unless updated

• May need updates or renovations (hello, TikTok DIYs!)

👇 So, What’s Right for You?

Here's the truth: there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It really comes down to what matters most to you.

Ask yourself:

• Do I want something move-in ready or am I open to a little sweat equity?

• Is smart home tech and energy efficiency non-negotiable?

• Am I drawn to established communities or newer suburbs with growth potential?

• What’s my timeline, and how flexible am I?

As a realtor who works closely with Millennial and Gen Z buyers, I’ll help you cut through the noise and make a smart investment—whether that’s a brand-new build or a resale gem with good bones.

Ready to start your home search?

Let’s chat about your must-haves, your budget, and what home really means to you. I'm here to make the process simple, strategic, and actually kind of fun.

📲 Book a consult or DM me anytime.
📞 403.614.7554
📧 terri@melstar.ca
🌐 terrichampagne.ca

Terri Champagne
REALTOR® | RE/MAX House of Real Estate
Your Next Chapter Starts with Champagne

If you're relocating to Calgary—or buying your first home here—you're probably wondering where the best neighborhoods are, what amenities are nearby, and how each part of the city fits your lifestyle. As a local real estate expert, I often guide newcomers and first-time home buyers through this exact process.

One of the most popular (and beloved) areas of the city? Southwest Calgary (SW Calgary). It offers a balance of urban convenience, natural beauty, and established community charm—making it a top choice for buyers starting their Calgary journey.

📍 An Overview of Southwest Calgary

Located just south and west of Calgary’s downtown core, the SW quadrant is known for its tree-lined streets, mature communities, and excellent access to both city life and the mountains.

Here’s why SW Calgary stands out:

• Proximity to Downtown: Just 10–15 minutes by car or CTrain.

• Access to Nature: Quick weekend escapes to Kananaskis and the Rocky Mountains.

• Hospitals: 3 major hospitals serve this area, including Rockyview General and Alberta Children’s Hospital.

• Schools: Over 50 public, private, and Catholic schools, plus Mount Royal University.

• Shopping & Amenities: From Chinook Centre and Westhills to the boutique shops in Marda Loop, you’ll find everything you need close to home.

• Airport Access: Approximately 30–35 minutes to Calgary International Airport (YYC).

🏘️ Top Communities in SW Calgary for First-Time Buyers & Newcomers

Whether you're purchasing your very first home or relocating from out of province (or even overseas), the Southwest offers a wide variety of communities to match your goals, lifestyle, and budget.

Here are some of the most popular neighborhoods in SW Calgary:

1. Aspen Woods

• Home Types: Luxury single-family homes, townhomes, and executive-style condos

• Price Range: $900K–$1.4M

• Why People Love It: Upscale living, excellent schools, close to the mountains.

2. Marda Loop / Altadore

• Home Types: Infills, condos, character homes

• Price Range: $750K–$1.2M

• Why People Love It: Trendy, walkable, full of cafés, parks, and community events. Great for young professionals and couples.

3. Lakeview

• Home Types: Bungalows, mid-century homes, renovated properties

• Price Range: $700K–$1M

• Why People Love It: Proximity to Glenmore Reservoir, quiet streets, and a strong community vibe.

4. West Springs

• Home Types: Newer detached homes, townhouses, and duplexes

• Price Range: $650K–$1.1M

• Why People Love It: Family-friendly, great schools, and quick access to downtown and the mountains.

5. Somerset & Bridlewood

• Home Types: Affordable single-family homes, condos, and townhomes

• Price Range: $350K–$550K

• Why People Love It: Budget-friendly, LRT access, and great for first-time buyers entering the Calgary market.

🧭 Thinking About Moving to Calgary? Let’s Make It Simple

Buying a home in a new city can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you're a first-time home buyer in Calgary or you're relocating for work, family, or a fresh start, I’m here to help you make an informed, confident decision.

As a Calgary real estate matchmaker, I take the time to understand your needs, explain the process step-by-step, and introduce you to communities that align with your lifestyle and goals. Whether you fall in love with Aspen Woods or Somerset, I’ll ensure you feel supported from start to finish.

💬 Let’s Chat About Your Next Move

If you’re ready to start your Calgary home search—or just have questions about where to begin—I’m just a message away. Every neighborhood in SW Calgary has something special to offer, and I’d love to help you find the one that feels like home.

📞 403.614.7554
📧 terri@melstar.ca
🌐 terrichampagne.ca

Terri Champagne
REALTOR® | RE/MAX House of Real Estate

Your Next Chapter Starts with Champagne