Lose The Agent.
Keep Your Money.

Sell your Alberta home privately with full legal documentation, MLS exposure, and step-by-step guidance — without paying $20,000+ in realtor commissions.

$20,000+
Typical listing agent fees
6
Simple steps to sold
Tailored for Alberta
Documents, laws & process
Your Savings Calculator
$
$100K$500K$1M$2M
Your Savings
Include buyer's commission
Typical Alberta listing agent fee
7% on first $100,000
$7,000
3% on remaining $550,000
$16,500
GST (5%)
$1,175
Total
$24,675
DoorDeal fee
$799
You save
$23,876
vs. a traditional listing agent

From Listing to Sold in 6 Steps

We walk you through everything. No experience needed — just follow the steps and we handle the complexity.

1
🏡
Prepare Your Property
Declutter, clean, and complete minor repairs. Our checklist tells you exactly what buyers look for in Alberta.
2
📸
Photos & Listing
Create your listing with professional-quality photos. We guide you or connect you with affordable Alberta photographers.
3
📋
Legal Documents
Generate your Alberta-compliant Purchase Contract, Property Disclosure Statement, and all required forms automatically.
4
Go Live on MLS
Your listing appears on Realtor.ca and the MLS through our flat-fee partner — reaching every buyer in Alberta.

Everything a Realtor Does.
At 1% of the Cost.

Realtors charge 3–5% of your sale price for work you can do yourself with the right tools. DoorDeal gives you those tools — purpose-built for Alberta.

📄
Alberta-Specific Legal Documents
All forms are drafted for Alberta law — including the AREA Purchase Contract, Property Disclosure Statement, and condition removal notices.
🔍
Full MLS & Realtor.ca Exposure
Through our flat-fee MLS partner, your listing reaches every buyer and buyer's agent searching in Alberta — the same exposure as any listed property.
💬
Direct Offer Communication
Buyer's agents contact you directly by phone or email with their offers. You stay in full control — no middleman, no delays, no platform getting between you and a deal.
Feature
DoorDeal
Traditional Realtor
MLS listing
Legal documents
Step-by-step guide
Direct offer receipt
Transparent pricing
You control the sale
Alberta-specific support
Varies
Total cost
$599–$1,499
$15K–$32K

One Flat Fee. No Surprises.

Pay once based on your home's value. No commissions, no hidden fees, no percentage of your sale.

Home Value
DoorDeal Fee
Typical Agent Fee
Up to $500K
$599
~$17,850
$500K – $800K
$799
~$23,100
$800K – $1.2M
$1,099
~$30,450
$1.2M+
$1,499
$37,800+
Everything included — MLS listing, all 9 legal documents, seller dashboard & step-by-step guidance.

They Kept Their Money.

Saved $21,400
"
I was nervous to sell without an agent, but DoorDeal walked me through every single step. The documents were ready in minutes and my listing was on Realtor.ca within two days. Sold in 11 days.
Mark T.
Sold in Calgary, AB — $680,000
Saved $28,500
"
Receiving offers directly from buyer's agents was so much simpler than I expected. A quick call, an email with the contract, and my lawyer handled the rest. I didn't miss having an agent for a single second.
Sandra & Rick L.
Sold in Edmonton, AB — $570,000
Saved $17,900
"
I've sold two homes with DoorDeal now. The second time was even smoother. The Alberta disclosure forms are exactly right and the legal document templates saved me a fortune in legal fees too.
Dave K.
Sold in Red Deer, AB — $445,000

Ready to Be Your Own Listing Agent?

Keep the listing agent's cut. Your listing takes less than 20 minutes to create.

List. Sell. Keep Your Money.

DoorDeal handles the platform, documents, and MLS access. You stay in control — and save thousands in agent commissions.

1
Step 1 — Choose Your Plan
Pick the Plan That Fits Your Home
DoorDeal offers four flat-fee plans based on your home's value. Every plan includes MLS listing, all required Alberta legal document templates, and your seller dashboard. No commissions. No surprises.
Up to $500K — $599 flat fee
$500K – $800K — $799 flat fee
$800K – $1.2M — $1,099 flat fee
$1.2M+ — $1,499 flat fee
No commissions: You pay the flat fee once. We never take a percentage of your sale. A traditional listing agent charges 3–4% of your sale price — on a $600K home that's $18,000–$24,000. DoorDeal costs $799.
2
Step 2 — Build Your Listing
Upload Photos & Enter Your Property Details
Once you've paid, your DoorDeal dashboard is ready. Enter your property details, upload your photos, set your price, and confirm the buyer's agent commission you're offering. Everything feeds directly into your MLS submission package.
Enter address, bedrooms, bathrooms, RMS square footage, lot size, and key features
Upload your photos (minimum 10, maximum 40) — drag and drop, no resizing needed
Write your property description — we provide a template to get you started
Set your list price and buyer's agent commission
Photos matter: Most buyers decide whether to book a showing based on photos alone. If you haven't hired a real estate photographer yet, do this before you build your listing. Budget $200–$400 in Calgary.
3
Step 3 — We Post to MLS
Your Listing Goes Live on MLS & REALTOR.ca
DoorDeal works with a licensed Alberta brokerage partner. Once your listing is complete, we submit it to the CREB MLS system. Your listing is live within 24 hours — identical in appearance to any agent-listed property.
Posted to CREB MLS — the same system used by every Calgary-area agent
Automatically appears on REALTOR.ca, Canada's largest home search platform
Your contact number displayed — buyer's agents and private buyers reach you directly
Listing stays active until sold or you request delisting
Mere Posting: Our brokerage partner lists your property but does not represent you. You remain in full control of your sale — showings, negotiations, and decisions are yours. This is called a mere posting and is 100% legal in Alberta.
4
Step 4 — Use Your Documents
All Alberta Legal Templates, Ready to Go
Every DoorDeal plan includes the complete set of Alberta real estate document templates — the same forms used in every Alberta transaction. Download, complete, and use them directly.
Property Disclosure Statement — complete and provide to all interested buyers
Residential Purchase Contract — the standard Alberta offer-to-purchase form
Counter Offer & Condition Removal — respond to offers and remove conditions professionally
Buyer's Agent Commission Agreement — document the commission you're offering buyer's agents
RPR & Condo Checklists — know exactly what you need to provide
5
Step 5 — Handle Showings & Offers
Buyers Contact You Directly
Once live, buyer's agents will call or text you to book showings. You manage your own schedule. When offers come in, you review them directly — no agent filter, no delay.
Buyer's agents book showings directly with you by phone or text
Leave the home during showings so buyers feel comfortable with their agent
Offers arrive via email on the standard Alberta Purchase Contract
Accept, counter, or decline — use the DoorDeal Counter Offer template to respond in writing
Tip: A lockbox ($50–$100 from any hardware store) lets agents show your home without requiring you to be present for every showing. Most private sellers use one.
6
Step 6 — Close & Collect
Your Lawyer Handles the Closing
Once you have a firm deal (all conditions removed), your real estate lawyer takes over. They handle the legal transfer, deposit trust, and fund disbursement. On possession day, proceeds land in your account.
Your lawyer holds the buyer's deposit in trust
Sign closing documents at your lawyer's office 1–3 days before possession
On possession day, proceeds are wired to you after mortgage payout and legal fees
Hand over the keys — you're done
What you keep: Sale price, minus DoorDeal fee, minus buyer agent commission, minus lawyer fees (~$1,400). On a $700K sale, you keep roughly $18,000–$25,000 more than if you'd used a listing agent.

Alberta-Compliant Documents.
Generated Instantly.

Every document you need to legally sell your Alberta home — drafted with Alberta real estate law in mind, reviewed by a licensed Alberta lawyer, and generated automatically when you create your listing.

What's Included in Your Package

All plans include the core documents required for an Alberta private sale. Premium and Luxury plans include lawyer review of your completed purchase contract.

📋
Property Disclosure Statement
The PDS requires sellers to disclose all known material defects about the property. Failure to disclose is one of the most common causes of post-sale legal disputes in Alberta. DoorDeal guides you through every question.
Required by Law
📝
Purchase Contract (AREA Form)
The standard Alberta Real Estate Association purchase agreement — the same contract used by licensed realtors. A blank contract is generated for you, ready for buyer offers. Includes all standard conditions and clauses.
Required
🏠
Residential Measurement Statement
Documents your property's RMS-compliant square footage. Required by the CREB and Alberta MLS. Above-grade living area and basement area are documented separately per Alberta measurement standards.
MLS Required
Condition Removal Notice
When a buyer satisfies their conditions (financing approval, satisfactory inspection), they must formally remove conditions in writing using this notice. DoorDeal generates this automatically when you receive an offer.
Standard Practice
🔄
Counter-Offer Form
When you want to negotiate an offer's price, possession date, or conditions, use this form to make a formal counter-offer. Legally binding when accepted by the buyer. Use this form to respond in writing to any offer you receive.
Standard Practice
🏢
Condominium Documents (If Applicable)
If you're selling a condo, Alberta law requires disclosure of the reserve fund study, financial statements, AGM minutes, bylaws, and rules. DoorDeal includes a condo disclosure checklist to ensure full compliance.
Condos Only
📐
Real Property Report Checklist
A guide to obtaining and understanding your RPR (Real Property Report) and municipal compliance certificate — required in most Alberta real estate transactions. Includes recommended Alberta Land Surveyor contacts.
Recommended
🔑
Possession & Key Handover Agreement
Documents the agreed possession date, key handover details, and any access arrangements between signing and possession. Prevents disputes about timing on closing day.
Recommended
⚖️
Buyer's Agent Commission Agreement
If you're offering a commission to the buyer's agent (strongly recommended to attract more buyers), this document formalizes the arrangement. Typically 2–3% of sale price, paid on closing.
Recommended

Your Documents Are Ready to Generate.

Start your listing and your documents are created automatically. No forms to fill out separately.

One Flat Fee.
No Surprises.

Pay once based on your home's value. No commissions. No percentage of your sale. No hidden fees. Just a simple, transparent flat fee — and you keep the rest.

Every plan includes the full DoorDeal service. Your fee is simply based on your home's value.

MLS listing via licensed Alberta brokerage — identical to any agent-listed property
Full Realtor.ca exposure from day one
All 9 Alberta-compliant legal document templates included
Property Disclosure Statement & AREA Purchase Contract
Step-by-step Alberta selling guide — from pricing to possession day
Receive offers directly — no middleman between you and buyers
Personal seller dashboard — documents and next steps in one place
Email support throughout your sale
Home Value
DoorDeal Fee
Typical Agent Fee
Up to $500K
$599
~$17,850
$500K – $800K
$799
~$23,100
$800K – $1.2M
$1,099
~$30,450
$1.2M+
$1,499
$37,800+
Typical agent fee calculated at 7% on first $100K + 3% on remainder + 5% GST. Everything is included — no hidden fees.

Pricing FAQ

Do I still need to pay a buyer's agent commission?
In most Alberta transactions, the buyer is represented by a buyer's agent. It is standard and strongly recommended to offer a buyer's agent commission (typically 2–3% of the sale price) to attract the broadest pool of buyers. This commission is separate from DoorDeal's fee and is paid on closing through your real estate lawyer.
Are there any other fees on top of my DoorDeal plan?
The mandatory additional costs of any Alberta sale (regardless of how you sell) include: real estate lawyer fees ($1,200–$1,800), RPR survey if needed ($700–$1,200), and title insurance (~$200). Optional costs include professional photography ($200–$400) and an independent appraisal ($400–$600). These are standard Alberta selling costs, not DoorDeal fees.
What if my home doesn't sell?
Your DoorDeal listing stays active until your property sells or you choose to delist — no expiry date. If your home doesn't sell, we'll work with you to review your pricing, photos, and listing to identify improvements. Contact our support team anytime.
Can I upgrade my plan after I've started?
Yes — you can upgrade to a higher tier at any time by paying the difference. For example, if your home is listed at $650K, you pay $799. If the value increases to $850K, you pay the difference of $300 to move to the $1,099 tier.

List My Property

Complete all sections below. Your listing will be reviewed and live within 24 hours.

1
Property
2
Details
3
Photos
4
Pricing
5
Plan
Property Information
Enter the basic details about your property. This information will appear on your MLS listing and Realtor.ca profile.
Property Address
Property Type

About DoorDeal

Alberta's private home selling platform. Built for homeowners who are done paying $20,000+ to sell their own home.

"The average Alberta home sells for $600,000. A traditional realtor takes $18,000–$24,000 of that. DoorDeal charges $799. The math speaks for itself."

Why DoorDeal Exists

Selling a home in Alberta doesn't require a realtor. The paperwork is standardized, the process is well-documented, and the MLS system that drives most buyer traffic is accessible through licensed brokerages. What was missing was a simple, affordable platform that brought it all together for homeowners who wanted to do it themselves — without giving up MLS exposure or professional-grade documents.

DoorDeal was built to fill that gap. We're an Alberta-focused platform that gives private sellers everything they need: MLS listing access through a licensed brokerage partner, all required legal document templates, step-by-step guidance, and a seller dashboard — for a flat fee that's a fraction of traditional commission.

What We Are (and What We're Not)

DoorDeal is a technology platform. We are not a real estate brokerage, and we don't act as your agent. MLS listing services are provided through a licensed Alberta brokerage partner acting in a mere posting capacity.

We believe sellers deserve transparency — about the process, the documents, and what they're paying for. Every document we provide is the same standardized Alberta Real Estate Association form used by licensed realtors. You're not getting a watered-down version. You're getting the real thing, without the commission.

By the Numbers

$20,000+
Saved in listing agent fees
9
Alberta legal documents included
$599+
Most popular plan

Alberta-Built, Alberta-Focused

DoorDeal is designed specifically for Alberta. Every document, every step, and every piece of guidance is tailored to Alberta's real estate laws, RECA requirements, and the Calgary Real Estate Board's MLS system. We don't offer a generic Canadian solution — we offer one built for how real estate actually works here.

Privacy Policy

Last updated: March 2026

DoorDeal ("we", "us", or "our") is committed to protecting your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard your data when you use our platform at getdoordeal.ca.

Information We Collect

When you use DoorDeal, we may collect the following types of information:

  • Personal identification: Name, email address, phone number, and mailing address provided during registration or listing creation.
  • Property information: Address, photos, measurements, and listing details you submit for your property.
  • Payment information: Payment is processed by a third-party provider (Stripe). We do not store your credit card or banking details.
  • Usage data: Pages visited, time spent on the platform, browser type, and device information collected automatically.

How We Use Your Information

  • To create and manage your property listing
  • To process your payment and send confirmation
  • To communicate with you about your listing status
  • To comply with legal obligations including FINTRAC identity verification requirements
  • To improve our platform and user experience

Sharing Your Information

We do not sell your personal information. We may share it with:

  • MLS partner brokerage: Your listing details are shared with our licensed partner brokerage solely for the purpose of posting your property on MLS.
  • Payment processor: Stripe processes payments on our behalf under their own privacy policy.
  • Legal authorities: Where required by law, including FINTRAC reporting obligations.

Data Retention

We retain your personal information for as long as necessary to provide our services and comply with legal obligations. Listing data is retained for a minimum of 7 years in accordance with Alberta real estate regulations.

Your Rights

Under Alberta's Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA), you have the right to:

  • Request access to the personal information we hold about you
  • Request corrections to inaccurate information
  • Withdraw consent (subject to legal and contractual restrictions)

To exercise these rights, contact us at [email protected].

Cookies

We use essential cookies to operate the platform. We may use analytics cookies (such as Google Analytics) to understand how users interact with our site. You may disable cookies in your browser settings, though this may affect functionality.

Contact Us

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact us at [email protected].

Terms of Service

Last updated: March 2026

By using DoorDeal ("Platform"), you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. Please read them carefully before proceeding.

1. Nature of Service

DoorDeal is a technology platform that facilitates private home sales in Alberta. We provide document templates, listing tools, and access to MLS listing services through a licensed partner brokerage. DoorDeal is not a real estate brokerage and does not provide real estate advice, legal advice, or representation. You are responsible for your own real estate transaction.

2. MLS Listing Service

MLS listing services are provided through a licensed Alberta brokerage partner. The brokerage acts solely as a listing conduit (mere posting). The brokerage does not represent you in negotiations, showings, or any other aspect of your transaction beyond posting the listing.

3. Fees and Payment

DoorDeal charges a one-time flat fee based on your property's listed value. Fees are non-refundable once your listing has been submitted for MLS posting. GST is included in all listed prices. Payment is processed securely through Stripe.

4. Your Responsibilities

  • You are responsible for ensuring all listing information is accurate and complete
  • You must comply with all applicable Alberta real estate laws and CREA/CREB rules
  • You are responsible for completing your own property disclosure statement honestly
  • You must engage a real estate lawyer to handle the legal aspects of your transaction, including deposit handling and title transfer
  • You are responsible for all negotiations with buyers and their agents

5. Buyer Agent Commission

DoorDeal strongly recommends offering a buyer agent commission (typically 2–3%) to maximize buyer interest. DoorDeal is not responsible for reduced offers or market exposure resulting from your choice of buyer agent commission structure.

6. Document Templates

Document templates provided by DoorDeal are based on standard Alberta Real Estate Association forms. They are provided for informational and facilitation purposes only. DoorDeal recommends having your lawyer review all documents before execution.

7. Limitation of Liability

DoorDeal's liability is limited to the fee paid for the service. We are not liable for any losses, damages, or costs arising from your real estate transaction, including but not limited to: failed sales, legal disputes, title issues, or buyer/seller defaults.

8. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of the Province of Alberta and the federal laws of Canada applicable therein.

9. Changes to Terms

We may update these Terms at any time. Continued use of the platform after changes constitutes acceptance. Questions? Contact us at [email protected].

Contact Us

Have a question? We typically respond within one business day.

Or email us directly at [email protected]

FSBO FAQ

Everything you need to know about selling your Alberta home privately.

Do I need a realtor to sell my home in Alberta?
No. In Alberta, homeowners have the legal right to sell their property without a realtor. You do, however, need a real estate lawyer to handle the legal closing of your transaction — including deposit trust funds, title transfer, and document execution. DoorDeal provides the platform, documents, and MLS access. Your lawyer handles the closing.
What is a mere posting?
A mere posting is when a licensed brokerage lists your property on the MLS system without representing you as a client. The brokerage simply posts your listing — they don't attend showings, negotiate on your behalf, or advise you. You remain in full control of your sale. DoorDeal facilitates mere postings through our licensed Alberta brokerage partner.
Will my listing appear on REALTOR.ca?
Yes. All MLS listings in Alberta automatically appear on REALTOR.ca, Canada's largest real estate search platform. Your listing will look identical to any other MLS listing — same photos, same details, same exposure to buyers and buyer's agents.
Do I still need to pay a buyer's agent commission?
In most Alberta transactions, the buyer is represented by a buyer's agent. It is strongly recommended — though not legally required — to offer a buyer's agent commission (typically 3.5% on the first $100K and 1.5% on the remainder) to attract the broadest pool of buyers. If you offer no buyer's agent commission, some agents may be reluctant to show your property. This commission is separate from DoorDeal's fee and is paid on closing from your sale proceeds.
How do I handle showings?
You handle showings yourself. Buyer's agents will contact you directly to book a time. Alberta MLS rules require you to be willing to show your home within 24 hours of a request (with some exceptions for tenanted properties). Many private sellers use a lockbox so buyer's agents can access the property with their clients independently — this is widely accepted and removes the need for you to be present at every showing.
What happens when I receive an offer?
Buyers or their agents will present a written offer using the standard Alberta Residential Purchase Contract. You can accept, reject, or counter the offer. DoorDeal provides a blank Purchase Contract template for reference. Once you reach an accepted offer, your real estate lawyer takes over — they hold the deposit in trust and manage the legal closing process through to possession day.
What does a real estate lawyer do in a private sale?
Your lawyer is essential. They hold the buyer's deposit in their trust account, review and prepare the transfer of land documents, conduct a title search, deal with your mortgage payout (if applicable), and handle the exchange of funds on possession day. Lawyer fees for a seller in Alberta typically range from $1,200–$1,800. This cost applies whether you use a realtor or sell privately.
What is an RPR and do I need one?
A Real Property Report (RPR) is a legal document prepared by a licensed Alberta land surveyor showing the boundaries of your property and the location of all structures on it. Most Alberta purchase contracts require the seller to provide an RPR with municipal compliance stamp. If your property hasn't changed since your last RPR, it may still be valid. A new RPR typically costs $700–$1,500 and takes 4–8 weeks — order it early.
How do I price my home?
Research comparable sales (comps) on REALTOR.ca — look at homes similar in size, age, condition, and location that have sold in the last 60–90 days. Focus on sold prices, not list prices. You can also order a professional appraisal ($400–$600) for an unbiased valuation. Pricing accurately from the start is critical — overpriced listings sit, go stale, and often sell for less than if priced correctly initially.
Is selling privately right for everyone?
Private selling works best for confident, organized homeowners who are comfortable communicating with buyers and agents, handling their own scheduling, and reviewing contracts. If your home is in a fast-moving market, priced correctly, and well-presented, the process is very manageable. If you're uncomfortable negotiating or dealing with legal documents, engaging a real estate lawyer for guidance (not a full-service agent) can bridge the gap at a fraction of the cost.

MLS Explained

What the MLS is, why it matters, and how DoorDeal gets you on it.

What is the MLS?

MLS stands for Multiple Listing Service. It's a shared database used by licensed real estate professionals across Canada to list and search for properties. In Alberta, the Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB) operates the local MLS system. Every property listed on MLS automatically appears on REALTOR.ca — Canada's largest public property search, visited by millions of buyers every month.

Why does MLS matter?

Without MLS exposure, your home is essentially invisible to most serious buyers. Here's why:

  • Buyer's agents search MLS first. The vast majority of buyers in Alberta work with a buyer's agent. Agents search MLS to find properties for their clients. If you're not on MLS, you won't appear in those searches.
  • REALTOR.ca dominates buyer traffic. REALTOR.ca receives more than 500,000 visits per day across Canada. It's where buyers search. A Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace listing reaches a fraction of that audience.
  • MLS listings are trusted. Buyers and agents treat MLS listings as the authoritative source. Your listing appears alongside all other homes in your area, with the same credibility as any agent-listed property.

Who can list on MLS?

Only licensed real estate brokerages that are members of their local real estate board (in Calgary, that's CREB) can post listings to MLS. Private homeowners cannot list directly. This is why you need a brokerage involved — even for a private sale.

How does DoorDeal get you on MLS?

DoorDeal works with a licensed Alberta brokerage partner. When you complete your listing on DoorDeal, your property details are submitted to our brokerage partner, who posts your listing to the CREB MLS system. This is called a mere posting — the brokerage lists your property but does not represent you in your transaction. You remain fully in control.

What your MLS listing includes
✓ Full listing on CREB MLS
✓ Appears on REALTOR.ca
✓ All photos included
✓ Full property description
✓ RMS measurements
✓ Buyer agent commission displayed
✓ Listed until sold or delisted
✓ Same exposure as any listed home

What about the buyer's agent commission?

When you list on MLS, your listing shows the commission you're offering to the buyer's agent. This is typically 3.5% on the first $100K and 1.5% on the remainder in Alberta. While you're not required to offer this, it strongly influences whether buyer's agents show your property to their clients. DoorDeal includes a Buyer's Agent Commission Agreement template in all plans.

Find a Real Estate Lawyer

A real estate lawyer is the one professional you absolutely need in a private sale. Here's what they do and how to find one.

Required for every Alberta home sale

Alberta law requires a lawyer to complete the legal transfer of property. This applies whether you use a realtor or sell privately. A real estate lawyer is not optional.

What does a real estate lawyer do for a seller?

  • Holds your deposit in trust — The buyer's deposit must be held in a lawyer's trust account. As a private seller, your lawyer (or the buyer's lawyer) holds this money until closing.
  • Reviews the Purchase Contract — Your lawyer checks the agreement for legal issues, conditions, and your obligations before you sign.
  • Conducts a title search — Ensures the title is clear of unexpected liens, caveats, or encumbrances before transfer.
  • Prepares transfer documents — Drafts and registers the Transfer of Land with Alberta Land Titles.
  • Handles your mortgage payout — If you have a mortgage, your lawyer coordinates the payout and discharge with your lender.
  • Manages closing funds — On possession day, your lawyer receives the sale proceeds, deducts costs (mortgage payout, legal fees, buyer agent commission), and sends you the net amount.

What does it cost?

Legal fees for a seller in Alberta typically range from $1,200–$1,800 plus disbursements (title search fees, registration costs, etc.). This cost is the same whether you use a realtor or sell privately — it's not an extra cost of going private, it's a standard cost of every Alberta home sale.

How to find a real estate lawyer in Alberta

Law Society of Alberta — Lawyer Directory
Search for licensed Alberta lawyers by city and practice area. Filter by "Real Estate" to find qualified lawyers near you.
lawsociety.ab.ca/find-a-lawyer →
Canadian Bar Association — Alberta Branch
The CBA Alberta branch provides a referral service to connect you with a lawyer based on your legal needs and location.
cba.org/Alberta →
Tips for choosing a real estate lawyer
  • Look for a lawyer who specifically handles residential real estate transactions
  • Ask upfront for a flat-fee quote — most real estate lawyers offer fixed pricing for standard transactions
  • Confirm they have experience with private sales (FSBO) — most do, but it's worth asking
  • Engage your lawyer early — ideally before you list, so they're ready when an offer comes in
  • Expect to pay $1,200–$1,800 in legal fees; shop around if quotes are significantly higher
Ready to list?

Get your listing live on MLS while you arrange your legal representation. Most sellers engage a lawyer after accepting an offer — just have one in mind before you start.

Alberta Private Sale Reference Guide

The legal requirements, costs, timelines, and Alberta-specific rules every private seller needs to know — independent of any platform.

Legal Framework: What Alberta Requires

Alberta homeowners have the legal right to sell their property without a real estate agent. However, three legal requirements apply to every residential sale in Alberta regardless of how it's sold:

Three Mandatory Legal Requirements
1. Real Estate Lawyer — A lawyer must handle the legal transfer of title, deposit trust, and fund disbursement. This is mandatory under Alberta law. Budget $1,200–$1,800.
2. Property Disclosure Statement (PDS) — Sellers must disclose all known material defects in writing. Failure to disclose creates significant legal liability and can result in lawsuits after closing.
3. Licensed Brokerage for MLS Access — Only licensed CREB-member brokerages can post to Alberta MLS. If you want MLS exposure, a brokerage must be involved — even just as a posting agent.

The Real Property Report (RPR)

An RPR is a legal survey document showing your property boundaries and the location of all structures. Nearly every Alberta purchase contract requires the seller to provide one with a municipal compliance stamp.

  • Who prepares it: A licensed Alberta Land Surveyor — find one at alsa.ab.ca
  • Cost: $700–$1,500 depending on property size and complexity
  • Timeline: 4–8 weeks — order this before you list
  • Compliance stamp: After receiving your RPR, submit it to your municipality for a compliance certificate. Calgary charges approximately $170 for this.
  • Existing RPR: If you have one and no structures have changed since it was issued, it may still be valid. Ask your surveyor to confirm.

Alberta Measurement Standard (RMS)

All Alberta MLS listings must use the Residential Measurement Standard (RMS). This counts only above-grade finished space — basements are excluded from the main square footage and listed separately. Using incorrect measurements is a disclosure violation and can create legal liability. If your home has unusual geometry, hire a professional to measure it.

Title Search

Before listing, obtain a title search through Alberta's SPIN2 system (spin2.ca). This shows everything registered against your property — mortgages, caveats, easements, liens, and encumbrances. Your lawyer will also conduct one before closing, but knowing what's on title upfront prevents surprises mid-transaction. A basic title search costs $10–$20.

The Buyer's Agent Commission

You are not legally required to offer a buyer's agent commission. However, the practical reality is that most buyers in Alberta work with a buyer's agent, and agents are less likely to show properties that offer no commission.

The standard buyer's agent commission in Alberta is:

Standard Alberta Buyer Agent Commission
3.5% on the first $100,000 of the sale price
1.5% on the remainder above $100,000
Example: On a $650,000 sale → $3,500 + $8,250 = $11,750 to the buyer's agent

This is separate from your listing costs and is paid on closing from your sale proceeds. Even offering this full commission, you still save the listing agent's portion — which would have been another $15,000–$20,000 on a typical Calgary home.

Condo-Specific Requirements

If you're selling a condominium, Alberta law requires you to provide condo documents to the buyer as part of the purchase contract. These typically include:

  • Current year operating budget and most recent financial statements
  • Reserve fund study
  • Condo bylaws and rules
  • Minutes from the last two annual general meetings
  • Any special assessments or upcoming capital expenditures

Request these documents from your condo board or property manager well before listing — they can take 2–3 weeks to receive.

Typical Seller Closing Costs in Alberta

Item Typical Cost
Real estate lawyer fees $1,200–$1,800
Real Property Report (RPR) $700–$1,500
Municipal compliance stamp $150–$250
Real estate photographer $200–$400
Mortgage discharge fee (if applicable) $200–$500
Buyer's agent commission (recommended) ~3.5% / 1.5%
Home staging (optional) $500–$3,000

The Alberta Purchase Contract: Key Terms to Know

  • Deposit: Typically 5% of the purchase price, held in trust by a lawyer. Paid within 24–48 hours of an accepted offer. If the buyer walks away after conditions are removed, you may keep the deposit.
  • Conditions: Financing (typically 5–7 business days) and home inspection (typically 5–7 business days) are the most common. The deal is not firm until all conditions are removed in writing.
  • Possession Date: The date the buyer takes possession and the sale legally closes. In Alberta, possession is typically 30–60 days after acceptance.
  • Inclusions & Exclusions: Specify exactly what stays (appliances, fixtures, blinds) and what goes (light fixtures, TV mounts, garage shelving). Disputes over inclusions are extremely common — be explicit.
  • Counter Offer: A written counter offer voids the original offer. Both parties must sign the final agreed terms for a binding contract to exist.
Have more questions?

Browse our other resources or start your listing whenever you're ready.

Free Tool — No Sign-Up Required

Alberta Real Estate
Commission Calculator

See exactly what you'd pay in realtor commissions — and what you keep by selling privately with DoorDeal.

💡
Before you consider skipping the buyer's agent commission — read this.

In Alberta, roughly 90% of buyers are represented by a buyer's agent. That agent decides which listings to show their clients. If your listing offers no buyer's commission, many agents will simply skip it — not out of spite, but because they have bills to pay and homes that do offer a commission are equally available.

Fewer showings directly means fewer offers. Fewer offers means a lower sale price — or no sale at all. The commission you "saved" often costs you far more in the final negotiation.

Our strong recommendation: always offer the standard buyer's agent commission. Even after paying it, you still save $6,000–$20,000+ compared to a traditional listing agent. That's the whole point of DoorDeal — you cut your agent's cut, not theirs.

Enter Your Home's Value
All figures use standard Alberta commission structures. The buyer's agent commission is shown separately so you can see exactly where every dollar goes.
$
Traditional Realtor
$21,550
Total fees out of your pocket
Listing agent commission + GST$20,050
↳ Buyer's agent cut is already inside this number — your agent splits the pot with them
↳ Buyer's agent portion (included above)included
DoorDeal (Private Sale)
$14,049
Total fees out of your pocket
DoorDeal flat fee$799
Buyer's agent commission$11,750
↳ Your listing agent is removed. This cost remains — it was always there, just hidden inside the traditional commission.
You save with DoorDeal
vs. a traditional listing agent
$7,501

The Traditional Commission: One Number That Pays Two Agents

When you hire a listing agent in Alberta, you pay one total commission — but that money funds two people: your listing agent and the buyer's agent. The buyer's agent commission is already baked inside the listing agent's fee. It is not a separate charge on top.

Alberta Standard Commission — How It Splits
Total commission you pay (7% first $100K + 3% remainder + GST)$20,050
↳ Your listing agent keeps roughly half~$8,300
↳ Buyer's agent receives the other half — from your pot~$11,750
The buyer's agent is not free. In a traditional sale, you are paying for both agents — yours and theirs — out of one commission number.

With DoorDeal: You Remove Your Agent, Not Theirs

When you sell privately through DoorDeal, you eliminate your listing agent entirely. However, the buyer's agent is still in the picture — and instead of their commission being buried inside a large number, you offer it directly and transparently.

This is the same amount the buyer's agent would have received in a traditional sale. Now you see it clearly as its own line.

❌ Myth

Selling privately means I don't have to pay any commission.

✓ Reality

You skip the listing agent's cut. The buyer's agent commission still applies — it was always there, just hidden inside the traditional commission.

❌ Myth

Offering no buyer's agent commission saves me more money.

✓ Reality

Agents may steer clients away from your listing. Fewer showings typically means a lower sale price — or no sale at all.

💡 Even after paying the buyer's agent commission directly, you still save significantly by eliminating your listing agent's cut — typically $6,000–$20,000+ depending on your home's price.

What a Real Estate Lawyer Costs — and Why You Need One Regardless

Whether you use a realtor or sell privately, Alberta law requires a lawyer to complete the legal transfer of your property. Your lawyer holds the buyer's deposit in trust, prepares the transfer documents, and manages the exchange of funds on possession day.

Lawyer fees for a seller in Alberta typically range from $1,200–$1,800 plus disbursements. This is the same cost whether you use an agent or not — it's not an additional penalty for going private.

Ready to Eliminate Your Listing Agent's Cut?

DoorDeal gives you MLS exposure, all Alberta legal documents, and full support — for one flat fee. The buyer's agent commission is the same either way.

Payment Confirmed
You're in — welcome to DoorDeal
Your listing submission is being prepared. We'll have you live on MLS within 24 business hours. Watch for a confirmation email from the DoorDeal Team.
Your Plan
DoorDeal Standard
Homes $500K–$800K · MLS listing + all documents included
$799
What happens next
1
We submit your listing to MLS Within 24hrs
Your DoorDeal listing package is sent to our licensed Alberta brokerage partner, who posts it to the CREB MLS system. You'll receive a confirmation email with your MLS number once it's live.
2
Book your photographer
If you haven't already, book a real estate photographer now. Budget $200–$400 in Calgary. Your photos need to be ready before your listing goes live — we'll need them uploaded to your listing.
3
Complete and keep your documents
Download your 9 Alberta legal document templates below. Complete your Property Disclosure Statement first — you'll need to provide it to every interested buyer. Have your lawyer review the Purchase Contract before signing any offer.
4
Set up your lockbox
Pick up a combination lockbox from any hardware store ($50–$100). Buyer's agents will use it to show your home to their clients without requiring you to be present at every showing.
5
Engage your real estate lawyer
Contact a real estate lawyer now so they're ready when offers come in. They'll hold the buyer's deposit, review contracts, and handle the legal closing. Budget $1,200–$1,800. Find one at lawsociety.ab.ca.
6
Start receiving showing requests
Once live, buyer's agents will contact you directly by phone or email to book showings. Alberta MLS rules require you to accommodate showings within 24 hours of a request. You're in control — answer, schedule, and show on your terms.
Your Documents
All 9 Alberta legal templates included with your plan. Download and save them now.
Property Disclosure Statement
Complete first — provide to all interested buyers
Residential Purchase Contract
Standard Alberta offer-to-purchase form
RMS Measurement Form
Alberta Residential Measurement Standard
Condition Removal Notice
Used when buyer removes financing or inspection conditions
Counter Offer Form
Respond to offers in writing professionally
Buyer's Agent Commission Agreement
Formalises the commission you're offering buyer's agents
Condo Documents Checklist
Required if selling a condominium
RPR Checklist
Real Property Report guide and requirements
Possession & Key Handover Agreement
Used on possession day to document key handover
⚠️ Documents are templates only. Have your real estate lawyer review all completed forms before signing.
Questions? We're here.

The DoorDeal Team is available to help you through every step. Don't hesitate to reach out.

📧 Email: [CONTACT EMAIL PLACEHOLDER]
📞 Phone: [CONTACT PHONE PLACEHOLDER]
🕐 Monday–Friday, 9am–6pm MST
— The DoorDeal Team