The Ultimate Guide to Estate Sales in Edmonton
The Ultimate Guide to Real Estate Sales in Edmonton
Navigating an estate sale can be a complex and emotional process, whether you are an executor tasked with selling a loved one’s home or a buyer looking for a unique opportunity. This guide is designed to be your central resource, providing a clear roadmap and linking you to detailed information for every step of the journey. We are here to provide compassionate, professional guidance during a difficult time.
For Sellers (Executors & Family)
Selling a property as part of an estate comes with a unique set of challenges, from navigating the legal probate process to preparing a home for sale that may not have been updated in years. Our guides are here to walk you through each step with clarity and care.
For Buyers & Investors
Estate sale properties can represent a fantastic opportunity to find a home with great potential, often in an established neighbourhood. However, these homes are frequently sold “as-is,” which means it’s crucial to understand the risks and how to perform proper due diligence. Our guides will help you identify great opportunities and invest wisely.
Costs & Timelines You Need to Know
When you are the executor, you need real numbers, not guesswork. Here is the reality of selling an estate home in Edmonton in 2025:
- Probate Fees (Alberta): Unlike other provinces with high “death taxes,” Alberta’s probate fees are capped. For an estate valued over $250,000, the fee is currently flat at $525.
- Timeline to Sell: While a standard home in Edmonton sells in roughly 44 days, estate homes often take 60–90 days if probate is still pending. We can list the home before probate is granted, but the sale cannot officially close until the paperwork is finalized.
- The “Vacant Home” Risk: Insurance policies often change 30 days after a property becomes vacant. We help you manage regular checks to comply with your insurer’s “vacancy permit” requirements, protecting the asset while it sits on the market.
Probate vs. Non-Probate Sales
One of the first questions we ask is: “Is the title in joint tenancy?”
- Joint Tenancy: If the home was owned jointly (e.g., by a husband and wife), the title often passes directly to the survivor. We can usually list and sell these homes immediately without waiting for probate.
- Sole Ownership: If the home was solely in the deceased’s name, you must obtain a Grant of Probate to transfer the land title.
- Pro-Tip: We can list the property and accept an offer “Subject to Probate.” This allows you to secure a buyer now while the courts process the paperwork (which can take 3–6 months in Edmonton).
To Renovate or Sell “As-Is”?
Executors often struggle with how much money to put into a house they don’t intend to live in. We run the ROI (Return on Investment) analysis for you:
- The “As-Is” Sale: Best for homes that need major structural work or dating back to the 60s/70s. We market these to our database of infill builders and flippers in neighbourhoods like Glenora, Bonnie Doon, and Westmount.
- The “Light Refresh”: often, removing heavy drapes, tearing up old carpet to reveal hardwood, and a coat of “Sherwin Williams Alabaster” paint can add $15,000 – $20,000 to the sale price for a cost of under $2,000.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you need a compassionate partner to guide you through the selling process or an expert eye to help you find an opportunity, we have the specialized experience to help. When you’re ready, book a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your specific situation.
What Our Clients Are Saying
u0022Matt is an expert negotiator and didn’t stop working until my property sold for what I wanted. My property was sold during the pandemic as well. I think that alone speaks volumes for his dedication.u0022
u0022We had the pleasure of working with Matt u0026amp; Melanie… They are a very ambitious duo, who were always willing to work hard on our behalf… I highly recommend to anyone looking for a realtor!!!u0022
u0022The Matt Ferguson real estate team got me the house of my dreams within my budget! Will be forever grateful for this amazing team and all their hard work!u0022
u0022Matt Ferguson and his team have been wonderful and have helped me find my dream home. I would recommend them in a heartbeat… very professional and responsive.u0022
u0022Matt and his team made the selling process so easy and stress-free. From the initial consultation to the final closing, everything was handled with professionalism.u0022
u0022As a first-time home buyer, I was incredibly nervous. Matt walked me through every step of the process with patience and expertise. I couldn’t have done it without him.u0022
u0022Highly recommended. The team’s knowledge of the Edmonton market is second to none. They helped us find a great investment property that cash-flowed from day one.u0022
u0022True professionals from start to finish. They gave us honest advice about pricing and preparation, and it paid off. Our house sold in a week for over asking price.u0022
u0022The communication was fantastic. We were never left wondering what was happening. Matt was always available to answer our questions, no matter how small.u0022
u0022We were relocating to Edmonton and knew nothing about the city. Matt’s team was an incredible resource. They helped us find the perfect family-friendly neighbourhood and a home we love.u0022
FAQs
If you’re ready to sell or have more questions, you can contact us here.
Why are houses so cheap in Edmonton?
Houses are relatively cheaper in Edmonton compared to other Canadian cities because of its overall lower cost of living, which includes affordable housing, lower taxes, and a strong economy that can support higher salaries. While the housing market is under pressure due to high demand from population growth, it remains more affordable on a national scale.
How much is an average house in Edmonton?
The average house price in Edmonton varies by reporting agency and property type, but it is approximately $452,849 for a typical home or $460,685 for all residential types as of late 2025. A detached home has a higher average of $574,872, while townhouses are in the range of $200,000 to $350,000.
Is it worth buying a house in Edmonton?
Yes, buying a house in Edmonton is potentially worth it due to its affordability, which is significantly lower than in other major Canadian cities, and potential for investment and quality of life. It is especially worthwhile if you plan to stay for five or more years, as buying typically makes more sense for long-term residents.
Where is the cheapest place to live in Edmonton?
The cheapest areas for housing in Edmonton are often found in the north and southeast parts of the city, particularly in older neighborhoods or newer developments in the north.
