The Home Feature Guide: Understanding Residential Systems & Red Flags
Know What You Are Looking At The Home Feature Guide.
Whether you are evaluating a potential purchase, preparing a listing for the market, or calculating CapEx for an investment portfolio, the “bones” of a property are what really dictate value.
A fresh coat of paint can hide a lot, but it can’t change the plumbing, the foundation, or the zoning.
This guide acts as the index for our Home Intelligence Library. Below, we break down the critical systems, materials, and risks common in Canadian real estate, so you can make decisions based on data, not just aesthetics.
1. Structural Components
The “Envelope” is the most expensive part of any property. Identifying non-standard structural elements is critical for financing, insurance, and long-term maintenance planning.
[Link to: SPS Torch-on Roofing Guide]
Foundations: While poured concrete is the standard, many Canadian homes utilize Cinder Block or Preserved Wood Foundations (PWF). These require different maintenance schedules and moisture management strategies.
[Link to: Cinder Block Foundations Guide]
[Link to: Preserved Wood Foundations Guide]
Roofing Systems: Flat roofs (common on modern infills and condos) often use Torch-On Roofing rather than shingles. Understanding the lifespan and warranty of these membranes is essential for budgeting future replacement costs.
[Link to: SPS Torch-on Roofing Guide]
2. Mechanical Systems & Risks
The “mechanicals” (plumbing, electrical, and heating) are the heart of the home. Obsolete or recalled systems can make a property uninsurable or significantly devalue the asset.
Electrical & Safety: Aluminum wiring (common in the 60s/70s) and specific brands of electrical panels can pose fire risks and insurance hurdles. Always verify the panel brand and wire type.
Plumbing Materials: The biggest red flag in homes built between the mid-70s and mid-90s is Polybutylene (Poly B) piping. Identifying these grey lines is crucial, as they are a known failure point that many insurers refuse to cover without replacement.
[Link to: Poly B Plumbing Risks & Insurance]
Electrical & Safety: Aluminum wiring (common in the 60s/70s) and specific brands of electrical panels can pose fire risks and insurance hurdles. Always verify the panel brand and wire type.
link to aluminum wiring
3. Finishes & Valuation
When assessing “value,” knowing the difference between surface-level updates and high-performance materials helps you determine if a price per square foot is justified.
[Link to: Open Concept Beam Installation]
Countertops: Visually, Quartz and Porcelain can look similar to natural stone, but their heat resistance, porosity, and durability profiles are vastly different.
[Link to: Quartz vs. Porcelain Countertops]
Structural Renovations: Open-concept layouts add value, but only if done correctly. Large spans require properly engineered Steel or Wood Beam installations. If you see a wall removed, always look for the beam.
[Link to: Open Concept Beam Installation]
4. Land & Legal Constraints
You are buying the land just as much as the house. Legal encumbrances can dictate—and limit—your future use of the property.
- Utility Right of Ways (ROW): If there is a utility box or a distinct grassy path in the yard, it is likely a ROW. This grants the municipality access and restricts you from building garages, decks, or retaining walls in that zone.
- [Link to: Understanding Utility Right of Ways]
How to use this Library
If We have created detailed deep-dive articles for every feature listed above. Click the links to understand the pros, cons, costs, and risks associated with each item.
Unsure about a feature you found? Snap a photo and text it to the MoveFaster team. We can help you identify it and understand its impact on your property’s value.
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.
Is $80,000 a good salary in Edmonton?
Yes, $80,000 is a good salary in Edmonton, as it is significantly higher than the median household income and provides a comfortable living after taxes.
