Why Haligonians are moving to Calgary

What you stop paying

Nova Scotia buyers budget municipal deed transfer tax and HST on services. Alberta has neither a deed transfer tax nor a provincial sales tax — Land Titles registration fees replace the former, and only GST applies to services and new construction.

Housing differences that surprise people

Full basements are standard here and rare in much of HRM. Attached garages and rear-lane garages are common. Homes are built for cold and dry rather than damp and wind-driven rain, so expect different ventilation, siding and drainage details on inspection.

Climate change-over

Calgary is dry, high-altitude and sunny, with chinooks that interrupt winter and almost no ocean humidity. Newcomers from the coast often mention drier skin and faster weather changes more than the cold itself.

Managing a cross-country move

The distance means you will likely buy on one scouting trip or remotely. That raises the value of a thorough inspection, good video walkthroughs and clear condition deadlines.

• Book the scouting trip around two quadrants maximum
• Insist on a full home inspection even if you cannot attend
• Retain an Alberta real estate lawyer who can close remotely
• Confirm your Nova Scotia closing date before setting possession here