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Have you ever wondered why people keep talking about Real Property Reports when buying or selling a home in Calgary? Do you really need one, or is it just another piece of paper?
When it comes to real estate, small details can really change everything. A Real Property Report (RPR) is an important document for properties. It shows the true boundaries of a property and whether the things built on it, like fences or garages, follow the rules. Without it, you could run into delays, extra costs, or even disputes with neighbours.
Let’s take a closer look at what a real property report is, why it matters so much in Calgary, and how a Calgary estate lawyer can guide you through it.
What is a Real Property Report?
A real property report is a detailed drawing made by a land surveyor in Alberta. It maps the boundaries of the property and all visible improvements, such as decks, fences, garages, and flags, to occupancy or change.
Why Should Buyers Care About an RPR?
When you are buying a home, you don’t want hidden problems. The last thing anyone wants is to move into a new place only to find out later that the garage is built too close to the neighbour’s yard or that a shed is not allowed where it was placed. An RPR protects you from these surprises.
Here’s why an updated real property report is so important for buyers:
1. It Confirms the Property Follows City Rules
Every city, including Calgary, has bylaws about where you can build things like decks, fences and garages. These rules make sure homes are safe and neighbourhoods stay well-planned. An RPR checks if the property meets local rules. If something isn’t right, you’ll know before you buy, not after.
2. It Reveals Boundary Problems Early
Imagine you buy a home and then later find out that part of the fence or driveway actually sits on your neighbour’s land. That could turn into a stressful legal fight. An RPR highlights these problems (called encroachments) before the sale closes, so you can make a smart decision.
3. It Shows You Exactly What You’re Buying
Buying a house is a huge investment. An RPR gives you peace of mind because it lays everything out in black and white. You will know the real size of the land, where the boundaries are, and what’s legally included. This way, you won’t face unexpected costs or disputes later.
Why Should Sellers Act Early with Their RPR?
When you are selling a home in Calgary, timing is everything. Buyers want quick answers, real estate deals move fast, and no one likes last-minute surprises. One of the biggest things that can slow down a sale is an outdated or missing Real Property Report (RPR).
If you wait until the very end of the process to update your RPR, you could face delays, added costs, or even risk losing a buyer. But if you take care of it early, you’ll make your selling journey much smoother. Here’s why:
1. Avoid Expensive Last-Minute Rush Fees
If your RPR is out of date and you leave it too late, you may need to order a rush update. Rush services from surveyors can cost hundreds or even thousands of extra dollars because they have to push your job to the front of the line. By acting early, you can easily save that money and keep your budget safe.
2. Prevent Delays in Closing the Deal
Buyers and their lawyers will always ask for a current RPR before closing. If you do not have one ready, your sale can stall for weeks while you wait for the surveyor and the City of Calgary to approve it. These delays can frustrate buyers, and in some cases, buyers might even walk away. Getting your RPR done early helps keep your deal moving smoothly.
How a Calgary Estate Lawyer Helps With RPRs
A Calgary estate lawyer brings legal clarity when navigating RPRs:
- They review the RPR for accuracy.
- They spot issues like non-compliance or encroachments.
- They work with surveyors and the city to fix issues.
- They advise on remedies like title insurance, holdbacks, or contract adjustments
What Happens With or Without an Updated RPR and Lawyer?
| Scenario | With Updated RPR & Lawyer | Without an Updated RPR & Lawyer |
| Listing your home | Smooth process, proactive fixes | Delays, unexpected costs |
| For buyers | Clear boundaries, no legal surprises | Potential liability, holdbacks |
| Legal support | Advice on compliance, contracts and closing | Risky gaps resolved too late |
Get the Right Support for Your Real Estate Journey!
At Peter B Mason Real Estate Lawyers, we make the process clear, simple, and stress-free. From reviewing your RPR to handling compliance and closing, we take care of the details so you can focus on what matters most – moving forward with confidence.
If you are planning to buy or sell in Calgary, reach out to us today. Let our team guide you with experience, clarity, and the personal care you deserve.