Buying a house is a major milestone—but your journey doesn’t end at closing the deal. House registration in Calgary, Alberta, is a legal requirement that officially recognizes you as the homeowner in the eyes of the law.
This guide breaks down the entire house registration process, from required paperwork to final confirmation, so you can feel confident as you take ownership of your new home.
1. What Is House Registration in Alberta?
When you buy a home in Calgary, your ownership must be recorded with the Alberta Land Titles Office. This is done by registering your name on the Certificate of Title—a legal document that proves you’re the official owner.
Property registration is handled provincially through Service Alberta, which oversees Alberta’s land title system.
2. Required Documents for House Registration
To register your home in Calgary, you’ll typically need:
- Transfer of Land (Form 8) – signed by both buyer and seller
- Affidavit of Value of Land – shows the fair market value for tax purposes
- Photo ID – for identity verification
- Mortgage documents – if applicable
- Purchase agreement – proof of the transaction
These documents are usually prepared and submitted by your real estate lawyer or notary.
3. Legal Help: Do You Need a Real Estate Lawyer?
While not legally required, hiring a real estate lawyer in Calgary is strongly recommended. A lawyer will:
- Draft and review all necessary documents
- Ensure compliance with Alberta real estate laws
- Submit your paperwork correctly and on time
- Handle tax payments and registration fees in Alberta
In most cases, registration is included in your lawyer’s standard closing services.
4. Registration Fees at the Alberta Land Titles Office
The registration fees in Alberta are based on the value of the property and mortgage. These are calculated as:
- $50 flat rate
- $5 for every $5,000 of the property’s value
Example for a $400,000 home and $300,000 mortgage:
- Title registration:
$50 base fee + ($5 × 80) = $450.00 - Mortgage registration:
$50 base fee + ($5 × 60) = $350.00
Grand Total: $800.00
These fees are typically added to your final closing costs by your lawyer.
5. Submitting to the Alberta Land Titles Office
Once the paperwork is finalized, your lawyer will submit all documents to the Alberta Land Titles Office, located in Calgary or Edmonton.
You do not need to visit the office personally—your legal representative handles the submission on your behalf.
6. Processing Time and Title Confirmation
After submission, the office usually takes 4 to 10 weeks to update the Certificate of Title. Once processed, you’ll receive confirmation that your name is officially listed as the property owner.
7. What to Do After Registration
Once the house registration in Calgary is complete:
- Store your Certificate of Title safely
- Update your address with the City of Calgary for property taxes and utility bills
- Make sure your home insurance is active and listed in your name
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is house registration automatic when I buy a home?
No. Your lawyer must submit your details to the Alberta Land Titles Office to complete the registration.
Q: Can I register a property myself without a lawyer?
Technically yes, but mistakes can delay or invalidate the process. A lawyer ensures legal compliance and protects your investment. If you’re getting a mortgage, having a lawyer is mandatory.
Q: What if I’m buying with someone else?
Joint ownership must be declared in the Transfer of Land form. Alberta supports both joint tenancy and tenants in common.
Final Tips for First-Time Buyers in Calgary
- Ask your lawyer for a full breakdown of registration and closing costs
- Double-check names and legal descriptions on all forms
- Keep records of every legal document and registration receipt
Registering a house in Calgary is more than just paperwork—it’s the final, crucial step to secure your legal ownership. With the correct documents, legal guidance, and a clear understanding of the house registration process, you can confidently complete this essential part of your real estate journey.
