Investing in Alberta from USA

I’m Mohit Dhillon, a licensed Calgary REALTOR® with Century 21 Bravo Realty. I help US-based investors purchase in Alberta using a strategy-first approach that’s built for remote decision-making. We start by confirming what you’re allowed to buy and how you plan to hold the property (personal, rental, or portfolio). Then we narrow to the right neighbourhoods and property types based on what actually performs—tenant demand, resale strength, property condition, and risk factors that quietly destroy returns. From there, I guide deal-level execution: pricing strategy, offer terms, conditions, inspection coordination, and a closing plan with the right professionals involved (lawyer, mortgage, insurance, and property management if you’re renting). The goal is simple: avoid low-quality inventory and move quickly when the right opportunity appears.

FAQ’s

Can I buy property in Alberta if I live in the USA?
Often yes, but it depends on your status and the property type. Canada has federal rules that restrict certain residential purchases by “non-Canadians” in census metropolitan areas, so eligibility should be confirmed before committing to a specific strategy.

Does the foreign buyer ban apply to Calgary and Edmonton?
Major Alberta cities fall within census metropolitan areas, and the restriction is tied to defined “residential property” in those areas. If you’re a non-resident, confirm how the rule applies to your situation and whether any exemption fits.

Is commercial real estate treated differently than residential?
Typically yes. The federal restriction is written around “residential property” as defined in the legislation. If you’re looking at commercial (retail, office, industrial, multi-unit), you still want legal clarity on the exact asset and purchase structure.

Do I need to travel to Alberta to buy?
Not always. Many steps can be handled remotely (virtual tours, inspections, lawyer closing), but this needs to be planned early so timelines don’t get tight near closing.

How is rental income taxed if I’m a non-resident owner?
Non-resident rental income generally involves withholding and reporting rules. Many non-residents use a property manager/agent to handle withholding and remittance, and there are CRA elections that can allow tax to be calculated on net rental income rather than gross (depending on your situation).

Do I pay land transfer tax in Alberta?
Alberta doesn’t have a traditional land transfer tax like some provinces, but you do pay Land Titles registration fees (and mortgage registration fees if you finance). Your lawyer will show these on the closing statement.

Are there Alberta-specific restrictions on rural or agricultural land?
Yes. Alberta has foreign ownership limits for “controlled land” (generally outside city/town boundaries). This often doesn’t affect typical city purchases, but it matters if you’re considering acreage, farmland, or rural parcels.

What’s the biggest risk for US-based investors buying remotely?
Buying based on photos, picking weak resale pockets, ignoring tenant demand, and leaving financing/tax/property-management setup until after an accepted offer. A strict shortlist and clean execution plan prevents most mistakes.