How the condition works
Once your offer is accepted, the inspection condition starts the clock. You arrange and pay for the inspection, review the report, decide whether to proceed, and either remove the condition (deal goes firm), negotiate amendments, or withdraw without penalty.
Typical Alberta wording
Most Alberta offers use language giving the buyer discretion to determine whether the condition is satisfied. This 'to the buyer's satisfaction' phrasing is broad — you don't need to prove a defect to walk; you simply need to not satisfy the condition by the deadline.
Why book early in the window
Booking the inspection on day 1 or 2 of a 7-day condition leaves room for follow-up quotes, specialist evaluations (roofer, electrician, structural engineer), insurance confirmation on poly-B or Kitec, and any negotiation back-and-forth. Booking on day 5 of a 7-day condition leaves no margin.
Risks of waiving the condition
In competitive Calgary multi-offer situations buyers sometimes waive inspection to win. The savings of skipping a $500 inspection are dwarfed by the risk of inheriting hidden defects on a $700,000 home. If you intend to write without a condition, get a pre-offer inspection done first.
Extending the condition
If you need more time — waiting on an engineer, a quote, or insurance confirmation — your realtor can request a condition extension. Sellers usually agree if the request is reasonable and timely.
