As the 2026 real estate market approaches, many homeowners across St. Albert, Edmonton, and Sturgeon County are wondering whether they should buy before they sell. Market conditions have shifted multiple times over the last few years, and with rising interest rates, limited inventory, and increased buyer demand, the decision is more strategic than ever. Below, a St. Albert Realtor breaks down the pros, cons, and key considerations for Alberta homeowners planning a move in 2026.
Understanding the 2026 Alberta Housing Market
According to early forecasts and insights from the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), Alberta is positioned to remain one of the strongest and most resilient real estate markets in the country. Continued interprovincial migration, employment stability, and relative affordability compared to other Canadian provinces are expected to keep demand high—particularly in communities like St. Albert and Edmonton.
Because inventory levels are projected to remain lower than historical norms, deciding whether to buy first or sell first will depend heavily on your personal financial situation and your tolerance for risk.
Benefits of Buying Before You Sell
Many homeowners prefer to secure their next property before listing their current one. This approach offers several advantages:
- More control and less pressure when searching for your next home.
- You only move once, avoiding temporary housing or storage costs.
- You can wait for the ideal home in your desired St. Albert, Edmonton, or Sturgeon County neighbourhood.
Buying first is often ideal for homeowners with flexible finances, access to bridge financing, or enough equity to ease the transition.
Risks of Buying Before You Sell
Despite the convenience, this strategy does come with some risks:
- You may carry two mortgages temporarily.
- There is pressure to sell quickly, which may impact your negotiation leverage.
- Market conditions could shift unexpectedly.
Before choosing this route, it’s important to speak with both your lender and your Realtor to determine whether a short-term overlap is realistic.
When Selling First Makes More Sense
Some homeowners prefer to sell before buying to eliminate financial uncertainty. Here are situations where selling first may be the smarter option:
- You need the equity from your current home for your down payment.
- Mortgage qualification will be easier without an existing mortgage.
- You’re concerned about unexpected market fluctuations.
In St. Albert and Edmonton’s competitive market, homes often sell quickly, so many sellers can confidently list their property and then purchase shortly after.
Local Considerations for St. Albert and Surrounding Areas
Every community behaves differently, so your decision may depend on where you live or where you’re planning to move. For example:
- St. Albert continues to experience low inventory in family-friendly neighbourhoods, making it harder for buyers to find the right property quickly.
- Edmonton offers more diverse inventory and price points, increasing the likelihood of finding a new home sooner.
- Sturgeon County acreages often take longer to sell, which may make buying first riskier.
A local Realtor with expertise across these markets can help you compare timelines and strategize appropriately.
How a Realtor Can Help You Decide
A knowledgeable St. Albert Realtor can guide you through the decision with:
- Current market data and insights from CREA and local MLS® systems
- Pricing strategies for your existing home
- Connections to mortgage brokers offering bridge financing
- Access to exclusive and upcoming listings
Final Thoughts: What’s Best for You in 2026?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question: Should you buy before you sell? The right decision depends on your financial comfort level, the type of home you’re seeking, and the pace of the market in your specific Alberta community. With the help of a trusted real estate professional, you can make an informed choice that minimizes stress and maximizes opportunity.
If you’re considering a move in 2026, now is the perfect time to start planning. Speaking with a local St. Albert or Edmonton Realtor will give you the clarity and confidence you need to map out your next steps.
