Section 01
Buy the land for what it permits
Zone, lot dimensions, orientation, servicing, lane access and any slope or drainage constraint determine the envelope of what can be built.
A conditional purchase that allows a design feasibility check is a standard and worthwhile protection, particularly on mature-area or escarpment lots.
Section 02
Understand the approvals path early
Development and building permits, and any variance required for height, coverage or setback, define both the schedule and the risk.
Where a variance is central to the design, treat approval as uncertain until it is granted rather than assuming it.
Section 03
Choosing designer and builder
Look for completed work of similar scope, a documented process, willingness to share references and a clear position on how changes are priced.
Confirm builder licensing and warranty enrolment for a new build; both are verifiable.
Section 04
Contract structure decides who carries risk
Fixed price, cost plus and hybrid structures allocate risk differently. None is inherently better, but the allowance schedule and change-order process matter in all of them.
Agree how unforeseen conditions, schedule delays and supplier substitutions will be handled before they occur.
Section 05
Design for 53.5° north
Orientation, glazing area and specification, shading, insulation continuity, air tightness, ventilation and snow shedding are the decisions that determine long-term comfort and running cost.
These choices are inexpensive on paper and very expensive to retrofit.
Section 06
Commissioning and handover
Insist on system commissioning and balancing, a documented deficiency process, equipment manuals and as-built drawings.
Final grading approval and landscaping completion should be scheduled explicitly, since Edmonton's seasons often push them beyond possession.