Tina Joa

You’ve found the one—the house of your dreams. Your heart says “BUY IT NOW!” but your brain whispers, “Maybe check if it’s about to collapse first?”

In Alberta’s competitive market, many buyers feel the pressure to make unconditional offers—waving financing and home inspections to win the deal. But skipping these protections isn’t just bold—it can be bank-account-draining, anxiety-inducing, and potentially life-altering.

Conditional vs. Unconditional Offers – A Buyer’s Reality Check

Why Skipping Conditions Can Cost You BIG

🔎 Surprise! More than 60% of inspected homes in Alberta have issues—ranging from faulty wiring to major structural problems. (spiremortgage.ca)

💰 The average home inspection costs $450–$750—pocket change compared to the $30,000+ it might save you in unexpected repairs. (findcalgaryhome.ca)

🚨 Unconditional offers mean your deposit is at risk. If financing falls through, you could lose tens of thousands of dollars. (reca.ca)

The Bottom Line

Is winning a bidding war worth the sleepless nights, empty savings account, and unforeseen disasters? That’s up to you. But before making an unconditional offer, ask yourself:

✔️ Do I have extra cash to cover unexpected repairs?
✔️ Am I 100% sure I’ll get the mortgage?
✔️ Do I really want to risk it all just to skip a few conditions?

A home should be your biggest investment—not your biggest regret. So take a deep breath, think it through, and remember: a little patience now can save you a LOT of headaches later.

Let’s talk about home inspections. Specifically, let’s talk about why skipping one—especially in the winter—can be a huge mistake. Sure, skipping the inspection might save you a few bucks upfront, but is that really the best way to approach the biggest purchase of your life?

Think about it this way: would you buy a pair of shoes just because they look nice? Without trying them on? Without making sure they fit? That they don’t pinch, rub, or fall apart after a week? No! You check them out, walk around in them, make sure they actually work for you.

Now apply that logic to a house.

When the ground is frozen and covered in snow, you can’t see the grading—how the land slopes around the house, which is crucial for drainage and preventing future foundation issues. You can’t get a good look at the roof either, and replacing one of those is no small expense. But these things matter. They can be the difference between a solid investment and a money pit.

New Build? Still Get an Inspection.

I hear it all the time: “It’s a new build—what could go wrong?”

Plenty. Just because something is new doesn’t mean it’s perfect. Mistakes happen, corners get cut, and sometimes things don’t get finished quite as they should. A home inspector can catch those issues before they become expensive headaches for you.

Not All Inspectors Are Created Equal

I’ve had sellers say, “Well, our inspector didn’t find that issue when we bought the place.” That’s why it’s important to hire the right inspector—not just the cheapest one. Experience, trade knowledge, positive reviews, and industry awards all matter. A thorough, skilled inspector can save you thousands in unexpected repairs.

Why Do I Recommend Inspections?

Let’s clear something up: when I, as your realtor, suggest getting an inspection, I’m not getting a kickback. I have nothing to gain except knowing I’ve done my job in protecting your best interests. My goal is to make sure you know exactly what you’re buying—because surprises are great for birthdays, not for homeownership.

As the market heats up, you might feel pressured to go unconditional on your offer. But ask yourself: what could be hidden beneath the surface? And is skipping the inspection really worth the risk?

Buyer beware. I always recommend an inspection—because peace of mind is priceless.

At some point, every homebuyer dreams of a brand-new home. A sparkling kitchen, untouched floors, and that fresh paint smell—it’s like new car smell but with a much bigger price tag. You visit a show home, fall in love with the design, and imagine yourself living in a magazine spread.

But here’s the reality: new builds can be more work than you signed up for. I’ve worked with plenty of buyers who ran straight to a builder expecting a dream home, only to move in and find out their "brand new" house has surprises—like a game of hide and seek with missing electrical outlets. The worst part? Many thought they didn’t need a realtor because, hey, it’s a new house—what could go wrong? (Spoiler: a lot.)

Why You Need a Realtor for a New Build

Some folks think buying from a builder is like ordering a burger—point at what you want, pay, and enjoy. Nope. This is more like ordering a burger and getting a bun with no patty. The builder’s sales reps work for the builder. Their job? Protect the builder’s interests. My job? Make sure you don’t end up in a house with more problems than a reality TV show.

Hidden Issues in New Builds

New homes go through a construction process that involves multiple subcontractors. Translation: there are a lot of hands in the cookie jar, and sometimes, people forget to actually bake the cookies. I’ve seen buyers move in and discover:

• Vents that don’t connect to anything (Great for heating the inside of your walls!)

• Missing electrical outlets (Surprise! You didn’t actually want to plug in your lamp, did you?)

• Doors that don’t close properly (Because who needs privacy, right?)

• Plumbing issues that turn your dream home into an indoor water park

And let’s not forget the classic: uneven flooring—because every home should come with a built-in funhouse effect.

The Smart Move: A Home Inspection

Yes, you heard me right: get a home inspection on a new build.

I know, I know, it sounds counterintuitive—like checking a brand-new car for rust. But trust me, a fresh build doesn’t mean a flawless build. A professional inspection can catch the hidden oopsies before you move in, saving you from expensive repairs down the line.

Negotiating Repairs and Timelines

As your realtor, I don’t just point out potential problems—I make sure they actually get fixed. I negotiate repairs before you take possession, or at the very least, within a set timeline so you’re not waiting around for things that should have been done right the first time. You should be unpacking boxes, not chasing down contractors.

You’re Not Saving Money by Skipping a Realtor

Some buyers think skipping a realtor means saving money. Nope. That’s like thinking you can save on medical bills by diagnosing yourself on the internet. The builder isn’t going to offer you a discount because you went solo—in fact, without a realtor, you could end up paying more with none of the perks.

The Bottom Line

A new build can be an amazing investment, but it’s not all sunshine and sparkles. Having a realtor on your side means fewer surprises, better negotiations, and a smoother experience overall. So before you sign that builder’s contract, let’s chat. Your dream home should stay a dream—not turn into a DIY horror story.

When I first dipped my toes into the deep waters of real estate, I felt like a minnow among sharks. The industry was vast, competitive, and frankly, a little terrifying. But looking back, I see how fear has morphed into something much more powerful—resilience, strength, and a dash of wit to keep things interesting.

Lifelong Learning: My Secret Weapon

In the early days, I was scared of just about everything—making mistakes, the unknown, and even the idea of failure. But guess what? Those fears became my best teachers. I’ve realized that being a forever learner is my superpower. It’s not a sign of weakness; it’s my badge of honor. Each day, I’m sharpening my skills and gaining the kind of confidence that only comes from knowing there’s always more to learn.

Finding Comfort in Discomfort

Remember those two news interviews that would have sent early-me into a panic? Now, they’re just another day at the office. I’ve learned to view these opportunities as stages to share my insights and passion. It’s like learning to enjoy the spotlight rather than fearing it. I’m growing more comfortable with being uncomfortable, and that’s where the magic happens.

Swimming with the Sharks (And Loving It)

Let’s be real—the real estate world often feels like a "survival of the fittest" scenario. But here’s the twist: I’ve discovered that collaboration beats competition every time. By teaming up with my peers, we all rise together. It’s not about being the lone wolf; it’s about creating a pack that’s unstoppable. Together, we’re redefining what it means to succeed in this industry.

The Strength in Asking

One of the biggest lessons I’ve embraced is that asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s pure, unfiltered strength. When I’m unsure, I reach out, tap into the collective wisdom around me, and come out stronger. It’s like having a cheat code for real estate—why go it alone when you can learn from the best?

Redefining Success

Success used to be a numbers game for me, but now it’s so much more. It’s about loving what I do and finding joy in the journey. Sure, the financial rewards are nice, but the real win is the fulfillment I get from my work. Collaboration brings a kind of "smartification" that enriches both my career and my life. It’s about thriving, not just surviving.

Conclusion

So here I am, no longer a minnow but a confident swimmer in a sea of sharks. I’ve embraced my strengths, learned to collaborate, and discovered that the real treasure lies in the journey. This transformation from a fearful newbie to a seasoned professional is proof that resilience, humor, and a willingness to learn can take you anywhere. And trust me, I’m just getting started.

The past few weeks have been a whirlwind of growth, challenges, and self-reflection. More than ever, I’m coming into my own as a realtor, finding my voice and the confidence to explain my worth. I can now say, with conviction, that I bring value to the table, and I’m not shy about showing how.

For a while, I worried too much—about targets, perception, and how I fit into this field. But I’ve realized that the best thing I can do is be the authentic me. Real estate isn’t just about transactions; it’s about relationships. My role is to be a key for my clients—a trusted guide who listens, provides solutions, and makes the process smoother.

I’ve had clients who feel comfortable enough to share their problems with me. That trust isn’t something I take lightly. I make it a point to be an ear, not a weight. When challenges arise, my clients won’t hear a litany of problems from me; they’ll hear the solutions I’ve worked hard to uncover.

What’s also been an eye-opener is realizing that many of my opportunities aren’t coming from my immediate sphere. Instead, they’re coming from lead generation—those initial conversations where strangers get to know me for the first time. Building trust is like dating (sometimes blind dating!), and I’ve learned to approach each connection with curiosity, honesty, and my authentic personality.

This career isn’t just a job—it’s a reflection of who I am. I work hard to bring my best self forward every day, balancing the demands of family, clients, and a busy life. And while the road isn’t always easy, I know that my dedication and authenticity will continue to build a foundation for success.

In the world of real estate, each week brings its own set of surprises and challenges. Lately, I’ve been working hard to stay focused on my long-term goals, even when those weekly targets seem just out of reach. It’s easy to feel discouraged when things don’t go as planned, but I’m learning that the key is resilience—keeping my sights set forward and knowing that success comes with steady, committed effort.

Recently, I had the opportunity to help a client in a situation that wasn’t as straightforward as we initially thought. As I dug into the details, it became clear that selling wouldn’t work for them at this time due to mortgage restrictions. Rather than pushing forward, I did what I thought was best for them and connected them with a property management company. This experience reminded me that my role goes beyond transactions. It’s about providing genuine advice and ensuring clients have all their options laid out. They’ve let me know they’ll be back when they’re ready to sell, and for me, that’s a true marker of trust built the right way.

Each day is packed with calls and emails, connecting with people from all backgrounds. I approach everyone without preconceptions or airs. I love an engaging conversation that’s friendly yet straightforward, sharing knowledge in a way that’s approachable without being “stuffy” or overly formal. Directness, too, has become a valuable part of my style—people appreciate knowing where they stand, and I find it fosters genuine connections. As a family-oriented person, I’ll twist myself into knots if it means finding the best solution for those I care about, and this career allows me to extend that support to my clients.

Real estate may be a challenging field, but I’m learning to trust my own style, knowing there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. There’s only one “me,” and by being genuine and strong in my efforts, I know I can bring value in ways that feel true to myself and beneficial to those I work with. Each day, I’m grateful for the chance to grow, help, and build relationships that are based on honesty and care.

As a realtor, there are days that feel like smooth sailing, and others—let’s be honest—that feel like I’m swimming against the current. Recently, I hit one of those low points where my efforts on the phones felt endless without the immediate payoff. But just when I felt the weight, things shifted. I signed a client, and now I have an exciting lineup of people at various stages in their journey. It feels like a wave is building, and I’m grateful for the momentum.

These past weeks, I leaned hard into lead generation, using a different approach: embracing my authentic self. Rather than putting on a rigid “professional” façade, I let go of the script and led with a simple, friendly curiosity. My calls aren’t filled with high-pressure tactics—I’m genuinely interested in learning about their home search experience and where I might add value. It turns out, this approach resonates. People appreciate knowing there’s someone on the other end who listens and cares.

Through it all, I’m reminding myself why I’m here and why I’ll succeed. I’ve been successful in my previous work, and I’m bringing that same determination and drive to real estate. Recently, I was given an exercise in a class to ask those in my sphere what qualities they see in me that could benefit my clients. The feedback was eye-opening. I had worried that my kind disposition might be a drawback in a field known for its “sharks.” But the people who know me best see my kindness as an asset. My network’s view was clear: being a good listener and having a kind approach makes me stand out. I guide, don’t shove. I support, don’t pressure.

Another aspect people value is my preparedness. I come ready to every meeting, offering a wealth of knowledge that answers questions clients didn’t even know they had. It’s been reassuring to hear that people see me as someone who’s approachable and who truly has their best interests at heart. And while the industry can be challenging, I’m staying organized. It’s a skill I’ve honed running a busy household with a 20-year-old artist, a 16-year-old cadet, a military spouse, two pets, and my mother, who’s 71 and sometimes needs a bit more help these days.

Even though I’ve had to pause on Jiu-Jitsu thanks to a knee injury, I’m still moving at my usual pace. My focus remains steady. And as I gear up for what’s coming, I’m balancing my energy (okay, and caffeine levels) and staying ready to bring the best of myself to every client.

To anyone considering the journey toward home ownership or looking for a supportive hand in the process, I’m here, ready to walk the path with you—not as a pushy salesperson, but as a friend and trusted guide.

Thankful and Fearful: How I Got Out of My Own Way

It’s Thanksgiving, and as a realtor, I’ve been reflecting on the balance of being thankful and fearful. This past week has been one for the books, and I’m getting ahead of myself by writing this now, especially since I didn’t even manage last week’s post. But let me explain why.

Last week, I wasn’t exactly “getting out of my own way.” But I did go to jujitsu—my exercise and therapy rolled into one. Feeling great and confident as a two-stripe white belt, I was working with a new girl on the techniques we were taught in class. We were rolling, everything was flowing, and suddenly—*pop*. My knee gave out. Pain shot through it, but I kept my cool. I didn’t yell or freak out. I calmly told her it wasn’t her fault. In hindsight, I should’ve adjusted my footing when I felt resistance. Now, I’m facing eight weeks of no physical activity. And guess what? Realtors walk—a lot.

But here’s where things get interesting. I had an event planned with my former employer, Givenchy, and this was my chance to get face-to-face time with my target audience. Free advertising, lead generation—yes, please! But with my knee situation, I was tempted to sit it out. Still, it wasn’t the “bad knee,” and though it’s a slight tear, I went to the event anyway.

Was it worth the swelling? Absolutely. I walked (well, limped) away with 6 new leads and 3 reactivations. That’s what I call a win, knee injury and all.

But that wasn’t the only win. I also did something I would’ve shied away from in the past: an interview. After checking with marketing and getting the green light, I rushed home to change after a grueling physio session. I was nervous, limping, and exhausted, but I know this topic well, and I pushed myself to go for it. The result? A successful interview on CityTV Edmonton on October 8, 2024, where I discussed the housing market. The feedback was great, my broker was happy, and even though I was stressed and shy, none of it showed on camera.

So, what’s the takeaway from all this? Sometimes, you have to get out of your own way. Whether it’s dealing with an injury, battling nerves, or doubting yourself, you’ve got to keep going. I’m still that little fish swimming in a big pond, but every little fish has to believe they can grow into something more.

And with one more week behind me, I’m just a little further along in this crazy world of real estate.

o be honest, life as a new realtor is beyond stressful. I hear people around me saying, "You’re doing great!" or "You’ll be fine!"—and while I appreciate it, I can’t help but feel the pressure mounting behind the scenes. My mind is constantly racing, filled with self-doubt: "What have I done? Why am I doing this? Will I even succeed?"

On the surface, my activity levels are off the charts. I’m pushing myself harder than I ever have, juggling everything from marketing to meetings to follow-ups. Every month, the business fees creep higher—training, conferences, networking events, lunches with leads—and I’m always eyeing the cost of running things. Yet, despite the hustle, I sometimes feel like the annoying person trying to stay top-of-mind. That little voice whispers, "Maybe you’re being too much."

But I can’t afford to let that kill my spirit. I’m unconventional, not part of a larger team, and still learning. This journey is supposed to be a marathon, not a sprint, but I’m frustrated when I don’t feel supported by certain family members. My husband reassures me, "They’ll see you grow, and then they’ll come around." He’s probably right, but it doesn’t change how I feel in the moment.

Right now, I’m a little fish in a big pond. I’m not drowning, but success feels far away. Two sales in five months…OMG. It’s not what I expected, but I’ll keep swimming.

Then there’s the rollercoaster of emotions. One minute, people are telling me how hard I’m working, how I need to slow down, relax, take a break. We’ve talked about it before—about the importance of taking breaks. But nope, no breaks for me. I’ve got my foot on the gas, and I refuse to let up.

The thing is, I’ve got goals. Big ones. Personal and professional. And the more I sit around feeling unproductive, the more I say, “F**k it, I’m just going to work harder.” I know that I am the business, and without strong family support from my extended circle, I shouldn’t be struggling as much as I am. But that’s not going to stop me. If it’s not happening now, I’ll just keep pushing until it does.

I’ve come to realize that the only way forward is to hustle. I’ll work even harder because I will hit my goals. The stress, the sleepless nights, the endless rollercoaster—it’s all part of the ride. Even though this journey is testing every ounce of my patience and willpower, I know it’ll be worth it in the end.

So, no breaks, no slowing down. I’ll keep moving forward. Success may be a long way off, but I’ll get there.

Signed,
The little fish, doing a backstroke with one fin tied behind my back… and yeah, still can’t see land yet, but I’m swimming! 🐠

To anyone watching, it might look like I’m just out having a blast. I’m spotted at the CCMAs, swinging clubs at charity golf tournaments, or laughing it up at conferences and community events in Edmonton’s west end. And yes, I admit, I am having fun—but let's not be fooled here. Behind the smiles and handshakes, there’s some serious strategizing going on.

You see, while I might look like a social butterfly floating through these events, in reality, I’m working hard to make sure my wings get noticed. There’s a lot more planning behind my “social” presence than it seems. Every time I show up, I’m making sure I’m seen, heard (even if I have to talk over the crowd), and remembered. Yes, I might be snapping selfies and live-streaming, but it's all part of a master plan.

Behind the scenes, I'm also working like a well-oiled machine—taking notes on conversations, following up on those chance meetings, and, more importantly, leaving an impression. Whether it’s video recordings, social media posts, or tagging my way into people’s feeds, I’m putting in the work. After all, you never know when that one person will scroll past, see my content, and say, “You know what? I like her. Let’s talk.”

But here’s the kicker—I’m five months into this journey now, and it’s a bit like swimming in a fish tank. Some days, it feels like I’m surrounded by sharks (cue the "dun-dun-dun" music), but then, I remind myself that not everyone is out to bite. In fact, some people really do want me to succeed, which is both reassuring and occasionally surprising.

Take a recent conference, for example. I was approached by a colleague from another brokerage who said, “You clean up good!” (Thanks, I try!) I’d met her at my first golf tournament in June. One random conversation, and here we are—building something that started with a casual chat. Now, I’ve got connections with keynote speakers, and after a quick compliment on a presentation, I even got tagged on one speaker’s latest book tour. What started as small talk is turning into real, meaningful relationships.

The funny thing is, most people see me having fun and think it’s all effortless. Truth is, I’m doing the prep work—researching who’s going to be at these events, thinking about who I need to meet, and practicing my small talk like it’s an Olympic sport. By the time I’m in the room, I’ve already done hours of work behind the scenes. I’m essentially the most fun over-prepared person at the party!

Of course, this whole thing is a marathon, not a sprint. I’m lucky to have a great group of friends who remind me that success takes time—and it’s built one relationship at a time. Every conversation, every event, and every social media post is a piece of the puzzle. And honestly? It’s starting to work. Slowly but surely, I’m getting heard.

So, the next time you see me out and about, don’t be fooled by the smile and the seemingly carefree vibe. Sure, I’m having a good time, but I’m also working the room, making sure I’m remembered, and quietly building something bigger. And in the meantime, I’m doing my best to keep swimming—even if I do feel like a small fish sometimes.

As I reflect on these past 4.5 months in real estate, it feels like being a little fish in a big shark tank. Everyone around me sees confidence, success, and potential—but I still wrestle with my own doubts. Why is it that others see the success I can’t quite believe in for myself yet?

I’ve made learning my mission. Whether it's diving into books, listening to mentors, or picking up non-verbal cues in conversations, I’m constantly working on improving my skills. I’ve put myself out there, attending several community events, with many more to come, and I’m even gearing up for RAECON, the REALTORS® Association of Edmonton’s event, to keep expanding my knowledge.

One of my biggest challenges so far was at the Canadian Country Music Awards (CCMAs). Walking up to strangers, starting conversations, and leaving an impression wasn’t easy, but I did it 30 times! I even met a Hells Angel, and after realizing we had a family connection, his partner told me how fun I am. I might be fun, but I’m also constantly analyzing every interaction, calculating every move to make the most of those moments. This is the real work behind the scenes that people don’t always see.

Then there was the charity golf event. I was terrified of making a fool of myself, but I let go of that fear and decided to have fun. It’s moments like this that remind me: while the uneasiness may never fully disappear, I can choose to enjoy the process and grow through it.

Despite the curveballs from clients and prospects, I’m starting to feel like I belong in this shark tank. I’m balancing my life, work, and friendships—albeit imperfectly—and finding my rhythm. I know I have the support of my family, and I’m learning that success doesn’t always look like a straight line. It’s about adapting, learning, and pushing forward, even when doubt creeps in.

This little fish is getting stronger, swimming better, and making waves in this shark tank. I’m going to shake off the worry and continue showing up as my best self. The success will come—I just need to keep believing in it.

As Winston Churchill said, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”

Oh, and about that golf event? I hit the ball straight... straight into the trees. But hey, at least I had fun!