Investing in presale condos in Surrey is an exciting step—whether you're a first-time homebuyer, an investor, or looking to downsize. Surrey’s growing infrastructure, booming real estate market, and attractive pricing make it a hotspot for new condo developments, especially in sought-after areas like Presale Surrey Central. But before signing on the dotted line, having a clear and actionable checklist can make your buying journey smoother and more rewarding.

Here's your ultimate checklist for buying a Surrey presale condo, covering everything from location to legal details.

✅ 1. Understand What Presale Means

A presale condo refers to a unit that’s available for purchase before construction is complete. Buyers commit to purchasing based on floor plans, brochures, and developer promises. You typically pay a deposit upfront, and the remaining balance is due when the building is ready for occupancy—usually 1 to 3 years later.

Why it matters: This gives you more time to prepare financially, and you may benefit from appreciation during the construction phase.

✅ 2. Research the Developer

One of the most important steps is vetting the developer behind the project. Trusted developers like those featured on SkyLiving.ca often have a solid reputation for timely completion and quality construction.

Checklist:

Past completed projects

Online reviews and testimonials

Developer's track record with building inspections and delays

Customer service responsiveness

✅ 3. Choose the Right Location

Surrey is a large city with diverse neighbourhoods. One of the most popular areas for investment is Presale Surrey Central, due to its fast-growing urban landscape, new skytrain extensions, educational institutions like SFU and KPU, and a mix of dining, parks, and retail options.

Location factors to consider:

Proximity to public transit

Future development plans in the area

Local amenities: schools, parks, grocery stores

Rental potential if you're buying for investment

✅ 4. Understand the Deposit Structure

Most presale condos in Surrey require a deposit between 10–20%, split over scheduled payments. Understanding the deposit schedule helps you plan your finances without surprises.

Pro tip: Ask the developer or realtor for the full deposit timeline. Some projects may offer limited-time deals with lower initial deposits or promotional pricing.

✅ 5. Review the Floor Plans and Layouts

Don’t just rely on attractive marketing visuals. Dig deep into the unit's floor plan. Think about natural light, kitchen layout, storage, and functionality for your lifestyle.

Checklist:

Square footage vs usable space

Window placements and views

Balcony size and orientation

Closet and storage areas

✅ 6. Inquire About Strata Fees and Bylaws

Your future condo will be managed by a strata corporation. Strata fees cover maintenance, insurance, and shared amenities. Make sure to ask about estimated monthly fees and any potential restrictions.

Important to ask:

Are pets allowed?

Are there short-term rental restrictions?

What amenities are included (gym, rooftop, lounge)?

How is parking and storage allocated?

✅ 7. Know Your Assignment Rights

Assignment rights allow you to sell the presale contract before the building is complete. If you’re buying for investment or unsure about long-term plans, this flexibility can be valuable.

Ask the developer:

Are assignments allowed?

Is there a fee to assign your contract?

What are the conditions or limitations?

✅ 8. Get Legal Review and Financial Pre-Approval

Before signing anything, have a real estate lawyer review the disclosure statement and contract. Also, get mortgage pre-approval based on current market rates and projected completion timelines.

Don’t overlook:

GST is not included in the list price (add 5%)

Closing costs like legal fees and property transfer tax

Any built-in developer incentives (appliance upgrades, cash backs)

✅ 9. Inspect the Display Suite Carefully

Visiting a display suite is your only chance to see materials and layouts in person. Pay attention to the finishes, appliances, and build quality. But remember—it’s often the “premium” version, not necessarily what comes standard.

✅ 10. Stay Updated During Construction

Once your purchase is complete, the process isn't over. Stay in touch with your realtor or developer for updates on construction timelines, occupancy permits, and walkthrough dates. This ensures you're prepared for your final payment and move-in.

Final Thoughts

Buying a Surrey presale condo is a smart move when done right. With rapid urban growth, especially in areas like Presale Surrey Central, early buyers stand to benefit from rising values, modern amenities, and flexible payment structures. Use this checklist as your trusted guide to navigate the process with confidence.

Whether you're browsing projects on SkyLiving.ca or working with a local realtor, staying informed is the key to securing your dream property.