Calgary Real Estate: A Look Back at 2025 and What’s Ahead for 2026

As we wrap up another year and the holiday season approaches, I want to take a moment to reflect on Calgary’s real estate journey in 2025 and share some insights into what we might expect as we head into 2026. Having served Calgary’s vibrant real estate community for two decades, I’ve seen our market evolve through many cycles, and this past year was certainly another fascinating chapter.

2025: A Year of Sustained Demand and Moderated Growth

2025 proved to be another robust year for Calgary’s real estate market. Our city continued to be a beacon for interprovincial migration, attracting new residents seeking opportunity and a more attainable lifestyle than in other major Canadian centres. This influx, combined with generally stable economic conditions in Alberta, sustained strong buyer demand across various segments.

While inventory levels fluctuated, they generally remained on the tighter side, particularly for detached homes, which continued to put upward pressure on prices. We observed steady, albeit more moderate, price growth, in line with the slower pace of previous years, solidifying Calgary’s reputation as a strong investment market. Interest rates played a significant role, with the Bank of Canada’s decisions influencing buyer confidence and affordability throughout the year. We navigated a period where buyers and sellers alike were keenly watching for any signals from Ottawa.

Looking Ahead to 2026: Anticipating What’s Next

As we step into 2026, several key factors will likely shape our local real estate landscape:

1) Interest Rate Trajectory: The Bank of Canada’s stance on interest rates will remain a primary influencer. Many market watchers anticipate potential easing in the latter half of 2026, which could further stimulate buyer activity and improve affordability for those waiting on the sidelines.

2) Continued Population Growth: Calgary’s appeal is expected to continue attracting Canadians from other provinces. This sustained population growth will undoubtedly be a significant tailwind for demand across all housing types.

3) Supply Remains Key: However, the underlying challenge of housing supply is expected to persist. Until new construction significantly catches up to this robust demand, competition for well-priced homes will remain a factor, particularly in desirable neighbourhoods.

4) Segment Performance: We might see continued strong performance in the more attainable segments, such as well-located condos and townhouses, as buyers seek value and affordability. Detached homes will likely continue their steady appreciation, especially in established communities.

5) Alberta’s Economic Health: Alberta’s overall economic health will underpin market confidence. Calgary’s diversification efforts are contributing to a resilient economic outlook, which bodes well for the stability of our housing market.

What This Means for You

• For Sellers: For those considering selling, strategic pricing, impeccable presentation, and expert marketing will be paramount. Spring 2026 could offer an excellent window of opportunity, especially if interest rates begin to trend downwards.

• For Buyers: Buyers will benefit from getting pre-approved early, thoroughly understanding their desired neighbourhoods, and being ready to act decisively when the right property comes along. Don’t underestimate the value of patience and persistence in securing your ideal home.

The Calgary real estate landscape is intricate and ever-changing, but with two decades of experience navigating these trends, I’m here to help you make informed decisions. Whether you’;re thinking of buying your first home, upsizing, downsizing, or exploring investment opportunities, I’m committed to providing you with the personalized advice and dedicated service you deserve.

Thank you once again for your continued trust and business. I wish you and your loved ones a very happy holiday season and a prosperous New Year!

The holiday season is all about creating memories and one of the best ways to do that is by crafting Christmas decorations together as a family. DIY projects keep kids entertained and fills the home with meaningful, handmade décor that you’ll cherish for years. I hope these ideas bring creativity, warmth, and festive spirit to every corner of your home.

1. Salt Dough Ornaments

Salt dough ornaments are a timeless classic, plus they’re simple, inexpensive, and endlessly customizable.

What You Need:

• 1 cup flour

• ½ cup salt

• ½ cup warm water

• Cookie cutters

• Paint, markers, glitter, ribbon

How to Make Them:

1. Mix flour, salt, and water into a smooth dough.

2. Roll it out and use cookie cutters to create shapes like stars, hearts, and gingerbread people.

3. Poke a hole at the top for hanging.

4. Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 2–3 hours until hardened.

5. Decorate to your heart’s content!

Kid-Friendly Tip:

Let kids press their handprint into the dough for a keepsake ornament you’ll treasure forever.

2. Pine Cone Christmas Trees

Bring a little nature indoors with these adorable pine cone trees.

Supplies:

• Pine cones

• Green paint

• Pom-poms, beads, sequins

• Glue

• Bottle caps (for tree bases)

Instructions:

Paint pine cones green, glue them into bottle caps, and decorate with mini ornaments, or if you’re brave enough, glitter.

3. Paper Strip Garland

A retro craft that’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for decorating the tree, mantle, or even kids’ bedrooms.

Materials:

• Construction paper

• Scissors

• Glue stick or tape

How to Make It:

Cut the paper into strips, form loops, and link them together into a long chain. Use traditional holiday colours like green, red, and gold; or let kids choose their own palette.

Variation:

Create a “kindness chain” where each link includes a written act of kindness your family completes during December.

4. Cinnamon Stick Stars

These rustic, sweet-smelling decorations make great ornaments and gift toppers.

You’ll Need:

• Cinnamon sticks

• Twine

• Hot glue (adult-handled)

• Ribbon

• Optional: dried orange slices or small bells

Instructions:

Glue cinnamon sticks into star or snowflake shapes, then decorate with twine or ribbon. Hang on the tree for a cozy, festive aroma.

Kid-Safe Tip:

Let kids handle the decorations and stringing while adults manage the hot glue.

5. Hand-Painted Wooden Ornaments

Ideal for slightly older kids or children who love to draw and paint.

Supplies:

• Unfinished wooden discs

• Acrylic paint or paint pens

• Twine

Steps:

Kids can paint snowmen, Santa faces, winter scenes, or abstract patterns. Add names and dates to turn it into a yearly tradition.

6. Felt Ornament Shapes

Soft, safe, and perfect for little hands, felt crafts are festive and forgiving.

Materials:

• Felt sheets

• Child-safe scissors

• Glue

• Googly eyes, buttons, sequins

• Ribbon or yarn

Cut out shapes like trees, mittens, reindeer, or stockings. Kids can glue on buttons or googly eyes for a fun, playful effect.

Super Simple Option:

Trace cookie cutters onto felt to create perfect shapes every time.

7. Mason Jar Snow Globes

A magical craft that turns everyday jars into charming winter scenes.

Supplies:

• Mason jars

• Small figurines (trees, snowmen, animals)

• Hot glue

• Fake snow or glitter

• Ribbon

Glue figurines to the jar lid, add snow or glitter to the jar, screw it shut, and shake!

8. Beaded Candy Canes

A mess-free craft ideal for younger kids learning patterns and fine motor skills.

What You Need:

• White and red pony beads

• Pipe cleaners

String beads onto pipe cleaners, alternating red and white. Bend into a candy cane shape and voila! These make perfect tree ornaments or gift add-ons.

Tips for Crafting With Kids

Set Up a Holiday Craft Station

Lay out basic materials like ribbon, glue, buttons, and paper in a single spot so kids can create any time.

Embrace the Mess

Crafting with kids can get messy and that’s part of the magic. Use kraft paper or old tablecloths to protect surfaces.

Let Creativity Lead

Pinterest-perfect isn’t the goal. The memories made in the process are what matter most.

A lot of the supplies in a DIY craft-fest can be found at the dollar store (or maybe in your own cupboards!) Sometimes the best memories have the lowest price tag.

Happy holidays!

Nestled in the southeast, Auburn Bay is one of the city’s most desirable lake communities, blending resort-style living with family-friendly charm. Designed around a stunning 43-acre freshwater lake and a central community clubhouse, this neighbourhood offers year-round recreation that’s hard to match.

Residents of Auburn Bay enjoy access to an exceptional roster of amenities through the Auburn House Residents Association. In the summer, the community comes alive with swimming, paddle-boarding, fishing, and picnicking along the sandy beach. Winter transforms the lake into a skating rink, with hockey rinks, toboggan runs, and cozy fire pits available to residents and their guests. It’s a neighbourhood built for connection and fun.

Connected, Convenient, and Growing

Auburn Bay sits at the heart of Calgary’s growing southeast corridor, offering quick access to Deerfoot Trail, Stoney Trail, and Seton. The community is just minutes from the South Health Campus, the YMCA, and the shops and dining of Auburn Station and Seton Urban District. Everything from groceries to medical services to boutique cafés is right around the corner.

Families appreciate the neighbourhood’s thoughtful planning, which includes multiple playgrounds, green spaces, pathways, and top-rated schools such as Auburn Bay School (K–4) and Prince of Peace School (K–9), plus nearby options in Cranston and Mahogany.

A Diverse Real Estate Landscape

Auburn Bay offers something for every type of buyer, first-time homeowners, move-up families, downsizers, and investors. The area features:

• Charming starter homes and modern townhouses

• Stylish condos near Seton and Auburn Station

• Spacious laned and front-attached homes

• Estate-style properties close to the lake

With beautiful streetscapes, strong community involvement, and consistent demand, Auburn Bay continues to be a standout neighbourhood for both homeowners and investors.

Why Buyers Love Auburn Bay

• Lake access with year-round activities

• Excellent proximity to amenities and healthcare

• Strong community stewardship and events

• Family-friendly design with parks and pathways

• Convenient access to major routes

Auburn Bay continues to stand out as a top choice in the southeast. Its blend of convenience, natural beauty, and community spirit makes it a place people are proud to call home and a market worth watching.

…just one word, but it holds everything that matters most: comfort, connection, and belonging.

Let’s find the place that feels perfectly you. 🏡💛 📲

Ready to start your journey home? Let’s make it happen together.

It’s tempting to think every renovation will pay for itself when it’s time to sell—but that’s not always the case.

Before you pick up a hammer, consider these three key questions:

• Are similar homes in your area already updated?
• Do updated homes actually sell for more nearby?
• Can you stick to a realistic budget without over-spending?

Every home and market is different. I can help you look at the numbers so you can decide what’s worth doing before you list.

These are the upgrades that make a real difference — things like new driveways, landscaping, or utility connections that enhance both function and value. Thoughtful investments like these can make your property stand out and increase its long-term worth.

Selling your home is a big move — and having the right professional by your side makes all the difference. A REALTOR® helps you price strategically, present beautifully, attract more qualified buyers, and navigate every step with confidence. The result? A smoother sale and the best possible return on your investment.

Ready to make your move? Let’s get your home sold. 🏡

One of the biggest mistakes sellers make is pricing their home too high. While it might seem like a smart move to leave room for negotiation, it can actually turn away serious buyers who never even see your listing. The right price attracts the right attention — and gets your home sold faster.

Today, we pause to remember the courage, sacrifice, and selflessness of those who served and continue to serve. Their dedication has given us the freedom to build our homes, our families, and our futures in peace.

Lest we forget. ❤️

As the leaves change colour and pumpkin spice lattes reappear, the Calgary real estate market shifts gears. Fall is a unique time for buying and selling homes, and understanding the current trends is crucial if you’re looking to make a move or stay informed about your investment. Let’s take a look at what’s happening this fall and what it means for both buyers and sellers in our city.

Key Market Trends

Recent data from the Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB) shows that sales activity in September and October has decreased by 8% compared to August. While this might seem like a slowdown, it’s important to remember that the market was exceptionally hot earlier this year. Overall, sales are still above the 5-year average for this time of year. The key takeaway is that the market is becoming more balanced.

Inventory, or the number of properties listed for sale, is slowly increasing. This means buyers have more options than earlier in the year, when competition was fierce. However, inventory is still below historical averages, so it’s not a buyer’s market just yet.

Average home prices in Calgary have continued to rise modestly, with the benchmark price for a detached home reaching $545,000 in October. However, the rate of price growth has slowed significantly compared to the spring months. We’re seeing a more sustainable pace of price appreciation.

Properties are now taking an average of 35 days to sell, compared to just 25 days in June. This means sellers need to be more strategic about pricing and marketing.

What This Means for Sellers

In a more balanced market, overpricing your home is a recipe for disaster. Work with your realtor to review recent sales in your area and price your home competitively. A market evaluation is essential!

With more inventory available, buyers are more discerning. Make sure your home is clean, decluttered, and well-staged. First impressions are critical!

What makes your property stand out from the competition? It could be a renovated kitchen, a large backyard, or a desirable location near schools or parks.

Be prepared to negotiate. It’s not always about the money; look at closing dates and other important factors.

What This Means for Buyers

While the market has cooled somewhat, it’s still competitive. Take your time to find the right property, but don’t hesitate to make an offer when you find something you love. The best homes still sell quickly.

Knowing your budget and having a pre-approved mortgage will give you a competitive edge.

Calgary has so many great neighbourhoods. You can expand your search area to find more affordable options.

Enlist expert help. Work with a realtor who knows the Calgary market inside and out. They can help you find properties that meet your needs and negotiate the best possible price.

Calgary Neighbourhood Spotlight: Legacy

This month, we’re shining a spotlight on Legacy, a vibrant and growing community in Southeast Calgary. Known for its diverse housing options, extensive green spaces, and family-friendly atmosphere, Legacy offers something for everyone. Recent sales data show a wide range of prices, from starter homes in the $300,000s to larger detached homes over $700,000, with an average days-on-market of around 45. Residents enjoy access to numerous parks, walking paths, shops, and services, making it a highly desirable location.

The Calgary real estate market is constantly evolving, and fall is a time of transition. Whether you’re buying or selling, it’s essential to stay informed and work with a trusted real estate professional who can guide you through the process.

Would you be ready to discuss your real estate goals? Contact me today for a free consultation!

When your home hits the market in the colder months, staging is about creating a feeling of warmth, comfort, and modern relevance. This winter, buyers will be drawn to staging that doesn’t just look clean and empty, but feels inviting and current. Here’s how to level up your listing.

Embrace Warm, Earth-Rooted Colour Palettes

Gone are the days when cool greys and stark whites ruled the staging palette. Today’s savvy stagers are turning toward warm neutrals like camel, taupe, mocha, deep olive, burgundy and rich browns. For a home that will show in winter, these tones help counteract the shorter days and often muted natural light. Use them in throw pillows, accent chairs, area rugs and even consider one feature wall (but don’t overuse dark tones to make the space feel smaller).

Incorporate Natural & Sustainable Materials

Winter puts extra pressure on interiors because you want to make the space cozy but also authentic. Because of that, staging professionals are leaning into natural textures and sustainable materials: reclaimed wood, rattan, woven jute, live plants, linen throws. These materials bring tactile warmth and convey quality and eco-awareness (which many buyers now value). For example: a soft boucle throw on the sofa, a woven basket filled with firewood or decor that nods to nature, leaves a favourable impression.

Curves, Movement & Soft Geometry

One subtle but powerful trend: staging furniture and accessories with soft, organic shapes. Think curved sofas, round coffee tables, arched mirrors, vases with flowing lines. This matters in winter because spaces feel tighter when light is limited. Using curves helps soften the room, make it feel more open and less rigid. It invites a buyer to linger, imagine themselves relaxing in the room rather than simply passing through.

Layered Lighting & Texture for Atmosphere

With shorter daylight hours, staging must compensate with thoughtful light and texture. It’s not just about the overhead fixtures, either. The lighting should be layered so include table lamps, floor lamps, and accent lighting. Textures matter too: wool rugs, linen drapes, textured wall finishes. Turn more than one light on during showings, add a small cozy item like a blanket or pillow, and use rugs to anchor spaces so floors don’t appear cold and bland.

Biophilic & Wellness-Friendly Spaces

Buyers now expect more than “just a house.” They want a home where they can relax, find calm, even work from home, especially through winter’s months. Staging is responding with biophilic design (bringing nature in) and wellness-friendly touches: plants, reading nooks, ergonomic corners. In a winter market, when potential buyers may already feel the gloom of grey skies and limited daylight, a staged home that hints at calm, fresh air, and connection to nature can stand out.

What to Avoid This Winter

Knowing what to skip is as important as knowing what to include. The staging trends list several “out” items: icy-cool all-gray interiors, overly themed decor (like a heavy “holiday” look), oversized bulky furniture that shuts off flow, and rooms that feel sterile or empty.

In winter, a home that feels cold, cluttered, or too large (without intention) will struggle to connect. Instead, aim for warmth, intention, and flexibility.

Legacy is a new, master-planned community east of MacLeod Trail, south of Walden and west of the Bow River.

Neighbourhood Vibe & Lifestyle

The community itself emphasizes connection to nature, walkability, and modern amenities. Its design features include a substantial 300-acre environmental reserve, and more than 15 kilometres of paved walking paths that wind through parks, ponds and green space.

The architecture leans toward “timeless” styling: stone-entry features, a central clock tower, and builders using classic materials and detailing — helping the homes age gracefully.

For families, the community is well-equipped: there are playgrounds, a community garden, and the Legacy Residents Association supports events and maintains communal spaces.

Commercially, Legacy offers convenience: multiple shopping centers (Legacy Village, Legacy Corner, Township, Legacy Grove) bring grocery, retail, fitness and dining right into the neighbourhood

Real Estate Highlights

Housing mix & price ranges:

• Homes in Legacy span a wide spectrum: condos and townhomes at the entry level; single-family front-drive homes; and higher-end estate homes on larger lots.

• Builder-offered starting points: for example, one builder lists front-garage models from the mid $600s and estate homes from the high $500s, with signature estate homes rising into the $1 million+ range.

• Current listings show detached homes around the $1 million mark in recent sample listings.

Location & transit:

• Legacy’s access to major routes is a strong asset: Macleod Trail and Stoney Trail allow for commutes toward downtown or the airport, and the setting south of Calgary offers quieter surroundings but relatively straightforward access.

• For families, strategic planning includes schools within the community, though some are still planned/future phases.

Outdoor & lifestyle amenities that support value:

• The 300-acre protected reserve means less risk of heavy infill or dense redevelopment nearby, which is a positive from a homeowner’s perspective.

• Extensive walking/biking paths and green space boost appeal for buyers looking for lifestyle and recreation, which can support resale value and attract families.

• Newer build homes often include modern features like energy-efficient construction, smart-home tech, and premium finishes (especially in the estate segments) which may command a premium.

Legacy is not just a house-for-sale area it’s a thoughtfully designed neighbourhood with lifestyle, green space and mixed housing.