Just Moved In? Here's Your Essential New Home Checklist!

Moving into a new home is exciting—but before you get too comfy, make sure you’ve checked off these important to-dos:

✅ Change the locks
✅ Set up utilities & internet
✅ Test smoke & carbon monoxide detectors
✅ Locate the main water shut-off valve
✅ Update your address
✅ Deep clean before unpacking
✅ Check HVAC filters & schedule maintenance
✅ Meet the neighbours

These small steps make a big difference in protecting your investment and feeling truly at home. 🏡✨

Whether you're a first-time buyer or seasoned mover, this list is your key to a smooth start!

Instead of listing my recent sales, I’ve decided to highlight a community where I’ve recently helped a buyer or seller and write about that community. This month, I’d like to highlight the great community of Woodbine.

Woodbine, nestled in southwest Calgary, is a well-established community known for its family-friendly atmosphere, mature trees, and convenient location. Residents enjoy a blend of suburban tranquillity and easy access to amenities and green spaces.

One of Woodbine’s biggest draws is its abundance of parks and recreational opportunities. Fish Creek Provincial Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America, borders the community, offering endless possibilities for hiking, biking, birdwatching, and picnicking. Within Woodbine itself, you’ll find numerous smaller parks and playgrounds perfect for kids to burn off energy.

The community also boasts excellent schools, making it a popular choice for families with young children. Woodbine School (K-6) and Woodman School (7-9) are located within the neighbourhood, providing a convenient option for students.

You’ll find a variety of home styles in Woodbine, primarily single-family detached homes that include bungalows, bi-levels, and two-storey designs that were popular during the community’s development in the late 1970s and early 1980s. There are also townhouses and semi-detached homes scattered throughout, offering options for different lifestyles and budgets.

For shopping and dining, residents can take advantage of the nearby shops and services along Woodbine Avenue and in the surrounding areas. The larger retail centres of Shawnessy Village and Southcentre Mall are also just a short drive away.

Getting around is a breeze in Woodbine. It’s easy to access major roadways, such as Stoney Trail and Macleod Trail, making commuting convenient. For those who prefer public transit, the C-Train (LRT) is easily accessible, offering a quick trip into downtown Calgary. Road transportation will get you downtown in under 20 minutes, making Woodbine a great option for those working in the city centre.

Speaking of history, Woodbine was established in 1979 and gets its name from the Woodbine racetrack in Toronto – a nod to the area’s early developers’ fondness for horse racing!

Overall, Woodbine offers a balanced lifestyle with a strong sense of community, abundant green spaces, diverse housing options, and convenient access to everything Calgary has to offer. It’s a great place to settle down and call home.

No matter the season, Calgary’s real estate market is always a hot topic, but as we head into June, I want to break down the current dynamics to help you make informed decisions, whatever neighbourhood you’re buying or selling in. So, is Calgary currently in a buyer’s market, a seller’s market, or somewhere in between? Let’s dive in.

A Look Back: Last Year’s Frenzy

Remember last year? Things were, well, intense. 2024 saw Calgary experiencing a strong seller’s market. Homes were selling quickly, often with multiple offers and bidding wars. The inventory was low, and buyers were scrambling to secure properties, driving prices upward. It was a challenging time to be a buyer, to put it mildly. Sellers were in a prime position, often fetching top dollar for their homes.

Where We Are Now: A Shifting Landscape

Fast forward to 2025, and the picture is a bit different. While sales volumes remain healthy and are still around or above historical averages for this time of year, we’re seeing a significant rise in housing inventory compared to last year. This increase in the number of homes available is providing buyers with more choice and breathing room.

However, it’s important to note that even with this inventory increase, demand remains relatively strong. Calgary remains a highly desirable place to live, attracting people from across Canada and beyond.

So, What’s the Verdict: Balanced or Still Leaning One Way?

Given the higher inventory but steady sales, Calgary could be moving towards a balanced market. However, conditions can vary greatly depending on the specific neighbourhood, property type, and price range. While buyers have more options, well-priced and well-presented homes in desirable areas continue to attract plenty of interest. Ultimately, the market is more balanced than last year, but it isn’t firmly in buyers’ territory.

Tips and Tricks for Navigating Today’s Market:

For Buyers:

- Get Pre-Approved: Knowing your budget upfront strengthens your negotiating position. Get that pre-approval from your bank or mortgage broker.

- Be Patient, But Be Ready to Pounce: While you have more selection, don't assume properties will sit on the market forever. Be ready to act quickly when you find the right one.

- Don’t Be Afraid to Negotiate: With increased inventory, you have more leverage to negotiate on price and conditions.

- Consider Neighbourhood Trends: Work with your realtor to analyze the market in your target neighbourhoods. Some areas might be more competitive than others.

- Work with a Pro: Now is a great time to have a solid realtor who understands the market and can guide you through the process!

For Sellers:

- Price Strategically: Don’t overprice your home. A realistic price that reflects current market conditions is key to attracting buyers. Your realtor will provide a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) – pay attention to it!

- Presentation Matters: Ensure your home is in top-notch condition. Declutter, clean, and make any necessary repairs. First impressions are crucial.

- Highlight the Perks: What makes your property stand out? Perhaps it’s a renovated kitchen, a great location, or a stunning backyard. Showcase those features!

- Be Flexible: Be open to reasonable offers and negotiate in good faith.

- Consider Staging: In a more balanced market, staging can help your home stand out from the competition and appeal to a wider range of buyers.

The Bottom Line:

Calgary’s real estate market is more balanced than it was last year, offering opportunities for both buyers and sellers. When you understand current market dynamics and work with a knowledgeable real estate professional, you can successfully navigate the summer market. 

Call me today!  I’ll be here for you when you’re ready to move forward with a purchase or sale.

June is the official start of summer in Calgary, and that means longer days, more sunshine, and sometimes soaring temperatures. While Calgarians are no strangers to fluctuating weather, the heat can hit hard, especially during dry spells or unexpected heat waves. Long-time locals and those new to the city can still stay cool while enjoying everything Calgary has to offer. Here’s how to beat the heat and make the most of this sunny season.

1. Take Advantage of Calgary’s Outdoor Water Spots

When the mercury rises, Calgary’s many outdoor water spots become prime destinations. Pack your swimsuit and head to one of the city’s splash pads or wading pools, like those at Riley Park or Bowness Park. These areas are perfect for families and are free to use.

Looking for something more adventurous? Try floating down the Bow or Elbow Rivers: a popular local pastime. Just remember to wear a life jacket and check flow conditions before heading out.

2. Embrace Early Mornings and Late Evenings

Daytime highs in June can make mid-afternoon activities exhausting, so consider planning your outdoor adventures for early morning or later in the evening. Calgary enjoys long daylight hours in June, so take advantage of sunrise hikes or sunset strolls in Nose Hill Park or Fish Creek Provincial Park.

Bonus: Not only is it cooler, but you’ll often find these parks less crowded during off-peak hours.

3. Stay Hydrated and Dress Smart

It sounds obvious, but staying hydrated is one of the most effective ways to keep your body cool. Carry a reusable water bottle with you throughout the day and aim to drink more than you think you need, especially if you’re spending time outdoors.

When it comes to clothing, think light and breathable. Loose-fitting clothes in natural fabrics like cotton or linen are your best friends. And don’t forget the sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat; sun protection is key even on overcast days.

4. Cool Off Indoors

Not a fan of the heat? Calgary offers plenty of indoor options where you can stay cool and still have fun. Take the family to Telus Spark Science Centre, explore The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland (formerly Fort Calgary), or enjoy a leisurely afternoon at your local library or coffee shop. Malls like CF Chinook Centre or CrossIron Mills are also great for a cool escape, combining air conditioning with some retail therapy.

5. Eat and Drink to Chill Out

Take a culinary approach to cooling down. Calgary’s food scene offers plenty of options, from creamy gelato at Village Ice Cream to refreshing bubble tea at Chatime or CoCo.

On the beverage side, local breweries like Cold Garden, Annex Ale Project, and Cabin Brewing Co. offer shaded patios and frosty pints, which is perfect for an after-work wind-down.

Want to keep it healthy? Opt for fruit smoothies or fresh salads loaded with hydrating produce like watermelon, cucumber, and leafy greens.

6. Prepare Your Home

If your home isn’t air-conditioned, there are still ways to stay cool indoors. Keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day to block out direct sunlight. At night, open windows to let in cooler air, and use fans strategically to create cross-breezes.

If you’re up for a DIY project, you can install reflective window film or invest in portable AC units or evaporative coolers to keep indoor temperatures comfortable.

Calgary summers are short but sweet, so don’t let the heat slow you down. You can enjoy everything June has to offer without breaking a sweat; you just need to plan and have some creative cooling strategies. So get outside (or stay in!), stay hydrated, and make the most of the sunshine while it lasts.

Whether it was helping first-time buyers get the keys to their dream home 🏡, guiding sellers through smooth closings, or just answering all the “What’s the market like right now?” questions—I’m grateful for every conversation, every client, and every step forward.

Here’s to a new month, new goals, and more dreams turning into addresses. 🏠

If real estate is on your radar, let’s chat—your next move could be closer than you think.