Signs of Life in the Market: What May’s Uptick in Canadian Home Sales Means for Buyers and Sellers in Calgary

For the first time in 2025, we’ve seen a month-over-month increase in national home sales—and Calgary was one of the key markets helping to move that needle. According to the Canadian Real Estate Association’s (CREA) latest report, home sales across Canada rose 3.6% in May compared to April, breaking a downward trend that’s lasted since late 2024.

This is significant. As someone who’s worked in Calgary’s real estate market for over 15 years, I can confidently say this moment represents more than just a statistical blip, it’s a sign of renewed buyer confidence, a healthier sense of balance, and a potential shift in momentum that Calgary homeowners and home seekers alike should pay attention to.

Let’s dig into what this data means, both nationally and here at home in Calgary, and what you, as a buyer or seller, should be considering as we move into the second half of 2025.

📈 The CREA Stats at a Glance

Here are the key national highlights from CREA’s May 2025 Housing Market Report:

• National home sales increased 3.6% month-over-month.
• New listings were also up by 3.1%, showing more sellers are returning to the market.
• The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) was relatively unchanged, down just -0.2% from April and -3.5% year-over-year.
• The actual national average sale price was $691,299, down 1.8% year-over-year.
• The sales-to-new-listings ratio sits at 47%, consistent with a balanced market (the long-term average is 54.9%).

While these numbers reflect a national average, CREA notes that the strongest contributors to May’s increase in sales were the Greater Toronto Area, Calgary, and Ottawa, a strong signal that our city continues to be one of the most resilient real estate markets in Canada.

🏠 What’s Happening in Calgary’s Market?

Here in Calgary, we’ve been walking a different path than many other major cities. While areas like British Columbia and parts of Ontario have seen sharper price drops and buyer hesitation, Calgary’s fundamentals remain strong:

• Job growth continues to improve as energy, tech, and finance sectors expand.
• Interprovincial migration has remained robust, with more Canadians moving to Calgary for affordability and opportunity.
• Inventory levels, while rising modestly, are still relatively tight in popular price bands.

In fact, while CREA notes that prices have topped out in most Prairie markets, Calgary was mentioned separately, recognized as a more expensive Prairie market, but also one that has held its value better than most.

As of May, Calgary’s benchmark home price remains stable, and unlike parts of Ontario or B.C., we haven’t experienced significant price volatility. In other words: Calgary remains a market with solid footing.

🙋‍♀️ What Does This Mean for Buyers?

If you’re a buyer in Calgary, this is a particularly encouraging time. Here’s why:

1. Buyer Confidence Is Coming Back

The 3.6% increase in national home sales is the first sign in months that buyers are starting to feel confident again, and the fact that Calgary was part of that upward momentum says a lot about the health of our local market. This renewed confidence can be helpful if you’ve been hesitant to make a move.

2. More Listings = More Choice

With new listings up 3.1% nationally (and similarly increasing in Calgary), buyers now have more inventory to choose from. This can reduce pressure in competitive segments and allow for more thoughtful decisions, a welcome change from the frenzied pace of 2021-2022.

3. A Balanced Market Benefits Buyers

The national sales-to-new-listings ratio of 47% indicates a balanced market, where neither buyers nor sellers have the upper hand. This is ideal if you’re looking for a fair deal without excessive competition. In Calgary, some micro-markets are still hotter than others (like townhomes and detached homes under $700K), but overall, buyers are seeing more negotiating room than they did a year ago.

4. Interest Rate Stability Encourages Action

Although rates remain relatively high compared to pre-pandemic levels, we’re not seeing further increases at this point. For buyers, that removes some of the fear factor. If you’re pre-approved, you can shop with more certainty, an advantage that’s been missing for many in recent months.

🧑‍💼 What Does This Mean for Sellers?

If you’re a Calgary homeowner thinking of selling, May’s CREA report also holds some good news.

1. Buyers Are Back

The uptick in sales activity is a clear signal that demand is alive and well, especially in Calgary. More buyers mean more eyes on your listing, and that’s key when you’re looking to sell efficiently and for top dollar.

2. Stable Prices = Predictable Planning

In contrast to other regions where prices have dropped sharply, Calgary’s market has remained relatively stable. That gives you the ability to plan your sale and potential next purchase with more confidence. If you’re upsizing, rightsizing, or moving within the city, this balanced environment works in your favour.

3. High-Quality Homes Still Command Attention

In this more balanced market, buyers are selective, and rightly so. Homes that show well, are priced accurately, and are marketed professionally continue to sell quickly. If you’re considering listing, now’s the time to invest in presentation and professional strategy to make sure your home stands out.

4. We May See More Momentum in the Second Half of the Year

CREA’s Senior Economist, Shaun Cathcart, believes we’re not done yet:

“Some of that rebound that we were expecting may have just moved from the first half of the year to the second… I think we’ve turned a corner.”

With daily tracking showing continued increases in sales, there’s reason to believe we’re entering a more active summer market. That’s good news for sellers who’ve been on the fence.

🔍 Why This Moment Matters

Whether you’re buying your first home, moving up, or selling to downsize, market timing matters, but it’s just one part of the equation. What we’re seeing right now is a transitional moment where confidence is returning, activity is picking up, and opportunities are emerging for well-prepared buyers and sellers.

Here in Calgary, we’re not riding a wave of extreme highs or lows. We’re in a market that values smart decisions, thoughtful strategy, and local expertise.

And that’s where I come in.

💬 Final Thoughts From the Ground

As a REALTOR® who’s walked through every kind of market, hot, cold, and everything in between—I’m encouraged by what we’re seeing in the data and in the field.

In May alone, I saw:

• More showings per listing.
• Multiple offer scenarios returning in some neighbourhoods.
• Increased confidence from pre-approved buyers ready to make moves.

It’s not a frenzy, and it’s not a downturn, it’s a market waking up. And for those who are ready, this could be your window to act.

🛠 How I Can Help

If you’re buying:
I’ll help you navigate your options, negotiate effectively, and make sense of what’s possible given your budget and goals.

If you’re selling:
I’ll provide a pricing strategy based on current trends, ensure your property is presented at its best, and guide you through every step so you feel confident and in control.

📲 Let’s Chat

Whether you’re curious about your home’s value, wondering if it’s the right time to buy, or just want to understand your options in this evolving market, I’m here to help.

Reach out anytime for a no-pressure consultation. The right guidance can make all the difference.