Navigating the Winds of Change: What CREA’s Latest Market Update Means for Calgary Real Estate

After fifteen years of helping Calgary families navigate the ever-changing real estate landscape, I’ve learned that national headlines don’t always tell the whole story of what’s happening in our local market. This week’s announcement from the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) is a perfect example of why understanding the nuances between national trends and Calgary-specific conditions is so crucial for both buyers and sellers.
What the Numbers Are Really Telling Us
According to The Canadian Press report published on July 15, 2025, CREA has once again adjusted its 2025 forecast, now predicting 469,503 residential sales across Canada, a three percent decline from 2024. The national average home price is expected to drop 1.7% to $677,368, about $10,000 lower than their April prediction.
But here’s what I want you to understand as a Calgary resident: real estate is inherently local. While these national figures provide context, Calgary’s market dynamics are shaped by factors that don’t necessarily mirror what’s happening in Toronto, Vancouver, or the Maritimes.
The “Chaotic Start” and Calgary’s Resilience
CREA senior economist Shaun Cathcart described the early months of 2025 as having a “chaotic start,” largely attributed to trade uncertainty and tariff concerns affecting buyer confidence. In my experience here in Calgary, I’ve witnessed firsthand how external economic pressures can create temporary hesitation among both buyers and sellers.
However, what strikes me most about the current situation is Calgary’s underlying resilience. Unlike some markets that are heavily dependent on foreign investment or speculative buying, Calgary’s real estate market has always been grounded in fundamental demand from people who actually live and work here. This creates a more stable foundation, even during periods of broader economic uncertainty.
The Alberta Advantage: Why Calgary Stands Apart
The CREA report specifically mentions that Alberta, along with BC and Ontario, experienced more significant impacts from tariff-related uncertainty than initially expected. While this might sound concerning, I see it differently when viewed through the lens of Calgary’s unique position.
Calgary’s economy has undergone remarkable diversification over the past decade. Yes, energy remains important, but we’ve seen tremendous growth in technology, financial services, film production, and other sectors. This economic diversification means our real estate market isn’t as vulnerable to single-industry shocks as it once was.
Moreover, Calgary continues to offer something that many other Canadian markets simply can’t: affordability. Even with national concerns about housing costs, Calgary remains one of Canada’s most accessible markets for both first-time buyers and those looking to upgrade their living situations.
June’s Green Shoots: Signs of Recovery
The report highlights that June saw a 3.5% increase in home sales compared to the previous year, with a 2.8% month-over-month improvement on a seasonally adjusted basis. While much of this recovery was led by the Greater Toronto Area, I’m seeing similar positive momentum here in Calgary.
In my recent transactions, I’ve noticed several encouraging trends:
Increased Buyer Activity: After months of sitting on the sidelines, serious buyers are beginning to re-engage with the market. The combination of lower interest rates and pent-up demand is creating opportunities for those ready to act.
Quality Listings Moving: Well-priced, well-presented homes are still attracting multiple offers and selling within reasonable timeframes. This tells me that the fundamentals of supply and demand remain healthy in Calgary.
Realistic Pricing: Both buyers and sellers are approaching transactions with more realistic expectations, which is creating a more balanced negotiating environment.
What This Means for Calgary Home Sellers
If you’re considering selling your Calgary home, the current environment actually presents some unique advantages:
Less Competition: With inventory levels still relatively manageable, your properly priced home won’t be lost in a sea of similar listings. Quality properties that are priced correctly are standing out more than they have in recent years.
Serious Buyers: The buyers who are active in today’s market are generally well-qualified and motivated. They’re not just browsing, they’re ready to make decisions when they find the right property.
Pricing Strategy is Key: The market rewards accuracy. Homes that are priced correctly from the start are selling, while those that chase the market downward are sitting longer. This is where experienced local representation becomes invaluable.
Timing Flexibility: Unlike the frenzied seller’s markets we’ve seen in the past, today’s environment allows for more thoughtful timing of your sale, whether that’s coordinating with a purchase or aligning with personal circumstances.
Opportunities for Calgary Home Buyers
For buyers, I believe we’re entering one of the most opportunity-rich periods I’ve seen in several years:
Negotiating Power: The shift toward a more balanced market means buyers have more room to negotiate on price, terms, and conditions. Subject clauses are becoming more common and acceptable again.
Time to Choose: Unlike markets where buyers felt pressured to make split-second decisions, today’s Calgary market allows for proper due diligence, home inspections, and thoughtful decision-making.
Interest Rate Environment: With the Bank of Canada maintaining current policy rates and mortgage rates hovering around four percent, financing costs remain manageable for qualified buyers.
Selection: There’s good selection across most price ranges and neighborhoods, giving buyers the luxury of finding homes that truly meet their needs rather than settling for what’s available.
Looking Ahead: The Summer and Fall Outlook
CREA’s forecast suggests that delayed spring activity could surface during the summer and fall months, and I’m optimistic this will prove accurate for Calgary. The report notes that “most housing markets continued to turn a corner in June,” and I believe Calgary is well-positioned to participate in this recovery.
Several factors support this optimism:
Pent-up Demand: There are buyers who have been waiting for the right moment or the right property. As confidence returns, this demand will translate into sales activity.
Economic Fundamentals: Calgary’s employment market, while facing some challenges, remains more stable than many anticipated. The diversification I mentioned earlier is providing resilience.
Lifestyle Appeal: The pandemic reinforced Calgary’s appeal as a place where families can afford good homes with yards, access to nature, and a high quality of life. This hasn’t changed.
The Trade Uncertainty Factor
I would be remiss not to address the elephant in the room: ongoing trade negotiations and tariff uncertainties. The report mentions a critical August 1 deadline, and the outcome will undoubtedly influence market psychology.
However, based on my experience, Calgary buyers and sellers have weathered numerous economic storms over the years. While uncertainty can create short-term hesitation, the fundamental need for housing, people getting married, having children, changing jobs, or retiring, continues regardless of trade policy.
My advice to clients has been consistent: focus on what you can control. If you need to buy or sell based on your life circumstances, don’t let external uncertainties prevent you from making sound decisions for your family.
The Long-Term View: 2026 and Beyond
CREA’s 2026 forecast predicts a 6.3% improvement in national sales, with average prices recovering to $697,929. For Calgary, this suggests we’re likely looking at a temporary adjustment period rather than a fundamental market shift.
I’ve seen this pattern before in our market. Calgary real estate tends to move in cycles, and those who understand these cycles, and work with experienced professionals who do, consistently make better decisions.
Practical Advice for Right Now
For Sellers:
- Price your home correctly from the start based on current market conditions, not last year’s peak prices
- Ensure your home shows well. First impressions matter more in a balanced market
- Be prepared for reasonable negotiation on price and terms
- Work with a REALTOR® who understands current market dynamics and pricing strategies
For Buyers:
- Get pre-approved for financing to understand your true budget
- Don’t rush. Take time to find the right property that meets your needs
- Include appropriate subject clauses to protect yourself
- Remember that buying a home is a long-term decision; focus on fundamentals rather than trying to time the market perfectly
The Bottom Line
While national headlines might seem concerning, I remain optimistic about Calgary’s real estate market. We have strong fundamentals: a diversifying economy, reasonable affordability, growing population, and a quality of life that continues to attract new residents.
The current market adjustment is creating opportunities for both buyers and sellers who approach transactions with realistic expectations and proper guidance. As someone who has helped hundreds of Calgary families navigate various market conditions over the past fifteen years, I can tell you that opportunities exist in every market, you just need to know how to find them.
The key is working with professionals who understand not just the national trends reported in publications like The Canadian Press, but more importantly, the specific dynamics of our local Calgary market. Real estate truly is local, and that local expertise makes all the difference in achieving your goals.
Whether you’re considering buying your first home, selling to upgrade, or making any other real estate move, now is an excellent time to have a conversation about your specific situation and how current market conditions might work in your favor.
Source: “CREA cuts 2025 forecast again but says home sales are rebounding from ‘chaotic start'” by Sammy Hudes, The Canadian Press, published July 15, 2025
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Navigating the National Slowdown: Why Calgary Remains a Beacon of Opportunity in Canada’s Real Estate Landscape

The recently released May 2025 housing market report, From Rebound to Retrenchment: Canada’s Housing Market Braces for a Prolonged Slowdown by Allwyn Dsouza, presents a sobering national outlook. After a brief rebound earlier this year, Canada’s housing market is once again facing headwinds—declining home sales, affordability challenges, tighter credit conditions, and shifting consumer sentiment.
While headlines may stir concern, it’s important to dig deeper. National trends don’t always translate directly to local markets—and Calgary stands out as a notable exception. For both home buyers and sellers in Calgary, understanding the broader economic context while keeping a local perspective is key to making confident real estate decisions.
Let’s take a closer look at the national trends, break down what they mean for Calgary, and explore why the city remains one of the most compelling real estate markets in Canada.
Canada’s Housing Market: From Cautious Rebound to Renewed Slowdown
According to the report, Canada’s housing market saw a modest rebound in early 2024 as expectations of interest rate cuts spurred some buyers back into the market. However, by Q2 2025, those expectations have been tempered. Rate cuts have been slow to materialize, and affordability remains stretched in many major markets such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.
The report highlights several key national factors contributing to the slowdown:
- Sales decline: April saw a 1.7% decline in national home sales—the fourth consecutive monthly drop.
- Affordability erosion: With interest rates still elevated, borrowing costs remain a key barrier, especially in already pricey markets.
- Supply building: New listings are on the rise, and active inventory is up 40% year-over-year, shifting market dynamics in favor of buyers.
- Weaker investor activity: Speculative demand is down, particularly in over-leveraged markets, further cooling overall demand.
The result is a national market that appears to be heading for a prolonged period of slower activity, particularly in the second half of 2025.
The Calgary Difference: Resilient, Affordable, and Growing
While national figures often dominate the conversation, real estate is inherently local—and Calgary continues to defy many of the broader Canadian trends.
Here’s why Calgary stands out:
- Relative Affordability
Calgary remains one of the most affordable major cities in Canada. While markets like Vancouver and Toronto struggle with average home prices exceeding $1 million, Calgary’s average detached home price still sits well below that threshold. This affordability provides a strong foundation for market resilience, even as borrowing costs remain high.
In fact, for many interprovincial migrants and young families priced out of other markets, Calgary represents an attainable path to homeownership.
- Positive Net Migration
Alberta continues to experience strong population growth, with Calgary absorbing much of that momentum. In 2024, Alberta led the country in interprovincial migration, and that trend is expected to continue throughout 2025. People are not only coming for affordability—they’re staying for opportunity.
With a strong job market, low taxes, and a vibrant economy, Calgary continues to attract new residents, which bolsters housing demand and supports long-term price stability.
- Balanced Market Conditions
While much of Canada is shifting into buyer’s market territory, Calgary’s market remains more balanced. Inventory levels are rising here too, but not to the same extent as in other provinces. Days on market remain relatively stable, and well-priced homes—especially in desirable neighborhoods—continue to sell efficiently.
This balance means that both buyers and sellers have opportunities in today’s market, provided they work with a knowledgeable local expert and approach the process strategically.
Opportunities for Buyers: Strategic Entry in a Stabilizing Market
For home buyers in Calgary, the current environment offers a rare window of opportunity:
- More choice: Inventory is higher than it was during the frenzy of early 2022 or mid-2023, giving buyers more options and reducing pressure.
- Less competition: With fewer bidding wars and more days on market, buyers can take time to conduct thorough due diligence and negotiate terms that work in their favor.
- Negotiation power: In many price segments, especially outside the core luxury market, buyers are regaining leverage. Price reductions, seller incentives, and conditional offers are increasingly common.
- Rate flexibility: While interest rates remain elevated, many economists expect the Bank of Canada to begin easing in late 2025 or early 2026. Buyers willing to enter now can potentially refinance later when rates fall, capturing value in today’s prices.
The key for buyers is preparation. Mortgage pre-approval, clarity on needs and wants, and working with an experienced REALTOR® who understands Calgary’s micro-markets can help buyers make informed, confident decisions.
Advantages for Sellers: Realistic Pricing, Strong Local Demand
Despite national headlines warning of a cooldown, many Calgary sellers are still in a strong position—especially those who prepare well and price strategically.
Here’s why:
- Continued demand: Calgary’s population growth continues to outpace supply, especially in key family-friendly and commuter neighborhoods. Demand remains robust for detached homes and townhomes under $800,000.
- Well-prepared homes sell: With more inventory on the market, presentation matters. Homes that are staged, professionally marketed, and priced correctly are still selling quickly—and often close to asking price.
- Trade-up opportunities: For sellers looking to move into a larger home or a different neighborhood, today’s balanced market offers flexibility. You can sell in a stable market and buy in one too—without the intense pressure of a heated bidding war environment.
A successful sale in today’s market depends on smart strategy. That includes understanding buyer psychology, leveraging market data, and working with a REALTOR® who brings negotiation expertise to the table.
Looking Ahead: Cautious Optimism in a Shifting Landscape
The national market may be facing a reset, but Calgary continues to hold firm as a place of possibility. Whether you’re considering buying your first home, upgrading, downsizing, or investing, the key lies in understanding both the big picture and the local nuance.
As always, I’m here to help you navigate the market with confidence. With over 15 years of experience in Calgary real estate, I’ve seen the cycles, the challenges, and the opportunities—and I know how to position my clients for success in all market conditions.
Need Help Making Sense of Today’s Market?
Let’s connect. I’d be happy to walk you through what the current market means for your unique situation—whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply want to stay informed.
If You’re a Seller, What’s Your Best Move in a Tricky Real Estate Market? A Calgary Perspective

Spring usually brings a sense of renewal and optimism in the real estate market, often kicking off what many in the industry call the “spring market surge.” But as we’ve seen across many parts of Canada — and yes, right here in Calgary — 2025’s market is more complex. It’s nuanced, it’s shifting, and it requires a strategic mindset whether you’re buying or selling.
A recent article by Sean Previl for Global News highlights how Canadian sellers, particularly those in cities like Toronto and Vancouver, are navigating an unpredictable market landscape. In these cities, rising inventories and economic uncertainty have made it a buyer’s market. Condominiums, especially, have taken a hit, with many sellers needing to “take the loss” just to close a deal.
So where does Calgary stand in all this? And more importantly, what does it mean for you — a buyer or seller in this ever-evolving market?
Let’s dive in.
The National Picture — and What It Means for Calgary
According to the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), national home sales in April declined nearly 10% compared to last year. Ontario and B.C. have seen home prices drop, with Ontario’s average slipping from $902,535 to $859,645 and B.C.’s from about $1 million to $946,000.
But Alberta, our home turf, is a different story. Prices here are bucking the trend — actually increasing by about $25,000 year-over-year. Calgary specifically continues to show resilience, with single-family homes in particular still experiencing healthy demand. While that doesn’t mean we’re immune to broader economic pressures, it does highlight a valuable truth: real estate is hyperlocal.
So while national headlines may scream downturn, the message for Calgary sellers and buyers is more nuanced — and that’s where experienced local insight really matters.
What Sellers Need to Know: The “Three Ps”
One key takeaway from the Global News article is the advice from Century 21 REALTOR® Stephen Moore, who emphasizes the importance of the “Three Ps” when selling in a complex market:
- Price
- Promotion
- Product
As a REALTOR® with over 15 years of experience here in Calgary, I couldn’t agree more.
Let’s break down what each of these looks like in the Calgary market:
- Price it Right — The First Time
In a shifting market, overpricing is one of the most common — and most damaging — mistakes a seller can make. Buyers are more informed than ever. They’re studying recent sales, watching interest rate trends, and they’re not likely to waste time on a listing that’s priced too high.
In Calgary, I’ve seen that when a property is priced even $10,000 too high, showings slow down dramatically. It doesn’t take long before a listing goes stale — and then you’re on your back foot, making reactive price reductions that could have been avoided with a proper strategy up front.
This is where working with a REALTOR® who knows your community inside and out becomes invaluable. Every neighborhood in Calgary — from Evergreen to Inglewood, Tuscany to Beltline — has its own micro-market. Pricing properly means knowing how those nuances affect value.
- Promotion — Beyond the MLS
The days of relying solely on the MLS are gone. Today’s promotion is multi-faceted. Yes, you still need that MLS listing with professional photos and compelling copy, but it’s just the beginning.
Marketing your home in today’s market means:
- Professionally staged and photographed properties
- Walkthrough videos or virtual tours
- Exposure on social platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube
- Leveraging email campaigns and REALTOR® networks
In fact, I’ve had listings sell directly through social media promotion before they ever hit Realtor.ca — that’s the power of good storytelling and targeting the right audience.
- Product — Make Sure Your Home Shines
Buyers today want move-in ready. If they have to work too hard to see the potential in your home, they’ll move on to one that already has it. This doesn’t mean you need a full renovation, but it does mean investing in small improvements and proper staging can offer significant returns.
Simple fixes like new paint, updated lighting, decluttering, and fresh landscaping can dramatically change first impressions — and in a market that’s more competitive, every impression counts.
Calgary’s Condo Challenge
If you’re a condo owner in Calgary, you may be facing similar headwinds to sellers in larger urban centres like Toronto and Vancouver.
According to the Global News article, many newly built condos across Canada have struggled due to their smaller sizes and investor-heavy buyer pools. And yes — we’re seeing some of that here, too.
In Calgary, many condos are still appealing to first-time buyers and investors, but rising interest rates and affordability challenges have sidelined many of these purchasers. Inventory levels in some areas — especially downtown and inner-city Calgary — are growing. That means more competition for sellers and longer days on market.
If you’re a condo seller, my best advice? Be realistic. Price strategically and focus on what makes your unit stand out. Parking? View? Square footage? Balcony? Proximity to transit or nightlife? These are your selling points. Lean into them, hard.
Buyers — There Are Still Opportunities
Despite the cautious mood among some sellers, buyers in Calgary are in a relatively strong position — especially compared to markets like Toronto or Vancouver.
That said, don’t confuse “opportunity” with “easy.” Inventory is still tight in many parts of the city, particularly for single-family homes under $700,000. If you’re shopping in this range, be prepared to act decisively when you find the right fit.
Also, don’t forget: a fluctuating market can be intimidating, but it also creates windows of opportunity. When other buyers are sitting on the sidelines, you might find less competition and more flexible terms — particularly if you’re willing to look at homes that have been sitting on the market for a few weeks.
Timing — Should You Sell Now or Wait?
This is one of the most common questions I get, and honestly, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. As Andrew Lis from Greater Vancouver Realtors mentioned in the article, it comes down to your personal situation.
- Are you under financial pressure?
- Do you need to move for work or family reasons?
- Are you upgrading, downsizing, or shifting to a different lifestyle?
If you need to sell, now is not a bad time — if you price correctly and have a strategy.
If you’re just testing the market or hoping to hit a record-high price, you might want to reevaluate your goals. In today’s market, strategy wins over speculation.
Final Thoughts: Work With the Right Professional
In a market that’s neither red-hot nor ice-cold, experience matters more than ever. The article rightly emphasizes the value of working with a professional who knows how to navigate shifting market dynamics. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned seller, or someone managing a property portfolio, having an expert in your corner can make the difference between frustration and success.
As a Calgary REALTOR® with over 15 years of experience and a deep background in negotiation, market analysis, and client advocacy, my goal is to make this process as seamless — and successful — as possible for you.
If you’re considering buying or selling, I’d love to chat and walk through your unique situation. Together, we can build a custom plan that works with the market — not against it.
📲 Let’s Connect
Have questions about your next move? Reach out anytime — I’m here to help.
Canadian Housing Market Stabilizes in April—What It Means for Buyers and Sellers in Calgary

On May 15, 2025, the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) released its April housing market report, and for the first time in months, national home sales didn’t decline. While activity remained flat at -0.1% month-over-month, this marks a shift from the cooling trend seen since the start of the year.
But what does this mean for the Calgary real estate market? And more importantly—what does it mean for you if you’re planning to buy or sell a home in 2025?
Let’s break it down.
National Highlights at a Glance
Before we zoom in on Calgary, here are the key national stats from the April 2025 report:
- National home sales were unchanged (-0.1%) from March.
- Monthly activity was down 9.8% year-over-year.
- New listings fell 1% month-over-month.
- The MLS® Home Price Index dropped 1.2% month-over-month, and 3.6% year-over-year.
- The national average sale price was down 3.9% compared to April 2024.
- There were 183,000 properties listed for sale across Canada—up 14.3% from last year but still below the long-term average.
- Sales-to-new listings ratio sits at 46.8%, indicating a balanced national market.
Understanding the National Pause: Tariffs, Not Just Interest Rates
One of the most noteworthy shifts is the role that tariffs—rather than interest rates—are now playing in slowing down buyer activity. CREA’s Senior Economist, Shaun Cathcart, explains that uncertainty around tariffs has replaced rate hikes as the top concern for many prospective buyers.
This has contributed to a quieter market—similar to the second half of 2022 and parts of 2023—where confidence remains subdued, and both buyers and sellers are hesitant to act without clear direction.
CREA also issued a cautionary note: if we see a shift from homeowners choosing to sell to having to sell due to economic pressures, we could face a more significant market disruption—something we haven’t seen in decades.
Calgary Real Estate in 2025: How Are We Different?
While national stats give us an important backdrop, real estate is inherently local. Calgary’s market continues to perform differently from the national average—especially when compared to larger markets like Toronto or Vancouver.
Here’s how:
- Inventory in Calgary remains tighter. The national increase in listings is driven mostly by Ontario and B.C. Calgary hasn’t experienced the same surge, and supply remains more constrained.
- Our pricing trends have been more resilient. While the national HPI is down 3.6% year-over-year, Calgary has seen more modest shifts—especially in desirable neighbourhoods and certain price brackets.
- Demand in Calgary is still healthy. Interprovincial migration and relative affordability continue to drive interest in Calgary homes, especially from buyers relocating from more expensive provinces.
What This Means for Buyers in Calgary
If you’re thinking of purchasing a home in Calgary in 2025, here’s what the current environment means for you:
✅ 1. It’s a more balanced market—use that to your advantage.
With flat national sales and slightly declining prices, we’re not in the overheated market of early 2022. While Calgary remains competitive in some segments, buyers are gaining negotiating power in others. This is where strategy matters—knowing when to act and when to wait.
✅ 2. Pricing is more stable locally than nationally.
National price drops may sound like an opportunity, but remember: Calgary hasn’t seen the same magnitude of decline. In some areas, prices are holding firm—or even inching up. This underscores the importance of having a local REALTOR® who knows the micro-markets inside out.
✅ 3. Interest rate stability is helping affordability.
We’ve shifted from rapidly rising interest rates to a plateau, and while rates haven’t dropped significantly yet, the predictability is welcome news for buyers. It allows for better financial planning and mortgage qualification.
✅ 4. Tariff concerns may influence construction and renovation costs.
If you’re considering new builds or major renovations, keep an eye on tariffs, especially those affecting materials like lumber, steel, or drywall. These may impact pricing or availability in the months ahead.
What This Means for Sellers in Calgary
If you’re preparing to list your home this year, the April data highlights a few key considerations:
✅ 1. Calgary sellers are in a stronger position than many across Canada.
While sellers in Ontario and B.C. face higher competition and longer days on market, Calgary still has tight inventory in many communities. Homes priced accurately and presented well continue to sell.
✅ 2. Be prepared for discerning buyers.
Even in tighter markets, today’s buyers are well-informed and cautious. Pricing your home too high could lead to extended days on market and necessary price reductions later. A thoughtful pricing strategy, based on recent comparable sales and market activity, is essential.
✅ 3. Presentation and timing matter more than ever.
With more balanced conditions, staging, professional photography, and listing at the right time (and in the right season) can make a big difference. Gone are the days when any listing would sell in a weekend—today’s market requires more finesse.
✅ 4. Local market knowledge is critical.
Buyers are seeking value, and their agents are looking closely at comparables. Having a REALTOR® who not only understands your neighbourhood but can negotiate effectively on your behalf is a significant asset.
Final Thoughts: Navigating Calgary’s Market in 2025
Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, the message is clear: national data provides helpful context, but real estate success in Calgary hinges on local knowledge, timing, and strategy.
The good news? We’re in a more balanced and rational market. The urgency and bidding wars of the past few years have cooled, and buyers and sellers alike have room to make more informed, thoughtful decisions.
If you’re ready to take the next step—or even just want to explore your options—I’m here to help. With over 15 years of experience guiding Calgarians through changing markets, I bring a calm, strategic approach to every transaction.
Let’s connect and talk about how we can make your next move a smart one.
📞 Contact me today to book a no-pressure consultation.