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Why Calgary Stands Out as One of Canada’s Most Affordable Rental Markets
As we step into 2025, it’s worth taking a closer look at the rental market trends across Canada and how they highlight Calgary as an incredibly affordable place to live. For those considering a move to this vibrant city or current residents exploring their options, Calgary’s rental landscape offers unique advantages compared to other major markets across the country.
National Trends in Rental Markets
Last year, Canada experienced a notable shift in the rental market. Average asking rents for all residential property types dropped 3.2% by the end of 2024, landing at a 17-month low of $2,109 in December. This decline marked the first annual decrease in rents since 2020. In contrast to previous years of rapid rent growth—8.6% in 2023 and a staggering 12.1% in 2022—2024 signaled a cooling period for the market. This trend has been attributed to a combination of factors, including increased housing supply, changing economic conditions, and evolving tenant demands.
Calgary: A Refreshing Exception
Among Canada’s largest cities, Calgary stood out for its remarkable affordability. Average apartment rents in Calgary fell 7.2% in 2024 to $1,921, making it more budget-friendly than Montreal ($1,998), Ottawa ($2,165), Toronto ($2,632), and Vancouver ($2,882). This significant decrease in Calgary’s rental prices followed a sharp 14% increase in 2023, showcasing the city’s adaptability and value for renters.
Notably, Calgary’s three-bedroom apartment rents saw the largest decline among Canada’s biggest markets, dropping 8.2% to $2,420. This affordability is a compelling reason why families and professionals continue to see Calgary as an attractive option. The drop in rents reflects a healthy rental market that balances demand and supply while offering competitive pricing compared to other metropolitan areas.
Comparing Calgary to Other Markets
In contrast to Calgary, cities like Toronto and Vancouver remain among the priciest markets. Vancouver’s average apartment rents dropped 5.8% last year but still hover at $2,882, the highest in the country. Similarly, Toronto rents fell 7.1% to $2,632, maintaining its position as one of the most expensive rental markets in Canada. These cities face unique challenges, such as limited housing supply and higher demand, which keep their rental prices elevated.
Meanwhile, smaller markets in Alberta, such as Edmonton, experienced a 2.7% increase in rents, highlighting Calgary’s unique position as a city offering both urban amenities and financial accessibility. For individuals and families seeking to relocate within Alberta or from other provinces, Calgary represents an appealing alternative that combines affordability with a high quality of life.
What Makes Calgary Unique?
Calgary’s rental market reflects its broader economic stability and quality of life. The city offers:
- Affordable Living Costs: Despite being a major urban center, Calgary’s overall cost of living remains lower than other Canadian cities, allowing residents to enjoy a higher standard of living. Groceries, transportation, and utilities are all reasonably priced, making everyday expenses manageable.
- Strong Job Market: Calgary’s diverse economy, driven by industries like energy, technology, and agriculture, continues to attract professionals seeking career opportunities. The city also fosters innovation and entrepreneurship, creating a dynamic job market with room for growth.
- Vibrant Lifestyle: From its proximity to the Rocky Mountains to a thriving cultural scene, Calgary offers something for everyone. Residents can enjoy world-class outdoor activities, festivals, and a growing culinary landscape. The city’s emphasis on community and inclusivity adds to its charm.
- Infrastructure and Accessibility: Calgary’s efficient public transportation system and well-planned neighborhoods make it easy to navigate and settle into the city. Whether you’re commuting to work or exploring recreational activities, Calgary offers convenience and connectivity.
Why Renters Are Choosing Calgary
For many renters, affordability is only part of the equation. Calgary also provides a sense of community and stability that is hard to find in other large cities. The availability of quality rental options at reasonable prices means that renters can focus on building their careers, enjoying leisure activities, and planning for the future without feeling financially strained.
Additionally, Calgary’s steady economic growth has contributed to a sense of optimism among its residents. The city’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and urban development ensures that it remains a forward-thinking and attractive place to live.
Future Outlook for Calgary Renters
As we move forward, Calgary’s rental market is expected to remain stable and affordable compared to other major cities in Canada. The city’s proactive approach to housing development and urban planning helps keep supply in line with demand, preventing drastic fluctuations in rental prices. For those considering relocating or looking for rental opportunities, Calgary provides an excellent balance of affordability, lifestyle, and opportunity.
Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or someone seeking a fresh start, Calgary stands out as a city where you can thrive without breaking the bank. With its vibrant culture, strong economy, and commitment to affordability, Calgary continues to be a top choice for renters in Canada.
Source: Rentals.ca National Rent Report
The Importance of Investigating the Property Title Before Listing Your Home
When preparing to sell your home, one of the first tasks your real estate professional will undertake is reviewing the property title. The title is a critical document that establishes your legal ownership of the property and confirms your authority to sell it. Here’s what you need to know about this essential step.
What is a Property Title?
A property title is your legal claim to the property. It includes:
- Ownership Information: Who owns the property and their authority to sell it.
- Legal Address: The official address of the property.
- Type of Ownership: Details of the ownership structure, such as sole ownership, joint tenancy, or tenancy-in-common.
- Encumbrances: Registered items like utility rights of way, caveats, easements, or liens. These can include unpaid taxes, condominium fees, or other interests registered by third parties.
Why It Matters
Understanding what’s on the title is crucial because any discrepancies or issues can delay or derail a sale. For example:
- A lien for unpaid property taxes must be resolved before the property can be transferred to a buyer.
- Utility rights of way or easements could affect the property’s use and appeal.
How Your Real Estate Professional Helps
A knowledgeable and organized REALTOR® will carefully review the title to identify any issues. If anything seems out of order, they’ll explain what it means and recommend professionals, such as lawyers or title insurance providers, to help clear up any complications before listing your home.
Taking the time to ensure the property title is accurate and free of complications not only makes the selling process smoother but also demonstrates professionalism to potential buyers.
Real Property Reports: Why They’re Crucial for a Successful Home Sale
When selling your home, having an updated Real Property Report (RPR) with a municipal stamp of compliance is more than a formality—it’s a necessity. Here’s why the RPR is so important and what you need to do to prepare yours for a sale.
What is a Real Property Report?
An RPR is a legal document that provides a detailed survey of your property. It includes:
- Property Boundaries: Confirms the exact dimensions of your property.
- Structures: Shows the location of buildings, fences, patios, and other structures.
- Encroachments: Identifies if anything, like a deck or fence, is outside your property boundaries.
- Utility Rights of Way: Marks any easements or rights of way that could affect the property’s use.
This document should also have a compliance stamp from your local municipality, verifying that the property meets local zoning and building regulations.
Why It’s Important
Without an up-to-date RPR, you could face significant delays or even jeopardize the sale of your home. The purchase contract typically requires the seller to provide an RPR with compliance, and not having one could lead to:
- Voided Sales: A buyer may walk away from the deal if the RPR isn’t ready.
- Withheld Funds: A buyer might hold back part of the payment until the RPR is completed and compliant.
Updating Your RPR
If you’ve made changes to your property—such as adding a deck, fence, or garage—you’ll need to update the RPR. In many cases, updating the original RPR is less expensive than commissioning a new one, provided the original survey company is still in business.
How Your REALTOR® Can Help
Your real estate professional will guide you through the process, ensuring you have the necessary documentation ready before listing your home. They may refer you to survey companies or legal professionals to expedite the process and ensure everything is in order.
The bottom line? An updated RPR with compliance is a small step that makes a big difference in ensuring a smooth and successful home sale. Prepare early to avoid unnecessary delays and complications.
The 3 Keystones to Selling Your Home: Price, Presentation, and Marketing
When selling your home, achieving the best possible outcome requires more than just putting up a “For Sale” sign. Success is built on three essential keystones: price, presentation, and marketing. Each plays a critical role, and when combined effectively, they maximize your home’s potential for a successful sale.
Keystone 1: Price
The first question every seller asks is, “How much will my home sell for?” The truth is, the seller and their REALTOR® set the asking price, but the buyer ultimately determines the selling price. The key is to make the asking price attractive enough to draw in potential buyers while maximizing your return.
A skilled real estate professional doesn’t just throw out numbers—they do their homework. I approach pricing with a data-driven method called a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). This involves:
- Examining comparable recently sold homes.
- Adjusting for unique features (both pluses and minuses).
- Arriving at a price point that reflects market trends and your home’s value.
This scientific approach ensures you’re priced competitively while leaving room to negotiate. Remember, pricing goes hand-in-hand with the next keystone: presentation.
Keystone 2: Presentation
The way your home looks and feels has a powerful impact on buyers. First impressions matter, and a well-presented home can mean the difference between a quick sale and a property sitting on the market.
Here’s where my mantra comes into play: “Less is more.” De-cluttering, de-personalizing, and neutralizing your home allows buyers to envision themselves living there.
Quick Presentation Tips:
- Neutral Paint Colors: Buyers gravitate toward clean, neutral tones. They sell faster and for more money.
- De-Clutter and De-Personalize: Pack away personal collections and decor to widen your buyer pool.
- Highlight Key Features: Make sure your home earns a positive nickname like the “bright kitchen house” rather than the “orange wall house.”
Sometimes, a professional stager can work wonders, using your furniture in new ways or bringing in additional elements to elevate the space. Whether it’s staging or making simple repairs, these efforts pay off in both speed and sale price.
Keystone 3: Marketing
In today’s market, marketing is where the magic happens. Your home needs maximum exposure to reach potential buyers—and that’s where I come in.
The #1 platform for showcasing homes is the MLS® (Multiple Listing Service®), but not all MLS® listings are created equal. Professional photography, detailed write-ups, and cutting-edge tools like drone photography and virtual tours make your listing stand out.
My approach to marketing includes:
- Professional Photos & Drone Shots: High-quality images capture your home’s best angles and surroundings.
- Virtual Tours: Allow buyers to explore your home remotely, making it accessible to out-of-town or tech-savvy buyers.
- Social Media Exposure: Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn amplify your listing’s reach to audiences who may not be actively searching but stumble upon your home.
In addition, the brokerage I work with offers international exposure, ensuring your listing gets seen not just locally but globally.
Selling a home requires a balance of strategy and skill, and these three keystones—price, presentation, and marketing—are the foundation for success. When all three are executed effectively, your home has the best chance to sell quickly and for top dollar.
Commissions in Real Estate: What You Pay vs. What You Get
Commissions in Real Estate: What You Pay vs. What You Get
“Price is what you pay. Value is what you get.”
—Warren Buffet
When selling a home, one of the most talked-about topics is real estate commissions. This is how real estate professionals earn their income, but there’s often confusion about what commissions cover and why they matter. Let’s break it down.
No Standard Commission in Real Estate
Contrary to popular belief, there is no “standard commission” in the real estate industry. Having a fixed commission would be considered price fixing and is illegal. Some REALTORS® offer discounted services at lower fees, which often translates to fewer services. Others, like me, provide a full suite of services and work at full-service brokerages to deliver maximum value to clients.
A Unique Payment Model
Real estate is one of the few professions where the client holds all the power. Here’s why:
- No Upfront Costs: Unlike most services where payment is required before work begins, real estate professionals invest their time, expertise, and personal funds upfront.
- Performance-Based Payment: REALTORS® only get paid when a transaction is successful and the sale is completed. If the deal doesn’t close, they don’t receive compensation—even though they’ve worked tirelessly to market the property, negotiate offers, and ensure compliance with legal regulations.
To put this into perspective, imagine hiring a website designer who invests hours building your website. Instead of paying them upfront or on delivery, you only pay them if you decide to launch the site. That’s the level of risk REALTORS® take for their clients.
The Power of Small Talk: Why Every Detail Matters in Real Estate
Over the course of nearly 15 years in real estate, I’ve seen it all—the highs, the lows, the unexpected twists, and the subtle details that make or break a deal. But there’s one particular experience I’ll never forget, and it taught me a powerful lesson about the importance of looking beyond the obvious.
It was a regular property showing with a family interested in buying a home. As we pulled up to the house, a group of kids was playing outside next door. One boy, maybe six or seven years old, spotted us and excitedly asked if we were going to be his new neighbors. Wanting to be friendly, I engaged in a brief, casual chat before heading inside with my clients.
After the showing, as I was locking up, I turned to the boy and asked, “So, are you going to miss your neighbors when they move?”
Without missing a beat, he declared: “No. He’s going to jail and she drinks too much.”
I nearly choked on my own breath. My clients, meanwhile, were trying their hardest not to burst into laughter.
Now here’s the twist—despite that shocking tidbit, my clients really liked the home. And armed with this new piece of information, we went on to submit an offer and negotiated a very good price.
The Lesson: Small Conversations, Big Insights
It’s easy to get tunnel vision when viewing homes. Buyers often focus on the layout, the number of bedrooms, the size of the backyard, and the price. But a home isn’t just defined by its walls—it’s also about the environment and community that surrounds it. The little details, the neighborhood dynamics, and the community atmosphere can all significantly impact your decision.
In this case, a casual, friendly conversation with a young neighbor provided crucial context that helped my clients make a more informed choice. To be clear, I wasn’t probing for information or conducting an interrogation; I was simply being personable. But this small interaction opened the door to insights we would have otherwise missed.
A REALTOR®’s Role: Looking Beyond the Obvious
As a REALTOR®, my job is about more than just unlocking doors and writing contracts. It’s about:
- Asking the right questions: Sometimes the best insights come from casual conversations or simple observations.
- Understanding community dynamics: Knowing the neighborhood can be just as important as knowing the home.
- Going the extra mile: Whether it’s chatting with neighbors, researching the area, or uncovering details that aren’t in the listing, every piece of information can be valuable.
Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make, and it’s my role to ensure you have a complete picture. Sometimes that picture is painted by little moments, unexpected conversations, and insights that go beyond the property itself.
So, the next time you’re viewing a home, remember—a little chat might just go a long way!
Looking for a REALTOR® who knows how to dig deeper and uncover the details that matter? I’d love to help you find the perfect home or negotiate the best deal. Reach out anytime!
Patrick Murray
REALTOR®, MCNE, CCS
Demystifying the Paperwork: Hiring Your Real Estate Professional
When it comes to selling your home, the paperwork might not be the most exciting part of the process, but it’s one of the most important. Hiring a real estate professional isn’t just a handshake deal—it’s a legal agreement that establishes clarity, ensures transparency, and protects you as the seller. Let’s break down the key documents you’ll encounter when hiring a REALTOR® in Alberta.
- The Consumer Relationships Guide
Before you officially hire a real estate professional, they’ll review the Consumer Relationships Guide with you. This document explains the types of relationships you can have with your real estate associate and ensures you’re fully informed before moving forward.
Here are the three relationship types:
- Common Law Agency Relationship: The entire brokerage represents you as their client.
- Designated Agency Relationship: Only your individual real estate associate represents you.
- Customer Relationship: The real estate professional owes you no fiduciary duties—they facilitate the transaction but do not advocate for you.
This guide also outlines how potential conflicts of interest will be managed, ensuring transparency. Your signature acknowledges that you’ve reviewed and understood the information.
- The Seller Brokerage Agreement
This is the official contract between you and your real estate professional. Most sellers sign an Exclusive Seller Brokerage Agreement, which sets the framework for your working relationship. Here’s what it includes:
- Representation Details: Clearly outlines who is representing you and their duties to you.
- Key Contract Terms: The agreed-upon list price, included items, possession date, and the duration of the agreement.
- Fiduciary Duties: If you’re entering a fiduciary relationship, your REALTOR® owes you:
- Undivided loyalty
- Confidentiality
- Full disclosure
- Obedience to lawful instructions
- Reasonable care and skill
- Full accounting of funds and property
This document protects your interests while establishing clear expectations for both you and your real estate professional.
— Patrick Murray
REALTOR®, MCNE, CCS
Calgary’s Winter Market Shift: What Homebuyers and Sellers Need to Know
As we transition into the colder months, Calgary’s housing market is settling into typical seasonal trends. Activity is slowing compared to the bustling fall season, but overall demand remains surprisingly robust compared to last year. In fact, November saw 1,797 sales—almost identical to last year’s numbers and still 20% above long-term averages for this time of year.
However, the real story this season is the shift in supply.
Inventory Levels Are Up, But Still Below Long-Term Trends
November inventory levels rose to 4,352 units, up significantly from the 3,000 reported last year. This increase in available homes is a welcome change after several years of tight supply, driven by Calgary’s rapid population growth. According to Ann-Marie Lurie, Chief Economist at CREB®, “Rising new home construction has bolstered supply in rental, new home, and resale markets. However, supply improvements vary significantly by location, price range, and property type.”
While the months of supply have increased to just over two months, this shift is still a modest improvement. Balanced conditions are promising for buyers, but some segments of the market still favour sellers—especially for more affordable homes.
Detached Homes: Supply Improves, But High Prices Dominate
In November, sales for detached homes remained strong, especially for properties priced above $600,000. Limited supply in lower price ranges curbed activity, but overall inventory did improve. Notably, 85% of the available detached homes were priced above $600,000.
This increase in supply helped push the months of supply above two months for the first time in a while, though homes priced below $700,000 are still scarce. The unadjusted detached benchmark price for November was $750,100—down slightly from October but still over 7% higher than last year.
Price growth is slowing in areas with more competition from newer developments, meaning buyers may have more room to negotiate depending on the neighbourhood.
Semi-Detached Homes: Steady Demand and Seller-Friendly Conditions
Semi-detached homes saw 173 sales in November, improving on last year’s performance and boosting year-to-date growth by nearly 5%. Increased new listings helped lift supply levels, but with just two months of supply, the market still favours sellers—especially for properties under $700,000.
The unadjusted benchmark price for semi-detached homes was $675,100 in November, nearly 8% higher than the same time last year. Prices ranged widely, from $926,800 in the City Centre to $409,300 in the East district.
Row Homes: Affordable Options Keep Demand High
Row home sales continued to perform well in November, contributing to a nearly 3% increase in year-to-date sales. This segment remains popular due to its affordability, and even with improved new listings, conditions remain tight, with just two months of supply.
The unadjusted benchmark price for row homes was $454,200—almost 7% higher than last year. Prices varied significantly by location, with City Centre row homes averaging $620,000, while Northeast and East districts saw prices below $400,000.
Apartment Condominiums: Supply Relieves Some Pressure
Apartment-style condos saw a slowdown in November compared to last year’s record highs. However, with 429 sales, demand is still 47% above long-term trends. Increased new listings mean more supply, with inventory rising to 1,482 units in November.
This rise in supply pushed the months of supply above three months, easing price pressures. The unadjusted benchmark price was $337,800, down slightly from last month but still 9% higher year-over-year. Most of the supply gains are in the $300,000 to $500,000 range, giving buyers more options in this segment.
What This Means for Buyers and Sellers
For buyers, improved inventory means more choices, especially in higher price ranges and apartment-style units. However, the market still leans in favour of sellers for more affordable homes, so preparation and flexibility in your search remain key.
For sellers, the market is still strong, especially if you’re selling a home under $700,000. The pace of price growth may be slowing, but year-over-year gains remain healthy, and well-priced properties are still moving.
Navigating these shifts can be complex, and having the right strategy—whether you’re buying or selling—is essential. If you have questions about how these trends affect your real estate goals, I’m here to help.
Stay warm and stay informed!
— Patrick Murray
REALTOR®, MCNE, CCS
Why Hiring the Right Real Estate Professional is Key to a Successful Sale
When selling your home, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is selecting the right real estate professional to guide you through the process. This person isn’t just a salesperson—they’re your partner, advisor, and problem-solver. Here’s why finding the right fit is crucial and how to ensure you make the best choice.
Communication is Everything
Selling a home requires ongoing communication. Your real estate professional will not only listen to your concerns but also advise you on the best path forward. You want someone who truly hears you, understands your goals, and communicates openly. After all, selling your home is a team effort between you and your REALTOR®. When trust, honesty, and clear communication are present, the process becomes smoother and more successful.
Personality Matters
In Calgary, Alberta alone, there are over 5,400 licensed REALTORS®. That’s a lot of options! But not every real estate professional will be the right match for you. Personality compatibility plays a big role in building a strong working relationship. Selling your home is a significant financial and emotional journey, and you’ll need someone you genuinely like and trust by your side.
As a REALTOR®, I don’t work with every seller I meet, and I encourage you to be selective as well. Follow your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, it likely isn’t. Choosing someone who aligns with your personality and values can make a world of difference.
Selling is a Team Sport
A successful home sale isn’t a solo effort. It’s a coordinated team effort between the seller, their real estate professional, and a network of other professionals, such as home inspectors, lawyers, and mortgage brokers. The right REALTOR® will have a roster of trusted contacts to ensure your transaction goes smoothly. They’ll also work tirelessly behind the scenes to handle challenges as they arise, minimizing stress and keeping everything on track.
