Balanced conditions take pressure off prices

A boost in new listings this month relative to sales caused April inventories to rise to 5,876 units. Although this is more than double the number reported last year, last year’s supply was exceptionally low, and current inventory levels are consistent with what we typically see in April. April sales reached 2,236 units—22 per cent below last year’s levels but in line with long-term trends.

“Economic uncertainty has weighed on home sales in our market, but levels are still outpacing activity reported during the challenging economic climate experienced prior to the pandemic,” said Ann-Marie Lurie, Chief Economist at CREB®. “This, in part, is related to our market's situation before the recent shocks. Previous gains in migration, relatively stable employment levels, lower lending rates, and better supply choice compared to last year’s ultra-low levels have likely prevented a more significant pullback in sales and have kept home prices relatively stable.”

The rise in inventory levels helped the market shift to balanced conditions with nearly three months of supply. However, conditions vary depending on price range and property type. Lower-priced detached and semi-detached properties continue to struggle with insufficient supply, while row and apartment-style homes are seeing more broad-based shifts to balanced conditions. 

The additional supply has helped relieve the pressure on home prices following the steep gains reported over the past several years. Benchmark prices for each property type have remained relatively stable compared to last month. However, compared to last year, detached and semi-detached prices are over two per cent higher than last year's levels, while apartment and row-style home prices have remained relatively unchanged.   

Detached
Detached sales were 1,102 units in April, a year-over-year decline of 16 per cent. While sales eased across most areas of the city, the South East district has seen sales rise over last year's levels. April saw 1,907 new listings come onto the market, and the sales-to-new-listings ratio remained balanced at 58 per cent. Inventories rose to 2,511 units, and the months of supply rose to 2.3 months. While this is a significant gain over the less than one month of supply reported last year at this time, conditions remain relatively tight, especially in the lower price ranges.

In April, the unadjusted benchmark price reached $769,300, similar to last month but over two per cent higher than last April. The added supply choice, combined with uncertainty, has slowed the pace of price growth. However, with a year-over-year gain of nearly five per cent, the City Centre has exhibited stronger price growth than any other district.

Semi-Detached
Easing sales in April contributed to the year-to-date decline of nearly 16 per cent. The 190 sales in April were met with 350 new listings, and the sales-to-new-listings ratio fell to 54 per cent. This also caused further gains in inventory levels, which reached 484 units. The rise in inventory did help push the market toward balanced conditions with 2.6 months of supply, a significant improvement over the less than one month reported at this time last year.

The shift toward more balanced conditions has slowed the pace of price growth. In April, the unadjusted benchmark price was $691,700, similar to last month and over three per cent higher than last year. The City Centre reported the largest gain, at over five per cent, while prices in the North remained stable compared to last year.

Row
April sales slowed for row homes, contributing to the year-to-date decline of 16 per cent. Meanwhile, new listings continued to rise compared to last year, driving the sales-to-new-listings down to 51 per cent. In April, inventories reached 1,005 units, the highest level reported since 2021, and the months of supply rose to nearly three months. Improved supply has taken some of the pressure off prices,

In April, the unadjusted row price was $457,400, a slight gain over last month, but relatively unchanged compared to April of last year and still below last year's peak price reported in June. The pullbacks reported in the North and North East districts offset year-over-year gains in most districts.

Apartment Condominium
April sales eased by nearly 30 per cent over last year's record high but were far stronger than long-term trends. While sales have remained relatively strong, new listings in April reached a record high for the month, supporting further gains in inventory levels. With three months of supply in the city, conditions are considered relatively balanced. However, activity does range significantly based on location, impacting price movements.

The North East district reported the highest months of supply at seven months, resulting in a year-over-year price decline of two per cent and a spread of over seven per cent from last year's high. Overall, the April benchmark price in the city was $336,000, similar to last year but still three per cent lower than last year's record high.

REGIONAL MARKET FACTS

Airdrie
For the third month in a row, sales activity eased compared to last year's levels. Despite the declines, sales remain above long-term trends. At the same time, new listings continue to rise, but with 185 sales and 290 new listings in April, the sales-to-new listings ratio reached 64 per cent, an improvement over recent months. Inventory levels continued to trend up this month. However, after three consecutive years of exceptionally low April levels, inventory is now consistent with long-term trends. With 2.3 months of supply, conditions are moving to a more balanced state, taking the pressure off home prices. In April, the total residential price was $544,700, relatively unchanged compared to both last month and last year's levels.

Cochrane
For the fourth month in a row, sales activity in the area has remained consistent with last year's levels, resulting in 335 sales so far this year, a nearly five per cent gain over last year and consistent with long-term trends. New listings have also been on the rise, but the sales-to-new-listings ratio has remained at 60 per cent, preventing the doubling of inventory in this market. While inventory levels have improved compared to last year, the 246 units available in April are just shy of long-term trends. Like other areas, improvements in supply have slowed the pace of price growth, but in Cochrane, prices are still edging up. In April, the total residential benchmark price was $592,000, trending up over last month and nearly six per cent higher than prices reported in the previous year and at a record high.

Okotoks
Sales in Okotoks continue to ease compared to last year, contributing to the year-to-date decline of 16 per cent. Over the past few years, sales have been restricted by a lack of supply. However, this year we have started to see a shift. New listings continue to improve in April compared to sales, causing the sales-to-new-listings ratio to ease to 53 per cent, supporting inventory gains. However, with 127 units in inventory in April, levels remain below long-term trends for the month. The modest gains in inventory have slowed the pace of price growth in the area. As of April, the unadjusted benchmark price was $627,100, down slightly from last month, but nearly two per cent higher than last April.

Click here to view the full City of Calgary monthly stats package.

Click here to view the full Calgary region monthly stats package. 

These design comebacks include block print wallpaper, charming linens, and the new 'it' neutral: brown.

By Maria Sabella

Published on March 5, 2025

Photo:

Lauren Andersen/Sen Creative / Interior Designer: Noz Nozawa

This year's home design trends are all about warmth and comfort, personal touches that tell a story, and vintage design details that evoke a sense of nostalgia. To help you capture the charm of the vintage decor aesthetic, industry experts are giving us the scoop on what they're most excited to see in 2025.

"The 2025 vintage aesthetic isn’t just about looking back—it's about adding pieces to your home that feel fresh, curated, and uniquely personal," says Margaret Carroll, founder and principal designer at Margaret Carroll Interiors.

The year's Color of the Year announcements have served as a hint of what's to come in the world of home decor—namely the color brown, which fits into a larger vintage-inspired color palette of rusty tones and deep eggplant hues. Wallpaper continues to be popular, with all-over pattern drenching and nostalgic block print patterns maximizing the vintage charm factor. Keep reading for this year's hottest vintage trends, along with expert tips for implementing them in your own space.

2025 Paint Color Forecast: Out with the Bold and In with Muted Earth Tones

Dylan Chandler

Framed Vintage Items as Art

For a unique way to add vintage character to your walls, frame vintage items and create a meaningful gallery wall with them. "Consider framing vintage maps, quirky game boards, or even antique book pages for a look that feels layered and storied," Carroll says. Choose frames carefully to create an intentional blend of the old and new. "Frames can lean contemporary with sleek burlwood or simple white matting, but mixing and matching wood tones adds an effortless, collected-over-time charm," Carroll suggests.

How to Hang a Gallery Wall in 5 Easy Steps

Shades of Brown

There is a nostalgic warmth about the color brown. Design experts predict the color trend will continue into 2025, introducing vintage-inspired sophistication and a welcome reprieve from cool tones. "We’re seeing the color brown seep back into kitchens, furniture, and bathrooms for its rich, moody, natural vibe," says Teri Simone, head of design and marketing at Nieu Cabinet Doors. Brown is a timeless neutral that ranges from dramatic chocolate tones to soothing sandy hues, proving it's a versatile color whose vintage appeal translates well into modern interiors.

Graham & Brown's 2025 Color of the Year Brings the English Countryside to Your Home

Adam Albright

Vintage Lighting

Lighting presents a great opportunity to add vintage style and personality to a room. "The vintage lighting trend is gaining even more momentum as we head into 2025," says Jennifer Jones, principal designer at Niche Interiors. She shares that one-of-a-kind vintage chandeliers are having a moment, as are midcentury modern floor lamps, antique desk lamps, and retro-style wall sconces. "Vintage lighting adds so much character to a space and doesn't have to break the bank," Jones says. She recommends checking local flea markets, thrift stores, and online shops like Etsy to find hidden lighting gems.

These 6 Lighting Trends Will Be Illuminating Homes in 2025

Vintage Linens Featuring Classic Patterns

When it comes to home textiles, Alecia Taylor, interior designer at CabinetNow, says vintage linens featuring classic patterns will be a big trend in 2025. The best part is, you can incorporate it in as big or small a way as you like; For a quick and inexpensive way to infuse your table setting with vintage charm, use fabric napkins with a classic gingham pattern or a pretty floral print tablecloth. For a larger-scale way to channel the trend, opt for a vintage-inspired fabric on window shades or curtain panels. "Look for classic patterns and colors that complement your existing decor," Taylor says. This way, you can add a touch of nostalgic charm while enhancing the room's character in a seamless manner.

John Bessler

Vintage-Inspired Color Palette

A warm and inviting vintage-inspired color palette is a big trend in 2025, as evidenced by most of the 2025 Color of the Year choices. Camilla Masi, interior designer at Otto Tiles & Design US, says this color trend can be seen in both kitchen and bathroom design right now. "Homeowners are looking towards nostalgia to add a sense of comfort and familiarity to their home and that is why vintage style interiors and decor are having a moment right now," Masi explains. When piecing together a vintage-inspired color palette, she suggests shades such as classic steely blue, eggplant, nostalgic forest and olive greens, muddy browns, and creamy off-whites.

These '70s Paint Color Trends Are Back in Style

All-Over Pattern Drenching

When it comes to wallpaper, all-over pattern drenching is another big vintage trend to watch out for in 2025, according to Elizabeth Rees, CEO and co-founder of Chasing Paper. "When considering where and how to apply the wallpaper, the all-over pattern drenching approach can further elevate a space and create an all-encompassing design with the patterns of block print wallpaper," she says. To give your home a warm and cozy makeover with ample vintage charm, Rees suggests installing going for all-over pattern drenching in a space like a bedroom. "Bedrooms are the most personal rooms in a home and block print wallpaper can help bring an enhanced sense of individuality to the space," she says. To truly embrace the vintage trend, complete the space with soft accents and thoughtfully curated heirloom furniture.

Block Print Wallpaper

"Block print wallpapers are going to make a mark in 2025 with their artisanal hand-stamped charm, striking the perfect balance between timeless tradition and modern simplicity," Rees says. She points out that block printing is one of the oldest printing techniques, which often features repetitive, imperfect patterns of geometric shapes, florals, botanicals, and other natural elements. This year, Rees says block print wallpaper is the vintage trend you'll want to embrace if you want to evoke a sense of nostalgia.

Looking forward to an egg-citing Easter in 2025? There's plenty of Easter festivities taking place in and around Airdrie.

Kajal Dhaneshwari
Apr 7, 2025 1:30 P

Airdronians eager to celebrate Easter don't need to search any further for the perfect itinerary of festivities. 

There are many Easter celebrations taking place this year in and around Airdrie. 

The Airdrie Farmers Market will kick off the 2025 season with an Annual Easter Spring Fling. The event promises "makers bakers and growers will be at the event with something for everyone." 

Airdrie Farmers Market Spring Fling is scheduled to be held on April 19 at the Town and Country Centre from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Upon admission to the event, a donation to the Airdrie Food Bank is encouraged. 

Another adventurous Easter event—Airdrie Easter Scavenger Hunt will be taking place on April 19 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

It is a free event for residents that are interested. Registered participants can choose their own starting point as there are ten locations to choose from.

A scavenger map with hints to track down eggs will be emailed at 10 a.m. to everyone that has registered to go on the adventure. While the event is free for all, participants are encouraged to bring a donation for the Airdrie Food Bank. 

Donations will be collected at one of the ten egg locations. Items such as household cleaning supplies, baby formula, canned condiments, fruits and vegetables, meat and more would be essential donation items. To view the full list of most needed items at the food bank, visit the link here. 

It is important to note that participants require a vehicle as the eggs are hidden throughout Airdrie.

This event is being hosted by the Maverick Group. To register, residents can visit maverickgroupyyc.com/easterscavengerhunt.  

There's plenty of Easter festivities taking place around the City of Airdrie as well. 

Irricana's Easter Egg Hunt and Dance

The Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Dance is taking place at the Irricana Lions Community Hall on April 12 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

The event is set to offer fun activities for the whole family, which includes face painting and glitter tattoos, popcorn and cotton candy, bouncy castle and more. 

Beiseker's Easter Hunt and Fun

Beiseker Easter Egg Hunt is another event being hosted by the Village of Beiseker, on April 5 from 10 a.m. 1 p.m. at the Beiseker Community Centre. 

This event will feature an Easter Egg Hunt filled with fun activities for families. Popcorn and cotton candy, a hot-dog lunch, bouncy castle, games, crafts and more will be a part of the egg-citing celebration put up by Beiseker Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) and the Beiseker Fire Department. 

Langdon's Community Easter Event

Langdon is also hosting a Community Easter Event on April 19 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Langdon Park. 

This event will feature an egg hunt for ages eight-years-old and under at 10 a.m. For children of age nine-years-old and above, the egg hunt will take place at 10:45 a.m. 

There will be crafts, concession, baby chicks, face painting, raffle and photo booth. Additionally, there will also be a Family Bingo at 4:15 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Langdon Field House.

Residents who are attending the event at Langdon are encouraged to support the raffle that helps the hamlet run such events for free to the community.  

April 28, 2022 | CREB

For most of us, buying a home will be the biggest purchasing decision we make in our lifetime. Adding to the weight of that decision is going through it the first time.

First-time homebuyers can benefit tremendously from receiving extra advice throughout the purchase process. It's difficult to know exactly what to expect, but most issues can be resolved by doing a little homework at the outset.

The good news is first-time homebuyers are not on their own. Here are five tips to help you navigate the journey:

1. Do your research

Ask questions and do your homework. Speak with other homeowners to get a real-life perspective on what it's like to own property. Also take some time to think about where you want to be today and five years from now, and plan accordingly!

2. Get pre-approved

It is best for first-time buyers to get pre-approved for a mortgage so they know how much they can spend.

Talk to a mortgage specialist about mortgage products, terms, payment options and rates. Then, share the pre-approval with your REALTOR® so they only show you homes that fit your budget.

3. Use a REALTOR®

Many homebuyers research potential homes using realtor.ca, but what's really important is the interpretation of that data, and that's where a REALTOR® comes in.

A REALTOR® is a trusted source for all your real estate needs. Not only do they provide invaluable expertise, but they are also committed to a high standard of professional conduct focused on the consumer.

A REALTOR® also provides a homebuyer with all the information to make an informed decision in terms of comparable prices in the neighbourhood, market conditions and the proper steps to go through in a home purchase.

4. Seeing is believing

While most people begin their home search online, shopping that way may not tell the whole story of a property. Photos can be deceiving, so it's important to get inside a house and explore it for yourself.

Things like the size of a home, the condition of the interior and exterior and the neighborhood can vary when looking at a home online versus in person.

Schedule a showing with your REALTOR® or visit an open house to help you make a much smarter buying decision.

5. Get a home inspection

A home inspection could identify a simple cosmetic problem or safety issue that could be potentially life threatening.

Many first-time buyers walk into a home, love the kitchen or the bathrooms or the general layout, and can look right past everything else. That's why you need an unbiased, independent review of the home.

Your home inspector should not care whether you buy the home or not. They have no vested interest in the transaction and present you with the facts.

Even a small space can have a big personality when you make the right moves with color, pattern, and furniture. By Amy Panos and Paige Porter Fischer

Published in Better Homes & Gardens 

Published on March 15, 2025

Think living in a small space means you have to limit patterns and accessories for fear of your home looking cluttered? Think again. Take a look at this tiny South Carolina bungalow and see how eclectic art, plenty of patterns, and a consistent color palette amp up how large it lives and its charming looks.

"I had to be very thoughtful about each space—how to incorporate everything I love without overwhelming the eye in a much smaller house," says homeowner Teresa Roche, who is also an artist, gallery owner, and textile designer. The way she layered art, pattern, and personality into every inch of her home proves that maximalism isn’t off limits even in limited square footage.

Here are 9 small-space decorating lessons from this creative pro.

01of 09

Set a Color Palette for the Whole House

Brie Williams / Interior Design: Teresa Roche

In a small space, sticking with one neutral wall color throughout all the rooms isn't boring, it's strategic. In this house, painting all the walls creamy white (Sherwin-Williams Alabaster) creates a visual flow and sets up a background that allows artwork and patterns to really shine.

Repeating the same accent colors through multiple rooms is another winning strategy in a small space. Roche used a palette of ochers, earthy browns, herbal greens, and warm yellows across every room in her house. In the living room, the palette shows up in upholstered furniture and pillows as well as artwork and the curtains in the adjacent foyer. "The repetition creates an easy flow from one space to the next,” Roche says.

02of 09

Make Artwork Blend

Brie Williams / Interior Design: Teresa Roche

A gallery wall makes an instant and impactful focal point. In a small space, it's important that individual art pieces flow together visually and read as cohesive. For her dining alcove, Roche hung favorite pieces from airplane wire, which she attached to a picture rail. The continuity comes from the colors in the artwork and the types of frames. “I love mixing frames of all shapes and sizes, but I stick to subtle materials—white, wood, nickel-brushed silver, and brushed gold—and stay away from black frames because they often overpower the pieces themselves.” The subtle flow from frame to frame keeps the installation from overwhelming the eye.

The 48 Best Picture Frames Our Editors Love

03of 09

Use Patterns That Act Like Neutrals

Brie Williams / Interior Design: Teresa Roche

In an open floor plan, be mindful when choosing patterns that will be used prominently. For this kitchen, which is open to the dining and living areas, Roche used an abstract basketweave wallpaper pattern that she considers neutral. (Notice the pattern and color repeat on throw pillows in the adjacent living room.)

"My patterns aren't crazy patterns—they are classic ones," she says. "My basketweave pattern was bold enough to make an impression but not too overwhelming for the art I wanted to pair with it,” she says. Other patterns that can act as neutrals include abstract, irregular stripes and plaids. They give a room structure but also fade into the background because of their regular, almost-geometric patterns.

04of 09

Repeat the Same Pattern

Brie Williams / Interior Design: Teresa Roche

Using the same pattern in both wallpaper and fabric is a longstanding decorator trick for creating a space that looks put together but not overly busy. Roche used the approach in her foyer, hanging wallpaper and doorway curtains in the same painterly stripe. It's a bold pattern, but because of the white background and the way it's repeated over so much surface area, the eye registers it as background.

05of 09

Keep Window Treatments Simple

Brie Williams / Interior Design: Teresa Roche

Heavy, elaborate window treatments can make a small room feel claustrophobic. If you can forgo them altogether, do. In this sitting room, the windows are deliberately bare to let in maximum light and views, plus their white trim blends with the wall color to make the space look larger. If you need the privacy or light control that window treatments bring, choose something simple, such as woven Roman shades or simple white curtain panels, and repeat them throughout the house.

7 Window Treatment Mistakes You Might Be Making

06of 09

Establish a Furniture Palette

Brie Williams / Interior Design: Teresa Roche

Just like a consistent color palette can make a small space look larger and more well-designed, so too can editing your furniture choices. For example, all of the furniture in Roche's home shares either similar simple shapes or wood tones, or both. In this house, that means lots of midcentury modern, antique pine pieces, and Danish modern furniture, like this low-slung sofa and chairs, which are so versatile that Roche has reupholstered them three times over the years.

"I never hesitate to mix furniture from various time periods," she says. "I buy what speaks to me." When your furniture is cohesive, it's also easier to move pieces around from room to room when you're ready for a change.

8 Tips for Decorating with Wood Furniture to Avoid a Dated Look

07of 09

Think Small Scale

Brie Williams / Interior Design: Teresa Roche

For furniture you only use occasionally, choose a small size that still gives you functionality. For example, using a petite antique pine table, rather than a traditional desk, made it possible to sneak a workstation into the corner of a sunroom.

08of 09

Maximize Outdoor Space

Brie Williams / Interior Design: Teresa Roche

Because the front porch gets used as an outdoor living room when the weather cooperates, it should be furnished as comfortably as the indoor version. That means ample seating and lighting, which here is accomplished via a simple woven shade. Outdoor chairs in versatile white blend with the house color and railings to make a crisp, uncluttered backdrop for patterned throw pillows.

09of 09

Draw the Eye Up with Art

Brie Williams / Interior Design: Teresa Roche

Even the stairwell can contribute to a light, bright, and airy feel in a small house when it's treated to a refreshing white paint job on walls, trim, and the stairs themselves.

Another trick is to hang artwork at the top of the stairs to draw the eyes up and through the space. In her stairway, Roche hung a series of four paintings vertically to emphasize the height of the ceilings. “For stairwells, the negative space becomes as important as the art to me,” she says. “I don’t like cluttered stairwells, so I don’t want to see painting after painting."

Styled by Jennifer DeCleene

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Relations

Ottawa, Ontario

March 12, 2025

The Bank of Canada today reduced its target for the overnight rate to 2.75%, with the Bank Rate at 3% and the deposit rate at 2.70%.

The Canadian economy entered 2025 in a solid position, with inflation close to the 2% target and robust GDP growth. However, heightened trade tensions and tariffs imposed by the United States will likely slow the pace of economic activity and increase inflationary pressures in Canada. The economic outlook continues to be subject to more-than-usual uncertainty because of the rapidly evolving policy landscape.

After a period of solid growth, the US economy looks to have slowed in recent months. US inflation remains slightly above target. Economic growth in the euro zone was modest in late 2024. China’s economy has posted strong gains, supported by government policies. Equity prices have fallen and bond yields have eased on market expectations of weaker North American growth. Oil prices have been volatile and are trading below the assumptions in the Bank’s January Monetary Policy Report (MPR). The Canadian dollar is broadly unchanged against the US dollar but weaker against other currencies.

Canada’s economy grew by 2.6% in the fourth quarter of 2024 following upwardly revised growth of 2.2% in the third quarter. This growth path is stronger than was expected at the time of the January MPR. Past cuts to interest rates have boosted economic activity, particularly consumption and housing. However, economic growth in the first quarter of 2025 will likely slow as the intensifying trade conflict weighs on sentiment and activity. Recent surveys suggest a sharp drop in consumer confidence and a slowdown in business spending as companies postpone or cancel investments. The negative impact of slowing domestic demand has been partially offset by a surge in exports in advance of tariffs being imposed. 

Employment growth strengthened in November through January and the unemployment rate declined to 6.6%. In February, job growth stalled. While past interest rate cuts have boosted demand for labour in recent months, there are warning signs that heightened trade tensions could disrupt the recovery in the jobs market. Meanwhile, wage growth has shown signs of moderation.

Inflation remains close to the 2% target. The temporary suspension of the GST/HST lowered some consumer prices, but January’s CPI was slightly firmer than expected at 1.9%. Inflation is expected to increase to about 2½% in March with the end of the tax break. The Bank’s preferred measures of core inflation remain above 2%, mainly because of the persistence of shelter price inflation. Short-term inflation expectations have risen in light of fears about the impact of tariffs on prices.

While economic growth has come in stronger than expected, the pervasive uncertainty created by continuously changing US tariff threats is restraining consumers’ spending intentions and businesses’ plans to hire and invest. Against this background, and with inflation close to the 2% target, Governing Council decided to reduce the policy rate by a further 25 basis points.

Monetary policy cannot offset the impacts of a trade war. What it can and must do is ensure that higher prices do not lead to ongoing inflation. Governing Council will be carefully assessing the timing and strength of both the downward pressures on inflation from a weaker economy and the upward pressures on inflation from higher costs. The Council will also be closely monitoring inflation expectations. The Bank is committed to maintaining price stability for Canadians.

Information note

The next scheduled date for announcing the overnight rate target is April 16, 2025. The Bank will publish its next full outlook for the economy and inflation, including risks to the projection, in the MPR at the same time.

A home inspection is a crucial step in the buying process—it helps protect your investment! Here’s why it matters:

✔️ Uncover Hidden Issues – Identifies potential problems like structural concerns, electrical issues, or plumbing leaks.
✔️ Negotiation Power – Gives buyers leverage to request repairs or adjust the price.
✔️ Safety & Peace of Mind – Ensures the home is safe and meets building standards.
✔️ Future Planning – Helps you anticipate maintenance and future costs.

🔍 What Does a Home Inspector Do? 🏡

A home inspector provides a detailed evaluation of a property's condition, helping buyers make informed decisions. Here's what they check:

✔️ Structure – Foundation, walls, roof, and attic for any signs of damage.
✔️ Electrical Systems – Outlets, wiring, and breaker panels for safety.
✔️ Plumbing – Pipes, water heaters, and potential leaks.
✔️ HVAC – Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning functionality.
✔️ Exterior & Interior – Windows, doors, insulation, and more!

🔍 Home Inspections Are Visual Only – What Does That Mean? 🏡

A home inspection is a non-invasive, visual examination of a property's condition. Inspectors don’t open walls, move furniture, or perform destructive testing—they assess what’s visible and accessible.

A home inspection provides valuable insight, but for deeper concerns, specialized inspections (like mold, sewer, or asbestos) may be needed.

A home inspection can save you from costly surprises! Thinking of buying? Make sure you get an inspection!

A home is a big investment—make sure you know what you’re buying!

🏡💡 Need an inspector recommendation?

Call or text 403-660-0102 or email shelleyannecorley@gmail.com

When purchasing a condo versus a freehold property, there are key differences in ownership, costs, responsibilities, and lifestyle considerations. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Ownership Structure

• Condo: You own your individual unit but share ownership of common areas (hallways, amenities, landscaping, etc.) with other condo owners. A condo board manages these shared spaces.

• Freehold: You own both the home and the land it sits on, giving you full control over the property.

2. Costs & Fees

• Condo: Typically has a lower purchase price compared to freehold homes but includes monthly condo fees for maintenance, repairs, and amenities. Special assessments may be levied for unexpected expenses.

• Freehold: No condo fees, but homeowners are responsible for all maintenance, repairs, and property expenses.

3. Maintenance & Responsibilities

• Condo: The condo board/management handles exterior maintenance, landscaping, snow removal, and repairs for shared spaces, making it a lower-maintenance option.

• Freehold: Homeowners must manage and pay for all upkeep, including lawn care, roof repairs, and structural maintenance.

4. Rules & Restrictions

• Condo: Subject to condo board rules and bylaws, which may restrict renovations, rentals (Airbnb), pet ownership, and noise levels.

• Freehold: No governing board—homeowners have full control over renovations, landscaping, and renting out the property.

5. Appreciation & Resale Value

• Condo: Appreciation can be slower due to shared ownership, condo fees, and reliance on board management. However, well-maintained buildings in prime locations can still see strong value growth.

• Freehold: Typically appreciates faster as land value increases over time. More desirable to buyers due to independence and lack of monthly fees.

6. Financing & Insurance

• Condo: Easier to finance due to lower price points, but lenders may consider condo corporation financials. Condo insurance only covers the unit’s interior, while the condo corporation insures the building’s exterior.

• Freehold: Higher mortgage amounts may be required, but you have full control over property financing. Homeowners must insure the entire property.

7. Lifestyle Considerations

• Condo: Ideal for those seeking a low-maintenance lifestyle, access to amenities (gym, pool, concierge), and urban living. Best for busy professionals, retirees, or those who travel often.

• Freehold: Better suited for families, those needing space (yard, garage, storage), and individuals who enjoy personalizing their home and outdoor areas.

Which One is Right for You?

• Choose a Condo If: You want convenience, lower maintenance, and urban living with amenities.

• Choose a Freehold Property If: You prefer independence, long-term appreciation, and full control over your home.

Feb. 07, 2025 | CREB

Whether you’re a winter walker, snowboarder, or simply want to enjoy this season without too much hassle, Calgary offers activities for all winter enthusiasts.

Grab your hot chocolate and toque, because we have some great ideas for activities you can tackle in all the city quadrants. 

Crokicurl  

As Canada’s new winter pastime, Crokicurl is an exciting novel outdoor sport that combines crokinole and curling, two of Canada’s favourite winter activities. 

The objective of the game is to score the most points by shooting a small curling rock into the centre button (20 points), and trying to position the rocks to stay within the highest scoring circle at the end of each round (red circle = 15 points, white circle = 10 points, blue circle = 5 points).  

The only equipment needed is the curling stones, which are provided at the site of the Crokicurl rinks in the hours noted below: 

• Bowness Park, 8900 48 Ave NW, open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

• North Glenmore Park, 7305 Crowchild Trail SW, open from 11 am. To 8:30 p.m. 

• Prince’s Island Park, 698 Eau Claire Ave SW, open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing 

Don’t have time for a trip to the mountains? No problem! Calgary has mesmerizing snow-covered landscapes you can enjoy while staying active all winter long. 

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing can be done in almost any park, but there are several dedicated cross-country skiing tracks and snowshoe areas available in Calgary at no cost that are maintained by Calgary Parks and volunteers. Here are some trails you can check out: 

• Confederation Golf Course, 3204 Collingwood Dr NW  

• Lakeview Golf Course, 5840 19 Street SW 

• McCall Lake Golf Course, 1600 32 Avenue NE 

• Maple Ridge Golf Course, 1240 Mapleglade Dr SE  

• Prince’s Island Park, 4 Street and 1 Avenue SW (Downtown) 

Discover more trails in the city by clicking here.

Ice Skating  

Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, our city has numerous ice skating trails and rinks that make for a perfect winter outing. You just have to show up! Bring your ice skates, helmets, and if necessary, your skating aid, and enjoy the season!  

• Barb Scott Park, 12 Ave and 9 St SW.  

• Prairie Winds Park, 223 Castleridge Blvd NE 

• Prestwick Rink, 15113 Prestwick Blvd SE  

• West Confederation Park, 2019 Chicoutimi Dr NW 

For a complete list of Calgary’s skating rinks and their status, click here. 

Looking to go beyond the rink? Bowness Park has a 1.6 km track for skating next to the Bow River, and is open from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Meanwhile, North Glenmore Park has 730 metres of connected track and is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Tobogganing and sledding  

Bring joy to your little ones with a day of tobogganing and sledding at the various hills of our wonderful city. Many of these hills are safe and exciting, but please know that they are also weather dependent. Here are a few recommendations: 

• Thorncliffe/Greenview, 5600 Centre St. NE 

• Royal Oak, 9100 Royal Birch Blvd NW 

• New Brighton, 1750 New Brighton Dr SE 

• Stanley Park, 330 42 Ave SW  

Source: City of Calgary Parks.

Closing costs are the fees and expenses that must be paid when a transaction is finalized. They encompass a wide range of charges depending on which side of the transaction you are on. Some of these costs will be incurred by either the buyer, the seller, or both parties, or in the case of a refinance, by the home owner. Typically, closing costs can range from 1.5% to 3% of the purchase price of a home for buyers, depending on the specifics of the transaction and location within Canada, and for a refinance it can be as little as a couple thousand dollars, which you may be able to add to the balance of your loan so you have no out of pocket expenses.

Common closing costs when buying a home

• Land transfer tax: This tax varies by province and municipality. It is calculated based on the purchase price of the property. 
  Potential cost: a few hundred to thousands of dollars.

• Legal fees: These cover the services of a real estate lawyer or notary who will handle the legal aspects of the transaction. These fees may include title searches, title registration, and the preparation of necessary documents.  These costs in Alberta recently increased in October 2024.
  Potential cost: $2,000to $3,500 or more

• Title insurance: This one-time cost protects against potential issues with the property’s title, such as disputes over ownership. Typically required by lenders for their protection at your cost, homeowners can get an add on to protect themselves as well. 
  Potential cost: $150 to $500 or more

• Property appraisal: Conventional or lower loan-to-value mortgages may require an appraisal to determine the fair market value. 
  Potential cost: $300 to $600 or more

• Home inspection: Although optional, a home inspection is highly recommended to identify any potential issues with the property. 
  Potential cost: $500 to $800 or more

• Property tax adjustments: Depending on when your home purchase closes, you may need to reimburse the seller for any property taxes already paid. Alternatively, you may receive a credit from the seller for any property taxes that have not been paid for the year.  

• Mortgage default insurance: If your down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price, you’ll need mortgage default insurance. This can cost between 2.8% and 4.3% of the mortgage amount. This insurance can be added to your mortgage balance. Ontario, Quebec and Saskatchewan also charge provincial sales tax on this insurance, which must be paid at closing.

Common closing costs when selling a home

• Real estate commissions: The seller typically pays the commission for both the buyer’s and seller’s Realtor, usually between 3% and 5% of the sale price plus any applicable taxes, such as GST/HST.

• Legal fees: These cover the services of a real estate lawyer or notary who will verify the legal ownership of the property and clear any liens or charges against the title. 
  Potential cost: $1,000 to $3,000 or more

• Mortgage discharge fees: Charged by your lender to close out your mortgage. 
  Potential cost: $200 to $500

• Mortgage pre-payment charges: Depending on when your mortgage term is up, you may incur pre-payment penalties. 
  Potential cost: 3-months’ interest or the Interest Rate Differential (IRD)

• Repairs and maintenance: Any agreed-upon repairs or maintenance to be completed before the sale.

Closing costs when refinancing a home

• Appraisal fees: The lender will require an appraisal to determine the fair market value. 
  Potential cost: $300 to $600 or more

• Legal fees: These cover the services of a real estate lawyer or notary who will verify the legal ownership of the property and register the new mortgage. 
  Potential cost: $1,000 to $3,000 or more

• Mortgage discharge fees: Charged by the current lender to close out the existing mortgage. 
  Potential cost: $200 to $500

• Title insurance: This may be required  by your new lender  to protect against title-related issues during refinancing. 
  Potential cost: $150 to $500 or more

• Mortgage pre-payment charges: If breaking the existing mortgage term, you may be charged pre-payment penalties of three months’ interest or the Interest Rate Differential (IRD) depending on your original mortgage terms.

Published January 14th, 2025 By MMG Mortgages 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Relations

Ottawa, Ontario

January 29, 2025

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The Bank of Canada today reduced its target for the overnight rate to 3%, with the Bank Rate at 3.25% and the deposit rate at 2.95%.The Bank is also announcing its plan to complete the normalization of its balance sheet, ending quantitative tightening. The Bank will restart asset purchases in early March, beginning gradually so that its balance sheet stabilizes and then grows modestly, in line with growth in the economy.

Projections in the January Monetary Policy Report (MPR) published today are subject to more-than-usual uncertainty because of the rapidly evolving policy landscape, particularly the threat of trade tariffs by the new administration in the United States. Since the scope and duration of a possible trade conflict are impossible to predict, this MPR provides a baseline forecast in the absence of new tariffs.

In the MPR projection, the global economy is expected to continue growing by about 3% over the next two years. Growth in the United States has been revised up, mainly due to stronger consumption. Growth in the euro area is likely to be subdued as the region copes with competitiveness pressures. In China, recent policy actions are boosting demand and supporting near-term growth, although structural challenges remain. Since October, financial conditions have diverged across countries. US bond yields have risen, supported by strong growth and more persistent inflation. In contrast, yields in Canada are down slightly. The Canadian dollar has depreciated materially against the US dollar, largely reflecting trade uncertainty and broader strength in the US currency. Oil prices have been volatile and in recent weeks have been about $5 higher than was assumed in the October MPR.

In Canada, past cuts to interest rates have started to boost the economy. The recent strengthening in both consumption and housing activity is expected to continue. However, business investment remains weak. The outlook for exports is being supported by new export capacity for oil and gas.

Canada’s labour market remains soft, with the unemployment rate at 6.7% in December. Job growth has strengthened in recent months, after lagging growth in the labour force for more than a year. Wage pressures, which have proven sticky, are showing some signs of easing.

The Bank forecasts GDP growth will strengthen in 2025. However, with slower population growth because of reduced immigration targets, both GDP and potential growth will be more moderate than was expected in October. Following growth of 1.3% in 2024, the Bank now projects GDP will grow by 1.8% in both 2025 and 2026, somewhat higher than potential growth. As a result, excess supply in the economy is gradually absorbed over the projection horizon.

CPI inflation remains close to 2%, with some volatility due to the temporary suspension of the GST/HST on some consumer products. Shelter price inflation is still elevated but it is easing gradually, as expected. A broad range of indicators, including surveys of inflation expectations and the distribution of price changes among components of the CPI, suggests that underlying inflation is close to 2%. The Bank forecasts CPI inflation will be around the 2% target over the next two years.

Setting aside threatened US tariffs, the upside and downside risks around the outlook are reasonably balanced. However, as discussed in the MPR, a protracted trade conflict would most likely lead to weaker GDP and higher prices in Canada.

With inflation around 2% and the economy in excess supply, Governing Council decided to reduce the policy rate a further 25 basis points to 3%. The cumulative reduction in the policy rate since last June is substantial. Lower interest rates are boosting household spending and, in the outlook published today, the economy is expected to strengthen gradually and inflation to stay close to target. However, if broad-based and significant tariffs were imposed, the resilience of Canada’s economy would be tested. We will be following developments closely and assessing the implications for economic activity, inflation and monetary policy in Canada. The Bank is committed to maintaining price stability for Canadians.

Information note

The next scheduled date for announcing the overnight rate target is March 12, 2025. The Bank will publish its next full outlook for the economy and inflation, including risks to the projection, in the MPR on April 16, 2025.

As of January 27, 2025, Canadian mortgage rates vary by term and lender. 

• 2-year fixed: The average rate is 6.53%, but rates can be as low as 4.59%

• 3-year fixed: The average rate is 5.47%, but rates can be as low as 4.34%

• 4-year fixed: The average rate is 5.65%, but rates can be as low as 4.54%

• 5-year fixed: The average rate is 5.02%, but rates can be as low as 4.14%

• 7-year fixed: The average rate is 6.37%, but rates can be as low as 5.94%

• 10-year fixed: The average rate is 7.14%, but rates can be as low as 6.14%

Lenders

• Desjardins: Offers a 4-year fixed rate of 4.24% 

• Radius Financial: Offers a 3-year variable rate of 4.55% and a 5-year variable rate of 4.60% 

• RFA: Offers a 2-year fixed rate of 4.64% 

• Royal Bank of Canada: Offers a 5-year closed rate of 6.390% 

• TD Bank: Offers a 3-year fixed closed special rate of 5.09% 

• True North Mortgage: Offers a 6-month fixed rate of 2.99% 

You can check out these websites for more information on Canadian mortgage rates: nesto.ca, NerdWallet, and RBC Royal Bank.