If you’ve been following Calgary’s housing market, you’ve likely noticed things starting to shift. The market as a whole is beginning to level out, with more signs of balance—neither buyers nor sellers are fully in control. That said, the picture changes depending on the type of home. The most desirable properties are still moving fast and giving sellers an advantage, while other segments, like condos and townhomes, are leaning more toward buyers.

This kind of market is a shift from what we’ve seen in the past couple of years and it’s a sign that things might be stabilizing. For both buyers and sellers, it means a bit more strategy is involved, and the playing field is starting to even out.

Let’s take a look at what this means on both sides, and what we can expect heading into the rest of 2025.

What Is a Balanced Market, Anyway?

A balanced real estate market is when the number of homes for sale and the number of buyers are pretty much in sync. This means homes sell at a steady pace, prices stay stable, and there’s room for some back-and-forth without either side having a big advantage. In Calgary right now, we’re seeing about 2.4 months of inventory and a sales-to-new-listings ratio around 50%—signs that the market’s cooling off from the craziness of the past couple years. It’s a more balanced, predictable market where neither buyers nor sellers hold all the cards.

What’s Causing the Shift?

Calgary's real estate market is shifting toward a more balanced state due to several key factors:​

1. Increased Housing Supply: Inventory levels have risen significantly, with over 4,000 active listings in February 2025, a 76% increase year-over-year. This surge provides buyers with more options and reduces the intensity of bidding wars.

2. Moderating Sales Activity: Sales have decreased by 19% compared to the previous year, indicating a slowdown in market activity. This trend suggests a move away from the previous seller's market dynamics. 

3. Lower Interest Rates: The Bank of Canada has reduced its policy interest rate to 3% as of January 2025, following several consecutive cuts. These lower rates are expected to ease lending conditions, making homeownership more accessible and stimulating buyer demand. 

4. Slowing Migration Trends: While Calgary continues to experience population growth, the rate of increase has slowed. This moderation in migration is expected to ease housing demand pressures, contributing to a more balanced market.

What This Means If You’re a Buyer:

Good news! The market has finally shifted in your favour:

You’ve got options: More listings mean you don’t have to rush or settle for something that’s just okay. With more variety to choose from, you can take your time, compare properties, and find the right home at the right price—often with room to negotiate on terms, price, and conditions.

You can negotiate: We’re not seeing as many bidding wars, so you might have some room to work on price, possession dates, or conditions that are more favourable to both parties.

Affordability is (slightly) better: Lower rates and more competition among sellers could help you get a better deal — especially in condos and townhomes where there tends to be more inventory—giving you a better shot at finding something within your budget without having to stretch too far.

What About Sellers?

It’s not all doom and gloom, but it does mean you’ve got to be smart:

Pricing matters more than ever: Buyers have more choices, so pricing your home right is key to a quick sale. An overpriced home can sit on the market and turn off buyers, while a well-priced one grabs attention, creates urgency, and can spark multiple offers. The right price brings serious buyers through the door fast.

Presentation is key: First impressions matter. With more options available, buyers are picky—so a clean, well-staged home stands out, makes a great first impression, and can lead to faster, better offers. Simple touch ups go a long way.

Know your competition: Knowing what else is for sale in your community helps you price your home competitively, understand what buyers are comparing it to, and spot trends in what features are attracting offers. It also gives you a feel for current market conditions and helps you position your home to stand out with the right marketing and potential upgrades.

What’s Coming for the Rest of 2025?

Most experts are expecting the market to stay fairly steady for the rest of the year. Sales are projected to stay strong — even a little above the long-term average — but we’re not looking at huge price jumps. CREB is forecasting around 3% price growth overall, which is much more sustainable than what we saw during the peak frenzy.

As for interest rates? They could come down a bit more, which might give the market another little boost — but no one’s expecting a dramatic shift either way.

Conclusion:

Overall, Calgary's real estate market in 2025 is expected to remain strong, with steady price growth and a shift toward balanced conditions. While the market shows resilience, potential economic risks should be considered when making investment decisions.​

Whether you’re buying, selling, or just watching from the sidelines, this shift to a balanced market is actually a good thing. It means less chaos, more predictability, and better opportunities for everyone — as long as you’re strategic and well-informed.

Need help navigating it all? Don’t go it alone. Work with someone who knows the Calgary market inside and out — because timing, pricing, and strategy matter more now than they have in years.

Let’s face it - downsizing isn’t always an easy decision. It’s a big step, often tied to emotions, memories, and a bit of uncertainty. But over time, the home that once buzzed with activity can start to feel too large and too much to manage.

For many baby boomers, that moment has arrived. The kids have moved out, the extra space goes unused, and the upkeep is getting old. Downsizing isn’t just about less cleaning - it’s about transitioning into a simpler, more manageable lifestyle that fits this new chapter.

With home values still strong, many boomers are sitting on substantial equity - often in fully paid-off homes. Selling now can unlock that wealth, offering more freedom to travel, support loved ones, or simply enjoy retirement with fewer financial pressures.

If you're feeling the weight of an empty nest, thinking about retirement, or wanting a home that’s easier to age in, downsizing might be the right move.

That said, many seniors are choosing to stay put well into their 80s. Why? A lack of suitable options, the cost of moving, and deep emotional ties to their homes all play a part.

In this blog, we’ll look at why downsizing could be a smart choice - if it aligns with your lifestyle goals - what to think about before making the move, and how to make the transition as smooth and rewarding as possible.

Is it Time?

Downsizing is a big decision, whether it’s to save money, reduce upkeep, or simplify life, and it’s important to understand why you’re doing it. The new space should meet both your current and future needs without sacrificing comfort. Financially, downsizing can lower mortgage and maintenance costs, but moving expenses and potential renovations should be considered. It can also be an emotional process, as many older adults have a deep connection to their family homes, which are filled with memories of raising a family and milestones. Letting go of things and adjusting to a new environment can be tough, so take your time.

For some, the idea of downsizing may sound appealing, but it’s often a challenge to find a place that feels right or is affordable, especially with today’s high housing prices. Staying in a familiar home and neighborhood offers comfort and a sense of stability, while health issues and the physical challenges of moving make it easier to stay put. Ultimately, the decision often comes down to the desire to maintain independence and avoid the stress of a major change.

What Are the Benefits? 

While we understand it’s hard to give up your older family home, downsizing comes with great benefits! Here are just a few of the many perks you can look forward to: 

• A more affordable mortgage 

• Reduced utility bills 

• The ability to move closer to friends and family

• The opportunity to travel 

• Little to no maintenance 

• More money to do what you love 

What Will I Do With All My Stuff?

Admittedly, one of the most difficult parts in the downsizing is having to decide what stays and what goes. Here are a few suggestions to make the process easier: 

• Figure out what you truly need: Start by listing the items you definitely want to keep and those you’re okay parting with.

• Tackle the big stuff first: Focus on the larger furniture and appliances to determine what you’ll actually need in your new place.

• Go room by room: Start with one room and only move to the next once it’s done. This will help avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Sort into three piles: As you go, create piles for “keep,” “sell,” and “donate” to stay organized.

• Consider storage: If you’re not ready to part with something, remember storage is always an option

Types of Property & What to Consider as a Downsizer in Calgary

Calgary offers a variety of property types for every lifestyle and budget—from cozy condos to spacious single-family homes, even luxury penthouses.

Condos, including apartments and townhouses, are a popular choice for downsizers. While they come with monthly fees, those often cover costs like landscaping, snow removal, and exterior maintenance.

Each option has its pros and cons, so the right choice depends on your lifestyle and priorities.

Condos & Apartments: Apartments often come with appealing perks like elevators, fitness centers, heated underground parking, and sometimes even a pool. These amenities can make everyday living more comfortable, especially for those who want less upkeep and more convenience. They're also a great option if travel is on your agenda- condos are generally easier to lock up and leave.

Pet lovers, take note: not all condo boards allow pets, so it's important to check the rules if you have a furry friend.

Townhouses: Townhouses offer a nice middle ground. You still get a bit more space and privacy compared to an apartment, but with less maintenance than a detached home. The trade-off? Stairs. Some folks see stairs as a positive - great for keeping active - while others may view them as a downside. If mobility becomes an issue down the line, a chair lift is often a feasible solution.

Single-Family Homes: A single-family home - like a bungalow or one with a main-floor bedroom and bathroom can be a great option for downsizers who value independence and outdoor space. While it does come with more responsibilities and costs than condo living, it also offers greater freedom in how you manage and enjoy your home.

Conclusion: 

If downsizing has been on your mind lately and it seems to keep popping up in conversations, that’s usually not a coincidence. It might be your way of saying you’re ready for a change, even if it’s just been a quiet thought in the background.

The truth is, the one thing we can say for certain is that right now, your property is worth more than ever before. We can’t predict what tomorrow holds, but today, the market is at an all-time high. Downsizing can mean less upkeep, lower bills, and a home that’s just right for this stage of life - whether that’s traveling more, being closer to family, or simply enjoying a space that’s easier to live in.

Downsizing isn’t about letting go of the past, it’s about making space for what’s ahead. If it’s been on your mind lately, it might be worth taking that step. And if you’re looking for some help, I’ve been through it myself- helping my own parents downsize both as a realtor and as their son. So I truly understand the process and the importance of having the right support along the way.

Planning to sell your home this year? It’s important to know which upgrades really add value. In Calgary’s competitive market, the majority of buyers are looking for homes that are modern, functional, and move-in ready, but not all renovations will give you the best return. Whether you’re selling a luxury estate, a family home, or your first townhome, the right improvements can attract more buyers and help you get top dollar.

Here are five upgrades that might cost a bit more, but they’re guaranteed to make a big impact and deliver a solid return.

1. Kitchen Renovations: The kitchen is a big deal when it comes to selling a home – it’s often referred as the heart of the home and one of the first things buyers focus in on. In Calgary’s real estate market, especially in hot neighborhoods, a modern kitchen is one of the best upgrades a seller can make. Buyers are looking for sleek finishes, energy-efficient appliances, and smart layouts that make the space both stylish and practical.

Smart Improvements:

• Swap out old countertops for quartz or granite to boost durability and style.
• Refresh cabinets with a new coat of paint or modern hardware—or replace them if they’re outdated.
• Upgrade to energy-efficient stainless steel appliances for a sleek, modern touch.
• Improve lighting with updated fixtures and add under-cabinet LED strips for a warm, functional glow.

The Appraisal Institute of Canada says a kitchen reno can give you up to a 75% return on investment. For luxury buyers, a high-end kitchen can be a real game-changer.

2. Bathroom Refresh: Right after the kitchen, bathrooms are a big deal for buyers. If a bathroom looks outdated or worn down, it can be an instant red flag, making the whole house feel a little neglected. But a clean, modern, and well-designed bathroom? That can make a home feel polished, move-in ready, and way more appealing.

High-Impact Updates:

• Swap out old vanities and fixtures for sleek, modern finishes like matte black or brushed gold.
• Upgrade to a frameless glass shower or a deep soaking tub for a spa-like feel.
• Refresh the space with new tile flooring or add a heated floor system for extra comfort.
• Enhance lighting and install large mirrors to make the room feel brighter and more open.

3. Boost Curb Appeal: Your home’s exterior is like its handshake – it’s the first thing buyers notice, and it sets the vibe for the rest of the showing. If the curb appeal is on point, buyers walk in with a positive mindset. But if the exterior looks worn out or uninviting, it can be tough to shake that first impression.

Curb Appeal Upgrades:

• Refresh your home’s exterior with updated siding or a fresh coat of paint on the front door and trim.
• Upgrade your curb appeal with sleek house numbers, stylish lighting, and decorative planters.
• Revive your lawn with new sod or reseeding, and opt for low-maintenance landscaping.
• Give walkways and the driveway a deep clean with a power wash for a polished, welcoming look.

Buyers usually make up their mind about a home in the first few minutes. These simple, affordable upgrades can grab their attention and help your home sell faster.

4. Energy-Efficient Upgrades: Energy efficiency is a smart investment, and Calgary buyers are increasingly looking for homes that lower utility costs. Upgrades like better insulation, high-efficiency windows, and smart thermostats are becoming must-haves. These features boost comfort and add long-term value, with buyers paying attention to savings from things like tankless water heaters and LED lighting.

High-ROI Energy Updates:

• Replace with triple-pane windows or add extra insulation for better energy efficiency.
• Upgrade to a high-efficiency furnace or water heater to reduce energy use.
• Install a smart thermostat to optimize temperature control.
• Switch to LED lighting throughout the home for energy savings.

These upgrades not only attract eco-conscious buyers, but they also show that your home is smart and budget-friendly.

5. Modern Touches: Small upgrades to your home’s interior finishes can give it a fresh, modern vibe without costing a fortune. Simple things like updating cabinet hardware, swapping out old light fixtures for something sleek, or refreshing paint colours can really make a difference. Calgary buyers are definitely drawn to homes that feel well cared for and updated, so even small changes can go a long way in making your place stand out. It’s all about creating a space that feels current and inviting – without having to do a major overhaul.

Simple yet Effective Updates:

• Swap out old flooring for vinyl plank or engineered hardwood
• Paint the walls in neutral shades such as warm greys, soft whites, or taupe
• Upgrade the lighting with stylish pendant or recessed fixtures
• Install modern door handles, baseboards, and trim for a clean, polished look

These affordable updates make it easier for buyers to picture themselves in the home, which can help smooth things over during negotiations.

Conclusion:

Sell with Confidence in Calgary’s Market – Upgrading your home doesn’t always require a full renovation. You don’t need to tackle everything, but by focusing on key areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and curb appeal, you can raise your home’s resale value without breaking the bank. Incorporating energy-efficient features and smart finishes will enhance value while making your space modern, functional, and appealing to today’s buyers.

What’s the Driving Force Behind Real Estate?

The real estate market isn’t just about supply and demand—it’s influenced by a mix of economic trends, social shifts, and even psychology. Interest rates, job growth, and government policies all have a say, but so do buyer confidence and global events.

Here are the key factors that shape the market:

• Inventory Levels: In real estate, supply, demand, and inventory levels can really impact how the market plays out.
  
   
  • Low inventory: Fewer homes on the market mean increased competition among buyers, often leading to quick sales and bidding wars. This favors sellers, while buyers need to act fast and make strong offers.
  • High inventory: More available properties give buyers greater choice and negotiating power, which can lead to more balanced or even lower home prices
• Interest Rates: Mortgage rates play a crucial role in affordability and buyer demand.
  • Low interest rates: Lower borrowing costs attract more buyers, boosting demand and potentially driving up home prices.
  • High interest rates: Higher rates make mortgage payments more expensive, which can slow buyer activity and ease upward pressure on prices.
• Local Demand: Real estate trends vary by neighborhood, with some areas seeing stronger demand due to:
  • A growing job market and a strong local economy
  • Attractive amenities like schools, parks, and shopping
  • Ongoing development and infrastructure improvements
• Economic Conditions: A strong economy with job growth and rising incomes fuels demand. A weak economy slows things down.
  • Employment rates: More jobs mean more buyers; layoffs create hesitation.
  • Wage growth: If incomes rise, people can afford higher mortgage payments.
  • Inflation: Higher costs for goods and services can make everything, including homes, more expensive.
  • GDP growth: A booming economy generally leads to a stronger housing market.
• Construction Costs & Supply Chain Issues: If materials or labor get expensive, builders charge more, which impacts housing prices.
  • Material prices: Costs for lumber, steel, drywall, and other essentials fluctuate based on demand, trade policies, and global supply chains.
  • Labor shortages: If there aren’t enough skilled workers, wages go up, making construction more expensive.
  • Regulations & permits: Government rules, zoning laws, and environmental regulations can add time and costs to projects.
  • Supply chain disruptions: Shipping delays, natural disasters, or geopolitical conflicts can slow down the delivery of critical materials.
• Global Events & External Shocks: Pandemics, financial crises, or geopolitical tensions can slow or boost markets unexpectedly.
• Population Growth & Migration: More people moving into an area (due to job opportunities, lifestyle, or affordability) increases housing demand.
  • Job Opportunities: Cities with strong job markets attract workers. When job markets expand, so does demand for housing.
  • Affordability: As home prices rise in major cities like Toronto or Vancouver, many buyers and renters look for more affordable alternatives. This has fueled migration to places like Calgary, where housing is relatively cheaper.
  • Lifestyle & Quality of Life: People move for better weather, lower crime, good schools, or access to nature. The rise of remote work has also allowed people to relocate to places with a lower cost of living or a better quality of life.
  • Immigration: Many countries, including Canada, have strong immigration policies that bring in new residents each year.
  • Infrastructure & Development: Cities investing in new transit systems, highways, and public amenities often attract more residents. Good infrastructure makes living in a certain area more desirable, increasing property values.

Conclusion:

If you’re curious about Calgary’s real estate market and want to figure out the best move for your goals, let’s chat!

Hey, I totally get it—things feel pretty uncertain right now. Interest rates keep shifting, the economy’s unpredictable, and the real estate market is always changing. It’s natural to feel a little unsure about making a move. But here’s the thing—uncertainty also creates opportunity.

Remember markets go through cycles, and right now, there are some solid chances to get ahead. Whether it’s motivated sellers, less competition, or better financing options, the right strategy can put you in a great spot.

Taking Advantage of Low Interest Rates:

Low interest rates are a big deal because they can make owning a home way more affordable. You’ll pay less each month on your mortgage, which adds up to thousands of dollars saved over time. Plus, lower rates give you more buying power, so you might qualify for a bigger loan without breaking the bank. This means you could snag a better home, a nicer neighborhood, or extra features that might be out of reach when rates go up.

Ultimately, buying a home at a low interest rate not only keeps monthly costs manageable but also helps build equity sooner. As home values continue to rise, waiting could mean paying more in the future. If homeownership is on your radar, now is the time to act before market conditions shift.

Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB) Stats Feb 2025:

CREB releases monthly statistic reports and it was reported for the second month in a row, inventory saw a big year-over-year jump, climbing 76% to 4,145 units. While listings were up across all price ranges, the biggest gains were in homes under $500K, thanks to a surge in more affordable apartments and townhouses. Months of supply sat at 2.4—about the same as last month but more than double what it was a year ago (apartment-style units had the most inventory, with 3.1 months of supply).

“Even though more homes hit the market, sales were lower than in February 2024,” said Alan Tennant, President and CEO of CREB®. “That’s taking some of the pressure off sellers, easing the competitive market we’ve had for the past few years. It’s also slowing price growth a bit, which is good news for buyers.”

The unadjusted benchmark price for all residential properties was $587,600 in February—holding steady compared to late 2024 and up about 1% year-over-year. Prices varied across the city, with the City Centre and North districts seeing slight declines, while the East district led the way with over 3% growth.

Conclusion:

If you’re in a good spot financially and mentally ready, now’s the time to make moves. The most desired homes in the most desirable areas are still selling fast, but don’t let that stress you out—there are plenty of great options out there. You might not find “the one” right away, but the perfect home is more of a myth anyway. With the right mindset and a little patience, you’ll find a place that fits your needs and sets you up for long-term success.

So if you’re thinking about making a move, now’s a great time to start looking before the market gets even busier. Let’s find the right home for you!

Considering converting your basement suite? Have you checked out Calgary’s Secondary Suite Incentive Program? This program helps homeowners create safe, legal secondary suites, and if you’re thinking of building or legalizing a suite, you could get up to $10K to help cover the costs.

In this blog, we’ll cover everything from what makes a suite illegal to what’s needed to apply for the program, plus the benefits of having a legal suite:

What is an Illegal Suite?

An illegal suite is a secondary suite (like a basement apartment) that doesn’t meet the city’s safety, zoning, or building code rules. This could mean it was built without permits, has fire hazards (like missing smoke alarms or unsafe wiring), lacks a proper entrance, or is in a neighbourhood that doesn’t allow suites.

Even if it looks fine, if the city hasn’t approved it, it’s still illegal—which can lead to fines, insurance problems, or even eviction orders for tenants.

What’s the Deal?

If you’re a homeowner looking to build or legalize a secondary suite, the City of Calgary is offering up to $10K to help cover the costs. But there are a few conditions:

1. The suite must be inside your home: This means basement suites, in-law suites, or similar setups within the main house qualify. Backyard suites or detached units don’t count.
2. You must live in the home: This program is for homeowners who reside on the property while upgrading or legalizing the suite. It’s not for investment properties or landlords who don’t live there.
3. One application per homeowner: You can only apply for one suite per property and per person, so choose wisely!

How do you Qualify?

Before you can apply, you’ll need to meet a few key requirements:

1. Building permit: Whether you’re starting from scratch or bringing an existing suite up to code, you’ll need city approval before applying. No permit, no funding!
2. Follow safety rules – Your suite has to meet building codes to keep tenants safe. That means:
   • Proper exits (like egress windows in case of emergencies).
   • Hardwired smoke & carbon monoxide detectors.
   • Fire barriers to slow down flames in case of a fire.
3. Live in the home – This program is only for homeowners who live on the property. If it’s a rental property where you don’t reside, you’re out of luck.

Benefits of a Legal Suite:

Legalizing your basement suite is a smart move with plenty of benefits. It helps you avoid fines, legal issues, and eviction orders, and removes the stress of inspections or complaints. A legal suite also ensures safety, meeting fire codes and insurance requirements, so you’re fully protected.

On top of that, legalizing your suite can increase your property value, make it easier to sell, and attract reliable, long-term tenants who prefer a safe, approved space.

The Secondary Suite Program is worth looking into since it offers up to $10K to help cover the costs of legalizing your suite. It keeps you protected from legal and insurance issues while boosting your property value and bringing in dependable tenants. It’s truly a win all around!

10 Reasons Why Calgary:

Whether you’re considering a new job, a fresh start, or simply looking for a change of scenery, Calgary has plenty to offer. From its thriving economy to its stunning natural beauty, there’s a lot to love about this city. If you’re curious about what makes it so great, here are 10 reasons why:

1. Home of the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth: The Calgary Stampede is one of the world’s largest rodeos and attracts over a million visitors each year. It’s been running since 1912 and turns the city into a massive festival of cowboy culture every July.
2. Sunniest Major City in Canada: Calgary gets over 330 days of sunshine per year—more than any other major Canadian city.
3. Quality of Life: With clean air, low crime rates, and great healthcare, Calgary is often ranked among the most livable cities in the world. The city also boasts excellent schools, making it great for families.
4. No Provincial Sales Tax (PST): Calgary is significantly cheaper than Vancouver and Toronto, especially in terms of housing costs. No PST also means lower expenses for everyday purchases.
5. Thriving Tech Industry & Energy Sectors: Calgary, known for its strong oil and gas industry, love for rodeos, and cowboy culture—earning it the nickname “the Texas of Canada”—is also emerging as a tech hub, attracting startups and established companies in AI, clean energy, and fintech, with programs like Alberta Tech Deal Flow supporting business growth.
6. Outdoor Lifestyle & Proximity to the Rockies: People love Calgary for its access to Banff, Canmore, and the Rocky Mountains—perfect for hiking, skiing, and nature lovers. The city also has over 1,000 km of pathways for biking and walking.
7. Young and Diverse Population: With an average age of 36, Calgary is one of Canada’s youngest cities. It’s also the third most diverse major city in the country, with more than 120 languages spoken.
8. Chinook Winds: The city experiences Chinook winds, which can cause rapid temperature increases, sometimes by up to 20°C in a matter of hours.
9. +15 Skyway Network: Calgary boasts the world’s largest pedestrian skyway system, known as the “+15” network, featuring over 60 bridges that connect buildings throughout the downtown area.
10. Sports & Culture: Hosted the 1988 Winter Olympic and Home to the Calgary Flames (NHL) and Calgary Stampeders (CFL).

One of the most common questions I get from buyers and even some homeowners is, “What’s an RPR?”

In this blog we will go over what an RPR is, what purpose it serves, and when it needs to be updated.

What is an Real Property Report (RPR)?

Back in 2022, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) rolled out the MLI Select program to helps finance multi-unit rental housing. It gives better loan terms—like higher loan amounts, longer repayment periods, and lower premiums— which was based on a points system that rewards affordable, energy-efficient, and accessible projects. Since then it has undergone some changes to the program, however it is a go to for any investor looking to gain some doors at an affordable upfront cost.

Previous Key Features:

The MLI Select program is designed to encourage the development and preservation of affordable, accessible, and energy-efficient rental housing based on the key features below:

1. Incentive-Based System
   • Borrowers earn points based on affordability, energy efficiency, and accessibility.
   • Higher points = better financing terms (higher loan-to-value, longer amortization, lower insurance premiums).
2. Eligible Properties
   • New construction, acquisitions, and refinancing of rental properties.
   • Must have five or more residential units.
3. Financing Benefits
   • Up to 95% Loan-to-Value (LTV) for eligible projects.
   • Up to 50-year amortization for high-scoring properties.
   • Reduced premiums or premium refunds based on affordability and sustainability criteria.
4. Affordability Component
   • Points awarded for maintaining rents at below-market levels for at least 10 years.
5. Energy Efficiency
   • Incentives for projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions or meet high-efficiency building standards.
6. Accessibility
   • Additional points for buildings that meet or exceed universal design and accessibility standards.

Calgary: Canada’s Next Real Estate Hotspot?

Calgary has been on the up and up, mainly due to the significant growth in the past years, while the job market has stayed relatively strong compared to the rest of Canada, the biggest draw for outsiders is affordability. While home prices in Ontario continue to climb, Calgary offers a much more affordable lifestyle, making it an attractive option for those looking to escape the high costs of living and find better opportunities, and here are a few reasons why:

1. Energy Sector Resurgence: Calgary leads Canada’s energy shift, attracting investment and skilled workers seeking affordability and stability as Ontario’s costs rise.
2. Tech Industry Boom: Calgary is growing as a tech hub, attracting investment and top talent while diversifying Alberta’s economy for long-term stability.
3. Affordability Advantage: Calgary’s housing is far more affordable than Toronto’s, costing nearly half as much. This draws buyers from Ontario and B.C., where homeownership is out of reach.
4. Explosive Population Growth: Calgary’s population is surging as young professionals and families move west for affordability, jobs, and a better quality of life.

Toronto: The Downfall?

In January 2025, the average home price in the GTA dipped to $1,040,994—down 2.5% from December. If you’re wondering what happened, here’s the few reasons on why the Toronto market has been on the downturn as of late.

1. Home Prices Dropping: Prices for both condos and single-family homes have continued to decline, with some areas seeing double-digit percentage drops compared to last year.
2. Surge in Listings: Active listings have increased significantly, leading to more inventory and giving buyers more negotiating power.
3. Rising Vacancy Rates: The rental market is experiencing higher vacancy rates, with landlords offering incentives to attract tenants.
4. Interest Rate Impact: High borrowing costs due to elevated interest rates are keeping many potential buyers on the sidelines, leading to slower sales.
5. Government Policy Changes: New measures, including reduced immigration targets and potential housing regulations, are affecting investor confidence.

Conclusion:

What is the Capital Gains Tax?

Capital gains tax is what you pay when you sell an asset—like stocks, rental properties, or a business—for more than you bought it for. In Canada, only part of that profit is taxed. Right now (2025), 50% of the gain is added to your taxable income, but the government has proposed raising that to 67% for big gains over $250K and for businesses. The actual tax you owe depends on your income, since it’s taxed at your regular rate.

Why the Delay?

“Given the current context, our government felt that it was the responsible thing to do,” LeBlanc said in a press release. “I look forward to further conversations with Canadians on how we can ensure Canada’s fiscal policy encourages robust and sustained economic activity in every region of our country.”

Liberal Party leadership candidate Chrystia Freeland, who introduced the policy as federal finance minister, recently said she would nix the capital gains tax hike if elected.