As the remaining population of Canadians heads to the polls today, the outcome of the federal election will significantly impact the real estate market and the broader economy. Both the Liberal and Conservative parties have distinct policies around housing, taxation, and economic growth. Understanding how either party’s victory could affect homeowners, buyers, and investors — especially in Alberta — is crucial.

Here’s a breakdown of what each party’s platform could mean for the future of real estate:

Housing Supply and Affordability

Liberal Party: The Liberals propose a more active government role in tackling housing affordability. Their plans include:

• Creating a federal agency, Build Canada Homes, to develop affordable housing on public land.

• Eliminating GST on new homes under $1 million for first-time buyers, lowering upfront costs.

• Massive public investment in non-profit, affordable, and rental housing — not just private developments.

• Zoning reform: Supporting upzoning to allow multi-unit buildings in more neighborhoods.

• Partnering with cities and non-profits to push collaborative housing initiatives.

• Introducing climate-friendly standards for new builds, like net-zero homes and retrofits.

• Strengthening renter protections through potential federal frameworks or rent control funding.

Conservative Party: The Conservatives favor a market-driven strategy, aiming to accelerate private sector construction through:

• Raising the GST rebate threshold to $1.3 million for new home purchases.

• Forcing cities to increase housing starts by 15% yearly, with infrastructure funds tied to results.

• Selling federal land and buildings to private developers to unlock more supply.

• Slashing red tape: faster permits and fewer regulations.

• Extending bans on foreign homeownership to keep speculation low.

• Believing that boosting supply rapidly will naturally help curb rising prices.

If the Liberals win, the impact in Calgary might not be immediate, given the longer timelines typical of government-led initiatives. However, over time, we could see more affordable housing, stronger renter protections, and climate-focused developments — particularly with Calgary’s available land base. First-time buyers could also benefit from the GST exemption, although developers and investors might face more government oversight.

If the Conservatives win, the effects could come faster. Their push for deregulation, land sales, and higher GST rebates would likely accelerate private construction, especially in suburban areas. Developers and investors could benefit immediately, but without a corresponding flood of new supply, first-time buyers might still find prices out of reach.

Taxation and Investor Confidence:

Liberal Party: The Liberals plan to:

• Keep the current capital gains tax structure (no increases).

• Reduce the lowest income tax bracket by 1%, giving Canadians slightly more disposable income.

Conservative Party: The Conservatives propose:

• A deeper cut in the lowest income tax bracket, from 15% to 12.75% — saving the average Canadian around $900 annually.

• Allowing Canadians to defer capital gains taxes if they reinvest proceeds into Canadian companies — a major incentive for domestic investment.

In short: The Conservatives are offering more immediate financial relief through tax cuts and reinvestment incentives, while the Liberals are taking a steadier, more cautious approach focused on modest income tax relief.

Conclusion:

Both parties are offering very different strategies for addressing real estate challenges, especially in Alberta.

The Liberals are banking on long-term affordability through large-scale public investment, first-time buyer incentives, renter protections, and climate-conscious construction. If they win, it’ll take time, but we could see a shift toward greater federal involvement in housing — and, ideally, more stability in the broader economy.

The Conservatives are going for a quick, market-driven fix — faster project approvals, bigger tax breaks, and deregulation. This could rapidly boost housing supply, especially in the suburbs, and possibly give Alberta's economy a short-term lift. But ironically, if Alberta’s economy surges, so could housing demand, keeping prices stubbornly high.

Ultimately, the choice comes down to what aligns most with your priorities—whether you're looking for long-term affordability, immediate financial relief, or incentives for investment. Go out and vote.

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.