If there’s one thing we know about Alberta, it’s that our landscape is as diverse as our real estate market. From the towering peaks of the Rockies to the rolling prairies, Alberta offers more than breathtaking views—it’s a land of opportunity. As we gear up for 2025, let’s take a fun dive into the trends and predictions shaking up the real estate scene across the province.

1. The Rise of the “Hybrid Haven”

In 2024, we saw a significant shift toward remote workspaces, and 2025 is doubling down on this trend. Buyers are no longer just looking for a home—they’re seeking a “Hybrid Haven,” a place where they can seamlessly blend work, play, and relaxation. Expect to see a surge in demand for properties with home offices, high-speed internet access, and creative multipurpose spaces. Think “home office meets zen garden meets VR gaming lounge!”

2. Urban Meets Nature: The Green Boom

Sustainability is the buzzword for 2025. Alberta’s urban centers like Calgary and Edmonton are leading the charge in green initiatives. More developers are incorporating eco-friendly designs—solar panels, green roofs, and geothermal heating. Buyers are increasingly conscious of their carbon footprints, and properties that balance modern living with environmental stewardship will be hot commodities.

3. Alberta’s Rental Revolution

The rental market is evolving. With economic growth forecasted for Alberta’s energy sector, the influx of workers will fuel a rental boom. Investors, take note: multi-family units and condos will be a prime opportunity in 2025. Expect to see more co-living spaces designed for young professionals and students seeking affordability without compromising on lifestyle.

4. Tech-Driven Transactions

Virtual showings, drone tours, and AI-driven property matchmaking are no longer just novelties—they’re becoming industry standards. In 2025, buyers and sellers in Alberta will rely heavily on tech for streamlined transactions. The days of paper-heavy contracts are dwindling. Digital signatures, blockchain security, and VR open houses will be the new normal.

5. Calgary’s Luxury Market Boom

Calgary’s luxury market is poised for growth, fueled by international buyers seeking a slice of Alberta’s prime real estate. From penthouse condos downtown to sprawling estates in Springbank, high-end properties will see increased demand, particularly from overseas investors drawn to the stability and beauty of Alberta’s market.

6. The Alberta Advantage Lives On

Despite economic fluctuations, Alberta remains a magnet for newcomers due to its strong job market, lower taxes, and quality of life. Predictions indicate steady population growth in 2025, fueling continued demand for housing across all sectors. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, investor, or looking to upsize, there’s room for everyone in Alberta’s thriving real estate market.

Final Thoughts

As we step into 2025, Alberta’s real estate market promises to be dynamic and diverse, just like its people. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or invest, the opportunities are endless. So, buckle up—2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year in Alberta real estate, and as always, I’m here to guide you every step of the way!

What are your thoughts on Alberta’s real estate future? Let’s chat in the comments below!

The holiday season is upon us, and while travel plans may be tempting, there’s something magical about staying cozy at home. Whether you’re solo, with family, or hosting friends, here’s a list of holiday activities to keep the festive spirit alive without stepping outside your front door!

1. DIY Holiday Décor Extravaganza

Who needs store-bought decorations when you can create your own? Gather some pinecones, twinkly lights, and ribbons, then unleash your inner artist. Try making a garland with dried oranges or crafting homemade ornaments. Bonus: it’s a fun way to involve the kids or bond with friends over hot cocoa.

2. Cozy Movie Marathons with a Twist

Take your holiday movie marathon up a notch by turning it into a themed event. Host a “Home Alone” pizza party or a “Harry Potter” hot chocolate bar. Everyone dresses in cozy PJs, blankets everywhere, and don’t forget the popcorn topped with festive sprinkles!

3. Bake-Off: Holiday Edition

Ready, set, bake! Challenge your household to a friendly baking competition. From gingerbread houses to holiday cookies, let everyone showcase their sweet (or savory) skills. For an extra festive touch, add a blind taste test and let the winner enjoy the last slice of pie guilt-free.

4. International Holiday Night

Bring the world to your dining table by cooking dishes from different cultures. Maybe start with a French bûche de Noël, move on to Italian panettone, or try a Swedish smorgasbord. It’s a fun way to learn about global traditions and enjoy delicious food without leaving your home.

5. Indoor Winter Wonderland

Turn your home into a snow-free winter wonderland. Use fairy lights, cotton batting for faux snow, and paper snowflakes. You can even set up a “sledding” course using cardboard boxes and pillows for kids (and the young at heart).

6. Virtual Carol Karaoke

Invite friends and family for a virtual holiday karaoke night. Belt out your favorite carols or modern holiday hits. Add a prize for the best performance or most creative holiday outfit to keep the energy high.

7. DIY Holiday Photo Booth

Create a holiday-themed photo booth with a festive backdrop, props, and a camera (or just your phone!). This is perfect for capturing memories, especially if you plan on sending out digital holiday cards or posting a cheerful update on social media.

8. Sip & Paint Night

Set up a holiday-themed paint night with festive drinks. Whether you’re sipping mulled wine, eggnog, or mocktails, this is a relaxing way to unwind while creating something unique. You could follow a holiday painting tutorial or let your imagination run wild.

9. Giving Back from Home

Make the season brighter for others by organizing a charity event from home. Host a virtual fundraiser, gather donations, or put together care packages for local shelters. Spreading holiday cheer has never been easier—or more meaningful.

Staying home this holiday season doesn’t mean missing out on festive fun. With a little creativity and a lot of cheer, your home can become the ultimate holiday destination. What’s on your at-home holiday activity list this year?

The Calgary Real Estate Board released the latest statistics, saying, as we transition into winter, Calgary’s housing market is following typical seasonal trends, with activity slowing compared to the fall. However, year-over-year demand remains relatively strong. In November, increased sales in detached, semi-detached, and row homes offset a decline in apartment condominium sales. The 1,797 sales for November mirrored last year’s levels and remained 20 per cent above long-term trends for the month.

The significant shift lies in supply. Inventory levels rose to 4,352 units in November, a notable increase from the 3,000 units reported last year. Despite the recent gains, inventory levels remain below long-term trends for the month.

“Housing supply has been a challenge over the past several years due to the sudden rise in population,” said Ann-Marie Lurie, Chief Economist at CREB®. “Rising new home construction has bolstered supply in rental, new home and resales ownership markets. However, supply improvements vary significantly by location, price range, and property type.”

The months of supply have increased to over two months, representing a shift away from the extremely low levels seen earlier this year and in the past three Novembers, which reported under two months of supply. While these more balanced conditions are promising for potential buyers, many market segments still favour sellers.

Improved supply options have tempered the pace of price growth. Year-over-year gains range from nearly seven per cent for row homes to nine per cent for apartment-style units. The total residential benchmark price reached $587,900, reflecting a year-over-year increase of just under four per cent. This slower growth reflects a shift toward more affordable row and apartment-style units. Seasonally adjusted prices have remained stable over the past four months despite unadjusted prices trending down in line with seasonal patterns.

Airdrie
With 344 units available, Supply in Airdrie is returning to levels more consistent with activity reported prior to 2020. Supply levels have improved across all property types, with detached and row-style properties accounting for 84 per cent of the supply. While sales have remained strong relative to long-term trends, recent gains in new listings helped support improvements in supply levels.

Improved supply choice is taking some of the pressure off home prices. In November, the total residential benchmark price was $543,300, four per cent higher than last November. Apartment-style properties reported the largest year-over-year change at nearly 16 per cent.

New listings in the town reached a record high for November. The rise in new listings was met with a surge in sales, as November sales were amongst the highest levels reported in November. Much of the growth in sales was driven by detached activity. Strong sales activity prevented a significant shift in inventory levels, which remain 18 per cent below the month’s long-term trends.

The pace of price growth has eased over the past few months, which is not uncommon for this time of year. As of November, the unadjusted benchmark price was $568,600, nearly four per cent higher than levels reported last year at this time. While prices grew across all property types, the largest price gains were reported for apartment-style homes.

Unlike other centres, Okotoks reported a pullback in new listings to 47 units this month. At the same time, there were 52 sales, preventing any significant change to the low inventory situation in the area. Okotoks has struggled with supply since the end of 2020, keeping the months of supply low below two months throughout most of that time.

In November, the unadjusted benchmark price was $624,000, six per cent higher than last year’s levels. Prices have improved across all property types, with the largest gains occurring for row-style properties. Detached prices have also been on the rise and, in November, pushed up to $707,300.

Read the full release here www.creb.com/News/Media_Releases/2024/December/Supply_on_the_rise_but_not_across_all_price_ranges/ and connect with me for more about the real estate market in and around Calgary. Join me on Facebook and Google for the latest in real estate news!