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If you’re thinking of buying or selling property, the Calgary real estate market has been on the rise for most of 2012. While home sales in the rest of Canada have been trending downwards because of new mortgage rules, Calgary’s has been expanding. In fact, the trend for most of 2012 is one of growth, both in volume and values this year. 

Reading the Signs of Growth

One of the best places to check for the strength of a market is from Multiple Listing Service (MLS) sales. MLS sales are a good gauge of how active the housing market is. In the case of Calgary’s Real Estate Market, transactions have risen to 2,054 –up 14.8% from September 2011. Last month’s benchmark prices, the typical sale price for a home, look good too:

• single-family homes are up 8.2% to $432,900
• condo apartments increased by 3.83% to $249,300 and
• condo townhouses grew by 2.2% to $277,700, up

Such data are pointing to the idea that the real estate market of Calgary is getting healthier and has no signs of decline. Coupled with the latest October real estate figures, an even rosier picture can be painted regarding the Calgary real estate market:

• new listings decreased to 5.57 % (or 1,831)—which could mean more people are holding on to their homes, new constructions are keeping apace, or both
• more people are buying homes, with a home staying on the market cut to 45 days
• vendors are gaining the upper hand, with average sale price rising to $433,932 (4.86 % increase) and MLS sales up 21.92% (1,235) from the same period a year ago

The Economy: Driving Calgary’s Real Estate Market Growth

The better-than-normal real estate market can be seen to be linked to a booming economy fuelled by Calgary’s robust oil sands sector. Interestingly, respected economists Craig Alexander and Mario Lefebvre predicted that Calgary’s economy is set to lead Canada for the next three years. Very heartening news indeed!

Another key factor to the growth in Calgary’s real estate market is the decreasing unemployment rate. Compared to the national average which has seen an improvement of one percent, Calgary’s situation has improved by 3.5%. This is very encouraging news as this means more people are finding better work within the city which could only translate to higher household incomes. An attractive employment environment also means more incoming migration from people looking for better job prospects. A growing population in turn will eventually lead to increased demand for housing.  Better still, this increasing demand for housing is projected to grow steadily for the next five years. In fact, the BMO Housing Confidence Report says that people are more likely to purchase a home in Calgary with figures estimated at 62% which is much higher than the national average of 46%, the Greater Toronto Area (57%), and that of Vancouver (53%).  This means that: (1) consumer confidence in the Calgary real estate market is firming up; (2) housing demand will grow over the next year, and (3) a vendor’s market is gaining traction.

Taking stock of all the data, 2012 has been a great year for Calgary and 2013 is looking to continue that trend.

Know someone who is looking to make a decision in real estate? If you know any friends, family, or co-workers who are looking to buy, sell, or invest in real estate within the next six months, would you forward this email to them or reply with their contact information? I’ll send them important information about the Calgary, AB surrounding area real estate market and politely ask for their business. I greatly appreciate your valued referrals; it’s the only way I build my business. (Free Market Report on value of your home: www.CalgaryMarketSnapShot.com)

Author Bio:

Bryon Howard is a top-producing real estate agent with Re-Max House of Real Estate in Calgary, Alberta. He is in love with his high school sweetheart, is an enthusiastic Dad & crazy about endurance sports. To learn more about Bryon and his real estate tips, head on over to his website.

Common wisdom holds that the holiday season is the worst time to market property as it is the year’s busiest. This notion, however, is a misconception and the holidays can be an opportune time for listing your Calgary home. Here’s why:

1. Potential buyers are likely to be emotional and will appreciate the care and attention placed in decorating a home. Remember, the holidays are a time for family and buyers will likely envision themselves and their own families in a beautifully created environment.
2.  A home is at its best during the holiday season. A warm and inviting atmosphere, coupled with festive décor, and food that is sumptuously prepared will see a house’s appeal rise astronomically with buyers. Take advantage of the holiday season and appeal to the senses. Sometimes, that bowl of freshly baked cookies or that grand Christmas tree can be more decisive in making a sale than you think.
3. There is always someone out in the market looking for a home during the holiday season and that someone is usually a serious buyer. By keeping your Calgary home listed during the holidays, you will likely catch the attention of such a buyer. Better still, since the prevalent thinking is that the holidays are not a favorable time to place property on the market, you will have less competition to contend with.
4.  Many businesses relocate their employees at the beginning of the year and this creates a sense of urgency for those transferees to find a home during the holiday season. Moreover, most companies cannot wait for spring and the wise will be on the market to capture holiday business.
5. It goes without saying that you will command a better price and make a quicker sale simply because there is less competition.

A Little Extra for the Holidays 

Aside from the suggestions mentioned above, it also pays to consider a few other nuances. First, you won’t lose your sense of privacy and family time when your Calgary property is listed. Remember, you can still decide when to have your house open for viewing. Second, it pays to have your home on the market for the simple reason that the traditional notion of “buying and selling seasons” has been displaced by technology. The internet, smart phones, tablets, and computers are all avenues for potential buyers to scout for homes. Moreover, home hunting is very much instantaneous and not as hectic as it was even 5 years ago. A buyer can literally do a search from work, while eating lunch, or during the daily commute. Thus, it pays to list your Calgary home even if it is just to be on the radar of holiday buyers.      

There you have it, five reasons on why it is actually a sound idea to list your Calgary property during the holidays.

Know someone who is looking to make a decision in real estate? If you know any friends, family, or co-workers who are looking to buy, sell, or invest in real estate within the next six months, would you forward this email to them or reply with their contact information? I’ll send them important information about the Calgary, AB surrounding area real estate market and politely ask for their business. I greatly appreciate your valued referrals; it’s the only way I build my business.

Free Market Report on value of your home: www.CalgaryMarketSnapShot.com

Bryon Howard is a top producing real estate agent with Re-Max House of Real Estate in Calgary, Alberta. He is in love with his high school sweetheart, an enthusiastic Dad & is crazy about endurance sports. To learn more about Bryon and his real estate tips, head on over to his website

1. People who look for a home during the Holidays are more serious buyers!

2. Serious buyers have fewer houses to choose from during the Holidays and less competition means more money for you!

3. Since the supply of listings will dramatically increase in January, there will be less demand for your particular home! Less demand means less money for you!

4. Houses show better when decorated for the Holidays!

5. Buyers are more emotional during the Holidays, so they are more likely to pay your price!

6. Buyers have more time to look for a home during the Holidays than they do during a working week!

7. Some people must buy before the end of the year for tax reasons!

8. January is traditionally the month for employees to begin new jobs. Since transferee’s cannot wait until Spring to buy, you must be on the market now to capture that market!

9. You can still be on the market, but you have the option to restrict showings during the six or seven days during the Holidays!

10. You can sell now for more money and we will provide for a delayed closing or extended occupancy until early next year!

11. By selling now, you may have an opportunity to be a non-contingent buyer during the Spring, when many more houses are on the market for less money!

Living in Altadore

Why You’ll Love Living in Altadore – Voted One of Calgary’s Best Neighborhoods

People love living in Altadore and I’m here to tell you why.

Author: Bryon Howard

As a top producing Realtor and Altadore resident, I know you’ll love living in Altadore, and why it was named one of the best neighborhoods in Calgary for both for young professionals and families alike. If you’re planning a move to Calgary’s Inner City, Altadore is located in the city’s south-west quadrant between Crowchild and 14^thStreet, which includes Sandy Beach and River Park.

While the majority of the Altadore homes reflect the 1950s styles, since it was in this decade the community came about, Altadore was named one of the Calgary’s best neighborhoods in 2010 for its proximity to River Park – one of Calgary’s best parks on the Elbow River and Marda Loop. Speaking of Marda Loop, it’s one of the main reasons why you’ll love living in Altadore. Marda Loop is known to be the largest and busiest outdoor shopping area in Calgary. It’s even known to have a rich cultural scene. Marda Loop has more than 125 independently-owned stores, which includes everything from markets, grocery stores, ice cream parlors, pubs and clothing boutiques.

In addition to shops, Altadore has a vibrant party and cultural scene, with events such as the Marda Loop Justice Film Festival and Marda Gras, a summer-themed street affair that attracts more than 35,000 Calgarians every August.

Altadore is also close to a massive expanse of greenery and they are: Sandy Beach, River Park and the Glenmore Athletic Park. These three parks provide not only a serene environment; they also offer one of the largest off-leash dog parks in the inner city. Not only that, but during the summer it offers the best spot to raft down the Elbow River.

Aside from leisure spots, Altadore homes are close to a wide range of schools from both the public and private sectors. Notable public schools are: Mount Royal Junior High, Bishop Carrol, and the designated public senior high school Central Memorial High School. For private schools, Masters Academy Private School serves Altadore and Garrison Woods.  In addition, Glenmore Christian Academy and other private schools in the South West are close by. Many kids also attend Elboya and Western Canadian High for the French Immersion and IB programs. Of course other numerous elementary and high schools are within convenient distances and some are even minutes away from Mount Royal College.

This is also one of the main reasons why in the last ten years, many high-end, luxury semi-detached homes are being built in the area. Infill buildings and the community changing from 1950s bungalows to modern two homes being put in one lot are also viable properties, too. These kinds of lifestyle and homes are preferred both by trendy, young professionals and families alike.

Living in Altadore sounds fun, right? Why not take a look for yourself on why it was voted one of Calgary’s best neighborhoods. From families who want a comfortable, but close to amenities lifestyle, to the young professional who wants an active social life, Altadore has it all.

I greatly appreciate your valued referrals; it’s the only way I build my business.

Do you know someone who is looking to make a decision in real estate? If you know any friends, family, or co-workers who are looking to buy, sell, or invest in real estate within the next six months, forward this video to them or my contact information. I’ll send them important information about Calgary and the surrounding area real estate market and politely ask for their business. So, give them my email (bryon@thehowardteam.net) or my phone number (403-475-7368) and I’ll even do a free market report on value of their home.

Bryon Howard is a top producing real estate agent in ReMax House of Real Estate, in love with his high school sweetheart, an enthusiastic Dad & crazy about endurance sports. If you want to learn more about Bryon and his real estate tips, head on over to his website.

Chances are you’ve heard the mantra when it comes to real estate that it’s all about “location, location, location.”

Now, what does it really mean exactly?

Before, it used to describe the specific location of your potential home. How it should be on a big lot in a quiet and safe neighborhood in a good quadrant or district of Calgary.

While these requirements still hold up, the new mantra is Actually “Amenities, amenities, amenities,” purchasing a home that’s within close proximity to facilities and things that people need and want.

I’m talking about shopping centers, schools, hospitals and viable transportation options, too. This all accumulates to a good, safe and comfortable lifestyle and environment that has strong potential when it comes to resale value.

In a recent residential study by RBC, it states that a majority of potential homeowners prefer living in a walk-able and transit-accessible neighborhood in the suburbs or city that fits in to a modern day-to-day life.

In the same study, it notes that if cost was not an issue, 80 percent of residents would give up a large lot for a smaller one if it means they will be within walking distance to amenities, have easy access to transit and less driving time.

When asked what residents value the most in choosing a place to live, amenities were noted in three of the five the top answers:

1)      Living in a detached single-family home (14.7 percent)

2)      Easy access and walking distance to shops, restaurants and other services (13.3 percent)

3)      Transit time to work that takes less than 30 minutes travel time (13.3 percent)

4)      Easy access to rapid transit, such as subways, GO Train or streetcars (11 percent)

5)      Privacy from neighborhoods (10.7 percent).

For a lot of people – especially families, a house near school districts are often considered an indicator of a good location. The region surrounding what is considered the best part of a town often has the same or similar boundaries as the school district itself. Sometimes, the quality of the school is even the reason the region has increased value over the years – thus proving how big of a role amenities play in a property’s value.

Age also plays a heavy factor in determining potential homes as people aged 60 and over showed the strongest preference for living in walk-able and compact neighborhoods (roughly 70 percent). This is despite the higher cost of homes in the area. This is in direct contrast to families that have two or more children, who strongly prefer large detached homes in car-dependent neighborhoods with lower housing costs (59 percent). While amenities might not mean the exact same thing to two different age groups, regardless of age, it still plays a large factor in how a person or family determines their home.

If you’re looking to buy, sell homes or even investment properties, then you should take note of these trends and how the modern household now puts amenities in the forefront of their purchases. While the “location” golden rule is still applicable, it needs to work hand-in-hand with the new golden rule, which is “amenities, amenities, amenities.”

Do you know someone who is looking to make a decision in real estate? If you know any friends, family, or co-workers who are looking to buy, sell, or invest in real estate within the next six months, forward this video to them or my contact information. I’ll send them important information about Calgary and the surrounding area real estate market and politely ask for their business. So, give them my email (bryon@thehowardteam.net) or my phone number  (403-475-7368) and I’ll even do a free market report on value of their home.

I greatly appreciate your valued referrals; it’s the only way I build my business

I did it again! Successfully represented senior buyers in the purchase of a ridge lot Bunglow in Tuscany at 94% of the listing price.  Wow! They are excited about the magnificent location on the Ridge in  with PANORAMIC VIEWS OF THE MOUNTAINS, C.O.P & DOWNTOWN CALGARY! This custom built fully finished executive bungalow is the perfect combination of luxury & location. Floor to ceiling windows on the main floor allow for tons of natural light & offer great views from your living room, kitchen, eating area & master bedroom.

ReMax Realtor Bryon Howard has execited buyers over this perfect home.

Custom cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops & hardwood flooring make the kitchen an entertainer’s dream. Open concept & vaulted ceilings throughout, 3 way fireplace, built in desk area & extensive finishing upgrades – truly special living space.  They will enjoy the walk out level – perfect for entertaining their adult children with a full wet bar, wine storage and spacious family room with a 2nd fireplace – for the Grand children!

My buyers wanted a walk out bungalow with South or West Back Yard & Views

Marda Loop Condo

Stunning one bedroom condo in the appropriately named building, Dream. This complex offers a beautifully designed courtyard, heated underground parking including visitors’ parking and separate storage. #203 is bright and open with 9′ ceilings. The well designed and functional kitchen includes lots of cupboards, black appliances and a breakfast bar. A spacious dining area provides plenty of space for a table and chairs. The gas fireplace adds a great deal of warmth in the living room. The balcony is a good size and great for entertaining. The extra large master bedroom offers a large closet area and cheater door to the 4-piece bath and insuite laundry. The den makes a perfect computer room. If you desire a great place to live in the best location in Calgary – this is it! In the heart of Marda Loop – Shopping, transportation, restaurants, entertainment & Parks are within walking distance. Close proximity to Westhills, downtown and the road to the Mountains.

MLS #C3517656   Offered at 259,900

I’m currently marketing both 50′ lots and new infills in Altadore, SW and Montgomery, NW.  I thought it would be interesting to compare median prices of a few inner city neighbourhoods.

I went back 6 months and looked at homes that were built since 2009 with a maximum lot frontage of 8 meters (25′) that have been sold:

• In Altadore there have been 13 sales with a median price of $864,492
• In West Hillhurst there have been 7 sales with a median price of $820,000
• In Montgomery, there have been 5 sales with a median price of $533,930.

What is the Median SALE price of a 50′ building lot? (Past 6 months)

• In Altadore, there have been 15 reported MLS sales with a median price of $594,200
• In West Hillhurst there have been 15 sales with a median price of $567,283
• In Montgomery there have been 16 sales with a median price of $320,000

Assuming nothing was to change and you were going to buy land at median price, and sell at median price, where would you buy land in order to sell at the highest profit?

It’s a simple question, but the answers are not. The answers come wrapped in expectation and are coloured by perception, history and experience. Still, the question should be asked. Without it, our city will never improve.

That’s why we’re posing it. It’s what’s driving Project Calgary, a new initiative of the Calgary Herald that kicks of today and runs for the next 100 days. In hundreds of ways, we will seek answers to that question, and we want your help.

At the heart of Project Calgary lies an ever-growing archive of data that we have spent months compiling. In nearly 50 different areas, we have collected data on Calgary’s 200 individual neighbourhoods that collectively shed never-before seen light on community life in the city. We have crime statistics, housing data, affordability indexes, and measures of neighbourliness and much more. Want to know how much parkspace your community has compared to your best friend’s? We’ve got that. Want to know where your neighbourhood ranks on an index of coffee shops? We have that too. Worried about growing enclaves of poverty, or the plight of seniors living alone? We have data that can shed light.

Over the course of the project, all of that data and more will be made available to everybody, as spreadsheets or in more easily understood maps and interactive charts, on our website. It’s a project of open data, so we want you to take it, interpret it, post it on your blog, share it with your friends on Facebook, and tell us what you think.

The data, however, is just the starting point. It will kick off conversations about how we can make our neighbourhoods, and thereby our city, better. Our journalists have spent months combing the data, looking for stories and trends that will illuminate, inform and perhaps even enrage all of us.

There are a few points to remember as we begin this journey. Calgarians like their city. A poll commissioned for this project found 83 per cent of people satisfied with the quality of life in the city. And Calgarians like their neighbourhoods even more — 85 per cent said they were satisfied with 39 per cent saying they were very satisfied. There is, however, room for improvement.

“I think a question like this shows that (Calgarians are) content,” said Jaideep Mukerji, managing director of Angus Reid, who conducted the poll. “It’s a positive feeling but it’s not necessarily a very intensely positive feeling with respect to Calgary in general.”

Affordability, for example, is still a concern for many Calgarians, and along with this comes questions of poverty, charity and community. Interestingly, our poll found the most important part of neighbourhood life to Calgarians is not safety or amenities, but the old-fashioned notion of neighbourliness.

“It’s the quality of your neighbours and the quality of your housing that really tend to drive overall satisfaction,” said Mukerji. “It’s very much ‘Do I live around nice people?’ and ‘Do I live in a nice place?’ And those seem almost banal, but they actually really do have a pretty big impact on people’s overall satisfaction with their neighbourhood.”

These are just some of the issues that will be addressed over the coming 100 days. We’re kicking off Project Calgary with a look at one of the most contentious areas of civic life: Transportation. Over the next two weeks, you’ll see data and stories related to walkability, traffic and transportation, and it’s sure to spark a discussion — as the launch this week of a new bike lane in the city has proved.

In addition to the stories, photos, maps and data you’ll see in the print edition of the Herald, our website will feature even more.

Project Calgary is intended to be an ongoing conversation about neighbourhood life, so we invite you to get involved. Share your comments on our blog, discuss the data, tell us why you love your community or what would make it better. Project Calgary is being set up as a living initiative, so if you have an idea for us to explore, or some data you think we should track down and share, let us know. Tell us about your community, share your photographs and take part in our regular live chats. This project is intended to be a journey, and we’d love some company for the ride.
© Copyright (c) The Calgary Herald

Read more: http://www.calgaryherald.com/Project+Calgary+will+give+perspective+Calgary+neighbourhoods/5519415/story.html#ixzz1aVzxO0MT