Life moves fast—and sometimes, you need a break without the stress of long travel days or expensive flights. The good news? Calgary is surrounded by some of Alberta’s best mini escapes, all within a 2-hour drive.

Whether you’re craving mountain views, spa vibes, or a small-town food crawl, these destinations are perfect for couples, families, or solo adventurers.

🚗 1. Canmore

Just over an hour west, Canmore offers Banff-level scenery without the tourist congestion. Stroll downtown, hike Grassi Lakes, or grab brunch at Communitea. Ideal for both low-key and active weekends.

🌊 2. Sylvan Lake

This lakeside town is a summer favorite. Paddleboarding, beach walks, lakeside cafés, and a classic boardwalk vibe make it perfect for family getaways.

🍷 3. Millarville & Turner Valley

Want wineries, scenic drives, and rustic charm? Spirit Hills Winery is a must-stop, and the Millarville Farmers’ Market makes this a great spot for weekend day-tripping or romantic countryside stays.

🌲 4. Kananaskis

For those seeking quiet trails, luxury spa time, or mountain air, Kananaskis delivers. Book a stay at the Pomeroy or treat yourself to the Nordic Spa. Incredible hikes and wildlife sightings included.

🧀 5. Bragg Creek

Only 40 minutes from Calgary, Bragg Creek is close—but feels like another world. Explore Elbow Falls, browse boutiques, or settle in for charcuterie at The Italian Farmhouse.

🗺️ Want the Full Calgary Escape Guide?

As a REALTOR® helping clients relocate and settle into Calgary, I include local lifestyle resources in my service—because loving where you live includes where you go.

📩 DM me “WEEKEND” or reach out here for your free Calgary day trip + getaway list!

Thinking of making a move? You’re not alone. More and more people from British Columbia and Ontario are packing up and heading west to Calgary, Alberta—and it’s not just for the mountains. Whether you’re craving a better quality of life, lower costs, or new opportunities, Calgary is turning heads for all the right reasons.

Here are the top 5 reasons people are leaving BC and Ontario for Calgary—and why it might just be the right move for you too.

1. Housing Affordability You Can Breathe In

Let’s be honest—home prices in BC and Ontario are intense. In contrast, Calgary offers significantly more home for your money. Whether you're upsizing, buying your first home, or investing, the average home price in Calgary is a refreshing change.

➡️ Detached homes, townhouses, and even acreages are within reach—without bidding wars or million-dollar price tags.

2. Lower Taxes = More in Your Pocket

Alberta is the only province in Canada without a provincial sales tax. That’s right—no PST. Combine that with lower property taxes and no land transfer tax for most residential real estate, and you're looking at substantial long-term savings.

➡️ Whether you’re buying a home, starting a business, or raising a family—less tax means more freedom.

3. Growing Job Market and Entrepreneurial Opportunities

Calgary is no longer just oil and gas. With a booming tech sector, strong healthcare and construction industries, and government-backed support for startups, new opportunities are everywhere.

➡️ Remote workers and entrepreneurs are thriving here—with faster business licensing, fewer red-tape headaches, and room to grow.

4. Space, Sunshine, and Stunning Scenery

If you’ve had enough of tight city living, long commutes, and cloudy skies—Calgary delivers. You’ll enjoy big blue skies, some of the sunniest weather in Canada, and quick access to the Rocky Mountains.

➡️ Hiking, skiing, riding, and wide open spaces—without leaving your backyard.

5. A Lifestyle That Actually Feels Balanced

Calgarians enjoy a slower pace with city conveniences, thriving arts and food scenes, and community-focused neighbourhoods. There’s a reason Calgary consistently ranks as one of the most livable cities in the world.

➡️ It’s not just about moving—it’s about building a life you actually enjoy.

💬 Considering a Move to Calgary? Let’s Talk.

Whether you’re still dreaming or already packing, I help people like you make confident, informed moves to Calgary—without the overwhelm.

👉 Ready to explore what your future could look like here?

Reach out anytime. No pressure. Just expert advice from someone who knows the Calgary market inside and out.

Thinking of selling your home in Calgary? One of the biggest decisions you’ll make isn’t about renovations or staging—it’s your pricing strategy. Price your home too high, and you risk scaring away potential buyers. Price it too low, and you leave money on the table. Here’s how to strike the perfect balance in today’s Calgary real estate market.

Why Pricing Matters More Than Ever

In a market where buyers are well-informed and inventory is increasing, homes that are overpriced get ignored. The first 7–14 days on the market are critical. That’s when your listing gets the most attention—on MLS, Realtor.ca, and through your REALTOR®’s marketing efforts. Miss that window, and your home risks going stale.

Top Pricing Mistakes Calgary Sellers Make

• Overpricing based on emotion: Just because your home is meaningful to you doesn’t mean buyers will pay extra for sentiment.

• Chasing the market down: If you start too high, you’ll likely have to reduce later—and often for less than if you priced correctly from the start.

• Pricing based on what you “need” to get: Buyers don’t care what your goals are. They care about value and comparables.

How to Price It Right in Calgary

As a local REALTOR® with 15+ years of experience, I use recent sales data, buyer demand, and neighbourhood-specific trends to determine an optimal price that attracts the right audience.

We’ll also consider:

• Current inventory levels

• Days on market trends

• Price brackets that buyers are searching within

The Bottom Line

Your home’s price tag is your most powerful marketing tool. In Calgary’s real estate market, strategic pricing leads to faster sales and better offers.

Thinking about selling? Contact me today for a personalized pricing review and market strategy—no pressure, just expert advice.

Kristen Edmunds is a REALTOR® and Associate Broker with KIC Realty, specializing in Calgary and surrounding areas. She helps sellers get top dollar with less stress by providing expert pricing, marketing, and negotiation strategies.

If you’re looking at acreages in Calgary or surrounding areas, one of the first things you’ll need to understand is the property’s water source. Most acreages aren’t connected to city water—so it’s usually either a well or a cistern.

So… what’s the difference? And which one is better?

1. Wells: Independent, But Not Always Reliable

Wells draw water from underground aquifers, which means you aren’t dependent on truck delivery or refill schedules.

Pros:

• Unlimited use (within natural supply)

• No delivery fees

• Can be high quality with good flow rate

Cons:

• Must test for flow rate and quality (hardness, bacteria, etc.)

• Can run dry or need repairs

• Sometimes requires shocking or treatment systems

2. Cisterns: Predictable and Controlled, But Paid

A cistern is a large holding tank, typically installed in a basement or underground, that is filled by water truck delivery on a regular basis.

Pros:

• You control what water goes in

• Ideal where well quality or yield is poor

• Simple filtration systems

Cons:

• Ongoing cost of water deliveries

• May run out if not topped up

• Some rural insurance providers have stricter policies

3. What’s Better for Acreage Living Near Calgary?

It really depends on the location and the system’s condition. In areas with strong aquifers (like parts of Bearspaw or Springbank), wells are often preferred. In others—like certain spots in Rocky View County—cisterns are more reliable due to poor water tables.

As a general rule:

• A well is great if the flow rate is strong and water quality is proven.

• A cistern is better if you value control, predictability, and don’t mind deliveries.

Final Thought: Always Inspect and Ask Questions

Before buying, always:

• Ask for water test results and flow rate (for wells)

• Review cistern size, age, and maintenance logs

• Talk to neighbors about their water experience in the area

Want to avoid surprises?

💧 DM me “WATER” and I’ll send you my Acreage Water Checklist—perfect for buyers in Calgary and rural Alberta.

Thinking of Buying a Home in Calgary or Airdrie? Here’s What You Can Actually Get for $500K

If you're house hunting in Alberta with a $500,000 budget, you might be wondering:

Do I stay in Calgary—or could I get more by moving to Airdrie?

As a REALTOR® who helps clients buy in both cities, I can tell you firsthand:

That $500K can look very different depending on where you spend it.

Let’s break it down.

🏙️ What $500K Gets You in Calgary

In Calgary, $500,000 is a solid budget—but you’re likely looking at a condo or townhome.

Here’s what you might get:

• 2–3 bedrooms, 1.5–2 bathrooms

• 900–1,200 sq. ft.

• Underground parking or small attached garage

• Likely in outer suburbs or older infill communities

• Limited yard space

While you’ll benefit from Calgary’s urban amenities, public transit, and proximity to work or school, you’ll likely sacrifice space, privacy, and outdoor access—especially in high-demand neighbourhoods.

🏡 What $500K Gets You in Airdrie

Drive just 30 minutes north, and your $500,000 can go a lot further.

In Airdrie, you could afford:

• A detached home

• 3–4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms

• ~1,400–1,700+ sq. ft.

• Double attached garage

• Private yard space

• Quiet residential neighbourhoods, often with walking paths, playgrounds, and schools nearby

Airdrie has seen major growth in the past decade, but it still offers excellent value for buyers looking for more space, newer homes, and a family-friendly vibe—all within a short commute to Calgary.

📍 Calgary vs Airdrie: Key Differences

🏁 So, Which One’s Right for You?

That depends on your lifestyle:

• Calgary might be right for you if you prioritize proximity to work, public transit, inner-city culture, or walkability.

• Airdrie is ideal if you’re looking for more house, more space, and a family-friendly community—without blowing your budget.

🏡 Ready to Compare Real Listings?

As a Calgary-based REALTOR® who also serves Airdrie, I’d love to show you what’s currently available in both cities—tailored to your budget and wish list.

📩 DM me the word “COMPARE” or reach out here and I’ll send you a personalized list of homes under $500K in Calgary and Airdrie.

Thinking of buying a home in Calgary but overwhelmed by the usual suspects like Auburn Bay, Tuscany, or Altadore? Let’s talk about the hidden gem suburbs that offer real value, lifestyle perks, and untapped potential—without the bidding war frenzy.

As a Calgary REALTOR® with 15+ years of experience, I’ve helped hundreds of buyers discover neighbourhoods that aren’t on everyone’s radar—but should be. These underrated communities offer a quieter pace of life, access to amenities, and homes with serious bang for your buck.

🌲 Why Consider a Hidden Gem Suburb?

While popular neighbourhoods dominate the headlines, they also come with higher price tags, competitive offers, and less room to negotiate. In contrast, lesser-known suburbs often offer:

• Lower home prices with larger lot sizes

• Less buyer competition (read: fewer bidding wars)

• Community charm and local pride

• Great schools, parks, and amenities without the crowds

🔍 My Top 3 Hidden Gem Suburbs Near Calgary

1. Silverado (Southwest Calgary)

A quiet, family-friendly suburb with quick access to Stoney Trail and gorgeous views of the foothills. You’ll find walking paths, new builds, and estate-style homes—without the Aspen price tag.

2. Mahogany South of 210 Avenue

Everyone talks about Mahogany, but the southern pocket near the wetlands is often overlooked. It’s peaceful, beautifully developed, and closer to the new South Health Campus and Seton shopping district.

3. Evanston (Northwest Calgary)

Often overshadowed by nearby communities like Sage Hill, Evanston offers wide streets, good schools, affordable detached homes, and a strong community vibe—ideal for growing families.

💡 Bonus Tip: Consider Nearby Small Towns

Places like Langdon, Okotoks, and Cochrane are technically outside Calgary but offer big advantages—especially for those craving more space, a slower pace, and a strong sense of community.

👀 Final Thoughts

In a competitive market like Calgary, looking beyond the obvious choices can lead to smarter, more satisfying real estate decisions. These hidden gems are perfect for first-time buyers, upsizers, or anyone looking to escape the city buzz without sacrificing convenience.

📲 Ready to Explore Your Options?

If you’re curious about which underrated Calgary suburbs are right for you, let’s chat. I offer personalized recommendations based on your lifestyle, goals, and budget.

👉 DM me “GEM” on social media or contact me here to get your custom list of hidden gem communities in Calgary and surrounding areas.

Thinking About Moving to Calgary? Avoid These 5 Mistakes First

Relocating to a new city is exciting—but when it comes to moving to Calgary, Alberta, a few missteps can lead to major stress. As a Calgary-based REALTOR® with over 15 years of experience, I’ve seen these five common mistakes over and over. Let’s make sure you don’t fall into the same traps.

1. Underestimating Calgary Winters

Sure, the sunshine is nice—but winter here isn’t just a season, it’s a lifestyle. Snowstorms in October? Totally possible. You’ll want proper winter tires, a reliable furnace, and a wardrobe upgrade.

2. Choosing the Wrong Neighbourhood

Each area in Calgary has its own energy. Are you craving city life or quieter suburban vibes? Acreage space or walkability? Working with a local expert can help match your lifestyle to the right community.

3. Misjudging the Cost of Living

While Alberta offers perks like no PST, other expenses can catch newcomers off guard. Car insurance, heating bills, groceries—all of it adds up. It’s important to plan with real numbers.

4. Buying Before You Visit

Buying sight unseen is risky. If you can, take a trip here first—check out communities, drive the commute, and get a feel for daily life. A short visit could save you long-term regret.

5. Assuming You Have Time

The Calgary real estate market can move fast. That perfect listing? It might be gone tomorrow. Be pre-approved, be ready, and work with a REALTOR® who knows how to act quickly when opportunity knocks.

Ready to Relocate Smoothly?

If Calgary’s calling your name, I’d love to help make your move as seamless as possible. Book a free relocation consultation, and let’s talk about your goals, timeline, and the right neighbourhood fit for you.

✅ Contact me here

✅ Watch more relocation videos on YouTube

Before you list your Calgary home, do this one essential step to maximize your sale price and minimize time on market. Free checklist included!

Thinking of listing your home in Calgary?

If you want to get the highest price possible, there's one crucial step that too many sellers overlook—a pre-listing walk-through with a real estate professional.

This isn’t just about staging (though that’s part of it).

It’s about identifying low-cost, high-impact improvements that make your home shine—because first impressions sell.

Why It Works

Calgary’s market remains active, especially in sought-after communities. But even in a seller’s market, homes that show well sell faster—and for more.

Buyers today are busy. If they see scuffed walls, loose handles, or neglected landscaping, it can make your home feel unloved.

That feeling? It shows up in their offer.

What to Expect in a Walk-Through

During a pre-listing walk-through, I’ll help you identify:

• Minor repairs with major return potential

• Curb appeal upgrades that draw buyers in

• Quick fixes to create emotional connection

• Easy ways to prep your home for professional photos

You don’t need to spend a fortune—you just need to know what matters.

Bonus: Free Seller Checklist

I’ve created a detailed pre-listing checklist based on 15 years of experience selling homes in Calgary. It’s designed to help you focus your time and money where it counts most.

📩 Request your free checklist here or book a pre-listing call with me today.

There’s something magical about owning land near Calgary—room to breathe, stunning views, and that peaceful, rural lifestyle. But if you’re planning to buy an acreage, there are a few key things to consider first. As a REALTOR® specializing in Calgary and surrounding rural properties, here are the top 5 things I tell every acreage buyer:

1. Understand the Water Source

Most acreages near Calgary are not on city water. You'll typically encounter either:

• Wells (test flow rate and water quality)

• Cisterns (require regular filling)

Before you buy, always request recent well reports or cistern maintenance history. Water issues can be costly and frustrating.

2. Know What You're Dealing With in Septic Systems

Acreages use private septic systems, which require maintenance and occasional replacement. A failed septic system can cost $20,000+ to replace, so always include a septic inspection as part of your purchase conditions.

3. Double-Check the Zoning

Just because it looks like country doesn’t mean you can do anything. Some acreages are zoned for agriculture, others for country residential—and each comes with its own restrictions. Want horses, chickens, or to build a shop? Zoning matters.

4. Ask About Internet Access

Many rural buyers assume they’ll have fast internet—but not all areas are serviced equally. Some acreages have fibre internet, others are stuck with unreliable satellite or LTE. If working from home is important, verify the provider before writing an offer.

5. Expect More Ongoing Maintenance

Living on land means more independence—but also more responsibility. Snow clearing, road grading, fence repairs, weed control, and dealing with wildlife are all part of the acreage lifestyle. If you’re prepared, it’s worth it—but it’s not hands-off.

Final Thoughts

Buying an acreage near Calgary is an amazing opportunity—but only if you go in informed. Want a free acreage buyer checklist that covers all the must-ask questions? Reach out today or DM me the word “ACREAGE” and I’ll send it to you.

Buying your first home is exciting—but if you’re not careful, it can also be overwhelming and expensive. I’ve helped hundreds of first-time buyers navigate the Calgary market, and I see the same mistakes come up again and again.

If you’re starting your home buying journey, here are three common mistakes to avoid—and how to get it right the first time.

❌ Mistake #1: Falling for the Wrong Home Emotionally

That perfect kitchen or dreamy backyard might steal your heart—but don’t forget to look deeper.

What to do instead:

• Check resale value in that neighborhood

• Evaluate lifestyle fit for 3–5 years

• Review traffic, commute, and school zones

❌ Mistake #2: Skipping Mortgage Pre-Approval

Without pre-approval, you risk falling in love with homes you can’t afford—or losing a great deal while waiting on paperwork.

What to do instead:

• Get pre-approved before you start viewing

• Know your max purchase price, but shop under budget

• Work with a trusted mortgage broker (ask me—I have a list!)

❌ Mistake #3: Underestimating Closing Costs

First-time buyers often budget for the down payment—but forget about the rest.

What to do instead:

• Budget 1.5–2% of the purchase price for closing costs

• Account for home inspection, legal fees, title insurance, tax adjustments, and moving expenses

💡 Bonus Tip: Work With a Buyer’s Agent Who Specializes in First-Time Buyers

Navigating offers, conditions, and market trends is easier with someone who’s got your back.

📩 Ready to Buy Your First Home in Calgary?

I’d love to help you skip the stress and buy with confidence.

📲 DM me “FIRST HOME” or click here to contact me and I’ll send you my free Calgary Buyer Guide tailored for first-timers.

Calgary’s food scene is growing fast—and while new restaurants pop up constantly, not all of them live up to their Instagram fame. So if you’re tired of “meh” meals and ready for something truly satisfying, I’ve got you covered.

As someone who lives and works here, I’ve built a go-to list for clients relocating to Calgary, locals rediscovering the city, and foodies looking for legit spots that are actually worth the hype.

Here are 5 restaurants that never disappoint:

1. D.O.P. – Downtown

This cozy Italian joint is easy to miss—but impossible to forget. The handmade pasta, warm service, and downtown energy make it a standout for date nights or solo indulgence.

2. Chairman’s Steakhouse – Westman Village, Mahogany

It’s upscale, polished, and yes—it’s expensive. But when you’re celebrating or craving a perfectly aged bone-in ribeye, there’s no better spot in the city. Bonus: the cocktails are 🔥.

3. Shokunin – Mission

Modern Japanese meets artful presentation. Whether you go for the omakase or a casual ramen-and-tapas night, you’ll always walk out impressed.

4. Native Tongues Taqueria – Beltline

Casual, cool, and packed with bold flavor. The tacos are legendary, the margaritas are strong, and the ambiance is pure downtown chill. Great for groups or solo adventures.

5. Holy Cow Gelato – Multiple Locations

This locally loved gelato spot nails both the texture and the flavor. Try the Earl Grey or the Roasted Hazelnut—you’re welcome.

🗺️ Want the Full Calgary Foodie List?

As part of my relocation services, I keep a curated local guide of restaurants, cafés, hangouts, and hidden gems in every quadrant of Calgary. If you’re new to the city—or just hungry for something new—DM me “FOODIE” and I’ll send it your way.

Or contact me anytime for a free relocation consult that includes lifestyle-focused recommendations beyond just real estate.

Calgary has become one of the most talked-about cities in Canada—and for good reason. With a booming job market, more affordable housing than major metros like Vancouver and Toronto, and unbeatable access to nature, moving to Calgary is on the radar for families, professionals, and remote workers alike.

But before you pack up your life and head west (or east!), let’s break down what you really need to know about relocating to this dynamic Alberta city.

Why Are So Many People Moving to Calgary?

Calgary’s population has grown steadily over the last decade, and recent market shifts have made it even more attractive. Here's why:

• ✅ Affordability: Home prices are significantly lower than in cities like Toronto and Vancouver

• ✅ Lifestyle: Access to nature, big skies, and a laid-back pace without sacrificing opportunity

• ✅ Jobs: A diverse job market with growth in energy, tech, construction, health care, and remote work

• ✅ Family-friendly: Excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community

The Cost of Living in Calgary (What to Expect)

While Calgary is more affordable than most major Canadian cities, it’s not cheap—and you should come prepared:

• 🏡 Housing: The average price for a detached home is still accessible compared to most major markets, especially in suburbs like Airdrie, Cochrane, or Chestermere

• 💡 Utilities: You’ll see both natural gas and electricity on your monthly bill—expect higher costs in winter

• 💸 Property taxes: Alberta has no provincial sales tax (PST), but property taxes can be higher than expected

• 🚗 Transportation: Most residents rely on a vehicle. Calgary Transit serves the city, but it's not as comprehensive as transit systems in larger metros

What’s the Weather Really Like?

If you’ve never lived in Alberta, you’re in for a weather rollercoaster. Calgary is known for:

• ❄️ Cold winters (hello, -30°C), but

• 🌬️ Chinooks—warm winds that can raise temperatures by 15–20 degrees in a single day

• 🌞 Sunshine—Calgary sees more sunny days per year than any other major Canadian city

• 🌱 Dry climate—great for those who don’t love humidity

Bottom line? Dress in layers and prepare for mood swings from Mother Nature.

The Calgary Lifestyle: What You’ll Love (and What Might Surprise You)

Calgary has a unique personality. It blends a cosmopolitan downtown core with small-town friendliness and rural charm. Here’s what stands out:

• 🤝 People are friendly. Like, actually friendly. Don’t be surprised if strangers hold doors or say hello

• 🎡 The Calgary Stampede—whether you love rodeos or not, it’s a cultural event you’ll experience at least once

• 🐎 Outdoor access—you’re an hour from the Rockies, 10 minutes from foothill trails, and surrounded by nature

• ☕ Local businesses thrive—especially in neighborhoods like Kensington, Inglewood, and Marda Loop

Where Should You Live in Calgary?

Your perfect community depends on your lifestyle. Here are a few top picks:

• 🏙️ Inner City (Beltline, Hillhurst, Inglewood): Great for young professionals who want to be close to downtown

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly (Evanston, Auburn Bay, Mahogany): Known for schools, parks, and newer homes

• 🌾 Acreages & Lifestyle Properties (Springbank, Bearspaw, Foothills County): Ideal for buyers seeking space and privacy outside the city

Looking to sell and buy at the same time? I specialize in helping clients transition smoothly between properties—especially those moving into Calgary or out into acreages.

Before You Move: Know These Relocation Tips

• ✅ Get pre-approved—Alberta’s lending rules are different than other provinces

• ✅ Research job licensing—especially in healthcare, education, or trades

• ✅ Plan for timing—the market moves fast, and closing dates vary

• ✅ Work with a local expert—Calgary is unique, and every neighborhood offers something different

Ready to Explore a Move to Calgary?

Whether you’re relocating from across the country or just looking for a fresh start, I help buyers move to Calgary with clarity, confidence, and strategy.

📩 DM me “RELOCATE” or click below to download my free Moving to Calgary Guide—built for real buyers like you.

👉 [Insert your lead magnet link or contact form]

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Calgary a good place to live in 2024?
Yes! Calgary offers a high quality of life, strong job growth, and more affordable housing than most major Canadian cities.

Q: What should I know before moving to Calgary?
Expect cold winters, a dry climate, and car-dependent living. But you’ll also enjoy friendly people, amazing scenery, and a thriving job market.

Q: Where do most people move from?
Many newcomers are relocating from British Columbia and Ontario due to high housing prices and changing job dynamics.