Real Talk for Alberta Acreage Owners

You’ve poured your heart (and probably a small fortune) into your acreage — the barn, the fencing, the landscaping, maybe even that gorgeous new gate.

But here’s the truth: not every improvement increases your property value. In fact, some “dream features” can actually hurt your resale if they don’t align with what buyers want.

So before you start your next big project, let’s break down the most common acreage features that don’t add value — even though everyone thinks they do.

🐴 1️⃣ Oversized Outbuildings or Horse Arenas

Yes, they’re impressive — but unless your buyer is an equestrian or hobby farmer, they may just see maintenance and cost.

• Why they don’t add much value: Most buyers can’t (or don’t want to) use them.

• When they do help: If they’re well-built, permitted, and in excellent shape.

• Pro tip: A clean, organized, functional barn adds far more perceived value than a huge, unfinished one.

🚪 2️⃣ Fancy Fencing and Custom Gates

A decorative wrought-iron gate with a solar keypad looks amazing on Instagram — but it’s still considered a personal preference item by appraisers.

• Why it doesn’t add resale value: It’s cosmetic, not structural.

• When it helps: If it improves security or livestock containment without over-personalization.

• Pro tip: Replace or maintain what’s there — but don’t over-invest for style points alone.

🌿 3️⃣ Elaborate Landscaping or Massive Gardens

Lush gardens, fountains, and koi ponds? Gorgeous — but high-maintenance.

• Why it doesn’t pay off: Buyers see work, not wow.

• When it helps: If landscaping enhances drainage, erosion control, or curb appeal with minimal upkeep.

• Pro tip: Keep it neat and functional. Acreage buyers often prefer manageable beauty over botanical showpieces.

🎬 4️⃣ Ultra-Custom Interiors or Layouts

That themed media room in the barn? Or the one-of-a-kind loft layout? Cool for you — maybe not for the next owner.

• Why it can hurt: Highly specific designs limit your buyer pool.

• When it helps: If the custom feature adds utility (like an income suite or office space).

• Pro tip: Neutralize before selling — let buyers imagine their version of the space.

🏗️ 5️⃣ Unpermitted Additions or Shops

This one’s a biggie — and a frequent deal killer.

• Why it kills value: Appraisers and lenders discount unpermitted structures, even if they look amazing.

• When it helps: Once you’ve confirmed proper permits and compliance.

• Pro tip: Always check with your municipality before building. Paperwork beats panic during sale time.

💡 What Does Add Value to an Acreage?

Here’s where to focus your time and budget:
✅ A reliable well with documented flow and quality
✅ A modern, inspected septic system
✅ Updated roof, windows, and mechanical systems
✅ Easy year-round access (driveway, grading, snow management)
✅ Neutral, well-maintained living spaces

These upgrades speak to function, safety, and longevity — things every buyer (and appraiser) actually values.

🌾 Real-World Example: Function Beats Flash

I recently toured two acreages in Foothills County:

• One had an incredible shop, ornate gates, and a landscaped pond.

• The other had new septic, a high-producing well, and simple but clean curb appeal.

Guess which one sold first — and for more?
The second one. Every time.

Buyers will always pay for peace of mind before they’ll pay for pretty.

💬 Final Thoughts: Upgrade With Intention

Your acreage is more than just a property — it’s a lifestyle. But when it comes to resale, the best investments are the ones that make life easier, safer, and lower-maintenance for the next owner.

Before you tackle your next project, ask yourself:
👉 “Does this improve function or resale flexibility?”
If the answer is no, it might be a passion project — not a value booster.

📩 Get the Free Acreage Value Guide

I’ve created a short, practical Acreage Value Guide that breaks down:
✅ Which features add ROI
✅ Which upgrades to skip
✅ How to prepare your property for resale

DM me “ACREAGE VALUE” and I’ll send it to you personally.
It’s a must-read for anyone planning acreage upgrades in 2025.

❓ FAQ

Q: Should I build a shop or arena before selling?
A: Only if it’s permitted and matches buyer demand in your area — otherwise, save your money.

Q: Do acreages need fancy landscaping to sell?
A: Nope! Most acreage buyers value open, low-maintenance yards over ornamental gardens.

Q: Can I sell with an unpermitted structure?
A: Possibly — but expect a lower appraisal or conditional offers. Always disclose and check with your municipality.

Q: What small upgrades do add value?
A: Fresh paint, simple fencing repairs, septic maintenance, and clean presentation go a long way.

📚 Related Reading

• 🐴 Equestrian Properties Near Calgary: What You Need to Know Before You Buy
  A must-read for anyone eyeing rural land with horse facilities or arena space.

• 💥 Inventory Just Exploded in Calgary — Here’s How Smart Sellers Are Still Winning
  Even with more listings, well-presented acreages still outperform the competition.

• 📉 Is Now a Good Time to Buy in Calgary? Here’s the 2025 Reality Check
  Understand how Calgary’s shifting market affects both urban and rural buyers.

About Kristen Edmunds

Kristen Edmunds is a Calgary-area REALTOR® and Associate Broker with KIC Realty, specializing in acreages, luxury homes, and smart buy/sell strategies. With expertise in rural properties (water wells, septic, equestrian facilities) and a client-obsessed approach, Kristen helps buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals with confidence and ease.

So, you’re thinking about moving to Calgary? 🏡
Let’s skip the fluff and get right to it — this city has huge advantages (and a few challenges) that every newcomer should know before packing the moving truck.

Here’s an honest, no-sugar-coating look at what life in Calgary is really like.

The Pros ✅

1. Housing You Can Actually Afford 💰

Let’s start with the big one — affordability.

Compared to major markets like Vancouver or Toronto, Calgary’s home prices are refreshingly reasonable. You can often find spacious homes, modern condos, or even small acreages for what a down payment might cost elsewhere.

✨ Pro tip: Calgary’s housing market offers strong long-term value — especially for those relocating from high-priced provinces.

2. No Provincial Sales Tax (PST) 💸

This one surprises a lot of newcomers — Alberta doesn’t have a PST.
That means everything from groceries to furniture to your home purchase costs less here than in most other provinces.

For example:

• In BC, buyers pay 7% PST.

• In Ontario, they pay 8%.

• In Alberta, you pay zero.

That’s thousands of dollars saved every year, especially for homeowners and families.

3. A Strong, Diverse Job Market 💼

Calgary’s economy has evolved far beyond oil and gas.
Today, it’s a growing hub for tech, construction, healthcare, and finance, with major companies expanding their footprint in Alberta.

Unemployment rates have remained below the national average, and with new infrastructure and downtown revitalization projects, Calgary’s job scene is more dynamic than ever.

✨ Pro tip: The city’s entrepreneurial spirit runs deep — small businesses and startups thrive here.

4. Lifestyle & Outdoor Access 🌲

If you love the outdoors, this might be your dream city. Calgary is just over an hour from the Rocky Mountains — think Banff, Canmore, and Kananaskis on your doorstep.

But it’s not just about mountain escapes. The city itself offers:

• 8,000+ hectares of parkland 🌳

• Over 1,000 km of pathways for biking and walking 🚴‍♀️

• A growing food and craft beer scene 🍽️

• Festivals, markets, and live music year-round 🎶

✨ Pro tip: Calgarians truly live for the weekends — and outdoor adventures are always part of the plan.

5. Sunshine — and Lots of It ☀️

Here’s a fun fact: Calgary gets over 330 days of sunshine per year, making it one of Canada’s sunniest cities. Even when it’s cold, that blue-sky backdrop makes winter feel a little brighter.

The Cons ❌

1. The Cold — and We Mean Cold ❄️

Calgary winters are beautiful but harsh.
You’ll see temperatures drop to -30°C (and sometimes lower) — although Chinooks often bring quick warm-ups.

If you’re coming from a mild climate, it can be an adjustment.

✨ Pro tip: Invest in good winter gear, block heaters, and a solid snow brush — you’ll thank yourself later.

2. The Chinooks 🌬️

Calgary’s famous Chinook winds are both a blessing and a curse.

They can raise the temperature by 20°C in a few hours — melting snow and lifting moods. But they also bring wild weather swings and occasional headaches for those sensitive to pressure changes.

3. City Sprawl & Commuting 🚗

Calgary is big — the largest city in Alberta by area.

That means commuting across town can take time, especially during rush hour. The city is car-friendly, but not always ideal for pedestrians in suburban areas.

✨ Pro tip: If you work downtown, living near the C-Train line can make a world of difference.

4. Market Fluctuations 📉

Calgary’s economy — while resilient — is historically tied to the energy sector, which can cause ups and downs in both employment and housing markets.

That said, diversification continues to strengthen the city’s long-term stability.

Bonus: What Calgarians Love Most ❤️

Ask anyone who’s moved here what keeps them in Calgary, and you’ll likely hear:

• Friendly, down-to-earth people

• Family-oriented neighborhoods

• Easy access to nature

• Financial breathing room

It’s a place where you can build a life, not just survive in one.

FAQs: Moving to Calgary

Q: Is Calgary affordable compared to other cities?
Yes — housing, taxes, and cost of living are significantly lower than in BC or Ontario.

Q: What’s the job market like?
Strong and growing, especially in energy, tech, trades, and healthcare.

Q: How bad are Calgary winters, really?
They’re cold, but manageable — Chinooks often bring relief, and sunshine makes a big difference.

Related Reading

• Relocating to Calgary: What Buyers Need to Know

• Why Calgary’s No PST Saves You Thousands on Your Home Purchase

• Top 5 Things Ontario & BC Buyers Love About Calgary

Conclusion

Calgary isn’t perfect — no city is — but it offers a rare mix of affordability, opportunity, and lifestyle that’s hard to beat anywhere else in Canada.

If you’re tired of high housing costs, long commutes, and limited space, it might be time to give Calgary a serious look.

✨ Ready to see what your life could look like here? DM me “CALGARYMOVE” for my free Relocation Guide to Living in Calgary — packed with everything you need to make your move smart, smooth, and stress-free.

About Kristen Edmunds

Kristen Edmunds is a Calgary-area REALTOR® and Associate Broker with KIC Realty, specializing in acreages, luxury homes, and smart buy/sell strategies. With expertise in rural properties (water wells, septic, equestrian facilities) and a client-obsessed approach, Kristen helps buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals with confidence and ease.

The Calgary housing market continued its shift toward balance in August 2025, as higher inventory levels and moderating sales placed downward pressure on prices. For buyers and sellers alike, the latest CREB® report highlights a market that is recalibrating after several years of tight supply and rapid price gains.

Home Sales Ease, Inventory Climbs

August saw 2,154 sales, down about 9% from last year, marking another month of slowing activity. Meanwhile, new listings rose by nearly 7% year-over-year, bringing more choice to buyers. With over 7,200 homes on the market, inventory levels are now well above long-term averages, a key factor influencing price adjustments.

Benchmark Prices Adjust Downward

The total residential benchmark price in Calgary settled at $579,800, down nearly 4% from August 2024. Price trends varied by property type:

• Detached homes: $759,900, down slightly from last year.

• Semi-detached homes: $695,200, holding steady year-over-year.

• Row homes: $361,800, about 5% lower than 2024.

• Apartment condominiums: $328,400, a drop of nearly 6% compared to last year.

The most significant price pressure continues in the apartment and row segments, especially in Calgary’s North East and North districts where supply gains have been strongest.

Market Balance Returns

The sales-to-new-listings ratio fell to 55%, reinforcing a more balanced environment compared to the tight seller’s market seen in recent years. Months of supply rose to just over three months for detached homes and exceeded four months for condos, giving buyers more negotiation power.

Economic and Mortgage Rate Outlook

While mortgage rates have edged down—some lenders offering three-year fixed terms near 4%—economic uncertainty looms. Potential U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods and softer job growth could affect consumer confidence into the fall.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

• For buyers: More inventory means increased selection and improved negotiating conditions. Apartment and row-style homes, in particular, present opportunities for value-focused buyers.

• For sellers: Strategic pricing and strong marketing are now essential, especially in higher-supply communities. Homes priced competitively continue to attract buyers quickly.

Final Thoughts

Calgary’s housing market in August 2025 reflects a turning point—one where balance is replacing the extreme conditions of past years. For buyers, this brings welcome relief. For sellers, success lies in preparation, presentation, and pricing.

✅ Looking to buy or sell in Calgary? Let’s discuss how these trends affect your real estate goals.

Kristen Edmunds is a Calgary-area REALTOR® and Associate Broker with KIC Realty, specializing in acreages, luxury homes, and smart buy/sell strategies. With expertise in rural properties (water wells, septic, equestrian facilities) and a client-obsessed approach, Kristen helps buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals with confidence and ease.

Buying a horse property in Alberta isn’t just about finding a pretty piece of land — it’s about making sure it works for you and your horses for years to come.

From zoning rules to water sources, fencing, and barn maintenance, there’s a lot to think about before you saddle up and sign on the dotted line.

Whether you’re a first-time acreage buyer or a seasoned equestrian looking for an upgrade, this guide will walk you through the essentials so you can make a confident, informed purchase.

1. Check Zoning and Bylaws

Before falling in love with a property, confirm that the land is zoned for livestock. Some rural areas near Calgary and across Alberta have restrictions on the number of animals per acre or require specific permits for equestrian facilities.

Tip: Call the local municipality to confirm zoning regulations — don’t just take the seller’s word for it.

2. Ensure a Reliable Water Source

Horses need a steady supply of fresh water year-round. This can come from a well, a cistern, or a natural water body — but you’ll want to know the source, its capacity, and its reliability.

Winter Consideration: Make sure there’s a system in place to prevent freezing, such as heated automatic waterers.

3. Inspect Fencing and Paddocks

Good fencing is critical for horse safety. Avoid barbed wire and look for sturdy, well-maintained fences such as wood, vinyl, or electric tape designed for equines.

Walk the perimeter to check for broken boards, sagging lines, or hazardous objects in paddocks.

4. Evaluate the Barn and Outbuildings

A functional barn can make horse ownership much easier. Look for:

• Safe, well-ventilated stalls

• Tack and feed storage

• Proper drainage

• Lighting and electrical systems in good condition

If there’s an arena, check footing quality and whether it’s suitable for your riding discipline.

5. Consider Accessibility and Amenities

Think about your lifestyle. Are you close to veterinary services, feed stores, farriers, and riding trails? A beautiful property that’s hours from essential services can quickly lose its shine.

Common Mistakes Horse Property Buyers Make

• Not budgeting for maintenance costs — barns, fences, and arenas require ongoing investment.

• Ignoring future expansion needs — plan for more horses, more space, or facility upgrades.

• Skipping a home inspection — the house is just as important as the barn.

Final Word

Buying a horse property is a dream for many Albertans, but it comes with unique challenges. By doing your homework and working with an acreage specialist who understands equestrian needs, you can avoid costly mistakes and find a property that’s perfect for both you and your four-legged friends.

🐴 FAQ Section

Q: How many acres do I need for horses in Alberta?
A: A common rule of thumb is 2 acres per horse, but it depends on pasture quality and municipal bylaws.

Q: Can I keep horses in a subdivision?
A: Some country residential subdivisions allow horses, but they may have limits or require shared facilities. Always check zoning.

Q: What type of fencing is best for horses?
A: Wood board, vinyl, or electric tape fencing is safest. Avoid barbed wire, which can cause serious injury.

Q: How do I know if the water supply is adequate?
A: Ask for well flow tests, check water quality, and confirm systems to prevent freezing in winter.

📚 Related Reading

• Zoning 101 for Acreage Buyers in Alberta

• Rural Maintenance Costs You Might Not Expect

• Buying Acreage in Winter vs Summer: Big Differences

• What You Need to Know About Outbuildings and Shops

Kristen Edmunds is a Calgary-area REALTOR® and Associate Broker with KIC Realty, specializing in acreages, luxury homes, and smart buy/sell strategies. With expertise in rural properties (water wells, septic, equestrian facilities) and a client-obsessed approach, Kristen helps buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals with confidence and ease.