If you’re watching buyers from BC or Ontario circle the market in Calgary and wondering why they hesitate… here’s the truth:

They’re not losing interest.
They’re recalibrating.

This pause is one of the most common — and misunderstood — phases of relocation. And in many cases, it’s exactly what leads to confident, decisive purchases afterward.

The Pause Is About Re-Anchoring Expectations

Buyers relocating from British Columbia and Ontario arrive with expectations shaped by very different markets.

They’re used to:

• Higher price points

• Faster, more aggressive timelines

• Less space for the money

• Heavier competition and emotional pressure

When they first see Calgary listings, the value can feel almost suspicious.
That’s when the pause happens.

They need time to re-anchor what “normal” looks like here.

Why Calgary Feels “Too Good to Be True” at First

Compared to many out-of-province markets, Calgary offers:

• More space and newer homes at lower prices

• A calmer pace without constant bidding wars

• Strong long-term fundamentals without the frenzy

That combination is attractive — but unfamiliar.

Buyers don’t want to make a mistake by moving too quickly in a market they’re still learning, so they slow down to observe.

What Usually Unlocks the Decision

The pause doesn’t last forever. It typically ends when one of three things happens:

1. They See a Few Missed Opportunities

Watching well-priced homes sell helps buyers understand what real value looks like locally.

2. Neighbourhoods Start to Make Sense

Once buyers stop comparing Calgary to “back home” and start comparing Calgary neighbourhoods to each other, clarity improves fast.

3. Lifestyle Becomes the Focus

When buyers shift from price-per-square-foot to lifestyle — commute, space, schools, access to nature — decisions become easier.

Why Buyers Often Move Quickly After the Pause

Once expectations reset, confidence replaces hesitation.

That’s when buyers:

• Narrow their search

• Commit to a strategy

• Act decisively when the right home appears

From the outside, it can look sudden.
In reality, the groundwork was laid during the pause.

When the Pause Helps — And When It Hurts

A short pause is healthy. It prevents emotional decisions.

But waiting too long can mean:

• Missing well-priced homes

• Chasing the market upward

• Feeling rushed later instead of prepared

The goal isn’t to eliminate the pause — it’s to use it intentionally.

Final Thoughts

Out-of-province buyers aren’t unsure about Calgary.
They’re adjusting to it.

Once the mental shift happens, many go from cautious observers to confident buyers — often faster than expected.

If you’re relocating, the key is knowing when the pause has done its job… and when it’s time to move forward.

FAQ: Relocating to Calgary

Is it normal to pause before buying from out of province?
Yes. Almost every successful relocation includes a recalibration phase.

How long should the pause last?
There’s no fixed timeline, but clarity — not comfort — is the signal to move forward.

Do out-of-province buyers overpay if they wait too long?
Sometimes. Missing well-priced opportunities can force buyers into stronger competition later.

Related Reading

• Moving from BC or Ontario? What $700K Buys You in Calgary vs There

• If You’re Moving to Calgary in 2026, You Need to Hear This First

• Everyone Wants to Move to Calgary — But Where Do They Actually End Up?

If you’re relocating to Calgary and feel stuck between “watching” and “ready”:

👉 DM me “RELOCATE” for my Calgary Relocation Reality Check
It helps you understand when the pause is serving you — and when it’s time to act.

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.

Buying a home in Calgary has changed a lot over the past few years.

Even as the market balances, I’m still seeing buyers stretch their budgets — not always because they have to, but because they’re paying premiums for things that feel important… yet don’t actually deliver long-term value.

If you’re planning to buy in Calgary, this is where many buyers quietly overpay — and how to avoid it.

1. Brand-New Renovations You Didn’t Choose

Fresh kitchens, new bathrooms, trendy tile — they photograph beautifully and absolutely pull buyers in.

But here’s the catch:
you’re often paying a significant premium for renovations that:

• Aren’t your style

• Were done to sell, not to last

• May need updates sooner than you expect

In many cases, a well-maintained but dated home offers far better value — especially if you plan to renovate over time and choose finishes that actually suit your lifestyle.

Smart buyers focus on layout, structure, and location first… not just cosmetic sparkle.

2. The “Perfect” Neighbourhood Label

Some Calgary neighbourhoods carry a reputation — and a price tag to match.

While certain areas absolutely earn their value, buyers often overpay simply for the name, even when nearby communities offer:

• Similar commute times

• Comparable schools

• The same amenities and lifestyle

I regularly show buyers homes just minutes away from these “hot” neighbourhoods where they get more space, better condition, or a lower price — without sacrificing day-to-day quality of life.

Neighbourhood perception can change.
Value fundamentals matter far more in the long run.

3. Extra Square Footage You’ll Rarely Use

Bigger homes feel impressive… until the bills arrive.

More square footage often means:

• Higher heating and cooling costs

• Increased property taxes

• More maintenance and cleaning

• Space that turns into storage, not lifestyle

Many buyers would be far happier — and financially healthier — in a slightly smaller home with a better layout and usable space.

In Calgary’s climate, efficiency and functionality matter more than raw size.

Why Buyers Overpay (And How to Avoid It)

Overpaying usually isn’t about poor decision-making — it’s about emotion, pressure, and comparison.

Online listings, bidding stories, and “just in case” thinking push buyers to spend more than necessary.

The best buyers do three things well:

• Separate want vs. value

• Understand local micro-markets

• Get clear on what actually improves their life long-term

Final Thoughts: Smart Buying Is Strategic Buying

Winning in Calgary’s market doesn’t mean buying the flashiest house — it means buying the right house.

When you know where not to overspend, you protect your budget, reduce stress, and set yourself up for better resale down the road.

FAQ: Calgary Buyer Questions

Is it ever worth paying for brand-new renovations?
Yes — if the quality is high and the finishes genuinely align with your taste and long-term plans.

Are “up-and-coming” neighbourhoods a good idea?
Often yes, especially when fundamentals like location, access, and amenities are strong.

Does buying smaller really make a difference?
Absolutely. Lower ongoing costs can free up cash for lifestyle, travel, or future upgrades.

Related Reading

• What Buyers Are Whispering About Your Home (But Won’t Say to Your Face)

• Nobody Tells Calgary Sellers This — But It Matters More Than Staging

• What Calgary Buyers Are Hesitating On Right Now (And How Sellers Can Adjust)

If you’re buying in Calgary and want help deciding where to spend — and where to save —

👉 DM me “SMART BUY” for my Calgary Smart Buyer Checklist
It breaks down what’s actually worth paying for in today’s market.

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.

If you’ve been watching the Calgary real estate market and feeling like the energy has shifted — you’re not imagining it.

Buyers in Calgary are starting to gain more leverage in 2026.

Not everywhere.
Not overnight.
And not in the dramatic way headlines like to suggest.

But there is a shift happening — and understanding it matters if you’re thinking about buying.

This Isn’t a Crash — It’s a Rebalance

First, let’s be clear.

This is not a market crash.
It’s not a sudden drop in values.
And it’s not a reason to panic.

What’s happening instead is a move toward balance in certain segments of the market.

That balance is what creates leverage.

What’s Actually Changing in the Calgary Market

Here’s what I’m seeing on the ground in 2026:

• Some homes are sitting a bit longer

• Certain sellers are more open to negotiation

• Buyers have more time to evaluate decisions

• Conditions are being considered again in some cases

This doesn’t mean buyers suddenly control everything — but it does mean the dynamic has softened compared to peak competition years.

Where Buyer Leverage Is Showing Up

Buyer leverage in 2026 is very specific.

It tends to appear:

• In price ranges with higher inventory

• On homes that are slightly mispriced

• With sellers who have real timelines

• In listings that didn’t launch with strong momentum

It’s less likely to show up in:

• Entry-level homes with heavy demand

• Exceptional properties priced correctly

• Highly desirable neighbourhoods with low supply

Leverage exists — but only if you know where to look.

Why Prepared Buyers Benefit Most

Here’s the part many people miss:

Leverage doesn’t reward hesitation.
It rewards preparation.

Prepared buyers:

• Understand current pricing, not last year’s headlines

• Know when to push — and when not to

• Have financing and conditions aligned

• Can move confidently when the opportunity is real

Unprepared buyers still feel stuck, even in a shifting market.

Why This Shift Matters in 2026

A more balanced market changes the experience of buying.

It often means:

• Less emotional pressure

• Fewer rushed decisions

• Clearer conversations with sellers

• Better alignment between price and value

For many buyers, this is the first time in years they feel like they can breathe during the process.

What Buyer Leverage Does Not Mean

Buyer leverage does not mean:

• Everything is discounted

• Sellers are desperate

• You should lowball every offer

• Timing the market is easy

It means strategy matters more than speed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this leverage happening across all of Calgary?

No — it’s very location- and price-specific.

Should buyers wait longer for more leverage?

Not necessarily. Waiting without a plan often backfires.

Does leverage mean prices are dropping?

Not broadly — it means negotiations are more realistic.

Related Reading

• Is January Actually a Smart Time to Buy in Calgary? Here’s the Truth

• Why Some Calgary Homes Sold in December… and Others Didn’t

• The Offer That Every Calgary Seller Secretly Fears… And How to Handle It

Conclusion

Calgary buyers aren’t suddenly “winning” in 2026.

But they are gaining leverage — quietly, selectively, and strategically.

The buyers who benefit most aren’t chasing headlines or waiting for perfection.
They’re prepared, informed, and clear on where leverage actually exists.

If you’re thinking about buying and want a grounded breakdown of what’s shifting in Calgary — and how to use it to your advantage — I’ve created a Buyer Leverage Guide that walks through exactly that.

📩 DM me “LEVERAGE” and I’ll send it to you.

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.

If you’ve spent any time browsing Calgary real estate listings, you’ve probably had this thought:

“How is this still available?”

The price looks amazing.
The photos look great.
The description sounds promising.

And while sometimes it really is a good opportunity…
other times, “too good to be true” means something important isn’t being said.

The goal isn’t to scare buyers away from good deals — it’s to help you spot the difference between a smart opportunity and a potential headache, before you get emotionally invested.

Here’s how to read between the lines.

1. The Price Doesn’t Match the Neighbourhood

Pricing is one of the biggest clues.

If a home is listed significantly below similar properties in the same area, ask why.
Calgary’s market is well-informed — homes aren’t usually underpriced by accident.

Possible explanations include:

• Condition issues

• Location factors (busy road, backing something undesirable)

• Lease land or special zoning

• Condo or HOA complications

• Upcoming assessments or known issues

Low price alone isn’t bad — but it should always come with context.

2. The Photos Feel… Selective

Photos tell a story — and sometimes what’s missing matters more than what’s shown.

Red flags to watch for:

• Very wide angles that distort room size

• Certain rooms not shown at all

• Exterior photos that avoid specific sides of the property

• Minimal photos overall

Professional photography is great — but it can’t hide everything.
If something feels intentionally avoided, make note of it.

3. The Description Uses Buzzwords Instead of Details

Words like “cozy,” “charming,” “unique,” or “handyman’s dream” aren’t automatically bad — but they shouldn’t replace actual information.

Be cautious if the listing:

• Avoids square footage

• Doesn’t mention age of major systems

• Skips layout details

• Glosses over renovations without specifics

Clear listings explain why a home is a good value — not just that it is.

4. Important Information Is Missing

Sometimes what’s not in the listing is the biggest clue.

Things that should raise questions if they’re not mentioned:

• Condo fees or what they include

• Lease land vs freehold

• Age of roof, furnace, or windows

• Basement development details

• Zoning or use restrictions

This doesn’t mean something is wrong — but it does mean you should ask before assuming.

5. The Listing Has a History

Pay attention to how long the property has been around.

A listing that:

• Keeps reappearing

• Has fallen out of contract before

• Has frequent price changes

• Has been relisted with minimal updates

…may be signalling unresolved concerns rather than lack of interest.

This doesn’t rule it out — but it does mean extra due diligence is important.

6. The Deal Sounds Urgent — But Vague

Phrases like:

• “Bring all offers”

• “Motivated seller”

• “Priced to sell fast”

can be completely legitimate — or they can be used to create urgency without clarity.

Good opportunities hold up to questions.
Pressure without information is where buyers need to slow down.

So… Are ‘Too Good To Be True’ Listings Always Bad?

No — and this is important.

Some homes are:

• Priced well to attract attention

• Overlooked for simple reasons

• Great opportunities for the right buyer

The key is understanding why the price, presentation, or timing looks the way it does.

Smart buyers don’t avoid deals —
they just ask better questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does low price always mean something is wrong?

No. But it should always come with an explanation you understand and are comfortable with.

Should I avoid listings with fewer photos?

Not necessarily — but you should expect to dig deeper and ask more questions.

Can a good agent spot these issues quickly?

Yes. Experience matters when interpreting listing language, pricing strategy, and market context.

Related Reading

• What Buyers Are Whispering About Your Home (But Won’t Say to Your Face)

• The One Calgary Home Feature Buyers Are Fighting Over in 2025 — And Why

• A Day in Calgary That Will Make You Want to Move Here Immediately

Conclusion

“Too good to be true” doesn’t always mean bad —
but it does mean slow down and look closer.

The best buyers aren’t the fastest or the most aggressive.
They’re the ones who understand the story behind the listing.

If you want a simple checklist to help you spot potential red flags before you book a showing or fall in love with a listing,

📩 DM me “SPOT”
and I’ll send you my Buyer Listing Red Flag Checklist.

Smart questions lead to better decisions — and better outcomes.

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.

If you’re thinking about buying a home in Calgary, let me tell you something no one warned me about until I was right in the middle of it:

Buying in Calgary does not work like it does anywhere else.
It’s faster.
It’s more strategic.
And it comes with a few surprises buyers never expect — until they happen.

So let’s break down the things nobody tells you about buying in Calgary… but absolutely should.

⚡ 1. Homes Sell FAST — Like, Faster Than You Think

You know that idea of “sleeping on it” or “thinking about it over the weekend”?
Yeah… Calgary does not support that lifestyle. 😅

If a great home hits the market, buyers are lined up immediately.
It’s not unusual for a home to sell in 24 hours — sometimes with multiple offers.

Translation:
If you love it, chances are someone else does too.
Speed and preparation matter.

📸 2. Listing Photos Can Be… Ambitious

This one hurts a little.
But it’s true:

A home can look absolutely perfect online…
and completely different in person.

Sometimes the rooms feel smaller.
Sometimes the updates aren’t quite what the photos implied.
Sometimes you’re left asking,
“Are we SURE this is the same house?”

On the flip side, some homes look awful online — and are beautiful in real life.
This is why in-person showings matter more than any photo gallery.

📝 3. You Don’t Just Buy a Home — You Buy a STRATEGY

This is a big one.
Calgary buyers often think touring homes is the main part of the process.

But the real work happens behind the scenes:
✔ understanding the market
✔ prepping financing
✔ structuring your conditions
✔ choosing your possession date
✔ understanding competing offers
✔ and deciding how to position your offer

In Calgary, strategy can be the difference between winning a home and losing three in a row.

The buyers who come prepared win.
The buyers who “wing it” struggle.

🏃‍♂️ 4. If You’re Not Organized, the Market Will Outpace You

Calgary moves quickly.
And unprepared buyers tend to feel like the home they want is always “just out of reach.”

This is why I use a 4-week streamlined buyer strategy that brings clarity, structure, and confidence to the process — instead of the usual 12-week roller coaster many buyers go through.

😅 5. The Process Can Feel Intense… But Also EXCITING

Yes, Calgary’s market can be fast, competitive, and occasionally dramatic.
But when you’re prepared?
It becomes FUN.

Seeing homes.
Learning what you love.
Understanding your top priorities.
Feeling confident when writing offers.
It’s energizing — and incredibly rewarding.

Buying a home in Calgary is a journey… and it’s one worth enjoying.

🌟 Final Thoughts: Calgary Buyers Need a Roadmap — Not Luck

If you take one thing away from this article, let it be this:

Calgary real estate rewards preparation.
Not guessing.
Not hoping.
Not rushing.
Not waiting too long.

Just:
✔ clarity
✔ strategy
✔ expert guidance
✔ and strong decision-making

That’s what gets buyers into the right home, at the right price, at the right time.

If you want the inside scoop BEFORE you start the process…

📩 Want My Calgary Buyer Survival Guide?

It covers:
• market timelines
• buyer traps to avoid
• offer strategy
• what “competition” actually looks like
• how to prepare to win
• and the things that actually shock buyers the most

💬 DM “SURVIVAL” and I’ll send it to you.

❓ FAQ

Q: Do I really need to be fast when homes hit the market?
A: Yes — if it’s a great home, many buyers will see it immediately.

Q: Are bidding wars still happening in Calgary?
A: Yes, in certain price ranges and neighbourhoods.

Q: Should I waive conditions?
A: Only with strategic guidance and when it makes sense. Never blindly.

Q: How much time do I need to prepare before I start touring?
A: Ideally 1–2 weeks of prep so you’re fully ready before the perfect home appears.

Q: Is buying in Calgary stressful?
A: It can be — but with a strong plan, it becomes smooth and surprisingly enjoyable.

📚 Related Reading

• 🏡 Is Now a Good Time to Buy in Calgary? Here’s the 2025 Reality Check

• 🏘 How to Buy Smart When Inventory Rises — 3 Insider Tips for Calgary Buyers

• 🏙 Why Everyone’s Moving to Calgary in 2025 — And Not Just for the Oil Jobs

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.

Buying your first home is one of life’s biggest milestones. 🏡✨ It’s exciting, rewarding, and—if we’re honest—a little overwhelming. In a fast-moving city like Calgary, where the market can shift with the seasons, preparation is everything.

Whether you’re eyeing a downtown condo, a suburban family home, or something in between, these tips will help you navigate the process with confidence.

1. Get Pre-Approved Before You Shop 💸

One of the biggest mistakes first-time buyers make is falling in love with a home before they know their budget. A mortgage pre-approval gives you clarity on:

• How much you can borrow

• Your estimated monthly payments

• What price range to shop in

👉 Pro tip: Pre-approval also shows sellers you’re serious—giving you an edge in multiple-offer situations.

2. Budget for Closing Costs 📑

Beyond the down payment, there are extra costs first-time buyers sometimes forget:

• Lawyer fees

• Home inspection costs

• Property taxes + insurance adjustments

• Land title transfer fees

These can add up quickly—plan for 1.5–3% of the purchase price in closing costs.

3. Research Neighbourhoods 🏙️

Your home isn’t just four walls—it’s also the community around it. Calgary offers a wide range of neighbourhoods, each with its own vibe:

• Downtown/Mission: great for walkability + nightlife

• Suburbs like Mahogany or Silverado: family-friendly with schools and green space

• Inner-city areas like Altadore or Bridgeland: trendy with easy access to downtown

Think about lifestyle, commute times, schools, and amenities when choosing.

4. Think Long-Term 🕒

It’s tempting to buy the “right now” home—but moving is expensive. Instead, look for a property that works today and fits your 5–7 year plan. Consider:

• Will your family grow?

• Do you need a home office or extra space?

• Will resale value hold in the neighbourhood you choose?

5. Work with a REALTOR® 🤝

A professional REALTOR® is more than a door opener—they’re your guide through one of the biggest financial decisions of your life. From negotiating price to reviewing contracts and conditions, having an expert on your side protects your investment.

FAQs: First-Time Home Buyers in Calgary

Q: How much do I need for a down payment?
The minimum in Canada is 5% of the purchase price (with some exceptions).

Q: Should I buy new construction or resale?
Both have pros and cons—new builds offer modern finishes but may come with delays, while resale homes are move-in ready and often in established neighbourhoods.

Q: How do I know if I’m ready to buy?
If your finances are stable, you’ve saved for a down payment and closing costs, and you plan to stay in Calgary for 3+ years, you may be ready.

Related Reading

• The Best Time to Sell Your Home in Calgary

• Day in the Life: Suburban Calgary vs Downtown Calgary

• Why Fall 2025 Could Be the BEST Time to Sell in Calgary

Conclusion

Buying your first home in Calgary doesn’t have to be stressful. By getting pre-approved, planning for closing costs, researching neighbourhoods, and thinking long-term, you’ll set yourself up for success. And with the right REALTOR® in your corner, the process can be smoother—and even fun.

✨ Ready to start your home-buying journey? DM me “FIRST HOME” and I’ll send you my free First-Time Buyer’s Guide.

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.

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.

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.

Calgary Real Estate Market Update – May 2025
Balanced Inventory, Steady Prices, and Strategic Opportunity for Both Buyers and Sellers

As we head into the summer months, Calgary’s real estate market continues to show signs of stabilization. According to the latest CREB® Market Report for May 2025, the city’s housing market is experiencing a return to more balanced conditions—welcoming news for both buyers and sellers navigating a shifting landscape.

Inventory on the Rise, But Below Long-Term Averages

May saw a 38% year-over-year increase in inventory levels, with 4,404 properties available across all sectors. While this marks a significant gain from last year’s ultra-tight conditions, supply still remains 29% below long-term May averages. Buyers now have more choice, but sellers continue to benefit from a competitive marketplace, especially in the lower to mid-price ranges.

Sales Slowing, But Still Above Normal

Sales activity cooled slightly compared to earlier in the year, with 3,092 homes sold in May. That’s down 5% from last month but still 34% higher than long-term trends for May. Detached homes remain the most active sector, accounting for nearly half of all transactions, particularly in the $600K–$700K price range.

Prices Hold Steady, Growth Slowing

Calgary’s benchmark residential price in May reached $595,800, up 0.6% from April and 8.3% from May 2024. While annual price growth is still positive, the pace has clearly moderated. Detached homes hit a benchmark of $746,300, up 10.6% year-over-year, while semi-detached and row properties posted moderate annual gains of 8.2% and 15.6% respectively.

The apartment sector saw the smallest annual price growth at 13.3%, suggesting this segment may be plateauing after months of rapid gains.

New Listings Trend Upward

With 4,333 new listings in May—an 18% increase from April—many homeowners appear to be timing the market to take advantage of still-strong prices. The sales-to-new-listings ratio sat at 71%, indicating solid demand but also slightly reduced urgency compared to earlier months.

Months of Supply Increasing, Signaling Balance

The months of supply edged up to 1.43, the highest level since 2023. While still a seller-favoured market by definition, this shift points to better conditions for buyers, especially those who have been waiting on the sidelines for more selection.

What This Means for You

• Sellers: Strategic pricing is more important than ever. With more inventory coming to market, buyers have options—making presentation, marketing, and negotiation critical to securing top dollar.

• Buyers: Increased supply means less pressure and more time to make informed decisions. However, desirable homes in prime neighbourhoods are still moving quickly—don’t wait too long.

• Investors: Rental demand remains high, particularly in the apartment and row home sectors. Slight cooling in price growth offers room for acquisition in emerging areas.

Final Thoughts

Calgary’s housing market in May 2025 reflects a transition—not a downturn. With a growing population, relatively low inventory, and steady demand, the fundamentals remain strong. Whether you’re planning to buy, sell, or invest, staying informed and working with a trusted professional can help you navigate these evolving market conditions confidently.

Want a detailed breakdown of how this affects your specific property or neighbourhood?
📩 Contact Me Today for a personalized market update.

Source CREB.com

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.