The Market Is Shifting — Here’s What That Means for You

After years of low inventory and intense competition, Calgary buyers are finally seeing more listings hit the market in 2025. And while that’s great news, it also comes with a new challenge: how to make smart decisions when you suddenly have more options.

Because rising inventory doesn’t automatically mean great deals.
It means opportunity — if you know how to navigate it.

Here are the three insider strategies I’m coaching my buyers on right now.

1️⃣ Zoom In on Your Micro-Market

Calgary isn’t “one market.”
It’s 100+ micro-markets — each with its own pricing trends, demand cycles, and buyer profiles.

For example:

• Detached homes in Mahogany behave differently than acreages in Foothills.

• Infill markets like Killarney or Capitol Hill have different timelines than suburban new builds in Livingston.

• Townhomes in Auburn Bay aren’t following the same pattern as condos downtown.

The buyers who win in 2025 are the ones who study their specific segment — not the city as a whole.
The more focused your search, the faster you can identify a true deal.

2️⃣ Watch Days-on-Market + Price Drops (This Is Where Leverage Hides)

This is the #1 negotiation insight most buyers miss.

A listing that’s been sitting for:

• 10–20 days = the seller is watching closely

• 20–30 days = they’re getting motivated

• 30+ days = negotiation window opens

Price adjustments are your biggest clue.
When a seller drops their price, it usually means one thing: they’re ready to work with the next qualified buyer who shows up.

This is where you can:

• Negotiate terms

• Negotiate price

• Negotiate possession timing

• Compete without competing

Inventory rising doesn’t eliminate competition — it just shifts which homes attract it.

3️⃣ Lock Your Financing Early (This Is Your Hidden “Edge”)

Even with more listings on the market, the best properties still move quickly.
And when the next wave of buyers enters (think: rate drops or new migrants), things can heat up again fast.

You want to be the buyer who’s already:

• Pre-approved

• Rate-locked

• Deposit-ready

• Able to write a clean offer

Speed + preparedness = strength.
It’s the difference between “We’ll think about it” and “We’re ready to write today.”

🔍 Bonus Tip: Don’t Wait for the “Perfect” Timing

Some buyers think rising inventory means they should wait longer…
But inventory can change overnight based on:

• Seasonal swings

• Rate cuts

• Migration waves

• New product launches

The smartest buyers make decisions based on their timeline — not headlines.

🧭 Final Thoughts: Inventory Is Up — Strategy Matters More Than Ever

Rising inventory is good news.
It gives you breathing room, choice, and leverage.

But the key to buying smart in Calgary’s 2025 market is approaching every decision with:
✔ Data
✔ Focus
✔ Preparedness

This is how you buy with confidence — not chaos.

If you want a clear plan tailored to your price point and communities, I put it all in my Calgary Buyer Strategy Guide.

📩 DM me “BUY SMART” and I’ll send it to you personally.

❓ FAQ

Q: Does rising inventory mean prices will drop?
A: Not necessarily. Calgary’s strong migration and employment often keep prices stable even when inventory rises.

Q: Is now a good time to buy?
A: For prepared buyers — absolutely. Rising inventory brings opportunities you didn’t have last year.

Q: Will competition return?
A: Almost certainly. Especially if rates ease again or migration spikes.

Q: How do I know if a listing is overpriced?
A: Look at DOM, price reductions, and comparable sales. I break all of this down in the guide.

📚 Related Reading

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

• 💥 Inventory Just Exploded in Calgary — Here’s How Smart Sellers Are Still Winning

• 🏡 Top 5 Calgary Neighborhoods Everyone’s Talking About in 2025

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 2025 Calgary Neighborhood Buzz

Every year, a few Calgary communities rise to the top — where lifestyle, location, and long-term value meet.

Whether you’re thinking about buying, investing, or just love keeping up with the city’s real estate trends, these are the five neighborhoods everyone’s talking about in 2025 (and why they deserve your attention).

🌊 1️⃣ Mahogany — The Lake Life Dream

If you know, you know. Mahogany continues to be one of Calgary’s most in-demand communities — and for good reason.

Why it’s hot:

• Lake access and beach club lifestyle ☀️

• Family-friendly layout with great schools and pathways

• Walkable restaurants, coffee shops, and amenities

• Strong resale value and consistent demand

Average Detached Price (2025): Around mid-$800Ks
Best for: Families, lake lovers, and anyone craving a “vacation at home” feel.

🌄 2️⃣ West Springs / Aspen Woods — Luxury Meets Lifestyle

If you want prestige, convenience, and quick access to the mountains, this area is tough to beat.

Why it’s hot:

• Beautiful modern homes and luxury infills

• Some of the city’s top-rated schools

• Boutique shopping and upscale dining

• Short commute to downtown and the Rockies

Average Detached Price (2025): Around $1.1M+
Best for: Professionals, executives, and families seeking elegant living without losing proximity to nature.

🏙️ 3️⃣ Currie — Calgary’s Best Hidden Gem

Built on the historic site of the former Canadian Forces base, Currie blends rich history with modern urban living.

Why it’s hot:

• Tree-lined streets with a unique architectural mix

• Pedestrian-friendly and family-oriented

• Close to Marda Loop, downtown, and Mount Royal University

• Growing local businesses and green spaces

Average Detached Price (2025): Around $900K
Best for: Young families and professionals who value walkability and community design.

🏡 4️⃣ Livingston — North Calgary’s Rising Star

If you’ve driven through Calgary’s north end recently, you’ve probably noticed Livingston’s energy. It’s vibrant, new, and full of momentum.

Why it’s hot:

• Affordable new builds with modern design

• Fantastic community amenities and recreation centre

• Easy access to major routes and employment hubs

• Focused on inclusivity, innovation, and lifestyle balance

Average Detached Price (2025): Low-to-mid $600Ks
Best for: First-time buyers, growing families, and those seeking community without compromise.

🌅 5️⃣ Cochrane — Small-Town Heart, Big Mountain Views

Technically just outside city limits, but Cochrane deserves its place on this list. The mix of affordability, scenery, and small-town charm has made it one of Alberta’s most desirable commuter communities.

Why it’s hot:

• Mountain views and quick access to Canmore and Banff

• Strong community identity and small-business scene

• Lower property taxes than Calgary

• Excellent schools and family amenities

Average Detached Price (2025): Around $700K
Best for: Families, remote workers, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking balance.

🧭 Bonus Mention: Belmont & Rangeview

These newer south Calgary communities are also gaining traction — with incredible value for first-time buyers, modern designs, and quick access to the ring road. Keep an eye on them for growth potential heading into 2026.

🏠 What These Neighborhoods Have in Common

Across every quadrant, the trends are clear:
✅ Strong sense of community
✅ Excellent amenities and accessibility
✅ Continued demand and value growth
✅ A focus on lifestyle, not just square footage

These are the areas defining how Calgarians want to live — connected, comfortable, and close to what matters most.

💌 Get the Full 2025 Neighborhood Guide

Curious which area fits your lifestyle and budget best?
I’ve created a free 2025 Calgary Neighborhood Guide that breaks down:
🏡 Average home prices
📍 Community amenities
👨‍👩‍👧 Ideal buyer profiles
💬 Insider notes from a local perspective

📩 DM me “YYC NEIGHBORHOODS” and I’ll send you your copy.

Whether you’re new to Calgary or just ready for a change, I’ll help you find a home — and a community — you’ll love.

❓ FAQ

Q: Which neighborhoods are best for first-time buyers?
A: Livingston, Belmont, and Rangeview offer strong value, new builds, and excellent amenities for entry-level buyers.

Q: What are the top luxury areas in Calgary?
A: West Springs, Aspen Woods, and Currie continue to lead with high-end homes, schools, and lifestyle appeal.

Q: Where can I find the best family communities?
A: Mahogany and Cochrane top the list for space, recreation, and a community-first atmosphere.

Q: Are Calgary home prices still affordable in 2025?
A: Yes — especially compared to Toronto or Vancouver. Many buyers are moving here for the balance of affordability and lifestyle.

📚 Related Reading

• 💡 Why Everyone’s Moving to Calgary in 2025 — And Not Just for the Oil Jobs
  Discover what’s fueling Calgary’s population boom — from affordability to lifestyle appeal.

• 💥 Inventory Just Exploded in Calgary — Here’s How Smart Sellers Are Still Winning
  Why more listings don’t mean less opportunity — and how sellers are still getting top dollar.

• 📉 Is Now a Good Time to Buy in Calgary? Here’s the 2025 Reality Check
  Learn how Calgary’s balanced market is creating smart opportunities for both buyers and sellers.

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 Boom — But This Time, It’s Different

Calgary’s back on the national radar in 2025 — but this wave of newcomers isn’t chasing oilfield paycheques or short-term booms.

They’re chasing balance.
More space. More sunshine. More opportunity.

And while Alberta’s energy sector still plays a big role in our economy, today’s migration to Calgary is powered by something much broader — and more exciting.

🏡 1. Housing That Still Makes Sense

Let’s start with the big one: affordability.

While cities like Toronto and Vancouver continue to top the charts for cost of living, Calgary’s average home prices remain refreshingly attainable. Buyers from other provinces are often stunned when they realize they can own a detached home here — with a yard — for what a one-bedroom condo costs elsewhere.

For remote professionals, entrepreneurs, and young families, Calgary represents a rare opportunity: space and value without sacrificing city amenities.

💼 2. A Diversifying Job Market

The “oil and gas capital” label is getting an upgrade.

Calgary’s economy has been steadily diversifying over the past few years, and in 2025, the results are showing.
Here’s where growth is coming from:

• Tech and innovation: The city is attracting startups, venture capital, and talent from across Canada.

• Film and creative industries: Alberta’s landscapes and production incentives are bringing major projects north.

• Healthcare and green energy: Expanding infrastructure and sustainability initiatives are creating new jobs.

In short — the city that used to run on one industry now runs on possibility.

🌄 3. Lifestyle That Blends City Energy With Outdoor Freedom

Calgarians are spoiled — and we know it.

You can work downtown, grab lunch on Stephen Avenue, and be in the mountains by sunset. Add to that over 333 days of sunshine each year, a thriving food and arts scene, and countless trails, parks, and dog-friendly spaces — it’s no wonder people are trading in congestion for connection.

This isn’t about escaping big-city life. It’s about designing a better one.

👩‍💻 4. Remote Work Changed Everything

The pandemic may be in the rearview mirror, but its impact on work is permanent.
People are no longer tied to where their office is — they’re choosing where their life is.

Calgary’s affordability, growing infrastructure, and easy airport access make it an ideal base for remote professionals. Whether you’re in tech, consulting, or creative industries, you can work globally and live locally — with mountains, sunshine, and community all at your doorstep.

💬 5. The “Calgary Mindset”

Ask anyone who’s moved here recently what stands out most, and they’ll tell you: it’s the people.

Calgarians are friendly, down-to-earth, and community-driven. There’s an entrepreneurial energy that feels hopeful — like you can build something here, whether that’s a business, a family, or a new chapter of life.

That spirit is part of what makes this city special — and it’s attracting others who want that same sense of purpose and optimism.

🏙️ Where Are People Moving From?

Calgary’s migration wave is coming from all directions:

• Ontario: Buyers trading high prices for homeownership and outdoor lifestyle.

• British Columbia: Families seeking affordability and job stability.

• Across Alberta: Locals upgrading within a market that finally gives them options.

• International newcomers: Drawn by opportunity, quality of life, and Calgary’s welcoming culture.

📦 Thinking About Moving to Calgary?

If you’re ready to explore what life here could look like, I’ve put together a Calgary Relocation Brief — a quick, easy-to-read guide that covers:
✅ Average home prices in 2025
✅ The best up-and-coming communities
✅ Hidden-gem suburbs and acreage options
✅ What to expect when you arrive

📩 DM me “MOVE TO YYC” and I’ll send it to you personally.

Whether you’re moving for work, family, or lifestyle — I’ll help you make Calgary feel like home from day one.

❓ FAQ

Q: Is Calgary still affordable compared to other Canadian cities?
A: Absolutely. Despite recent growth, Calgary remains one of the most affordable major cities for both homeownership and overall cost of living.

Q: Are there jobs outside of oil and gas?
A: Yes — Calgary’s economy is expanding into tech, healthcare, green energy, and film production. The job market is far more diverse than it used to be.

Q: What are the best areas for newcomers?
A: It depends on your lifestyle. Inner-city areas like Altadore and Hillhurst offer urban energy, while suburbs like Mahogany, Evanston, and Silverado provide family-friendly balance.

Q: Is Calgary a good place for families?
A: 100%. Great schools, parks, safety, and affordability make Calgary one of Canada’s top family destinations.

Q: How’s the commute and traffic?
A: Manageable by big-city standards — and improving. Plus, many residents now work hybrid or remote, reducing congestion.

📚 Related Reading

• 📉 Is Now a Good Time to Buy in Calgary? Here’s the 2025 Reality Check
  A deep dive into the current buyer landscape and how Calgary’s market balance is creating opportunities.

• 💥 Inventory Just Exploded in Calgary — Here’s How Smart Sellers Are Still Winning
  Why more listings don’t mean less success — and how sellers are adapting to 2025’s new dynamics.

• 💰 Stop Waiting for Prices to Drop — Calgary’s Secret Buyer Advantage Right Now
  What buyers can leverage this year to find value before competition heats up again.

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 2025 Market Shift No One Can Ignore

After years of “no listings, multiple offers, and sold-before-you-blink” energy, Calgary’s market finally caught its breath.
Inventory has exploded.

Buyers suddenly have choices.
“For Sale” signs are multiplying.
And sellers? They’re feeling the pressure.

But here’s the truth — even in a higher-inventory market, the right strategy still wins.

📈 What’s Actually Happening in Calgary’s 2025 Market

Let’s keep this simple:

• Inventory has risen across almost every price band and property type.

• Sales are still happening — but homes are taking longer to move.

• Pricing gaps have widened between move-in-ready homes and dated ones.

• Buyers are more selective, expecting quality photos, strong marketing, and realistic pricing.

This is what a normal market looks like… something Calgary hasn’t truly seen in a few years.

🧠 Why Some Sellers Are Still Winning (Big)

When inventory spikes, many sellers panic — but the smart ones see opportunity.
Here’s how they’re winning in 2025:

1️⃣ They Price With Precision, Not Emotion

Buyers have data. They’re comparing your home to five others before dinner.
Strategic sellers know that pricing slightly ahead of the curve — not above it — gets more eyeballs and stronger offers.

2️⃣ They Nail the First Impression

Today’s buyers scroll fast. Professional photography, strong copywriting, and strategic staging are non-negotiables.
The homes that feel inviting, bright, and move-in-ready are the ones drawing showings (and offers).

3️⃣ They Market Beyond MLS

Smart agents don’t just “list” — they launch.
This means layered marketing: social media exposure, targeted ads, agent-to-agent networking, and polished presentation that tells a story.

4️⃣ They Time Their Listing Intentionally

Even in a crowded market, timing still matters.
Launching mid-week often captures weekend traffic, while holding off until after a flood of new listings can give your home a cleaner spotlight.

5️⃣ They Understand Buyer Psychology

Buyers today are cautious — but ready.
They want confidence in the property, transparency in presentation, and space to breathe while deciding.
The best marketing makes them feel emotionally connected, not rushed.

🏠 Real-World Example: Turning Competition Into Confidence

One of my recent Calgary listings faced 20+ active competitors in the same price range.
We leaned into positioning — impeccable prep, lifestyle photography, and a marketing story that sold the home’s experience, not just its specs.
The result?
💥 Multiple offers within days, and a sale above list price.

That’s the power of strategy in a competitive market.

📋 2025 Seller Checklist: How to “Sell Smart”

✅ Review comparable active and sold listings with your agent
✅ Price to attract, not to test
✅ Do a light refresh — paint, lighting, declutter
✅ Stage or style with intention (professional guidance pays off)
✅ Invest in quality visuals: photos, video, and floorplans
✅ Launch with momentum — social, email, and open-house buzz
✅ Review feedback and adjust fast

🧭 The Seller Mindset Shift for 2025

The Calgary market has moved from “list and wait” to “plan and win.”
If you approach your sale like a marketing campaign — not just a transaction — you’ll be way ahead of the curve.

Remember:
It’s not about being the cheapest listing.
It’s about being the most compelling one.

💌 Want to See What’s Working Right Now?

I’ve created a free 2025 Seller Brief packed with real data, staging tips, and launch strategies for this new Calgary market.
It’s short, simple, and actionable — everything you need to “sell smart.”

📩 DM me “SELL SMART” to get your copy, and let’s make sure your home stands out even when inventory doesn’t.

❓ FAQ

Q: Has Calgary become a buyer’s market?
A: Not quite — but it’s more balanced. Some segments are shifting, while others (like well-priced detached homes) remain competitive.

Q: Should I wait until inventory drops again?
A: Timing the market rarely beats strategic preparation. If you’re ready, the right plan can still get you strong results.

Q: Are bidding wars over?
A: Not completely! They’re just more selective. Move-in-ready homes in hot areas still attract multiple offers.

Q: How can I tell if my home’s priced right?
A: Watch your first two weeks closely. If showings are slow and feedback mentions price, it’s a sign to adjust early.

📚 Related Reading

• 💰 Under-Market Offers Are Back — Here’s How to Handle Them Like a Pro
  What to do when buyers come in low — and how to turn a cheeky offer into a win.

• 📉 Is Now a Good Time to Buy in Calgary? Here’s the 2025 Reality Check
  A deep dive into Calgary’s shifting market and how balance is creating new opportunities for both sides of the deal.

• 🏡 Stop Waiting for Prices to Drop — Calgary’s Secret Buyer Advantage Right Now
  Why “waiting for the crash” may cost you more — and what smart buyers are doing instead.

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 Question Every Buyer Is Asking

If you’ve been wondering whether now is the right time to buy a home in Calgary, you’re not alone.
Rates have shifted, prices have steadied, and the headlines seem to say something different every week.

So, what’s the real story? Let’s unpack the 2025 Calgary housing market — and help you decide if this is your moment to make a move.

🔎 Calgary’s Market in 2025: A Balanced Reset

After a few years of roller-coaster activity, the Calgary market has settled into a new rhythm.

• Prices have levelled off across most communities — especially for detached and semi-detached homes.

• Inventory remains low by long-term standards, keeping the market steady rather than sluggish.

• Migration continues to boost demand, with thousands of Canadians relocating to Alberta for affordability and lifestyle.

• Interest rates are easing slowly, but not enough to cause a major price surge (yet).

The bottom line?
2025 is shaping up to be a year of balance — and that’s good news for informed buyers.

💡 What This Means for Calgary Buyers

When the market stabilizes, you gain something you didn’t have in the frenzy of 2023-2024:
time and leverage.

• You can negotiate without fifteen competing offers.

• You can schedule a proper inspection and due diligence.

• You can actually sleep on it before writing an offer (imagine that!).

But success in this market still comes down to strategy — not luck or timing.

📍 Focus on Your “Micro-Market”

Instead of following citywide headlines, look at the micro-market — your preferred community and property type.

For example:

• Detached homes in Silverado might behave differently than duplexes in Auburn Bay.

• Acreages near Priddis or Springbank often move at their own pace.

• Inner-city infills may dip briefly, then bounce once construction slows.

Working with data specific to your price band and neighbourhood helps you move faster when a real opportunity appears.

🧭 5 Steps to Buy Smart in 2025

1️⃣ Get pre-approved and secure a rate hold.
Even if rates drop later, this locks in peace of mind while you shop.

2️⃣ Define your non-negotiables.
Know what you must have versus what’s a “nice-to-have.” It saves time and stress.

3️⃣ Track listings weekly.
Watch for price adjustments, days on market, and homes that return to market — those often hold value.

4️⃣ Negotiate strategically.
Use data — not emotion — to support your offer. The goal is fair, not flashy.

5️⃣ Stay ready.
When “the one” hits the market, having your paperwork and deposit ready makes all the difference.

🐴 Special Note for Acreage & Lifestyle Buyers

If you’re exploring rural properties around Calgary, add these due-diligence checkpoints:

• Well flow & water quality tests

• Septic capacity & age

• Zoning, fencing, and access easements

• Outbuilding permits & utility sources

The right professional support makes this process smooth — and protects you from costly surprises.

💬 Should You Wait?

Some buyers are still holding out for a “market correction.”
Here’s the reality: Calgary doesn’t usually behave like Toronto or Vancouver.

Our economic fundamentals — strong employment, steady in-migration, and relative affordability — act as a cushion.
That means instead of dramatic price drops, we tend to see short windows of opportunity where buyers have leverage.

2025 is one of those windows.

🎯 How I Help Calgary Buyers Win

• Customized Calgary Buyer Briefs: local comps, days-on-market stats, and negotiation tips.

• Pro network access: lenders, inspectors, acreage specialists, and legal support.

• Private/off-market opportunities: agent-to-agent previews and early access.

• Data-backed negotiation strategy: protecting your budget while getting you into the right home.

🏁 Final Thoughts

Is now a good time to buy in Calgary?
If you’re prepared, yes.

The frenzy is gone, balance is back, and informed buyers finally have breathing room to make smart moves.

Want a custom look at what’s happening in your neighbourhood or price range?
📩 DM me “REALITY CHECK” and I’ll send you my free Calgary Buyer Brief — with local data, market insights, and a clear game plan for 2025.

Let’s help you buy with confidence, not headlines. 🏡

❓ FAQ

Q: Will Calgary home prices drop in 2025?
A: Broadly, no. Expect small dips in some communities but overall stability.

Q: Is now a good time for first-time buyers?
A: Yes — you face less competition and can negotiate conditions again.

Q: What about interest rates?
A: Modest rate cuts are expected, but affordability gains may be offset by renewed demand.

Q: Should I wait until spring?
A: Spring brings more listings — and more competition. Buying earlier can give you leverage.

Q: What’s different for acreage buyers?
A: More due diligence: wells, septic, and zoning. (I provide a detailed acreage checklist with every brief.)

📚 Related Reading

• 🏡 Stop Waiting for Prices to Drop — Calgary’s Secret Buyer Advantage Right Now
  Why “waiting” might be the most expensive move you make in 2025 — and how to buy smart instead.

• 💰 Under-Market Offers Are Back — Here’s How to Handle Them Like a Pro
  When to go low, when to walk away, and how to negotiate strategically in Calgary’s shifting market.

• 🌄 Equestrian Properties Near Calgary: What You Need to Know Before You Buy
  From zoning to water wells — everything acreage and lifestyle buyers should check before falling in love with the view.

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.

Selling your home in Calgary isn’t just about putting up a “For Sale” sign and hoping for the best. Buyers are smart, selective, and quick to form an opinion. In fact, most buyers decide whether they like a home within the first few minutes of stepping inside. That means your first impression has to be spot on.

So, what’s the one trick every Calgary seller should do before listing?

👉 Walk through your home like a buyer would.

It sounds simple, but this exercise can uncover the things you’ve stopped noticing—and those small details can have a big impact on how buyers perceive your property.

Why This Walk-Through Trick Works

When you’ve lived in your home for years, you become “blind” to its quirks. The scuffed baseboards? You don’t see them anymore. The faint smell of last night’s garlic stir fry? You’ve tuned it out. But buyers walking in for the first time will notice everything.

Think of this as a free, DIY version of staging. It allows you to:

• Spot red flags early. Small issues like burnt-out bulbs or squeaky doors can make buyers wonder what bigger problems might be hiding.

• Enhance emotional appeal. A home that feels clean, bright, and cared for makes buyers more comfortable—and more likely to imagine themselves living there.

• Stand out in Calgary’s market. With limited inventory and buyers comparing homes across neighbourhoods, those “move-in ready vibes” can tip the scale in your favour.

How to Do It Step-by-Step

1. Start at the Curb

Buyers form an opinion before they even reach your front door. Step outside, walk up the path, and ask:

• Is the yard tidy?

• Does the front door look fresh and welcoming?

• Is the walkway clear and safe?

Fresh paint, trimmed hedges, and even a new doormat can work wonders here.

2. Pause at the Entryway

When you open the door, what do you smell? What do you see? Is the lighting inviting or dim?

Pro tip: Bright light bulbs and a clutter-free front entrance set the tone for the rest of the showing.

3. Move Room by Room

Walk through each space as a buyer would:

• Living Room: Is furniture arranged for flow? Any clutter or pet toys distracting?

• Kitchen: Are counters cleared? Appliances wiped down?

• Bedrooms: Do they feel restful or overcrowded?

• Bathrooms: Do they sparkle? (Yes, buyers check behind the shower curtain!)

4. Use All Five Senses

Buyers don’t just look—they experience.

• Sight: Is the space bright and tidy?

• Smell: Fresh or… funky?

• Sound: Do doors squeak or floors creak?

• Touch: Are handles secure or wobbly?

• Feel: Does the temperature feel comfortable?

5. Record It

Film your walk-through on your phone. Watching the playback will highlight things you missed in the moment.

6. Fix the Easy Wins

Tighten loose handles, replace burnt bulbs, declutter shelves, and add fresh flowers or a scented candle. Small changes create a big payoff in buyer perception.

Small changes create a big payoff in buyer perception.

The Calgary Advantage

In Calgary’s current real estate market, homes that feel move-in ready attract stronger offers—and sometimes even multiple bids. Buyers are juggling mortgage rates, moving costs, and busy lifestyles. If they sense your home has “hidden work” waiting, they may pass or lowball their offer.

Doing this walk-through trick ensures your home doesn’t just show well—it sells well.

FAQs

Q: Should I still hire a stager if I do this trick?
Yes! This trick is the foundation. It ensures your home is clean, functional, and cared for. Staging then builds on that to maximize emotional appeal.

Q: What if I can’t see the flaws myself?
That’s totally normal. When I work with sellers, I do a detailed pre-listing walk-through with you. My job is to notice what buyers will notice—so you don’t miss a thing.

Q: How much time does this take?
Usually 30–60 minutes. The fixes you uncover can take a little longer, but the investment pays off in buyer confidence and better offers.

Related Reading

• Top 5 Home Improvements That Sell in Calgary

• How to Stage Your Calgary Home Like a Pro on a Budget

• The Seller’s Timeline: From Listing to Possession in Calgary

Before you list your Calgary home, take the time to do this one simple walk-through. It costs nothing, takes less than an hour, and can dramatically improve how buyers see your property.

And if you want expert eyes on your side, I offer a complimentary pre-listing walk-through to all my seller clients.

💬 DM me “LIST READY” and I’ll send you my free Seller Readiness Checklist to help you get started.

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 real estate market is shifting gears this summer. With inventory surging back to pre-pandemic levels and sales easing, July 2025 marked another month of recalibration for buyers and sellers alike.

Key July 2025 Market Highlights

• Home Sales: 2,099 sales, down 12% year-over-year.

• New Listings: 3,911, up 8% from last July.

• Inventory: 6,917 homes available – a 66% jump, the highest in years.

• Benchmark Price: $582,900, down 3.9% annually.

• Detached Homes: $761,800 benchmark price, nearly unchanged from 2024.

• Semi-Detached Homes: $697,500, up 1% year-over-year.

• Row Homes: Prices fell nearly 4%.

• Apartment Condos: $329,600 benchmark, down 5% from 2024.

What’s Driving the Market?

1. More Choice for Buyers
   After years of tight supply, Calgary’s inventory has climbed sharply. Buyers now have more selection, particularly in newer communities, which is creating downward pressure on prices.

2. Balanced Market Conditions
   The sales-to-new-listings ratio sits near 54%, reflecting more balance compared to the frenzied seller’s market of recent years. Detached and semi-detached homes are holding value better than apartments and row-style properties.

3. Economic Factors
   Mortgage rates continue to ease, with some lenders offering 3-year fixed terms around 4%. However, looming uncertainty over potential U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods could impact employment, affordability, and overall demand in the coming months.

What This Means for Buyers

If you’ve been waiting for more inventory and price relief, this could be your window of opportunity. Apartment and row-style buyers in particular may find negotiable deals. With rates softening, monthly affordability could improve further if interest rates dip again.

What This Means for Sellers

Homes are still selling, but pricing strategy matters more than ever. Overpricing in a market with growing supply could mean sitting on the sidelines. Staging, marketing, and timing are critical to standing out in a more competitive environment.

Calgary Housing Market Outlook

The July 2025 numbers highlight a market in transition. While detached homes remain relatively stable, other property types are adjusting more quickly to the surge in supply. If you’re planning a move this year, staying informed on local trends will be essential for making confident decisions.

👉 Thinking about buying or selling in Calgary? I’d love to walk you through the numbers in your community and help you build a strategy that works for today’s shifting market.

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.