Wait… condos are competitive again?

If you’ve been watching Calgary’s market over the last few years, you’re probably thinking:
“Detached homes dominate. End of story.”

Well… 2025 said: plot. twist. 😅

Because for the first time in a long time, condominiums are stepping out of the shadows and saying:
“Excuse me, it’s my turn now.”

Let’s break down what’s actually happening — and what it means for your buying or selling strategy this year.

🏢 1️⃣ Condos Are Having Their Moment

Yes, really.
In 2025, condos in Calgary are almost as competitive as detached homes.

But why?
Here’s the big one: affordability.

When buyers compare:
💸 Mortgage on a $480K condo
vs.
💸 Mortgage on an $850K detached

The decision becomes… practical.
Condos are giving budget-conscious buyers a clean entry point, and it’s causing a surge in demand.

Add in the fact that vacancy rates are insanely low and rents are high?
Condos suddenly make a lot of financial sense.

📈 2️⃣ Investors Are Back — and They’re Hungry

Investors took a step back when rates climbed…
But now?
They’re returning — strategically.

Condos often offer:
✔ Lower purchase prices
✔ Strong rental demand
✔ Simpler maintenance
✔ Predictable carrying costs

Which means every good unit gets attention fast.
Competition is real, even across the $300K–$450K range.

🏡 3️⃣ Detached Homes Are Still the Dream — But Competition Has Shifted

Don’t get it twisted — detached homes are still the most desired product in Calgary.

The difference in 2025 is:

• More options

• Slightly more balanced competition

• Buyers being more selective

• Less panic-buying compared to past years

Detached homes still offer:
🌳 Space
🐶 A yard
🚗 A garage
😊 Privacy
📈 Strong long-term appreciation

But the “I’ll write an offer on anything with walls” energy of 2021–2023 is gone.
Buyers want value.
Which brings us back to… condos.

😅 4️⃣ First-Time Buyers Are Done Waiting

Rent is high.
Vacancy is low.
And people are tired of throwing money into the void every month.

So in 2025, first-time buyers are saying things like:
“Do I want a detached? Yes.”
“Can I comfortably afford one right now? No.”

Enter:
➡️ Condos
➡️ Townhouses
➡️ Smaller detached homes in outer communities

Calgary continues to be one of Canada’s most affordable major cities — and buyers want in.

🏘 5️⃣ Townhouses: The Middle Child Who Holds Everything Together

Townhouses are quietly becoming the “best of both worlds”:

• More space than condos

• Lower price than detached

• Less maintenance than acreages

• Strong demand

• Good value retention

They’re the middle child of the 2025 real estate family — keeping everyone sane while detached and condos fight for attention.

💡 What Does This Mean for YOU?

It depends who you are:

If you’re a first-time buyer:

Condos and townhomes are great value right now.
You can enter the market without stretching your budget thin.

If you’re an investor:

Pay attention — the numbers are back in your favour.
Condos in certain pockets are renting extremely well.

If you’re a move-up buyer:

Detached and semi-detached homes offer more room for negotiation than they have in years.

If you’re a seller:

Understanding which product type is moving fastest is key.
Price and presentation matter more than ever.

🧭 Final Thoughts: 2025 = The Year of Smart Choices

No product is “the winner” — but Calgary’s market is giving buyers more choice, more balance, and more ways to make their budget work.

Detached homes = space + long-term upside
Condos = affordability + high demand
Townhouses = the steady middle lane

If you want the full breakdown — appreciation trends, price charts, community-by-community shifts — I’ve put it all into my 2025 Market Shift Guide.

📩 Comment or DM “2025 SHIFT” and I’ll send it to you personally.

❓ FAQ

Q: Are condos a good investment in 2025?
A: In many NW, NE, and inner-city pockets — yes. High rental demand + lower prices = strong opportunity.

Q: Are detached homes dropping in price?
A: Not dropping — but stabilizing. Still strong long-term value.

Q: Which product type is the safest long-term?
A: Detached, historically. But 2025 is about affordability and strategy.

Q: Are townhouses still a good option?
A: Absolutely — especially for buyers who want space without the detached price tag.

📚 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.

If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines waiting for Calgary home prices to drop, you’re not alone. Many buyers have been hoping for a “crash” or a major dip before making their move.

But here’s the truth: waiting might be costing you more than you think.

Calgary’s market is stable, balanced, and — for the savvy buyer — full of quiet advantages that most people are missing. Let’s break them down.

1. Calgary Prices Are Holding Steady 🏡

Unlike many Canadian markets that saw sharp ups and downs, Calgary’s real estate prices have been steady.

There’s no crash on the horizon — just consistent demand, supported by:

• A strong job market 💼

• Continued population growth (especially from BC, Ontario & abroad) 🌍

• Manageable housing inventory 📈

In other words, Calgary isn’t “overheating.” It’s balanced — and that means opportunity.

✨ Pro tip: Waiting for prices to fall in a balanced market is like waiting for gas to be $0.50/litre again — it’s probably not happening.

2. Inventory Is Rising (Quietly) 📊

For the first time in months, Calgary is seeing a gradual increase in housing inventory.

That means:
✅ More options to choose from
✅ Less pressure in multiple-offer situations
✅ More time to make thoughtful decisions

Buyers who act now can actually negotiate — something that wasn’t possible during the frenzy of past years.

✨ Pro tip: The fall market often brings motivated sellers and fewer competing buyers — it’s one of the most strategic times to purchase.

3. Interest Rates Will Shift — and So Will Prices 💸

We’ve all been watching interest rates rise and hold… but that cycle won’t last forever.

When rates begin to drop, more buyers will re-enter the market — increasing competition and pushing prices upward.

So if you’re pre-approved now and rates dip later, you could refinance into a lower rate without competing in bidding wars.

✨ Pro tip: Think long-term. You can change your rate later, but not the price you pay for your home today.

4. Motivated Sellers = Negotiation Power 🤝

As we head into the cooler months, sellers who have been on the market for a while are motivated to make deals happen.

That means more flexibility on:

• Possession dates

• Conditions

• Price adjustments

Buyers who move now — before the spring rush — can often negotiate stronger terms and even secure incentives that won’t exist later.

5. The Smart Money Is Moving Now 💼

Real estate investors, relocation buyers, and first-time buyers who’ve done their homework know that the best opportunities don’t happen when the market is loud — they happen when it’s quiet.

Right now, Calgary’s market is calm, confident, and full of potential.

✨ Pro tip: If you’re waiting for the “perfect” time to buy, you’ll always be waiting. The perfect time is when the math — and your motivation — make sense.

FAQs: Calgary’s 2025 Real Estate Market

Q: Are Calgary home prices going to drop?
Experts don’t predict a crash — the market remains stable, supported by population growth and job demand.

Q: Should I wait for interest rates to come down before buying?
If you can afford the payment now, buying before rates drop means you’ll avoid future competition and can refinance later.

Q: Is Calgary still affordable compared to other Canadian cities?
Yes! Calgary remains one of the most affordable major metros in Canada, especially compared to Vancouver and Toronto.

Related Reading

• Buy Now or Wait? Calgary Market Predictions for Fall 2025

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

• Top 5 Things Ontario & BC Buyers Love About Calgary

Conclusion

The myth of “waiting for prices to drop” has kept too many buyers on the sidelines. But Calgary’s market isn’t crashing — it’s stabilizing.

✅ Prices are steady
✅ Inventory is growing
✅ Sellers are motivated
✅ And rate cuts are on the horizon

If you’re ready to make your move, now might just be your window to buy smart — not late.

💬 DM me “ADVANTAGE” for my free Calgary Buyer Advantage Guide, filled with insider tips, local insights, and market data to help you buy with confidence right now.

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.

Avoid Surprises with This Complete Buyer’s Guide

Saving for a down payment is just one part of buying a home in Calgary—but many buyers forget to budget for the hidden costs that can add thousands to their final bill. These expenses can catch even experienced buyers off guard. Here’s what you need to plan for so you can buy with confidence.

⚖️ Closing Costs

Expect to pay 1–3% of your home’s purchase price in closing costs, which can include:

✔️ Legal fees

✔️ Title insurance

✔️ Land title registration

✔️ Adjustments for prepaid property taxes or condo fees

🔍 Home Inspections & Appraisals

Even if your lender requires an appraisal, you should still budget for a home inspection—both are essential for protecting your investment.

🚚 Moving Expenses

Don’t forget to factor in the cost of:

✔️ Moving trucks or professional movers

✔️ Packing supplies

✔️ Potential storage fees if there’s a gap between moving dates

🛠️ Immediate Repairs & Upgrades

Even homes listed as “move-in ready” can require:

✔️ Fresh paint

✔️ Small repairs

✔️ Appliance replacements

✔️ Safety updates like locks or smoke detectors

🔌 Utility Hookups & Deposits

When you move in, many utility providers require deposits for services like:

✔️ Electricity & gas

✔️ Water

✔️ Internet & cable

📈 Other Costs to Watch

✔️ Condo document review fees if you’re buying a condo

✔️ Insurance premiums

✔️ Optional home warranties

🏡 Why Budgeting for Hidden Costs Matters

Planning for these expenses helps you:

✅ Avoid financial surprises

✅ Feel confident in your home purchase

✅ Protect your investment long-term

📩 Want My Hidden Costs Checklist?

DM me “COSTS” and I’ll send you my Home Buyer’s Hidden Costs Checklist so you’re fully prepared for your next move.

Related reading:

• The Hidden Costs of Buying a Home in Calgary

• What’s a Real Property Report? Why It Matters When Buying in Alberta

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.

A Clear Guide for Calgary Residents and Newcomers

If you’re wondering whether to rent or buy a home in Calgary this year, you’re not alone. Calgary’s housing market in 2025 presents unique challenges—and opportunities—that make this decision more important than ever. Here’s what you need to know before making your move.

💸 Renting in Calgary: When It Makes Sense

Renting can be the smarter choice if you:

✅ Need flexibility for career or life changes

✅ Plan to stay in Calgary for less than three years

✅ Can’t comfortably cover a down payment or closing costs

✅ Want to avoid home maintenance or unexpected repairs

Calgary’s rental market has seen rising prices in recent years. Depending on your lifestyle, renting can either help you save for a future purchase or leave you chasing ever-increasing monthly costs.

🏠 Buying in Calgary: Benefits to Consider

Buying can make more sense if you:

✅ Plan to stay in your home at least 3–5 years

✅ Have a stable income and savings for down payment & closing costs

✅ Want to build equity instead of paying rent

✅ Prefer stability and control over your living space

Buying locks in your monthly payments (if you choose a fixed mortgage), helps you build wealth, and can shield you from unpredictable rent increases.

📊 Calgary 2025 Market Trends

• Calgary’s real estate market continues to show steady demand, with inventory shortages in some price brackets.

• Rent prices are rising in many neighborhoods due to high demand and low vacancy rates.

• Mortgage rates remain elevated compared to previous years but have stabilized, making careful cost comparison essential.

📍 How to Decide: Rent vs Buy

• Compare current rent prices vs mortgage payments in your target area.

• Factor in upfront costs: down payment, closing costs, moving expenses.

• Calculate how long you plan to stay—owning makes more sense if you’ll be in the home long enough to offset these initial expenses.

• Consider lifestyle flexibility vs the benefits of building equity.

📩 Want My Calgary 2025 Rent vs Buy Guide?

DM me “RENT OR BUY” and I’ll send you my Calgary Rent vs Buy Guide, complete with side-by-side cost breakdowns and neighborhood-specific comparisons.

Related reading:

• The Hidden Costs of Buying a Home in Calgary

• How to Time the Market Without Losing Sleep

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.

A Calgary Buyer & Seller’s Guide to Smart, Stress-Free Moves

Everyone wants to buy low and sell high—but in real estate, trying to perfectly time the market can feel like chasing a unicorn. The good news? You don’t need perfect timing to have a successful, confident transaction. Here’s how to approach timing the Calgary market without losing sleep.

✅ 1. Know Your Why

Are you upsizing, downsizing, relocating, or investing? Your personal goals and timeline matter more than market cycles. Trying to wait for the absolute “bottom” or “top” can keep you stuck—and sometimes cost you opportunities.

📊 2. Watch Key Market Indicators

While you can’t predict the future, you can stay informed.

• Inventory levels (supply vs demand)

• Days on market (how quickly homes sell)

• Average sale-to-list price ratios

• Local economic news impacting housing

These can give you a sense of whether the market favors buyers or sellers.

🗓️ 3. Stay Flexible

A rigid move date can force you into a rushed decision or missing the right opportunity. Setting a range—like “summer 2025” instead of a specific week—lets you adapt if the perfect home or buyer appears.

🤝 4. Have a Solid Plan

If you’re buying and selling, coordinating these moves is key. A clear strategy with your REALTOR® helps reduce risk, avoid double moves, and lower financial stress.

⚖️ 5. Remember: The Best Time Is When It’s Right for You

The market will always move up and down. Focus on what works for your life, budget, and goals—and make decisions with expert guidance.

📩 Want My Free Market Timing Guide?

DM me “TIMING” and I’ll send you my Market Timing Guide, packed with strategies for Calgary buyers & sellers who want to move smart—no crystal ball required.

Related reading:

• Pricing Strategy 101 for Calgary Sellers

• The Hidden Costs of Buying a Home in Calgary

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.