City of Calgary Overview

• Sales Activity: 2,286 homes sold — a 16% decline from June 2024 — but still 18% above long-term trends

• New Listings & Inventory: 4,223 new listings were added, lifting active listings to 6,941 homes, an 83% year-over-year increase .

• Months of Supply: Rose to 3.04 months, reflecting more balanced market conditions

• Benchmark Price: $586,200 — down 4% from last year, and softer than last month’s level

Property-Type Snapshot :

Surrounding Areas

From CREB’s Regional Stats Package

• Airdrie:

  • Sales: 164 units

  • Benchmark: $538,300 (+2.9% YoY), 518 active listings, 3.16 months of supply.

• Cochrane:

  • Sales: 101 units

  • Benchmark: $593,700 (+4.0% YoY), inventory 299, 2.96 months supply.

• Chestermere:

  • Sales: 57 units

  • Benchmark: $715,600 (+3.0% YoY), inventory 248, 4.35 months supply.

• Okotoks:

  • Benchmark: $632,800, inventory 128, 1.47 months supply.

• Strathmore:

  • Benchmark: $442,800 (+2.9% YoY), inventory 86, 4.30 months supply.

• Langdon isn’t specifically detailed in the regional summary.

✅ Conclusion

• Inventory is now at record highs across Calgary and surrounding markets — +83% in the city, and 2–4+ months of supply in many communities

• Sales volume is normalizing, moving from elevated pandemic-era peaks into the mid–2,000s range — still above historical norms .

• Benchmark prices have eased slightly, especially in the apartment/row home sectors, reflecting the growing inventory and more buyer-friendly conditions

• Detached and semi-detached homes remain relatively firm, supported by tighter supply .

📌 What This Means

• Buyers: Enjoy more choice and better negotiating power, particularly in multi-family segments.

• Sellers: Need realistic pricing and strong presentation strategies, especially in areas with higher months of supply.

• Investors: Watch for stabilized pricing and opportunity in higher-supply pockets like apartments and row homes.

Calgary Housing Market Overview

• Sales Activity: Calgary recorded 2,568 home sales in May 2025, a 17% decrease compared to May 2024. Despite this decline, sales remained 11% above long-term trends. creb.com

• New Listings and Inventory: New listings rose to 4,842 units, leading to an inventory of 6,740 units, a 137% increase year-over-year. The months of supply increased to 2.62, indicating a move toward balanced market conditions. creb.com

• Benchmark Prices: The unadjusted residential benchmark price was $589,900, a slight decrease from the previous month and over 2% below May 2024 levels. Detached and semi-detached homes maintained consistent prices, while apartment and row-style homes experienced modest monthly price declines. creb.com

Regional Market Insights

• Airdrie:

  • Benchmark Price: $537,200, a 4% year-over-year increase.

• Cochrane:

  • Benchmark Price: $548,900, a 6% year-over-year increase.

• Okotoks:

  • Benchmark Price: $582,100, a 4% year-over-year increase.

• Chestermere:

  • Benchmark Price: $727,200, a 2% year-over-year increase.

• Langdon (Rocky View Region):

  • Benchmark Price: $693,300, a 5% year-over-year increase.

• Strathmore (Wheatland Region):

  • Benchmark Price: $479,800, a 7% year-over-year increase.

Conclusion

May 2025 marked a significant shift toward more balanced market conditions in Calgary and its surrounding areas. The substantial increase in inventory levels has provided buyers with more options, easing the competitive pressure seen in previous months. While sales have declined compared to the previous year, they remain consistent with long-term trends, indicating a healthy market adjustment. Benchmark prices have stabilized, reflecting a market that is adjusting to changing economic conditions. Both buyers and sellers should stay informed about local market trends to make strategic decisions in this evolving landscape.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the full CREB® May 2025 reports:

• City of Calgary Monthly Statistics

• Regional Monthly Statistics

🏡 How First-Time Buyers Can Get Their 5% GST Back on New Homes in Canada

If you recently purchased a newly built home in Canada as a first-time buyer, there’s great news you might not be aware of — you may be eligible to get the full 5% GST back on your purchase. That’s potentially thousands of dollars in savings sitting on the table!

💸 What Is the 5% GST Refund for First-Time Buyers?

As part of the federal government’s effort to make housing more affordable, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) has been eliminated for first-time homebuyers purchasing newly built or substantially renovated homes priced at or below $1 million — provided it will be their primary residence.

If you already bought a new home recently, this change may apply to you, and you could qualify for a refund on the GST you paid at closing.

✅ Who Qualifies?

To be eligible for the refund:

• You must be a first-time homebuyer

• The home must be newly built or substantially renovated

• The purchase price must be $1 million or less

• You must intend to live in the home as your primary residence

This applies whether the home is a detached house, townhouse, condo, or even a pre-construction property that has recently closed.

🧾 How Much Can You Get Back?

The GST in Canada is 5% of the purchase price. That means on a $600,000 home, you could be entitled to a $30,000 refund — and even more if the price is closer to the $1 million cap.

📌 How to Apply

The refund isn’t automatic — you must apply for it. The process involves submitting the appropriate form through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), along with documents such as your purchase agreement and proof of residency.

If you need help or want to check your eligibility, send me a message and I’ll provide you with:

• The application link

• Step-by-step instructions

• Support to make sure you don’t miss out

🎯 Why This Matters

This refund is a huge win for first-time buyers who may be stretching their budgets just to get into the market. If you’ve already bought and moved in, don’t overlook this opportunity to put money back in your pocket.

📬 Want Help Claiming Your Refund?

If you think you qualify, or just want to make sure, reach out today and I’ll help you determine your eligibility and guide you through the process.

• Sales Activity: Calgary recorded 2,236 home sales in April 2025, a 22% decrease compared to April 2024. Despite this decline, sales remained in line with long-term trends.CREB® Resources+1CREB® Resources+1

• New Listings and Inventory: New listings rose to 4,038 units, a 15.7% increase year-over-year, leading to an inventory of 5,867 units, more than double the levels reported last year. The months of supply increased to 2.62, indicating a move toward balanced market conditions.

• Benchmark Prices: The unadjusted residential benchmark price was $591,100, a slight decrease from the previous month but relatively stable compared to April 2024. Detached and semi-detached homes maintained consistent prices, while apartment and row-style homes experienced slight declines from last year's peak.

Regional Market Insights:

• Airdrie:

  • Sales: 185 units.

  • Benchmark Price: $544,700, relatively unchanged from last year.

  • Inventory: 433 units with 2.34 months of supply.

• Cochrane:

  • Sales: 94 units.

  • Benchmark Price: $592,000, nearly 6% higher than the previous year and at a record high.

  • Inventory: 246 units with 2.62 months of supply.

• Okotoks:

  • Sales: 56 units.

  • Benchmark Price: $627,100, nearly 2% higher than last April.

  • Inventory: 127 units with 2.27 months of supply.

• Chestermere:

  • Sales: 62 units.

  • Benchmark Price: $705,900.

  • Inventory: 237 units with 3.82 months of supply.

• Langdon (Rocky View Region):

  • Sales: 162 units.

  • Benchmark Price: $658,000.

  • Inventory: 495 units with 3.06 months of supply.

• Strathmore (Wheatland Region):

  • Sales: 46 units.

  • Benchmark Price: $461,700.

  • Inventory: 117 units with 2.54 months of supply.

Conclusion:

April 2025 marked a transition toward more balanced market conditions in Calgary and surrounding areas. Increased new listings and inventory levels have eased the competitive pressure on buyers, leading to a stabilization of home prices. While sales have declined compared to the previous year, they remain consistent with long-term trends, indicating a healthy market adjustment. Buyers now have more options, and sellers may need to adjust expectations as the market continues to balance.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the full CREB® April 2025 reports:

• City of Calgary Monthly Statistics

• Regional Monthly Statistics

​March 2025 saw significant shifts in Calgary’s real estate market, with declining sales but rising inventory levels, signaling a move toward more balanced market conditions. The surrounding areas, including Airdrie, Chestermere, Cochrane, Okotoks, Strathmore, and Langdon, continued to experience price growth despite varying sales trends.

Calgary Housing Market Overview:

• Sales Activity: Calgary recorded 1,720 home sales, a 19% decline from March 2024, though sales remained above historical averages.

• New Listings and Inventory: New listings increased by 4% year-over-year to 2,832 units, pushing total inventory to 4,187 units, a 75% rise from last year. This led to 2.4 months of supply, indicating a shift away from extreme seller’s market conditions.

• Benchmark Prices: The unadjusted residential benchmark price rose to $587,600, a 0.93% increase from March 2024. While detached and semi-detached home prices remained stable, apartment and row-style homes saw slight declines.

Regional Market Insights:

• Airdrie:

  • Sales: 160 units in March 2025.

  • Benchmark Price: $544,900 (5.5% YoY increase).

• Cochrane:

  • Benchmark Price: $686,800 (5.5% YoY increase).

• Okotoks:

  • Benchmark Price: $715,500 (5.2% YoY increase).

• Chestermere:

  • Benchmark Price: $818,100 (4.4% YoY increase).

• Strathmore:

  • Benchmark Price: $568,600 (7.1% YoY increase).

• Langdon:

  • Data not explicitly available in the CREB® report.

Conclusion:

Despite a decline in sales across Calgary and its surrounding areas, home prices have continued to increase, driven by limited supply in certain markets. With rising inventory levels, buyers are seeing more options, while sellers may need to adjust expectations. Market conditions appear to be shifting from an extreme seller’s market toward a more balanced environment, particularly for higher-density housing segments.

For those considering buying or selling, staying informed about inventory trends, pricing shifts, and interest rates will be crucial in navigating the evolving real estate landscape.

Bank of Canada Reduces Policy Interest Rate Amid Escalating Trade Tensions

On March 12, 2025, the Bank of Canada (BoC) announced a 25 basis point reduction in its target for the overnight rate, bringing it down to 2.75%. This decision marks the seventh consecutive rate cut and comes in response to escalating trade tensions with the United States, notably the recent U.S. tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum exports.

Rationale Behind the Rate Cut

The BoC's decision is primarily driven by concerns that the ongoing trade dispute could hinder Canada's economic growth, elevate inflation, and increase unemployment rates. The uncertainty stemming from these trade tensions has already led to a decline in consumer and business confidence, with sectors such as manufacturing and discretionary consumer spending adjusting their sales forecasts and pricing strategies accordingly.

Implications for Borrowing and the Economy

The reduction in the policy rate is intended to make borrowing more affordable for both consumers and businesses. Lower interest rates typically lead to reduced costs for mortgages, personal loans, and business financing, which can stimulate economic activity by encouraging spending and investment.

Bank of Canada's Cautious Stance

Despite the rate cut, the BoC remains cautious about future monetary policy adjustments. Governor Tiff Macklem emphasized that while the central bank is committed to supporting the economy, there are limitations to what monetary policy can achieve in counteracting the adverse effects of a trade war. The BoC will closely monitor economic indicators, including inflation trends and employment data, to assess the necessity of further rate adjustments.

Market Reactions

Following the BoC's announcement, the Canadian dollar experienced a modest appreciation against the U.S. dollar, reflecting a balanced policy statement that did not strongly signal additional immediate rate cuts. Additionally, the Canadian government has announced retaliatory tariffs on U.S. imports valued at approximately CAD 29.8 billion, further intensifying the trade dispute.

Looking Ahead

The BoC's next scheduled interest rate announcement is set for April 16, 2025. In the interim, the central bank will continue to evaluate the economic landscape, particularly the evolving trade relations with the United States, to determine appropriate monetary policy actions.

In February 2025, the Calgary real estate market displayed signs of stabilization, with inventory levels rising and price growth moderating across various property types.

Overall Market Trends

• Sales Activity: Calgary recorded 1,721 sales in February, marking a 19% decrease from the previous year. Despite this decline, sales remained above historical averages for the month.

• New Listings and Inventory: New listings reached 2,830 units, aligning with historical norms. This influx contributed to a substantial 76% year-over-year increase in inventory levels, totaling 4,145 units. The months of supply rose to 2.4, more than double the figure from the same period last year.

• Benchmark Prices: The unadjusted benchmark price for residential properties was $587,600, showing a modest 1% increase compared to February 2024.

Detached Homes

• Sales and Listings: Sales declined by nearly 20% year-over-year to 765 units, while new listings saw a 6% increase, totaling 1,265 units. This dynamic led to a 61% rise in inventory levels, reaching 1,698 units.

• Prices: The benchmark price for detached homes rose by approximately 5% from the previous year, reaching $760,500. Notably, the City Centre district experienced an 8% price increase.

Semi-Detached Homes

• Market Activity: New listings increased by 7% to 240 units, while sales decreased by nearly 14%, totaling 165 units. Inventory levels grew by 46% compared to the previous year.

• Pricing: The benchmark price for semi-detached homes was $683,500, reflecting a 7% year-over-year increase. The City Centre and South districts led this growth with approximately 8% increases.

Row/Townhouses

• Supply and Demand: Sales decreased by over 9% year-over-year, while new listings rose by almost 4%. Inventory levels more than doubled to 655 units, though they remain below historical averages for February.

• Price Trends: The benchmark price for row homes was $446,880, up nearly 3% from the previous year. The East district notably experienced a significant 12% price increase.

Apartment Condominiums

• Market Dynamics: Sales reached 473 units, a 26% decrease from the previous year but still above long-term averages for February. New listings remained stable year-over-year at 852 units, a record high for the month. Inventory levels increased by 90%, leading to a months of supply figure of 3.1.

• Pricing: The benchmark price for apartments was $334,200, approximately 4% higher than February 2024. The West district saw the largest price growth at over 8%.

Regional Market Highlights

• Airdrie: Sales declined by nearly 9% to 123 units, while new listings increased by 23% to 225 units. Inventory levels more than doubled to 345 homes, resulting in a months of supply figure of nearly three months. The benchmark price was $537,600, a 1.6% year-over-year increase.

• Cochrane: Both sales and new listings exceeded long-term averages, with 75 sales and 126 new listings. Inventory rose by over 48% year-over-year to 196 units, leading to a months of supply figure of 2.6. The benchmark price increased by over 5% to $577,100.

• Okotoks: Sales decreased by 4% to 45 units, while new listings grew by 7% to 60 units. Inventory levels remained low at 69 units, resulting in a months of supply figure of 1.5. The benchmark price was relatively stable compared to January, with a slight increase of under 1% year-over-year.

Chestermere

Chestermere's real estate market in February 2025 exhibited notable trends, reflecting both stability and growth across various property segments.

Inventory and Listings

The total number of active listings in Chestermere stood at 168, a decrease from 188 in December 2024 and 216 in November 2024. This decline indicates a tightening market, potentially leading to increased competition among buyers.

Average and Median Prices

• Average Price: The average home price in Chestermere was $1,012,286, reflecting a 2.28% decrease from December 2024's average of $1,035,371. Despite this monthly dip, the market has shown resilience over the past months.

• Median Price: The median home price experienced a slight increase of 0.70%, rising from $673,131 in December 2024 to $677,846 in January 2025. This uptick suggests sustained demand for mid-priced properties.

Price Trends by Property Size

• Multi-Million Dollar Homes: This segment, comprising 42 properties, had an average price of $1,713,341, with an average of 3.76 bedrooms and 3.28 bathrooms.

• Newly Built Homes: Among 113 newly constructed homes, the average price was $731,219, offering modern amenities and designs.

• Reduced Price Homes: There were 6 homes with reduced prices, averaging $784,597, potentially presenting opportunities for value-seeking buyers.

Benchmark Price

The benchmark price for detached homes in Chestermere reached $790,500, marking a significant 10.1% increase compared to the previous year. This substantial rise underscores the strong demand and limited supply in the detached housing market.

Overall, the Calgary real estate market in February 2025 showed signs of transitioning towards more balanced conditions. While sales activity has moderated, increased inventory levels provide buyers with more options, and price growth has stabilized across various property types.

The Best Home Renovations for Increasing Property Value in Calgary

When it comes to increasing your home's value in Calgary's competitive real estate market, not all renovations offer the same return on investment (ROI). Strategic upgrades can boost your home's appeal to potential buyers and significantly increase your sale price. Here are the top home improvement projects that deliver the best ROI in Calgary:

1. Kitchen Renovations

A modern, functional kitchen is one of the biggest selling points for homebuyers. Investing in a kitchen renovation can yield a substantial return, especially if you focus on both aesthetics and practicality.

High-ROI Kitchen Upgrades:

- Cabinet Refacing or Repainting: Refreshes the look without the cost of full replacement.

- Stone Countertops: Quartz or granite adds a luxurious feel and is highly durable.

- Energy-Efficient Appliances: Modern appliances appeal to eco-conscious buyers and reduce utility bills.

- Updated Fixtures: Stylish faucets, sinks, and cabinet hardware provide an easy, cost-effective refresh.

Average ROI in Calgary: 75% - 100% depending on the scope and quality of the renovation.

2. Bathroom Remodels

Bathrooms are another key area where upgrades can add significant value. Buyers are looking for clean, updated spaces that feel like a spa retreat.

High-ROI Bathroom Upgrades:

- Walk-In Showers: Frameless glass showers with quality tiling are highly desirable.

- Vanity and Countertops: Upgrading to a double vanity or stone counters enhances functionality and aesthetics.

- Modern Lighting: LED mirrors and updated light fixtures add a contemporary touch.

- Flooring: Heated floors in bathrooms are a luxurious upgrade that performs well in Calgary's colder climate.

Average ROI in Calgary: 70% - 90% depending on materials and features added.

3. Basement Development

In Calgary, where homes often feature unfinished basements, converting this space into livable square footage is a valuable investment. Finished basements can serve as extra living areas, rental suites, or entertainment spaces.

High-ROI Basement Upgrades:

- Legal Secondary Suites: Adding a legal rental suite can provide passive income and increase property value.

- Home Office or Gym: In the post-pandemic era, home offices and fitness spaces are highly desirable.

- Entertainment Areas: Home theaters or recreation rooms add lifestyle value for families.

Average ROI in Calgary: 70% - 90%, with legal suites offering the highest return.

4. Curb Appeal Enhancements

First impressions matter. Enhancing your home's exterior can attract buyers before they even step inside.

High-ROI Curb Appeal Upgrades:

- Landscaping: Low-maintenance gardens and well-maintained lawns increase attractiveness.

- Exterior Painting: A fresh coat of paint on siding, trim, and doors boosts curb appeal.

- Entry Door Replacement: Modern, energy-efficient doors improve security and aesthetics.

- Outdoor Lighting: Pathway and accent lighting enhance safety and evening curb appeal.

Average ROI in Calgary: 50% - 80%, with landscaping and door replacements yielding the best returns.

5. Energy Efficiency Improvements

As energy costs rise, buyers are increasingly drawn to homes with sustainable features that lower utility bills.

High-ROI Energy Upgrades:

- Windows and Doors: Replacing old windows with energy-efficient models improves insulation.

- Insulation Upgrades: Proper attic and wall insulation reduces energy loss.

- Smart Home Features: Thermostats, lighting, and security systems offer convenience and savings.

Average ROI in Calgary: 60% - 90%, with energy-efficient windows providing the best returns.

6. Flooring Upgrades

New flooring can transform the look and feel of your home while providing practical benefits like durability and easy maintenance.

High-ROI Flooring Options:

- Hardwood Flooring: Timeless and durable, especially in main living areas.

- Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): Affordable, stylish, and water-resistant, ideal for basements and kitchens.

- Tile: High-end tile in bathrooms and entryways adds sophistication.

Average ROI in Calgary: 70% - 80%, with hardwood offering the highest return.

Final Thoughts

When planning renovations to increase your Calgary home's value, focus on projects that combine aesthetic appeal with practical improvements. Consider the needs of local buyers, and prioritize upgrades that offer the highest ROI. By making smart investments, you can enhance your property's marketability and maximize your return when it comes time to sell.