Greater Calgary's Blog     Local Real Estate News & Market Trends

You’ll find our blog to be a wealth of information, covering everything from local market statistics and home values to community happenings. That’s because we care about the community and want to help you find your place in it. Please reach out if you have any questions at all. We’d love to talk with you!

 

Additional Reading

March 25, 2023

Charles Gallardo | Real Estate Agent | Greater Calgary Real Estate

Get to Know Charles Gallardo

March 25, 2023

Erin Taplin | Real Estate Agent | Greater Calgary Real Estate

Get to Know Erin Taplin

March 22, 2023

Understanding Easements on Land: Egress, Ingress, Servient, and Dominant Tenants Explained


Easement

An easement is a legal right that allows someone to use another person's property for a specific purpose, without owning the property. It gives the holder of the easement the right to use the land in a particular way, while the owner of the land retains ownership and control over the property. Easements can be granted for various reasons, such as providing access to a public road or allowing utilities to be installed on the property. They can also be created by necessity, such as when one property is landlocked and requires a right of way over a neighboring property to access a public road. Easements can be temporary or permanent and can be granted for a specific period or in perpetuity.

Egress and Ingress

Egress refers to the act or right of exiting or leaving a particular place, such as a building, property, or land. It can also refer to the means of exit, such as a door, window, staircase, or hallway, that provides a safe and unobstructed path for people to leave a building or property in case of an emergency or evacuation. The term "egress" is often used in the context of building codes and regulations to ensure that buildings are designed and constructed with adequate and accessible means of egress to ensure the safety of occupants in the event of an emergency.

 

Ingress refers to the act or right of entering or accessing a particular place, such as a building, property, or land. It can also refer to the means of entry, such as a door, gate, or pathway, that provides a safe and unobstructed path for people to enter a building or property. The term "ingress" is often used in legal documents and real estate transactions to describe the right of a person to enter a property or land for a specific purpose, such as to access a utility or service, or to perform maintenance or repairs.

 

Dominant and Servient Tenant

Dominant and servient tenants are terms used in the context of an easement, which is a legal right that allows someone to use another person's property for a specific purpose.

 

A dominant tenant is the party that benefits from an easement, which means they have the right to use another person's property for a specific purpose. For example, if someone has an easement for a driveway on a neighbor's property, they are the dominant tenant because they benefit from the use of the driveway.

 

A servient tenant, on the other hand, is the party that owns the property that is subject to the easement, which means they must allow the dominant tenant to use their property for the specific purpose outlined in the easement. For example, if a neighbor grants an easement for a driveway on their property, they are the servient tenant because they own the property that is being used by the dominant tenant for the driveway. The servient tenant must allow the dominant tenant to use the driveway in accordance with the terms of the easement.

 

Who maintains the easement? Registered on title - The responsibility for maintaining an easement depends on the terms of the easement agreement, which is typically established when the easement is created.

 

 

March 20, 2023

Unlocking the Value of Secondary Suites in Calgary: A Comprehensive Guide

Are secondary suites valuable to a homeowner?

Secondary suites can be valuable to homeowners in the city of Calgary for several reasons: Rental income: By renting out a secondary suite, homeowners can generate additional income to help with mortgage payments or other expenses. Increased property value: Adding a secondary suite can increase the value of a property, making it a good investment in the long term. Flexibility: Having a secondary suite can provide flexibility for homeowners to accommodate changing family needs, such as aging parents or adult children who want to live independently. Improved affordability: With the high cost of housing in Calgary, having a secondary suite can help make housing more affordable for both the homeowner and the tenant. Meeting demand: With the growing demand for rental housing in Calgary, having a secondary suite can make a homeowner's property more attractive to potential renters. However, it's important to note that there are regulations and requirements that homeowners must follow when building and renting out a secondary suite in Calgary. Homeowners should consult with the City of Calgary's Secondary Suites program for more information on the rules and guidelines.

 

Secondary suites are self-contained living spaces that are located within the same building as a primary residence. In the City of Calgary, secondary suites are allowed in certain residential zones, subject to specific regulations and requirements.

BasementHere are some key things to know about secondary suites in the City of Calgary:

Zoning: In the City of Calgary, secondary suites may be permitted in specific low density residential zones, including R-1, R-C1, and R-C1L. The City has specific guidelines and requirements that must be met to gain approval, and additional regulations or requirements may apply, depending on the specific zoning designation. Therefore, it's essential to adhere to all the relevant regulations and obtain necessary approvals from the City before establishing a secondary suite.

 

Permitting: In order to establish a secondary suite, you will need to obtain the necessary permits from the City of Calgary. This may include a development permit, a building permit, and potentially other permits or approvals depending on the scope of the project.

 

Requirements: There are a number of requirements that must be met in order to establish a secondary suite in Calgary. For example, the suite must meet certain minimum size requirements, have a separate entrance, and be located within the primary residence or in a detached accessory building on the same lot.

 

Safety and Building Code: The City of Calgary has specific requirements related to the safety and building code compliance of secondary suites. This includes requirements related to fire separation, ventilation, soundproofing, and other factors that are designed to ensure the health and safety of occupants.

Property Taxes: Establishing a secondary suite may impact your property taxes, as it may result in a change to the assessed value of your property.

Overall, secondary suites can be a great way to add additional housing options to your property or to generate rental income. However, it is important to be aware of the regulations and requirements that apply in the City of Calgary to ensure that you are in compliance with all applicable rules and regulations.

March 20, 2023

Discover Calgary - Our Exrensive Bike Path System

Calgary's Extensive Bike Path System

Bike PathsCalgary is a great city for cycling enthusiasts, with over 800 kilometers of bike paths and trails for riders of all skill levels. The city's pathway system is one of the largest urban networks in North America, and connects many of the city's neighborhoods, parks, and attractions.

The bike paths in Calgary are well-maintained and offer a safe and scenic way to explore the city. Some of the most popular routes include the Bow River Pathway, which runs along the scenic Bow River and offers stunning views of the downtown skyline, and the Elbow River Pathway, which winds through the city's historic neighborhoods.

In addition to its extensive pathway system, Calgary is also home to a number of cycling events throughout the year. One of the most popular is the Tour de Bowness, which is a multi-stage road race that takes place in the Bowness neighborhood. The event attracts top riders from around the world and is a must-see for cycling fans.

Another popular cycling event in Calgary is the Tour de Nuit, which is a nighttime ride through the city's downtown core. The event is designed to promote cycling as a safe and sustainable mode of transportation and is open to riders of all ages and skill levels.

Overall, Calgary is a great city for cyclists, with a wide range of bike paths and trails to explore, as well as many exciting cycling events throughout the year. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, there's something for everyone in Calgary's vibrant cycling community.

 

Here is the City of Calgary's Pathway's and Bikeway's map

Posted in Calgary Fun Facts
March 9, 2023

New Listing 6 Sierra Nevada Green SW

Greater Calgary Real Estate would love to introduce you to the New Listing by Koshy Thomas!



Beautifully bright, this gorgeous recently renovated Signal Hills home has the most amazingly airy feel, with tons of big windows and natural light. Walking into the beautiful main floor the soaring ceilings draw the eyes up as you walk through the door. The living room enjoys a floor-to-ceiling panorama facing west, framing the stunning Calgary sunsets. A formal dining area begs for large gatherings and has a wonderfully open feel that reaches up to the second floor. On the upper floor, t
he beautiful new Laminate flooring found on the main floor extends up the stairs, where you will find the master retreat, which is complete with a renovated en-suite. A soaker tub, separate shower, and peaceful colour selections have created a calm and relaxing space. There are two more bedrooms here, as well as another refreshed bathroom. The recently finished lower level has high ceilings and well-placed windows. A second family room is ready for your home theatre system, with custom built-ins.

With much more to this incredible property, in the link below you will find everything you need including: Listing price, Style of Home, Number of Bedrooms, and how to book a showing.

https://www.greatercalgaryrealestate.com/property/A2020376/

For more information about Signal Hill, including its wonderful green spaces, incredible community spirit and affordability, check out our "Living in Signal Hill, Calgary, Alberta - Discover a Beautiful Community" Blog Post!

https://www.greatercalgaryrealestate.com/blog/living-signal-hill-calgary-alberta-discover-beautiful-community/



March 9, 2023

New Listing 3830 Brentwood Road NW # 507

Greater Calgary Real Estate would love to introduce you to the New Listing by Heather Mudd!




Welcome to University City! This complex is perfectly located with a two minute walk to the LRT, restaurants, daycare, bars, grocery stores, Brentwood Village Mall and a short walk to the U of C. Your freshly painted, spotless, corner unit includes two bedrooms, each with large windows letting lots of natural light. A 4 piece bath separating the bedrooms - perfect for roommates. The sparkling white kitchen has granite counter tops, S/S appliance and in-suite laundry. The living-dining area with floor to ceiling windows, opens onto your balcony with mountain views, perfect for relaxing and sunset watching. This amenity rich building includes 30 underground visitors parking stalls, fitness facility and reservable party/meeting room, secure bicycle storage and a secure storage unit. This is an ideal unit for investors or buyers looking for quick access into the downtown core.


Click the link below to learn more about: Listing price, Style of Home, Number of Bedrooms, and how to book a showing!

https://www.greatercalgaryrealestate.com/property/A2027736/

For more information about Brentwood, for all of its amenities, schools, and strong sense of community, check out our "Living in Brentwood, Calgary: Your guide to a Vibrant Community." Blog Post!

https://www.greatercalgaryrealestate.com/blog/living-brentwood-calgary-your-guide-vibrant-community/

March 8, 2023

Celebrating Exceptionalism in 2022: A Year to Remember

Top Agents 2022

As the year 2022 rolls around, we wish to reflect on the hard work and dedication of these exceptional realtors who have gone above and beyond to serve their clients. Our professionals have demonstrated exceptional skills, creativity, and perseverance in the face of unprecedented challenges.

Buying or selling a property is a major decision that requires a great deal of trust between the client and the real estate agent. Exceptional realtors understand this and work tirelessly to build strong relationships with their clients. They listen carefully to their clients' needs, offer expert advice and guidance, and use their skills and experience to negotiate the best possible deals.

One of the key attributes of our exceptional realtors is their ability to adapt to changing market conditions. Over the past few years, the real estate industry has undergone significant changes, with new technologies and market forces creating both opportunities and challenges. The best realtors have embraced these changes, learning new skills and techniques to stay ahead of the curve.

Another hallmark of our exceptional realtors is their commitment to ongoing learning and professional development. The best realtors never stop learning, attending conferences, training programs, and industry events to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices. This enables them to offer the best possible service to their clients and stay competitive in a crowded market.

Finally, our exceptional realtors understand the importance of giving back to their communities. Many realtors are involved in local charities, volunteering their time and resources to help those in need. This not only helps to build strong relationships within the community but also demonstrates their commitment to making a positive impact on the world.

Us at Greater Calgary Real Estate celebrate our exceptional realtors of 2022 who have shown exceptional dedication, creativity, and perseverance in serving their clients. We salute them for their hard work and dedication, and wish them continued success in the years ahead.

March 7, 2023

Top Real Estate Agents - February 2023 | Rankings and Achievements

As the real estate industry becomes more competitive, it takes a lot of effort and hard work to stand out from the crowd. Every month, Greater Calgary Real Estate recognizes the top-performing real estate agents who have shown exceptional skills and delivered outstanding results. In this blog post, we take a closer look at the achievements and tactics of the top real estate agents in February 2023.

The importance of client relationships: The top agents prioritize building strong relationships with their clients, and this has been one of the key factors in their success. They invest time in understanding their clients' needs, preferences, and goals, and tailor their services accordingly.

Effective communication: Communication is a vital aspect of any successful real estate transaction. The top agents make sure to keep their clients informed at every step of the process and maintain open lines of communication to address any concerns or questions promptly.

Market knowledge and expertise: The top agents have a deep understanding of the real estate market, including local trends, pricing, and inventory. They leverage their knowledge to offer their clients strategic advice on buying and selling decisions.

Proven track record: The top agents have a track record of delivering exceptional results for their clients, which has earned them a reputation as experts in their field. They use this to their advantage to win new business and build their client base.

Adaptability and flexibility: Real estate transactions can be unpredictable, and the top agents are well-prepared to handle any challenges that may arise. They are flexible and adaptable, ready to pivot their strategies as needed to achieve their clients' goals.

Achieving success as a real estate agent takes a combination of skills, knowledge, and dedication. By learning from the strategies and tactics of the top agents in February 2023, aspiring real estate professionals can gain valuable insights into what it takes to excel in this competitive industry.

 

March 5, 2023

Discover Downtown East Village: A Vibrant Community in Calgary


Downtown East VillageDowntown East Village is a bustling community located in the heart of Calgary. With a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, it offers something for everyone. Here are some key points to consider if you're thinking about living in Downtown East Village:

Amenities: Downtown East Village is home to a variety of amenities, including grocery stores, pharmacies, and medical clinics. You'll also find plenty of shopping options, from trendy boutiques to major retailers.

Attractions: There's always something to do in Downtown East Village. Take a stroll along the RiverWalk, catch a performance at the National Music Centre, or explore the historic Fort Calgary.

Real Estate: Downtown East Village offers a mix of housing options, from modern high-rise condos to heritage buildings converted into lofts. With a variety of sizes and price ranges, there's something for everyone.

Transportation: With easy access to public transit and major roadways, getting around Downtown East Village and beyond is a breeze. Plus, with plenty of bike lanes and walking paths, it's a great community for active transportation.

Community Events: Downtown East Village is known for its lively community events, from the popular East Village Street Fair to outdoor concerts and markets.

If you're looking for a vibrant community in the heart of Calgary, Downtown East Village is definitely worth considering. With its mix of amenities, attractions, and real estate options, it offers an unparalleled living experience.