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🧠 24 Questions Every Smart Real Estate Investor Should Answer First

Whether you're buying your first rental or your fiftieth flip, the smartest investors all have one thing in common: they ask the right questions before they buy.

If you're even thinking about purchasing a property in Calgary for investment, there's one free download you should grab before anything else:
👉 Download the 2025 Real Estate Investor Questions PDF

This isn't just a checklist. It's your personal due diligence tool.

Why Most Investment Mistakes Happen Before You Even Make an Offer

Let’s face it: many investors fall in love with the wrong property.

Not because the numbers don’t work (though they often don’t)...
But because they never paused to ask: Do the numbers work for my goals?

The Investor Questions 2025 PDF helps you filter opportunities based on:

  • Your investment goals (cash flow, appreciation, tax shelter?)

  • Your risk tolerance

  • Your financial reality

  • Your management preferences

  • Your ideal tenant profile

Before running ROI spreadsheets or calculating break-even rent, you’ll want to clarify what kind of investor you really are. This guide helps you do exactly that.

🎯 Get your free copy now and get intentional about your next deal.

A Peek Inside the Guide (And Why It's So Useful)

This isn't theory. It's practical, real-world investor thinking broken into 6 laser-focused sections:

🏁 1. Your Goals & Strategy

Are you holding long-term? Flipping? Looking for a tax write-off? Your answer affects everything—from location to property type.

💰 2. Your Financial Position

What’s your true budget when you factor in renos, closing costs, and vacancies? Will you buy personally or through a holding company?

🏘️ 3. Property Preferences

Do you want a suited bungalow in the northeast or a turnkey condo in the Beltline? The guide helps you narrow your scope intentionally.

🔧 4. Management & Maintenance

Are you swinging a hammer or calling a property manager? This changes how you should underwrite each deal.

📈 5. Market Expectations

Know what to expect in Calgary’s rental market. Are you targeting students, families, or professionals? That choice affects rent, turnover, and risk.

⚖️ 6. Legal & Tax Considerations

If you’re not accounting for depreciation, tax deferral, or Alberta tenancy laws, you could be leaving thousands on the table—or risking legal trouble.

Real Estate in Calgary Offers More Than Just Appreciation

Here’s something most people overlook: real estate can be a legal tax shelter.
Yes, seriously.

From Capital Cost Allowance to deductible expenses to loss carry-forwards, investing in Calgary property can significantly reduce your taxable income over time—if you structure things correctly.

The guide breaks it down simply and gives examples like:

  • Offsetting $5,000 in rental income with $5,000 in depreciation = zero taxable income

  • Carrying forward early-year losses to reduce future gains

  • Deferring capital gains tax until you sell, not while the property grows

📥 Download the full Investor Questions 2025 PDF to explore all 24 questions and the bonus tax tips that come with it.

Final Thought: Properties Don’t Make You Money—Smart Decisions Do

This simple yet powerful document has helped dozens of Calgary investors avoid costly mistakes and spot better opportunities.

So before you scroll another MLS listing, get clear on your investment profile.
Then find a property that matches you—not the other way around.

🔗 Download Your Free Investor Questions Guide Here
It’s the smartest first step you can take.

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Tourist attractions in and around Calgary, Alberta

🏙️ Calgary is The Gateway To Banff and Much More!

  1. Heritage Park Historical Village
    Canada’s largest living history museum, showcasing life from the 1860s to the 1950s with costumed interpreters, historic buildings, and vintage vehicles.
    🔗 Heritage Park Historical Village

    Calgary Stampede
    Dubbed "The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth," this annual July event features rodeos, concerts, chuckwagon races, and a vibrant midway.
    🔗 Calgary Stampede

  2. Calgary Zoo
    Home to over 4,000 animals across various habitats, including Destination Africa and Prehistoric Park. It's Canada's most visited zoo.
    🔗 Calgary Zoo

  3. Calgary Tower
    A 190.8-meter observation tower offering panoramic views of the city and the Rockies, featuring a glass floor and revolving restaurant.
    🔗 Calgary Tower

  4. Studio Bell – National Music Centre
    An interactive museum celebrating Canadian music history with exhibits, performances, and recording studios.
    🔗 Studio Bell – National Music Centre


🌳 Outdoor & Nature Experiences

  1. Prince's Island Park
    A serene urban park in downtown Calgary, ideal for picnics, walking trails, and hosting various festivals throughout the year.
    🔗 Prince's Island Park

  2. Fish Creek Provincial Park
    One of North America's largest urban parks, offering over 100 km of trails, picnic areas, and the Sikome Lake swimming area.
    🔗 Fish Creek Provincial Park

  3. Bowness Park
    A family-friendly park featuring a lagoon for boating in summer and ice skating in winter, along with picnic spots and a miniature train.
    🔗 Bowness Park

  4. Nose Hill Park
    A vast natural grassland offering hiking trails and panoramic views of Calgary, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
    🔗 Nose Hill Park


🎢 Family-Friendly Activities

  1. Calaway Park
    Western Canada's largest outdoor family amusement park, featuring over 30 rides, games, and live entertainment.
    🔗 Calaway Park

  2. WinSport Canada Olympic Park
    Site of the 1988 Winter Olympics, now offering year-round activities like skiing, mountain biking, zip-lining, and bobsledding.
    🔗 WinSport Canada Olympic Park

  3. The Hangar Flight Museum
    Showcases Canada's aviation history with a collection of aircraft and exhibits, engaging for both kids and adults.
    🔗 The Hangar Flight Museum


🛍️ Shopping & Entertainment

  1. CrossIron Mills Outlet Mall
    A large shopping center offering over 200 stores, including premium outlets, dining options, and entertainment facilities.
    🔗 CrossIron Mills Outlet Mall

  2. Inglewood District
    Calgary's oldest neighborhood, known for its unique boutiques, art galleries, antique shops, and vibrant dining scene.
    🔗 Inglewood District


🌄 Day Trips from Calgary

  1. Banff National Park & Lake Louise
    A scenic 90-minute drive from Calgary, offering breathtaking mountain landscapes, hiking trails, and the iconic turquoise lake.
    🔗 Banff National Park & Lake Louise

  2. Spruce Meadows
    A world-renowned equestrian facility hosting international show jumping events and seasonal markets.
    🔗 Spruce Meadows


For a comprehensive guide to events, dining, and more activities in Calgary, visit the official tourism website:

🔗 Visit Calgary

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Expand Your Golf Network & Turn Every Round into an Opportunity

Golf has always been as much about camaraderie as it is about competition. Meeting new players on the first tee can lead to lasting friendships and, potentially, a more consistent group to share tee times with. That’s where 365golfer.com comes in. This app doesn’t just help you organize existing tee times; it’s a tool built to expand and strengthen your golf network. Here’s how you can leverage 365golfer.com to turn every round into a networking opportunity.

The Power of a Growing Golf Group

When your golfing circle is limited to the same four or eight people, you miss out on fresh perspectives, varied playing styles, and the excitement of meeting new competitors. By constantly expanding your group, you’ll enjoy:

Diverse Playing Partners: Every golfer brings unique strengths—someone might be a long hitter, another a terrific putter. Diverse groups keep you sharp.

Broader Social Connections: Networking on the course can lead to business contacts, new friendships, or even travel partners.

More Flexible Scheduling: With a larger roster, finding open spots on short notice becomes easier, especially on busy weekends.

365golfer.com was designed with growth in mind. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a club regular, the app helps you seamlessly integrate newcomers into your tee-time rotations.

How 365golfer.com Simplifies Networking

Instant Member Invitations

After a great round, you are likely to exchange contact information with the new person you met. Instead of juggling phone numbers, simply log into 365golfer.com, navigate to your group’s “Invite Members” section, and send an invitation via email or text. New players receive a unique sign-up link, and once they join, they appear instantly in your roster.

Real-Time Availability and Alerts

Once a new member joins, they can post their own tee times or claim any open spots. Suppose you have a four-player slot at 8:00 AM next Sunday but one player cancels. 365golfer.com sends an immediate text and email to the entire group, including recent additions, so the first person to respond can claim that slot. This transparency keeps new members engaged and shows them they’re valued.

Real-Life Scenario: From Strangers to Stable Group Members

Imagine this scenario at Pine Creek Golf Club:

Shotgun Start: You’re paired with two other golfers and a newcomer—Sarah—who’s playing the course for the first time.

Post-Round Chat: During the 18th green conversation, you realize Sarah shares your passion for rotating nine-hole games after work.

Instant Invitation: You open 365golfer.com on your phone, select “Invite New Member,” and send Sarah a link.

Welcome Aboard: Within minutes, Sarah signs up, sets her availability (prefers weekday afternoon), and browses upcoming tee times your group has posted.

First Claim: The next Tuesday, a slot opens for a 3:30 PM game. Sarah receives an alert, claims the spot, and shows up ready to play.

Within one week, Sarah moves from a chance encounter to a regular member. Meanwhile, you’ve strengthened your group’s reliability, because if someone else in your core foursome cancels, Sarah is ready to step in.

Make Invites a Routine

After every round where you meet someone new, resist the temptation to “do it later.” Open 365golfer.com right on the 18th green and send the invite before anyone leaves. Prompt invitations are accepted more often.

Strengthening Bonds Beyond the Course

Networking on the golf course goes deeper than simply adding more names to a roster. 365golfer.com help foster community.

Make Every Round Count

Golf isn’t just a sport; it’s a community. With 365golfer.com, you don’t have to settle for the same four faces each week. The app transforms every first-tee introduction into a networking opportunity—turning casual “hellos” into long-term playing partners. By simplifying invitations, offering real-time alerts, and encouraging social engagement, 365golfer.com ensures your group stays dynamic, inclusive, and fun.

Ready to expand your golf network? Visit www.365golfer.com today, create your group, and start turning new acquaintances into your next favorite golf buddies. Make every round an opportunity, and watch your golf community flourish.

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Calgary’s Rental Market: From Landlords’ Paradise to Renters’ Haven

Just a few years ago, Calgary’s rental scene was firmly in landlords’ hands. Vacancy rates hovered below 2%, and prospective tenants found themselves in fierce bidding wars—often agreeing to above-market rents and stringent lease terms just for the privilege of a roof over their heads. Fast-forward to mid-2025, and the pendulum has swung decisively in favor of renters. Vacancy rates have climbed above 8%, average rents are flatlining (or even dipping in some segments), and tenants enjoy unprecedented bargaining power. What caused this dramatic market reversal in such a short span?

An Avalanche of New Supply

Calgary Rental Building

Responding to persistent “No Vacancy” headlines, developers greenlit dozens of mid-rise and high-rise rental projects between 2021 and 2024. City approvals surged—permits for more than 5,500 new units were issued in 2022 alone, followed by another 4,200 in 2023. Today, over 7,000 active rental listings populate platforms like Rentfaster.ca, spanning communities from Beltline to Cranston. This glut of entry-level units has fundamentally altered supply dynamics. Landlords hoping for premium returns instead face empty hallways and unprecedented competition.

Landlord Incentives: The New Normal

Rental Incentives

To fill vacancies, property managers have rolled out a buffet of incentives. Free rent for the first month (or more), zero-security-deposit policies, prepaid gift cards, and even roommate referral bonuses are now common tactics. Some luxury buildings have gone so far as to include complimentary gym memberships, valet parking credits, and concierge services—all in an effort to tip the scales in their favor. Tenants now juggle between multiple offers, often negotiating higher amenities-to-rent ratios and more flexible lease terms.

Market Adjustment on the Horizon

Contexts of oversupply rarely persist. As occupancy levels stabilize—projected around 2027—developers may pivot unsold rental towers into resale condominiums or co-living spaces. Historical patterns in cities like Vancouver and Toronto show such conversions often follow a two- to three-year absorption period. Meanwhile, Calgary’s job market growth—expected at 1.5% annually—will gradually absorb rental stock as new arrivals seek housing, easing pressures on both sides of the market.

Policy Pitfalls and Population Pressures

Federal immigration targets (nearly 500,000 new permanent residents by 2025) and changing mortgage regulations have added volatility. Rapid permit approvals without commensurate infrastructure planning have, at times, strained transit and amenities—leading to pockets of both oversupply and under-served demand. Meanwhile, federal modular housing contracts—earmarked to Brookfield and other large developers—signal continued high-volume construction. The upshot: Calgary’s housing pendulum may keep oscillating until policy and planning align more closely.

Your Next Move: Plan Your ‘Indoors’

Rather than chasing the latest rental boom or fearing upcoming corrections, develop a personalized shelter strategy:

  • Clarify Your Needs: Size, location, amenities, lease flexibility, and budget.

  • Map Your Timeline: Short-term (1–2 years), mid-term (3–5 years), and long-term (beyond 5 years).

  • Research Community Trends: Rental rates, vacancy histories, upcoming developments, and transit projects.

  • Negotiate Strategically: Leverage competing offers to secure concessions and favorable terms.

  • Stay Informed: Monitor vacancy reports, municipal permit pipelines, and economic indicators to time your moves.

By treating your “indoors” as a core life asset—rather than a fleeting trend—you’ll withstand market swings and secure stable, comfortable housing regardless of which way the pendulum swings next.

Calgary’s rental market has shifted from scarcity to surplus within a handful of years. Oversupply dominates 2025, but cycles of adjustment and reconversion lie ahead. In this renters’ market, tenants wield unprecedented influence—so seize the moment, chart your housing roadmap, and anchor your future with a robust plan for the space you call home.

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Acadia Detached-Home Market Snapshot – May 14, 2025

Acadia Detached-Home Market Snapshot – May 14, 2025
Jerry Charlton, Calgary Realtor® since 2002

Why Acadia Keeps Drawing Attention

Stretching across Calgary’s southeast, Acadia offers wide, tree-lined streets, quick LRT access at Heritage Station, and a solid mix of mid-century bungalows and updated split-levels. It’s a neighbourhood that lets families settle in—and investors lock down steady long-term value.

Fresh Numbers at a Glance

(Data covers the most recent 180-day period and the current inventory as of May 14, 2025. See the full market-report graphic above.)

Status # of Homes Avg. Price Avg. $/Sq Ft Avg. Days on Market
Active 16 $658,131 $620 23
Pending 3 $721,633 $626 24
Sold 13 $677,954 $641 22
Overall $672,137 $629

What This Means for Sellers

  • Properly priced, move-in-ready detached homes are clearing in just over three weeks.

  • Anything listed above the $650 K mark needs standout finishes to earn a fast sale.

  • Low inventory (16 active listings) keeps negotiating power tilted toward committed sellers.

What This Means for Buyers

  • The sold-to-active ratio still signals a competitive environment.

  • Focus on updated bungalows under $675 K—these draw the largest pool of buyers and rarely linger.

  • Pre-approval remains a must; homes that “check all the boxes” often see multiple offers within days.

In-Neighbourhood Trends We’re Watching

  1. Renovated Bi-Levels Surging: Two of three pending deals were extensively modernized bi-levels priced north of $700 K.

  2. Bungalow Flips Slowing: Investors are more cautious; cosmetic renos alone aren’t achieving the same resale premiums as in 2024.

  3. Garage Appeal: Nearly every quick sale this spring involved homes with an existing double garage or obvious potential for one—buyers still crave winter parking solutions.

Ready to Talk Numbers?

I’ve specialized in Acadia since 2002, tracking street-by-street micro-trends long before they hit the headlines. If you’re wondering what your home could command—or how to win the right listing without over-paying—let’s chat.

Call / Text: 403-831-0842
Email: jerry@jerrycharlton.com

More real-time Calgary market dashboards (updated every morning) are always available at 365Calgary.com.


Market data courtesy of Jerry Charlton Real Estate. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed; buyers and sellers should verify figures independently.

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CalgaryHomesForSaleToday.ca – Your Trusted Guide to Calgary Real Estate

If you're looking for a reliable, data-driven, and easy-to-use website to explore Calgary real estate, look no further than CalgaryHomesForSaleToday.ca. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or thinking about selling, this site helps you make smart decisions with confidence.

Why CalgaryHomesForSaleToday.ca Stands Out

✔ Real-Time Calgary MLS® Listings
Search every Calgary home currently for sale. Listings are updated multiple times a day so you always get the latest properties and price changes — in every Calgary community.

✔ Community-Focused Market Insights
Each neighborhood page (like Mahogany, Cranston, or Signal Hill) includes up-to-date market charts, recent sales, and current inventory. These pages go way beyond basic listings to help you understand where the market is heading.

✔ Powerful Tools for Buyers, Sellers & Investors

  • Free Home Evaluation tool to see what your property is worth today

  • Investment Property Calculator to analyze ROI, cap rates, and cash flow

  • Foreclosure Finder that alerts you when distressed properties match your criteria

✔ Designed for Real Users, Not Just Browsing
No annoying popups, fake leads, or distractions. The site is fast, mobile-friendly, and built for people ready to act.

✔ Built by a Trusted Calgary Realtor
Jerry Charlton has been helping people buy, sell, and invest in Calgary real estate for over 20 years. This site reflects that experience — with tools and insights that only a local expert can provide.


Popular Sections to Explore

🔍 Browse by Community
📊 Daily Market Stats & Charts
🏘 Foreclosure Listings
💼 Investment Analysis Tools
📍 Area Profiles for Every Calgary Neighborhood


Who Is This Site Perfect For?

First-Time Buyers – Understand pricing and trends before you buy
Home Sellers – See what your home could sell for right now
Real Estate Investors – Spot deals and analyze income properties
Out-of-Town Buyers – Get local guidance from a Calgary Realtor who knows the market inside out

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Your Real Estate Market is Not the Calgary Real Estate Market

The Calgary Real Estate Market includes everything, everywhere in the city.
That’s not your real estate market. Erase that misconception now.
Your Real Estate Market is unique to you and your needs.

Defining Your Real Estate Market
Three key factors define your real estate market:

  1. Price Range – Every MLS listing falls into a price category. What’s yours?

  2. Property Type – Are you searching for a condo, townhome, or detached home?

  3. Location – Do you want all of Calgary, a specific quadrant, or just a few communities?

Supply and Demand in Your Real Estate Market Niche
Once you’ve defined your market, it’s time to analyze supply and demand:

  1. Active Listings – How many homes are for sale in your niche? (Supply)

  2. Homes Sold in the Last 30 Days – How many are actually selling? (Demand)

  3. Sales-to-Listings Ratio – What percentage of active listings are selling? (Market Balance)

What Type of Market Are You In?
Your real estate market falls into one of three categories:

  1. Buyers’ Market – Less than 50% of listings are selling. More choices, less urgency.

  2. Sellers’ Market – More than 50% of listings are selling. Fewer choices, higher competition.

  3. Balanced Market – Around 50% of listings are selling. A stable environment.

Understanding your real estate market gives you a competitive advantage—whether you’re buying or selling.
You’ll know if you’re up against heavy competition or have the upper hand. That knowledge shapes your strategy and decisions.

Your real estate market is not the Calgary real estate market.
Your market starts with your price range and property type—not city-wide statistics.
Define your market, analyze supply and demand, and focus on what truly matters to you.
The numbers don’t lie. Make them work for you. We can help.

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Unlocking Your Calgary Condo's True Value: The Numbers Every Owner Needs to Know

What’s Your Condo Really Worth?

If you’re a Calgary Condo Owner, you’ve probably asked yourself this question more than once. Maybe you’ve checked out a few listings in your building, scrolled through recent sales, or even guessed based on what a neighbor sold for. But the truth is, valuing a condo goes far beyond just the listing price of similar units.

The good news? There’s a proven formula that takes the guesswork out of it—and it applies to any condo, in any building, regardless of its age, location, or condition. Let’s break it down.


The Core Components of Condo Valuation

Most condos are valued using a combination of these key factors:

  1. Size (Price Per Square Foot) – Larger units typically sell for more, but price per square foot can vary significantly based on the building, floor level, and amenities.

  2. Unit Factor (Price Per Unit Factor) – Every condo has a designated unit factor, which determines its share of ownership in the building and is often tied to condo fees. Comparing prices based on unit factor offers another way to determine fair market value.

  3. Recent Comparable Sales – Looking at recently sold units with similar layouts, sizes, and features gives a realistic picture of what buyers are willing to pay.

  4. Adjustments for Condition, Location, and Features – A well-maintained unit with upgrades and a prime view will naturally command a premium. The same floor plan in a less desirable location within the building (near a noisy elevator or with a limited view) may sell for less.

  5. Financial Strength of the Building – A well-funded condo corporation with a solid reserve fund reassures buyers and sustains property values. Buildings with financial concerns, high condo fees, or upcoming special assessments can see values drop.


Applying This Formula to 901 - 10 Ave SW (MARK on 10th)

Let’s take a real-world example. Below are recent sales and active listings in MARK on 10th, a condo building in Calgary. The numbers tell a clear story about how value is determined:

  • Average Price Per Square Foot (1-bedroom units): $678

  • Average Price Per Unit Factor: $11,971

  • Recent 1-Bedroom Sale: $355,000 for 526 sq. ft. ($675 per sq. ft.)

  • Recent 2-Bedroom Sale: $475,000 for 785 sq. ft. ($605 per sq. ft.)

Using these averages, you can get a baseline for your own condo’s value before factoring in unique adjustments like renovations, view, parking, and the overall condition of your unit and building.


Why This Matters for You

If you’re thinking about selling (or just curious about your home’s worth), knowing how your condo is valued gives you a serious advantage. It allows you to:

Price Strategically – Avoid pricing too high and sitting on the market or too low and leaving money on the table. ✔ Negotiate with Confidence – Understand what your unit is truly worth and justify your asking price. ✔ Plan for the Future – Whether you’re refinancing, investing, or selling, knowing your condo’s value helps you make informed decisions.


Get a Custom Calgary Condo Valuation Report – For Free

Your condo isn’t just a number on a spreadsheet—it’s unique. And while formulas and averages are a great starting point, getting an accurate valuation means factoring in the specifics of your unit and building.

I specialize in providing condo owners with detailed, data-driven valuation reports based on real market trends and current sales. If you want to know exactly what your condo is worth today (not just an estimate from a generic online tool), request your free custom condo report now.

📞 Call/Text: 403-831-0842 📧 Email: Jerry@JerryCharlton.com 🌐 Request your free report

Don’t leave money on the table, let’s find out what your place is really worth!

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Your Real Estate GPS

This chart is your real estate GPS—it tells you if your market is hot, cold, or balanced based on your home type and price range. Whether buying or selling, use this data to set realistic expectations and make smart decisions.


Buyer Example: House in the $700K - $800K Range

A buyer is pre-approved for $750,000 and is looking for a detached home in Calgary. The chart shows:

  • 343 active house listings in this price range.

  • 188 houses sold in the last 30 days.

This means supply is greater than demand, but homes are still selling at a steady pace. This is a balanced market—buyers have choices, but good homes will still attract multiple offers.

Buying Strategy:

  • Since there are 343 active homes, the buyer has options and can negotiate.

  • They should look for listings that have been on the market longer, as sellers may be more flexible.

  • However, since 188 homes sold last month, desirable properties can still move fast—so having pre-approval ready is an advantage.


Seller Example: Condo in the $200K - $300K Range

A condo owner is planning to sell their unit in the $200K - $300K range. The chart shows:

  • 316 active condo listings.

  • 168 condos sold in the last 30 days.

This suggests a buyer’s market, where supply exceeds demand. Sellers in this range need to be strategic to attract offers.

Selling Strategy:

  • With many competing condos, pricing must be competitive—listing too high may lead to a longer time on the market.

  • High-quality photos, staging, and marketing will help the condo stand out.

  • Offering buyer incentives, such as covering closing costs or including appliances, could attract more interest.


Final Thought:

Instead of asking, “How’s the market?”, the real question is, “How’s the market for the home type and price range I’m interested in as a seller or a buyer?”.
With the right question, both buyers and sellers can use this data to their advantage.

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Home Appreciation Calculator

Track Your Home’s Value Growth with Our Home Appreciation Calculator!

Ever wondered how much your home has appreciated over the years? Whether you're a homeowner, real estate investor, or just curious about real estate trends, our Home Appreciation Calculator makes it easy to track property value growth over time.

🔢 Simply enter:
✔️ The price your home was last sold for
✔️ The date your home was last sold
✔️ Its current estimated market price

📊 Get instant insights:
Increase in Value – See how much your property has grown in dollar terms.
Annualized Appreciation (CAGR) – Understand the average yearly growth rate of your investment.

🏡 Why it matters?
Knowing your home’s appreciation rate helps with selling decisions, refinancing, and investment strategies. Compare it with inflation, market trends, or other investment returns to make informed financial choices!

🔍 Try it out now and see how your property has performed over time!


Home Appreciation Calculator

Home Appreciation Calculator







What is CAGR?
CAGR stands for "Compound Annual Growth Rate". It represents the annualized rate of return on an investment over a specific period, assuming the investment grows at a steady rate each year. In the context of our Home Appreciation Calculator, CAGR calculates the average annual appreciation rate of a property's value from the last sold date to the present. It provides a normalized growth rate, making it easier to compare against inflation, stock market returns, or other investments.

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Canadians Should Burn All Their Own Oil: A Bold Move for Economic Power

Canada is one of the world's largest oil producers, yet we sell much of our crude at a discount to the U.S., only to buy back refined fuels at a premium. It’s time to ask: why are we giving away our energy wealth when we could be using it to fuel our own economy?

The Current Reality: Selling Low, Buying High

Canada produces 5.7 million barrels of oil per day but only burns 2.4 million barrels domestically. That means we send the majority of our oil abroad, mostly to the United States, at a steep discount. Meanwhile, eastern provinces still import foreign oil, and Canadians pay global market prices for gasoline and diesel.

It doesn’t add up.

If Canada kept its oil, refined it at home, and used it for domestic energy needs, we’d eliminate costly imports, reduce our reliance on foreign buyers, and supercharge our economy with ultra-cheap fuel.

What Would Happen If We Burned Our Own Oil?

1. Gas Prices Would Drop Dramatically

Right now, Canadians pay global market prices for gas, despite our abundant supply. If we refined all our own oil and stopped exporting it cheaply, we could see gasoline and diesel prices plunge—potentially as low as $0.30/litre.

2. Energy Independence: No More Foreign Oil

Canada still imports 500,000+ barrels per day from other countries, mostly to supply Eastern Canada. Why? Because our infrastructure is designed to ship oil south, not across the country. Keeping our own oil would allow Canada to become 100% energy independent, shielding us from global price swings and foreign supply disruptions.

3. A Booming Refining Industry

Instead of selling crude at a discount, we should be refining it at home and selling the finished products at full price—just like Saudi Arabia and other energy powerhouses do. This would create thousands of high-paying jobs in refining, petrochemicals, and industrial manufacturing.

4. The U.S. Would Feel the Pain, Not Canada

America is heavily dependent on cheap Canadian oil. If we stopped selling it to them at a discount, they’d be forced to buy from OPEC at higher prices. Canada would have the bargaining power to sell refined fuels at full value instead of just shipping raw resources for pennies on the dollar.

5. Lower Business Costs & Industrial Expansion

Cheap energy is a competitive advantage. If Canada had the lowest fuel prices in the world, we’d attract massive investment in manufacturing, shipping, and resource extraction. Companies would relocate here to take advantage of cheap power and transport.

But What About the Challenges?

We’d Need More Refineries

Canada would have to invest in refining capacity to process all our oil domestically. This is absolutely achievable with the right policies and incentives.

The U.S. Would Fight Back

Washington would likely push back hard, using trade pressure or diplomatic leverage. But Canada is a sovereign nation—we have the right to control our own energy.

It’s Time for a Bold Energy Strategy

Instead of selling cheap crude and buying expensive refined fuel, Canada should use its oil for itself—lowering energy costs, creating jobs, and boosting national prosperity.

The question isn’t whether Canada can keep its own oil—it’s whether we have the willpower to break free from the status quo.

What do you think? Should Canada take full control of its energy and reap the benefits at home?

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Calgary Real Estate Market Dynamics in 2025: A Structural Imbalance

The interplay between Calgary’s rental and resale housing markets has historically demonstrated a high degree of correlation, with fluctuations in one sector influencing the other. However, as 2025 unfolds, an anomalous divergence has emerged: resale housing inventory is critically low, fostering a competitive sellers' market, while rental inventory has expanded significantly, creating a more favorable landscape for tenants.

Analyzing the Disparity: Contributing Factors

Several macroeconomic and policy-driven factors have contributed to this pronounced imbalance:

  • Prolonged Homeownership Tenure – Homeowners are increasingly choosing to remain in their properties for extended periods, limiting the availability of resale inventory and reducing transactional turnover in the housing market.

  • The Rise of Investor Landlords – A notable shift has occurred wherein first-time homebuyers who have progressed up the property ladder are retaining their initial properties as rental investments, thereby reducing the supply of resale homes.

  • Increased Institutional and Individual Investment – A historically tight rental market in previous years attracted substantial investment from both institutional entities and independent investors, leading to a surge in rental property acquisitions and subsequent market saturation.

  • Expansion of Purpose-Built Rental Housing – Large-scale real estate investment trusts (REITs) and developers have responded to demand signals by constructing an increased number of purpose-built rental units, substantially amplifying rental supply.

Market Correction and Transitionary Dynamics

As the market undergoes this period of structural adjustment, several key developments are anticipated:

  • Some investors and landlords may opt to liquidate rental properties, thereby augmenting resale supply.

  • A subset of rental properties may be repositioned and converted into condominiums to meet demand from prospective buyers.

  • Over time, economic forces and policy responses will facilitate a gradual rebalancing of the supply-demand equation across both market segments.

Historical Precedents and Cyclical Market Behavior

Real estate markets are inherently cyclical, shaped by economic fundamentals, interest rate fluctuations, and investor sentiment. While the current market conditions may seem atypical, similar patterns have been observed in past cycles, ultimately leading to stabilization and equilibrium. Savvy market participants—whether buyers, sellers, or investors—recognize the importance of aligning their strategies with these evolving market dynamics to optimize outcomes.

Strategic Implications for Market Participants

For stakeholders seeking to capitalize on prevailing market conditions:

  • Buyers: The limited availability of resale homes necessitates a proactive approach, with well-prepared buyers securing financing and acting decisively on opportunities.

  • Sellers: With resale inventory constrained, well-positioned sellers can leverage market conditions to achieve optimal pricing and favorable contract terms.

  • Investors: Those with existing rental portfolios must adopt competitive pricing strategies, offer incentives, or enhance tenant experience to maintain occupancy and yield stability.

  • Renters: The influx of rental supply creates a more tenant-friendly market, offering increased negotiating leverage and greater selection.

As Calgary’s real estate landscape continues to evolve, staying informed and adaptable is paramount. Whether you are considering entering the market, adjusting your portfolio, or simply navigating these shifting conditions, a strategic, data-driven approach will be key to maximizing opportunities in 2025.

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Data is supplied by Pillar 9™ MLS® System. Pillar 9™ is the owner of the copyright in its MLS®System. Data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed accurate by Pillar 9™.
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