Here are some tailored tips for first-time homebuyers looking at the Auburn Bay area in Calgary:

1. Understand Auburn Bay’s Appeal

• Community Features: Auburn Bay is known for its lake, parks, and family-friendly atmosphere. Research community amenities like schools, shopping, and recreational facilities.

• Future Development: Stay informed about any planned developments in Auburn Bay that could affect property values and lifestyle.

2. Set a Realistic Budget

• Pre-Approval is Key: Start with mortgage pre-approval to determine your budget. This will give you a clear picture of what you can afford in Auburn Bay’s competitive market.

• Include Additional Costs: Factor in property taxes, condo fees (if applicable), and maintenance costs in your budget planning.

3. Research Current Market Trends

• Stay Updated: Monitor current listings and sales trends in Auburn Bay. Prices can fluctuate, so understanding the market can help you make informed decisions.

• Average Days on Market: Be aware of how quickly homes are selling in the area, as this can inform your offer strategy.

4. Engage a Local Real Estate Agent

• Local Expertise: Choose an agent who is familiar with Auburn Bay. They can provide insights into the community and help you find listings that meet your needs.

5. Visit Open Houses

• Explore Options: Attend open houses in Auburn Bay to get a feel for different properties and neighborhoods. This can help you gauge what features matter most to you.

6. Consider Future Growth

• Long-Term Value: Look for homes in areas that are likely to appreciate. Auburn Bay's development plans and community features can positively impact property values over time.

7. Be Prepared to Compete

• Make Strong Offers: In a sought-after area like Auburn Bay, you may face competition. Ensure your offer is strong, and consider including a personal letter to the seller.

8. Think About Lifestyle Needs

• Assess Your Lifestyle: Consider proximity to work, schools, and recreational facilities. Auburn Bay’s lake and parks are great for outdoor activities—make sure it fits your lifestyle.

9. Don’t Skip the Home Inspection

• Protect Your Investment: Always include a home inspection in your offer. This is crucial to uncover any potential issues with the property.

10. Explore Government Programs

• Utilize Incentives: Check for first-time homebuyer programs available in Alberta that could provide financial assistance or tax benefits.

By keeping these tips in mind, you'll be better equipped to navigate the Auburn Bay real estate market. Good luck with your home search! Contact us to assist you with your home purchase here.

By CREB®

Starting Oct. 20, 2024, buyers in Alberta will face increased closing costs due to a new Land Titles Registration Levy.  

This change, announced in Budget 2024, will replace the current variable fees for transferring land and registering mortgages with a flat levy of $5.00 per $5,000 of property or mortgage value, along with a $50 flat fee. This new structure applies to transfers of land, mortgage registrations, and some caveats. 

Key details 

• Current vs. new fees 

  • Previously, land transfers incurred a fee of $50 plus $2.00 for every $5,000 of property value, while mortgage registrations cost $50 plus $1.50 for every $5,000 of the mortgage amount. Starting Oct. 20, these variable charges will be replaced by the levy: $5.00 per $5,000, plus a flat $50 fee. 

• Submission timing 

  • If a lawyer submits all required documents to the Land Titles Office before Oct. 20, the old variable fees will apply—even if the registration is completed after that date. However, any submissions made on or after Oct. 20 will be subject to the new levy.

  • Incomplete submissions may be rejected and, if resubmitted after Oct. 20, will be charged under the new levy. Additionally, extensions beyond 30 days may also trigger the new levy. 

How the levy impacts buyers 

A typical real estate transaction, such as purchasing a $750,000 home with a $650,000 mortgage, would currently cost about $595 in fees. After the levy is implemented, that same transaction will cost $1,500—more than double the previous amount. This increase may surprise buyers, so it's crucial to inform them ahead of time to manage expectations. 

Calculating the difference 

If a property is purchased for $750,000 and the buyer will be getting a mortgage for $650,000, the fees for the Land Titles Office costs are compared below.

For demonstrative purposes only, final fee calculations should be quoted by the buyer's lawyer. 

What REALTORS® should do 

Working with buyers during this transition period is essential to ensure a smooth process. Sharing this information early can help alleviate stress and foster trust by providing your clients with a clear understanding of the updated fees. Even after the new levy takes effect, Alberta will continue to have Canada's lowest title transfer fees. While this may not be welcome news, transparency is key to navigating the complexities of home buying. 

On September 16, CREA sent an email to members informing them of changes to mortgage rules announced by the federal government, along with a blueprint for a Home Buyers’ Bill of Rights.

The text of the email is below:

Earlier today, the federal government announced mortgage reforms aimed at increasing homeownership opportunities for first-time buyers:

• Increasing the price cap for insured mortgages from $1 million to $1.5 million, effective December 15, 2024.

• Expanding eligibility for 30-year mortgage amortization to all first-time home buyers, effective December 15, 2024.

• Extending eligibility for 30-year mortgage amortization to all buyers of new builds, effective December 15, 2024.

The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) welcomes these reforms, which represent a significant step towards improving access to homeownership and making housing more attainable, something REALTORS® have advocated for and continue to stand behind.

The federal government also released their blueprint for a Home Buyers’ Bill of Rights. The blueprint aligns with the Government of Canada’s commitment to improving housing access and affordability as outlined in Solving the Housing Crisis: Canada’s Housing Plan and builds on measures previously announced in Budget 2024.

The blueprint for a Home Buyers’ Bill of Rights serves as a framework designed to guide provinces, territories, and stakeholders in the housing space in developing and implementing effective housing policies. The recently announced mortgage reforms also aim to increase homeownership opportunities for first-time buyers. 

Acknowledging that governments share the responsibility to ensure Canadians’ right to adequate housing, this blueprint sets out four principles guiding the federal approach to creating a fair and well-functioning home buying system: 

1. Ensuring everyone has a safe and affordable place to call home: Investing in faster home construction, improving processes, and encouraging sustainable and innovative solutions to meet diverse housing needs. 

2. Fostering fairness and transparency: Enhancing regulatory oversight, enhancing financial literacy, and ensuring accessible information, with a focus on encouraging energy efficiency and climate resiliency at the time of sale and considering reforms such as blind bidding to promote a level playing field and informed decision-making.

3. Addressing inequity and discrimination: Extending amortization periods for first-time buyers, exploring alternative financing options like halal mortgages, and urging provincial and territorial governments to implement tailored programs and culturally appropriate services to support equity-denied groups and Indigenous peoples, while also enhancing legislation and complaint mechanisms to combat discrimination and barriers in the housing system.

4. Safeguarding the system: Implementing the Canadian Mortgage Charter and addressing tax loopholes, while urging provincial and territorial governments to enhance oversight of housing services, establish accessible complaint resolution processes, and impose strong enforcement measures, including increased inspections and significant penalties for misconduct, to protect consumer rights and ensure fairness in the market.

Over the following weeks, we will analyze the implications of these announcements and their potential impact on REALTORS®. 

By Calgary Economic Development (Photo credit: Shea Friesen)

In Calgary, companies and talent discover limitless opportunities for growth in a prospering investment environment with a robust support network. 

In the first half of 2024, the Blue Sky City placed third among major Canadian cities in both venture capital (VC) dollars invested and number of deals, behind Toronto and Montreal. 

Calgary saw $346 million invested through 33 deals through the first half of the year, according to the Canadian Venture Capital Association’s H1 2024 report, up $118 million and three deals over the same period last year. It's the first time Calgary has topped Vancouver ($178 million and 32 deals) in the rankings.

Access to capital strengthens Calgary’s innovation scene 

Driven by a deep talent pool, world-class livability and a friendly business environment, local startups have resources to scale from Calgary. 

Recent wins, including the recent data from CVCA, point to how the city continues to make a name for itself as the heart of the investment pipeline in Alberta — and increasingly across Western Canada as a whole.  

“Calgary's growing prominence as a key player in the Canadian venture capital landscape reflects our city’s dynamic entrepreneurial environment and diversifying economy. Landmark deals showcase our city’s strength and our ability to attract significant investments," said Brad Parry, President and CEO, Calgary Economic Development (CED) and CEO, Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund. 

“With top talent and investment converging in our innovation economy, we continue to see more local businesses scale up their operations, positioning Calgary as a leading destination for companies, capital and talent.” 

Calgary is the investment powerhouse behind Alberta’s success, accounting for more than 80 per cent of the venture capital deals made and more than 90 per cent of the total amount of cash invested over the first half of the year.  

The province’s largest deal so far in 2024 was by Calgary-based ClearSky Global, which raised $230 million from undisclosed investors. The investment was facilitated by Tailwind Ventures — also based in Calgary — which served as a financial adviser.  

The cleantech firm is one of many Calgary-based energy companies investing in emissions-reduction solutions, which aligns the $61 billion opportunity identified in the Alberta Energy Transition Study on the path to net zero in the province.  

Additionally, Calgary’s Helcim completed a successful $27-million Series B funding round earlier this year. 

Community organizations, accelerators and venture firms support startups in Calgary 

Calgary's impressive growth as a top Canadian venture capital hub highlights its role as a key player in the global innovation landscape.  

In addition to a flourishing private capital environment, the Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund (OCIF), is a key funding tool that supports entrepreneurs and startups in Calgary. OCIF finds, fuels and fosters opportunities with the highest potential benefit to Calgary’s economic future, including world-class local incubators and accelerators like Thrive by SVG Ventures, Plug and Play Alberta and CDL-Rockies.  

Since 2018, OCIF has allocated nearly $84 million to 30 projects, which has created or retained over 3,000 jobs, created or scaled over 800 companies and generated almost $900 million in economic activity — a 10 times return on funds committed. 

Calgary’s supportive business network — with organizations like Platform Calgary serving as a community gathering space and resource hub — and ripe investment opportunities are among the reasons it was named among the world’s top 50 emerging startup ecosystems by Startup Genome earlier this year.  

Growing talent pool drives innovative solutions 

The city’s tech sector has more than tripled in recent years, contributing $8.1 billion in value to the Calgary economy between 2021 and 2023.  

The city has the most STEM graduates and the highest concentration of high-tech workers of any major Canadian city. In 2023, Calgary's tech workforce exceeded 60,000 professionals after growing 26 per cent from the year prior, making us a premier destination for companies seeking top-tier talent.  

As the fifth most livable city in the world, Calgary saw a population growth of almost 100,000 in 2023, bringing even more talent to an already deep and skilled workforce.  

With a thriving tech sector, a growing population, and an environment ripe for investment, Calgary is more than just a city on the rise — it's becoming a central hub for the future of entrepreneurship and technological advancement. 

Learn more about how the Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund is an effective tool ensuring Calgary's economy is diversified and resilient. 

Rising lending rates have had a notable impact on the housing sector, prompting potential buyers to search for more affordable housing options. Simultaneously, some potential sellers have refrained from listing their homes to avoid the consequences of higher rates. The decrease in new listings at lower price points has likely hindered overall sales activity, particularly as lower-priced properties contributed to declines in sales during 2023. Despite a moderation from record-high levels, strong migration growth and a robust labour market have kept sales well above long-term trends.

While international migration has influenced rental markets, resulting in increased rental gains and heightened demand from investors, interprovincial migration from higher-priced markets in British Columbia and Ontario has helped support sales growth in the higher price ranges of our market, even in the face of higher lending rates.

Moving into 2024, we anticipate that potential buyers who were previously on the sidelines due to limited supply choices may reenter the market as lending rates ease and listings improve.

At the same time, with more mortgages set to renew, we could see some gains in resale listings as existing homeowners who were previously hesitant to change their housing situation may be motivated to capitalize on rising prices and favourable seller market conditions. The combination of improved listings and heightened activity in the new home sector is anticipated to foster some growth in overall supply. However, given the persistent strong demand driven by recent migration and a healthy job market, it will take time for supply levels to rise sufficiently to restore balance to the market.

Although conditions are not expected to be as tight as in 2023, a seller’s market is projected to persist throughout the spring market, resulting in further price growth. However, the rate of growth for each property type is anticipated to slow compared to 2023 levels. Supply growth is expected to be mostly driven by the upper price ranges for each property type, which will likely decelerate the pace of price growth for higher-priced properties. Meanwhile, conditions are expected to remain tight for lower-priced properties, contributing to continued price gains.

HOUSING SUPPLY NEW HOME AND RENTAL IMPACT

The sudden and sharp rise in international migration has played a significant role in driving up demand for rental properties. This surge in rental demand has led to a decrease in supply and substantial increases in rental rates since 2022. The heightened rents have also spurred demand in the resale market, as both renters and investors actively pursued available resale properties.

Limited supply choice in the resale and rental markets supported stronger home starts activity in 2023. In the Calgary census metropolitan area, 2023 housing starts are on pace to hit record levels. Most starts have been in the apartment sector, with over half of the units targeted toward purpose-built rental.

Gains in new home starts for rental and ownership will help provide more choice in the market, helping shift the resale market away from the extreme seller’s market conditions we have faced over the past year. However, the supply growth will take time and is contingent on the migration flow into the city and the development process.

Please read the full forecast here.

By CREB®

With many consumers finding success using Airbnb and VRBO platforms, it’s possible to see this as more than a trend. It’s become a preference for ownership. You may have buyers seeking properties with these capabilities and sellers wanting to highlight these features.

With any new up-and-coming trends, there are points to consider. So, let’s dive into listing and purchasing properties with Airbnb and VRBO capabilities.

Airbnb terms and conditions

• A seller’s Airbnb account is not transferrable with the purchase of the property

  This means that after a deal closes, the new property owners must create their own Airbnb profile or add the new property to their existing profile. The new property owners cannot assume any existing reviews or ratings from the previous owners.

• Sellers need to cancel any reservations made after the possession date

  Sellers cannot transfer existing bookings to a buyer. Once the buyers have taken possession, they can do re-bookings. However, if the sellers take the furniture or shut off the utilities, the buyer must be informed as this could be a problem if unprepared.

• Some municipalities may require a permit

If a permit is required to operate an Airbnb, you will need to find out if that permit will transfer when the property sells or if a new one can be issued.

VRBO terms and conditions

• Use of site content, name or images is prohibited on marketing material

  The platform name ‘VRBO,’ or any copied content, cannot appear on any marketing material used to promote the purchase or sale of a property. This includes the MLS® System.

• Cannot list the contact information of another person

The VRBO profile cannot be used to advertise the property for sale nor direct potential buyers to contact a REALTOR® for more information.

Short-term rentals and condominiums

With the increasing popularity of condominiums used as Airbnbs and VRBOs, some condo boards have felt the opposite appeal towards the rental trend.

In an Edmonton court ruling, Justice Paul Belzil issued a permanent injunction that includes short-term rentals such as Airbnb to be considered a “commercial transaction” and, therefore, in violation of this specific condo board’s bylaws. You can read more about that ruling here: Edmonton judge backs condo board in banning online rentals | CBC News

With the example of this court ruling, make sure to investigate a condominium’s bylaws concerning short-term rentals before highlighting this as a feature of the property on the MLS® System.

Short-term rentals and the MLS® System

Remember to keep your listing:

• Property specific

• Avoid the use of self or third-party promotion

• Avoid using websites, phone numbers, or promoting any rental reviews in the public remarks

CREB® Rule Part III 2.02(d) states:

All information in the general (public) remarks section of an MLS® Listing on the Board's MLS® System must be property-specific. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, self-promotion and/or any contact information of the Listing Brokerage, listing REALTOR® or Member, including but not limited to e-mail addresses, URLS (website addresses), virtual tour information and electronic links of any other kind, fax numbers or references to other "team members" or assistants is not permitted in the general (public) remarks section of an MLS® Listing on the Board's MLS® System.

Cohesively, avoid promoting the potential of income, as REIX does not cover this type of advertising and creates a high risk for misleading information (CREB® Rule Part I - 4.03 and CREB® Rule Part II – 6.05).

Additionally, remind your Sellers that CREB® Rule Part III - 2.03(b) (24-hours to show rule) still applies to short-term rentals and must be available to show. Consider the withdrawal strategy if this is an issue for your seller. 

Quick tip

Remind buyers and sellers to check in with an accounting firm concerning applicable tax. Depending on the business nature of their short-term rental or a buyer’s intention when purchasing, seeking professional guidance in this area will be helpful.

Effective as of January 1, 2023, the Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act (the “Act”) prevents non-Canadians from buying residential property in Canada for 2 years.

Two-year extension to the Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act

On February 4, 2024, the Government of Canada announced its intention to extend the existing ban on foreign ownership of Canadian housing for an additional two years, to January 1, 2027.  For more information, please refer to the news release issued by the Department of Finance Canada. Due to the extension of the legislation by two years, the government continues to welcome feedback from stakeholders to address issues that may arise from the extension.

residential property means any real property or immovable, other than a prescribed real property or immovable, that is situated in Canada and that is

• (a) a detached house or similar building, containing not more than three dwelling units, together with that proportion of the appurtenances to the building and the land subjacent or immediately contiguous to the building that is reasonably necessary for its use and enjoyment as a place of residence for individuals;

• (b) a part of a building that is a semi-detached house, rowhouse unit, residential condominium unit or other similar premises that is, or is intended to be, a separate parcel or other division of real property or immovable owned, or intended to be owned, apart from any other unit in the building, together with that proportion of any common areas and other appurtenances to the building and the land subjacent or immediately contiguous to the building that is attributable to the house, unit or premises and that is reasonably necessary for its use and enjoyment as a place of residence for individuals; or

• (c) any prescribed real property or immovable. (immeuble résidentiel)

• Exception — persons

  (2) Subsection (1) does not apply to

  • (a) a temporary resident within the meaning of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act who satisfies prescribed conditions;

  • (b) a protected person within the meaning of subsection 95(2) of that Act;

  • (c) an individual who is a non-Canadian and who purchases residential property in Canada with their spouse or common-law partner if the spouse or common law-partner is a Canadian citizen, person registered as an Indian under the Indian Act, permanent resident or person referred to in paragraph (a) or (b); or

  • (d) a person of a prescribed class of persons.

• Marginal note:Exception — circumstances

  (3) Subsection (1) does not apply in prescribed circumstances.

For more information, please read the link here.

When the time comes to sell your home, an obvious question arises—should I do renovations before I sell? While on the surface it may seem like renos could increase the value of your property, there are a handful of factors to consider before jumping in.

 First, find and choose a REALTOR® for guidance on how the market is performing in your area. Next up, decide on your target market. Are you looking for a buyer who wants a move-in ready place? Or someone searching for a fixer upper? What’s your time frame to sell? These questions will help determine the scale and size of any potential renovation.

 Anthony Lance REALTOR® and sales representative with Right at Home Realty Inc. in Toronto, Ontario, says, “whether you’d like to sell your home with small upgrades or larger ones, there are specific changes that can help.”

Kitchen and bathroom

When it comes to large renovations, Lance suggests putting your money in areas like the kitchen and bathroom.

The kitchen is the heart of the home and future buyers are attracted to a space they could see themselves in. However, the cost and time required to remodel a kitchen can quickly add up with new flooring, countertops, cabinets, and appliances. To keep costs down, consider do-it-yourself projects like painting the cabinets, replacing the lights, and refreshing the backsplash. 

 A bathroom remodel is also typically one of the higher return projects you can do. For larger renos, consider updating worn-out items, replacing flooring, and purchasing quality finishes. Some easier changes include repainting the vanity, switching out the fixtures, and brightening up your grout.

“When a buyer comes in and sees a nice bathroom and kitchen, it’s a relief,” says Lance, adding “these are intimate areas where people spend a lot of time and having them already done can be a major win.”

HVAC, roof, and windows

Lance also says “people want to know the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC), roof, and windows have been taken care of as a buyer is going to be concerned with what might cost them more down the road.”

When it comes to your roof ask yourself ‘what’s the damage?’ both financially and foundationally. 

Like the roof, when thinking about windows determine if a repair will suffice. Windows can make a big impact aesthetically and to the efficiency of your home, including its heating and cooling costs.

General aesthetics

While bigger renos may help increase the value of your home, they could also open up a Pandora’s box, so when planning for renos, consider if smaller changes may fit the bill.

 “A fresh coat of paint indoors and outdoors make a home look larger and well maintained. Also consider painting the exterior, especially the front door,” says Lance. “Little things like changing the doorknobs and ensuring the insides of cabinets and closets are in good shape can also help to draw in that detail-oriented buyer.”

Although cleaning isn’t a renovation, a good deep clean of your home is a great way to show off its features. Moreover, “fresh flowers, green grass, mulch in the garden and potted plants go a long way,” says Lance.

If you’re in a condo, give your windows and balcony a good wash and accentuate the area with bright plants and balcony lights.  

Remodelling your home before selling is no small decision. If you have time, a clear budget, and want to attract a move-in-ready buyer, consider taking on larger renovations like the bathrooms,  kitchen, or mechanical systems. Or, if your property is already in tip-top shape, consider some paint, a professional home stager, and a proper clean.

There are many paths you can take when thinking of renovating your home before selling, and your REALTOR® can help identify the one that will help in your local market. 

The information discussed in this article should not be taken as financial or legal advice. This article is for informational purposes only.

                                                                                                                          by Mary Ann Boateng @ Realtor.ca

Investing in the exterior of your home is important. Not only can exterior home renovations like adding a new roof, windows, or doors add immediate benefits and curb appeal, they have the potential to increase the value of your home and give you a greater return on investment (ROI) when you decide to sell. 

A 2021 Canadian Real Estate Renovation Trends report from RE/MAX, which used data collected by Leger marking firm, said more than half of Canadians renovated their home during the pandemic for personal or “non-ROI” purposes. According to the report, 29% chose to renovate for non-essential “lifestyle” reasons, such as recreation-inspired projects, while 16% of Canadians renovated to increase the market value of their home to sell within in the next one to three years. 

Similar to interior home renovations, not all exterior renovations are created equal, with some costing  much more up front, while others are relatively more cost-effective. If budget is a concern, read on to learn about some of the most cost-effective exterior home renovations that could help increase your ROI when it comes time to sell.

Why is curb appeal important?

The way your home looks from the outside—or its curb appeal—gives potential home buyers their first impression of the property even before they step inside. This is why exterior renovations that help boost curb appeal are important, as the aesthetic look of a home’s exterior can give the buyer a sense of what they can expect to find once they walk through the front door. In other words, if your home presents itself well, the yard is nicely kept, the paint is vibrant, the siding is aging well, and the roof is in good shape, prospective buyers could be more inclined to look inside if they like what they see on the outside. 

What are the current trends in exterior renovations?

If you’ve been thinking about completing an exterior home renovation project this year, My design Home Studio suggests while “farmhouse vibes are here to stay,” five other exterior design trends will gain popularity in 2022, including “a shift toward natural textures, a stronger connection to the outdoors, and a minimalist approach to architecture.”  

These trends are: 

• Natural textures: Blonde woods, hand-sawn beams, and aged brick are popular, but you can recreate these looks at a lower cost with wood-like siding or stone-like accents.

• Dark exteriors: Pairing lighter siding and brick with moodier blacks and charcoals is becoming a trend, so if you’re looking to sell soon it might be worth the investment now. 

• Black accents: External features—like door handles, door frames, locks, shutters, etc.—are being swapped out for matte black instead of classic brass or silver. It’s a more modern look without requiring a total overhaul.

• All-season outdoor entertaining: Adding a patio or deck to your yard can help increase curb appeal, especially when equipped for year-round usage. Covered areas for places with a lot of snow, or lounge areas with an outdoor fireplace(depending on your municipal bylaws) for places that remain relatively dry during the winter, are great additions to help extend patio season.

• Natural light: Large panoramic windows that will flood your home with natural light are definitely a bigger investment than say, a door handle, but they’re a hot commodity as buyers are looking for homes with more natural light. 

                                                                                                                      photo by Jens Mahnke on Pexels

Top exterior renovations to help your ROI

While trying the latest renovation trends is a great way to ensure your home fits the modern look, there are tried and trusted exterior renovations that are not only cost-effective, but also known to help increase a home’s ROI.

According to Alex Obradovich, a REALTOR® and sales representative with Chestnut Park® Real Estate Limited Brokerage in Toronto, the best cost-effective exterior renovations would be “functional over the cosmetic.” 

“Taking a good look at what’s necessary to fix will be the most important when it comes to selling your home in the future,” explained Obradovich. “Common items may be drainage, grading, deteriorated items or heating/cooling efficiency problems like making sure windows and chimneys are sealed properly.”

However, once the functional exterior renovations are complete, Obradovich says cost-effective and cosmetic upgrades to improve your home would be painting and tidying up landscaping.

“Plus, both of those can be done yourself inexpensively,” he added.

Other things to look at would be your roof, garage door, front door(steel and fibreglass are becoming popular materials), and siding. The average cost to install an asphalt roof in Canada is around $4,750 (depending on the scale of the project), while replacing a double-car garage door can cost between $1,300 and $3,500. If you’re trying to stay on budget, you can also revamp your home’s exterior by swapping out old furnishings for newer pieces and adding potted plants and annual folowers for a pop of colour. 

The best way to assess what your home needs is by enlisting the help of a REALTOR® who will be able to give you insights into what buyers are currently looking for in your neighbourhood and what renovations may help sell your home quicker—and for a better price. 

Your REALTOR® can also provide you with contacts for roofers, painters, contractors, etc. to help you find the best person for the job.

                                                                                        by REALTOR team including Ainsley Smith

SUBJECT PROPERTY, IN ONE OF THE MORE CONVENIENTLY LOCATED COMPLEX WITH FANTASTIC EXPOSURE, THIS UNIT COMES WITH 4096 SQ. FT., RECTANGULAR MEASUREMENT OF 32X128, ONE BACK LANE DRIVE THROUGH APP. 10'X14' DOOR, PRESENTLY BEING USED FOR OWNER-USER WHOLESALE DRY GOODS BUSINESS FOR LAST 21 YEARS. SELLERS WOULD LIKE TO SELL THIS CONDO BAY AND A LEASE-BACK FOR 6 MONTHS. NO DISAPPOINTMENT FOR ITS LOCATION AND THE INTERIOR CONDITION. CALL YOUR FAVORITE AGENT FOR SHOWING APPOINTMENTS. DO NOT APPROACH THE STAFF. ALL INFORMATION IS TO BE VERIFIED.

#1. Calgary French & International School - Rating: 9.7 Calgary French & International School - Best Private Schools in Calgary This Calgary private school has emerged as one of the top French immersion schools in Alberta, attributing its success to its ability to respond to the different interests and needs of every student. Calgary French & International School adopts a strong global perspective and cultivates peace through teaching UNESCO values in every grade. This private school ensures high quality instruction in both Spanish and French languages by hiring the best teaching staff globally. It maintains a student to faculty/classroom ratio of 8:1 and strives to generate cross-cultural and first-hand experiences for every student using the UNESCO framework of values. Visit Calgary French & International School to learn more about what this top rated Calgary private school has to offer.

#2. Master's Academy & College - Rating: 9.6 Founded in 1997, Master's Academy is an innovative K-12 private school in Calgary which envisions exceeding beyond academic excellence. It equips students to be creators, innovators and leaders of change in the 21st century. It has earned international attention for its initiatives in transitioning education from the Industrial Age into the spectrum of the 21st century. Students consistently exceed standards of excellence in provincial standardized tests and this private school helps them prepare for the future. Visit Master's Academy & College to learn why this Calgary private school ranked so well.

#3. Clear Water Academy - Rating: 9.5 Established in 1995, Clear Water Academy's mission is to provide the best quality education and produce Integrally Formed Christian leaders, with conviction for truth and commitment to establish a society of Christian values which are not only taught, but also practiced. With the adoption of the Integral Formation® method of education, its students are trained with a balanced educational and spiritual foundation. This Calgary private school educates and guides students to become future leaders needed to change society. Visit Clear Water Academy to learn more about this Calgary Christian school.

#4. Webber Academy - Rating: 9.4 Incorporated in 1997, this Calgary private school is a non-profit institution recognized as a charitable organization. Its mission is to equip its students to thrive even beyond the university by enhancing an environment with a high sense of achievement, service and right behaviour. It prepares students to be responsible citizens in their own communities and to society as a whole. Located in southwest Calgary, overlooking the mountains and foothills, it is complete with a Kindercentre, main campus building, two huge gymnasiums, a Performing Arts Centre with a 500-seat theatre, modern High School Science Centre, a soccer field and a 400-meter running track. Visit Webber Academy to learn more about this private school in Calgary.

#5. River Valley School - Rating: 9.3 This private school in Calgary is uniquely established to discover what motivates and encourages students to bring out the best in themselves, academically and emotionally. River Valley School nurtures and develops the natural love for learning in every child, to instill in them the core of their person and identity. It considers every child as unique – not coming out from one box or fitting in same mold. This private school in Calgary develops not only the minds but also the character of its students. The teaching staff of this private school is warm, genuine and dedicated to the commitment of a quality education. Visit River Valley School to learn more about this private school in Calgary.

#1. Rundle College Senior High School – Rating: 10 Rundle College Senior High School - Best Private Schools in Calgary Established in the summer of 1985, this private school in Calgary is committed to focus on its aim for excellence, a safe and caring environment and an enriched individualized learning for students. Rundle College Senior High School adopts a strong culture that enhances academic and personal achievement by creating an environment with high standards of care, supervision and respect. It provides educational opportunities to a wide cross-section of students by maintaining tuition fees at a competitive level, with no required membership fees, bonds or other major fund-raising obligations. Rundle College Senior High School helps students discover their full potential, challenges them to bring out their best, then celebrates with and awards them when they do. Visit Rundle College Senior High School to know more about this private school in Calgary and how it topped the rankings.

#2. Webber Academy – Rating: 10 Webber Academy - Best Private Schools in Calgary This Calgary private school was incorporated in 1997, with the aim for students to thrive even beyond the university. Webber Academy is a non-profit institution now recognized as a charitable organization. It is located in southwest Calgary with a perfect setting overlooking the mountains and foothills. Facilities include a Kindercentre, main campus building, two huge gymnasiums, a Performing Arts Centre with a 500-seat theatre, modern High School Science Centre, a soccer field and a 400-meter running track. It creates an enhancing environment with a high sense of achievement, service and right behaviour, preparing students to be responsible citizens in their own communities and to society as a whole. Visit Webber Academy to know more about this top private school in Calgary.

#3. West Island College – Rating: 9.9 Originally established on the West Island of Montreal, this private preparatory school was founded by Terry D. Davies in 1974. It later formed West Island College of Ottawa in 1980 but shortly closed after its opening. Calgary West Island College has a 30 year proven record of success, leadership, innovation and growth. This Calgary private school offers its unique Class Afloat program, that provides an excellent educational experience to students while sailing around the world. They have sailed to more than 250 ports of call worldwide and more than 700,000 nautical miles, sailing a different route every year. Its motto is “Praestatantiam Consectemur” or “The Pursuit of Excellence”.

#4. Bearspaw Christian School – Rating: 8.9 Bearspaw Christian School - Best Private Schools in Calgary This is a private Christian School that is non-denominational, and offers education from Junior Kindergarten up to Grade 12. With a fast growing student population, Bearspaw Christian School is able to offer one of the lowest tuition fee rates among the private schools in Calgary. This private school has extensive experience with more than 30 years in developing Christ-like character and academic excellence in every student. A top choice of Alberta's Christian families for 10 years running, Bearspaw Christian School's vision statement is, "Teaching Minds... Reaching Hearts...Transforming our World."

#5. Rundle Academy – Rating: 8.8 Rundle Academy - Best Private Schools in Calgary Established in 1995, Rundle Academy is a Calgary private school for students diagnosed with learning disabilities. This private school adopts a strong culture that enhances academic and personal achievement by creating an environment with high standards of care, supervision and respect. Nationally acclaimed as a leader in education for complex learning, Rundle Academy has grown into a premier program for students with learning disabilities. Rundle Academy's mission is to create an engaging, nurturing environment that offers enriched personalized education to equip students for an ever-changing world.

#6. Clear Water Academy – Rating: 8.7 Clear Water Academy - Best Private Schools in Calgary This private school in Calgary was established in 1995, with a mission is to provide the best quality education and produce Integrally Formed Christian leaders, with conviction for truth and commitment to establish a society of Christian values which are not only taught, but also practiced. With the adoption of the Integral Formation® method of education, its students are trained with a balanced educational and spiritual foundation. This private school Calgary educates and molds students to become future leaders needed to change society. Visit Clear Water Academy to learn more about this private school in Calgary.