Saturday, May 4, 2013 Open House. Open House on Saturday, May 4, 2013 2:00 pmby Diane Richardson on Sat, May, 4, 2013 04:11 AM
Please visit our Open House at 249 EVANSPARK CIR NW.
Open House on Saturday, May 4, 2013 2:00 pm
***OPEN HOUSE Saturday, May 4 from 2:00-4:00*** Spectacular, move-in ready home with space for the whole family. This Broadview 'Bristol' model home is better than the day it was built. The open-plan main floor has dark hardwood and tile floors, granite countertops, upgraded stainless steel appliances and tiled back splash, walk-thru pantry, main floor laundry and the list goes on! Even the upper level is open-concept with a computer nook just off the sunny, west-facing, step-down bonus room. Two large bedrooms for the kids and the master suite boasts a 5 pce ensuite and walk-in closet. This house has absolutely everything and it's all just waiting for you. The walk-out basement is finished with a fourth bedroom, wet-bar (bar fridge included), media room that's wired for sound and another deck. Close to shopping and Stoney Trail and with 2 new schools coming to Evanston you can enjoy the neighborhood while your family grows.
Friday, May 3, 2013 New property listed in Evanston, Calgaryby Diane Richardson on Fri, May, 3, 2013 04:09 AM
I have listed a new property at 249 EVANSPARK CIR NW.
***OPEN HOUSE Saturday, May 4 from 2:00-4:00*** Spectacular, move-in ready home with space for the whole family. This Broadview 'Bristol' model home is better than the day it was built. The open-plan main floor has dark hardwood and tile floors, granite countertops, upgraded stainless steel appliances and tiled back splash, walk-thru pantry, main floor laundry and the list goes on! Even the upper level is open-concept with a computer nook just off the sunny, west-facing, step-down bonus room. Two large bedrooms for the kids and the master suite boasts a 5 pce ensuite and walk-in closet. This house has absolutely everything and it's all just waiting for you. The walk-out basement is finished with a fourth bedroom, wet-bar (bar fridge included), media room that's wired for sound and another deck. Close to shopping and Stoney Trail and with 2 new schools coming to Evanston you can enjoy the neighborhood while your family grows.
Thursday, May 2, 2013 New property listed in Evanston, Calgaryby Diane Richardson on Thu, May, 2, 2013 04:09 AM
I have listed a new property at 249 Evanspark CIR in Calgary.
Spectacular, move-in ready home with space for the whole family. This Broadview 'Bristol' model home is better than the day it was built. The open-plan main floor has dark hardwood and tile floors, granite countertops, black appliances and tiled back splash, walk-thru pantry, main floor laundry and the list goes on! Even the upper level is open-concept with a computer nook just off the sunny, west-facing, step-down bonus room. Two large bedrooms for the kids and the master suite boasts a 5 pce ensuite and walk-in closet. This house has absolutely everything and it's all just waiting for you. The walk-out basement is finished with a fourth bedroom, wet-bar (bar fridge included), media room that's wired for sound and another deck. Close to shopping and Stoney Trail and with 2 new schools coming to Evanston you can enjoy the neighborhood while your family grows.
Friday, April 26, 2013 Calgary Home Searchby Diane Richardson on Fri, Apr, 26, 2013 12:34 AM Welcome to my Calgary Real Estate website
I have been adding some search functions, to make it somewhat easier for you to find your new Calgary Home.
You can now search for SE Calgary Bungalows for Sale, SW Calgary Bungalows for Sale & NW Calgary Bungalows for Sale. I have also created a search that helps you find Calgary Homes with Walk-Out and Fully Finished basement.
SW Calgary Homes for Sale with Walk-Out, SE Calgary Homes for Sale with Walk-Out. As well as those searches you are able to search by price starting at $200,000 and going all the way up to over $2,000,000. You are able to search for Calgary Homes for Sale by Calgary Community.I have added Bearspaw Real Estate Listings if you are looking for a Luxury Home minutes from Calgary possibly an Acreage. There is also a search for Homes for Sale in Okotoks, and also Homes for Sale in Airdrie.
I hope that you find these additions helpful. If you would like to contact me in regards to a specific Calgary Home for Sale or Listing your home for Sale. Please, Contact me @ 403.397.3706 or leave a message with my CHAT at the right side of the page.
Thank you Diane Richardson.,
www.Diane-Richardson.com
www.MyPadCalgary.com
www.SherlockHomesCalgary.com
www.FirsTTimeBuyersCalgary.com Friday, April 12, 2013 Selling your Calgary Home! What is my Calgary home worth?by Diane Richardson on Fri, Apr, 12, 2013 06:04 AM Selling your Calgary Home
Sell your Calgary Real Estate
As the Calgary economy grows real estate gets hot. If you want to sell your Calgary home contact me for professional advice and tools that will ensure a timely sale at a maximized price.
No obligation Calgary Home Evalutation
Correctly pricing your home for resale is the most the most important aspect of selling real estate. Don’t rely on a desktop analysis where you send in a few details and receive an email back with a price range. You can get started by filling out the Seller’s Details Form but in order to give you an accurate price I need to see your home and evaluate it in person.
Once I receive your details I’ll conduct a desktop analysis, then I’ll meet with you in your home so I can see the features and amenities that make your home unique. Nobody can give you accurate advice for selling your property if they don’t see it! This is a no obligation service where you can get to know me, understand how I would market your home and I can provide you with a true value for your property.
How Diane-Richardson.com markets your home
Next to properly pricing your home the most important thing in real estate sales is marketing (arguably the most important aspect of selling anything). My goal is to market your property quickly and effectively to gain you the best price in the shortest time…here’s how I do that:
Full Time Commitment
I’m a REALTOR®. Working with people to fulfill their property purchase and sales needs is what I do full-time, this is how I earn my living and I’m committed to success. If I don’t get results for my clients I don’t eat it’s that simple.
RE/MAX
Why wouldn’t you list your home for sale with the largest real estate company in the world? Consistently outselling every other real estate brokerage in Calgary, RE/MAX is clearly the market leader in this town and RE/MAX Real Estate (Central) has been the number one RE/MAX office in the world since 1999 (based on closed transactions)
Internet Marketing
More than 90% of real estate shoppers look online for their next home purchase. This means the Internet is where your property needs to be in order to get sold!
Using all the technology tools available I make sure your property listing is all over the Internet. This includes but isn’t limited to:
www.Diane-Richardson.com
www.firsttimebuyerscalgary.com
www.myPadCalgary.com
www.RemaxCentral.ab.ca (website of the #1 RE/MAX office worldwide since 1999)
www.Remax-Western.ca (RE/MAX Western Canada)
www.Remax.com (RE/MAX International)
Your listing will also appear on multiple syndicated real estate websites, online classified ad sites (don’t laugh, these work!), online video sites and social media. ie. Facebook, Twitter, Google+ etc.
Just listing your real estate for sale on MLS is no longer sufficient to get the exposure it needs to get you a sale for top dollar. Online marketing is now the most important way to sell real estate in North America. I have a fulltime Internet marketer working with me to get your property sold.
Photos
Diane-Richardson is committed to the highest quality marketing possible, that means professional photos that show your property in it’s best light to give your listing an important edge over the competition.
I’ll work with you to prepare your home for professional photos. I spend my life going through houses and I know what can make the difference between a place looking average and looking exceptional in property photos. This doesn’t mean you have to put in a new kitchen to make your house look good, there are simple techniques that will help make your house more attractive to potential buyers.
Exceptional Feature Sheets
Nobody can buy what they don’t remember! Home shoppers typically view 4-7 houses per showing tour, after a while it can get hard to remember which ones made the short list. Using high resolution photos, professional printing I will create a Feature Sheet for your home that highlights all the plusses and makes sure prospective buyers don’t forget what your property offers.
Communication
Getting the word out that your property is for sale in the right places is important but equally critical is your link to me, your REALTOR®. I will stay in touch by whatever means you prefer, you will be made aware of every bit of activity that relates to your sale.
Listing and Leaving
Are you planning on listing then going on vacation? Do you need to get to your new job on the other side of the country now? Can’t stick around and wait for your house to sell? No problem, I have the tools and technology to make sure you can deal with any offers that might come in while you’re gone or in transit.
Wednesday, April 3, 2013 Tightened housing supply curbs sales volume CREB media releaseby CREB media Release April 2 2013 on Wed, Apr, 3, 2013 01:41 AM Tightened housing supply curbs sales volume
First quarter sales improve in condominium market, while declining in single family sector
Calgary,
April 2, 2013
The inventory of active homes for sale in Calgary are the lowest March levels in more than five years. The decline in new listings hampered resale sales growth, which declined by more than two per cent in March compared to March 2012. New listings in March are five per cent lower than levels recorded in 2012, and five per cent lower afternthe first quarter. The overall active listings stand at just 4,006 units, up from February’s levels but well below the number available one year ago. “Less resale product available to consumers is ultimately limiting sales growth,” said CREB® President Becky Walters. “In addition, resale homes are selling in less time and with continued upward pressure on prices.” Walters said buyers have grown accustomed to a market when they have more time to make decisions because there was ample supply. But, as market conditions have tightened, if they are serious about purchasing a resale home, they can no longer significantly delay that decision, she said. “While market conditions are a far cry from activity witnessed throughout the frenzy in 2006 and 2007,there has been a noticeable cha nge over what became the norm over the past few years.” Walters said.Single family, year over year sales growth declined by six per cent in March, a reflection of declining supply. Active inventory totaled 2,713 units, 22 per cent lower than levels recorded in 2012, and the lowest March inventory level recorded since 2007. The market balance continues to trend into seller’s territory in this segment causing a year over year price increase of nearly nine per cent, for a total of $446,500 in March 2013. “Tighter rental conditions and continued employment growth has supported housing demand growth,” said Ann Marie Laurie, CREB®’s chief economist. “However, for those looking for more affordable single family home products, their choices continue to narrow.” She said new single family listings under $500,000 are declining at double digit rates, driving consumers at that price point to either surrounding towns, condominiums or the new home market.The condominium townhouse market is the only category to record a year over year rise in sales activity for the month. This is in part because the level of new listings improved in March 2013 relative to March 2012. Condominium year over year apartment sales declined by nearly three per cent in March. However, after the first quarter, sales activity totaled 830 units a 6 per cent increase over the previous year. Condominium townhouse sales totaled 652 units at the end of the first quarter, a 15 per cent increase over the previous year. “The condominium apartment market remains in balance,” said Lurie. “While it has moved to the lower end of the spectrum, it remains better supplied then the single family market and the majority of product available is in an affordable price range.” The benchmark apartment price totaled $257,700 in March, a six per cent increase over the previous year. Meanwhile, the condominium townhouse benchmark price experienced a year over year increase of 4 per cent, to $286,800. “Despite tighter market conditions, it is unlikely that we will have another significant run up in prices,” said Lurie. “Outside of easing economic factors expected this year, consumers have options in the total housing market.”
Tuesday, March 5, 2013 Newest tallest building: Council approves twin towers at 56 storeys and 42 storeysby Diane Richardson on Tue, Mar, 5, 2013 01:45 AM Council approves twin towers
http://www.calgaryherald.com/business/Newest+tallest+building+Council+approves+twin+towers/8047892/story.html
225 SIXTH is a proposed full-block commercial development located between 1st & 2nd Streets and 6th & 7th Avenues SW in downtown Calgary. This block represents one of the best remaining undeveloped sites in the city and affords Brookfield the opportunity to create another landmark development that significantly contributes to the public realm. Brookfield has recently submitted a development permit application and continues to work closely with City officials and administration on finalizing the vision for the full-block development.
The proposed development, consisting of 2.8 million square feet, includes the tallest structure in downtown Calgary at 56 storeys and 247 meters tall to be located at the northeast corner of the block. A second tower of 42 storeys will be located on the northwest corner. Situated between the towers is a spectacular three-storey, 50,000-square-foot transparent glass pavilion, connecting the grade-level open space to the +15 pedestrian skywalk system. The pavilion touches the site lightly and sets itself away from the towers, while enclosing an internal civic square, which will be programmed year round.
The contemporary modernist architecture of the towers provides maximum transparency through a clear glass skin.
The plaza, at over one-half acre, promises to be a significant addition to the evolving downtown public realm. Creating a dramatic arrival experience for those working in and visiting the new office towers, the proposed plaza will see a steady stream of foot traffic, much of it headed to and from the LRT on 7th Avenue SW. Landscaping complements the architecture and augments the function of the plaza which faces south to take advantage of the sun year-round.
Retail opportunities will be provided along the west, south and east edges of the plaza, complementing the existing retail presence of the Hudson’s Bay store. Cafés and restaurants are easily accommodated, with activity spilling out to animate the plaza.
The public space is designed to be well used and appreciated by downtown employees and shoppers, coupled with significant programmed activity, public art and cultural events that will contribute to the vitality of the downtown throughout the week. The high building lobbies will provide visual connections to the plaza, and connections to 6th Avenue SW and the City’s major destinations.
Sustainable Design
Brookfield has committed that all of its new developments will be sustainably designed to achieve LEED® Gold Core and Shell or higher and 225 SIXTH is no exception. Brookfield's two most recent developments in Canada, Bankers Court in Calgary and Bay Adelaide Centre in Toronto, were certified LEED® Gold Core and Shell in 2009.
Sustainable design features expected to be included are as follows;
• Energy efficient lighting and control systems
• High efficiency mechanical equipment
• Low flow washroom fixtures
• Bicycle racks, storage and shower facilities
• Auto sharing, car pooling and electric plug-in parking facilities
• Well served by public transportation
• Management and retention of storm water
• Water efficient irrigation & drought resistant plant species
• High efficient curtain wall system
• Use of recycled materials
• Construction waste diversion away from landfills
• Reduction of heat island effects
• A green housekeeping program
http://brookfieldofficeproperties.com Sunday, December 16, 2012 Calgary apartment vacancy rate decreases in 2012 Down to 1.3%by Diane Richardson on Sun, Dec, 16, 2012 07:29 PM
Calgary apartment vacancy rate decreases in 2012
Down to 1.3%
BY MARIO TONEGUZZI, CALGARY HERALD DECEMBER 13, 2012
CALGARY — The apartment vacancy rate in the Calgary region averaged 1.3 per cent in October, down from 1.9 per cent last year, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp.’s Fall Rental Market Survey released Thursday.
“Employment growth and higher incomes, supported by Calgary’s expanding economy, continued to attract migrants and increased demand for rental units,” said Richard Cho, senior market analyst in Calgary for the CMHC.
The apartment crunch will likely continue as the CMHC is forecasting 20,000 net migrants to the Calgary area in 2012 after 11,200 net migrants in 2011.
“Alberta is once again seeing some very strong interprovincial migration these days and many of these people are arriving in Calgary,” said Todd Hirsch, senior economist with ATB Financial. “Typically before looking at buying a home, the recently-arrived will rent an apartment. That’s where a lot of the strong demand is coming from, and it’s pushing down the vacancy rate in the rental market.”
Recently, Sam Kolias, chairman and chief executive of Calgary-based Boardwalk Real Estate Investment Trust, told the Herald that the local rental market continues to see high demand as people keep moving to the province.
In the REIT’s third quarter, which ended September 30, it has 5,310 rental units in Calgary and the occupancy rate was 99.34 per cent, up from 98.89 per cent last year.
The apartment vacancy rate in most zones in Calgary declined from the previous year, said the CMHC report. Areas close to the downtown where there is a high concentration of employers continued to have among the lowest vacancy rates in the city, said the CMHC.
The vacancy rate in the Downtown zone reached 0.5 per cent in October, down from 1.0 per cent in October 2011.
The strong demand for rental accommodations combined with lower vacancies has led to an increase in rental rates in Calgary. Same-sample rents increased 6.1 per cent in October, following a 1.8 per cent rise in the previous year. Bachelor units and two-bedroom units recorded an increase of 7.4 per cent and 5.9 per cent, respectively. The average same-sample rent for three-bedroom units increased 4.2 per cent from a year earlier, said the agency.
Overall, the two-bedroom rent in Calgary averaged $1,152 in October, up from $1,087 last year. The Downtown and Beltline had among the highest average two-bedroom rents in the Calgary CMA at $1,240 and $1,222, respectively. The Southeast and Other Centres recorded the lowest two-bedroom rents in October, averaging $998 and $1,005, respectively.
Vacancies for rental condominium apartments declined to 2.1 per cent in October, down from 5.7 per cent in October 2011. The condominium rent in CMHC’s 2012 survey averaged $1,288 per month, down from $1,378 last year.
“Condominium apartment rents are typically higher compared to units in the purpose-built rental market as the buildings are generally newer and may include additional amenities such as a fitness centre, entertainment room, and heated underground parking,” said Cho.
Don Campbell, president of the Real Estate Investment Network in Canada, said the low vacancy rate wil lead to two things.
“Strong upward pressure on rents across the board, at all levels. Upward pressure on resale housing market first in 2013, then new home sales in 2014,” he said. “Look for the market to perform well in 2013 with values going up more quickly than 2012.”
Source:http://www.calgaryherald.com/story_print.html?id=7693705&sponsor=curriebarracks
© Copyright (c) The Calgary Herald
Sunday, December 16, 2012 Alberta economic boom shows no signs of slowdown Growth leader forecast for 2014by Diane Richardson on Sun, Dec, 16, 2012 07:23 PM
Alberta economic boom shows no signs of slowdown Growth leader forecast for 2014
BY MARIO TONEGUZZI, CALGARY HERALD DECEMBER 13, 2012
CALGARY — Alberta’s economic boom is showing little sign of slowing down, according to the latest RBC Economics Provincial Outlook released Thursday.
RBC forecasts that Alberta will continue to be among the fastest-growing provincial economies in 2013 with a real GDP growth rate of 3.5 per cent, second only to Newfoundland & Labrador’s 4.4 per cent.
Alberta will regain the top spot in the country in 2014 with Real GDP growth forecast at 4.2 per cent.
“Alberta is in the midst of an impressive economic boom, with activity in the province surging by 5.1 per cent in 2011 and remaining on the fast track in 2012,” said Craig Wright, senior vice-president and chief economist with RBC. “While massive investment in the energy sector – which was the key catalyst for the economic boom – has been tempered recently, strong capital expenditures and rapid momentum in other sectors will keep the economy moving ahead at a sustained clip.”
But RBC said the mood in the province remains somewhat cautious, as Alberta’s oil sector finds itself increasingly “land locked” due to pipeline bottlenecks. It said major players in the oilsands have cited delivery challenges and a greater than usual discount on wellhead prices as reasons for delays in spending on mega projects.
RBC said these delays have raised some concerns about the sustainability of business investment in the province and it expects major players in the oilsands to remain generally cautious in 2013, keeping spending in a holding pattern while pipeline issues are addressed and crude oil price relationships normalize.
The report said Alberta will benefit from broad-based expansion in 2013, with strong population growth and employment continuing to fuel consumer spending and housing activity showing continued vigour. On the business side, rising demand for commercial and industrial space will support growth in capital spending outside the energy sector.
Economic growth for this year is estimated at 3.8 per cent, the best in Canada, following 2011’s 5.1 per cent which also set the pace for the rest of the country.
“We anticipate that Alberta’s growth will slow modestly next year thanks in large part to the lull in oilsands investment,” added Wright. “However, sufficient progress in resolving these oil delivery issues in 2014 should allow for major projects to proceed, setting the stage for a 4.2 per cent re-acceleration in growth.”
The Canadian economy is forecast to grow by 2.4 per cent in 2013 and 2.8 per cent in 2014 after an estimated 2.0 per cent growth this year.
In its quarter economic forecast released Thursday, TD Economics said Canadian economic growth is expected to edge down to 1.7 per cent in 2013, before picking up to a healthier 2.5 per cent in 2014.
“In Canada, the first half of 2013 is shaping up to be quite soft. Fiscal consolidation in the U.S. alone could shave 0.5 percentage points off Canadian economic growth through lower exports and the knock-on-effects to other areas of the economy,” said TD. “Beyond mid-year, the rebound in the U.S. should help support a modest recovery in Canadian export growth.
“However, the Canadian economy will still face headwinds from a high Canadian dollar, elevated household debt and government restraint.”
Source:http://www.calgaryherald.com/story_print.html?id=7693125&sponsor=curriebarracks
© Copyright (c) The Calgary Herald
Sunday, December 16, 2012 Boom in resale housing market just outside Calgary Towns see nearly 40% hike in MLS salesby Diane Richardson on Sun, Dec, 16, 2012 07:18 PM
Boom in resale housing market just outside Calgary
Towns see nearly 40% hike in MLS sales
BY MARIO TONEGUZZI, CALGARY HERALD DECEMBER 6, 2012
CALGARY — The resale housing market in towns just outside the City of Calgary has seen a boom in sales this year.
According to the Calgary Real Estate Board, year-to-date MLS sales in the surrounding communities market has ballooned to 4,878 up to the end of November, a hike of 39.05 per cent compared with the same period in 2011.
In comparison, year-to-date sales of 20,128 in the City of Calgary are up 15.21 per cent compared with last year.
“I think what’s happening is the buyers can’t find necessarily what they want in the city,” said Bob Jablonski, CREB’s president. “There’s less product to look at here in Calgary. And they’re finding they can find what they’re looking for in surrounding towns for the price points and getting a bigger bang for their bucks. So they don’t mind the commute.”
In the towns market, so far this year the average MLS sale price has dipped by 0.18 per cent to $354,897 while in the city it has risen by 3.16 per cent to $428,208.
According to CREB, in the country residential (acreage) market, sales so far this year are 842 with an average sale price of $793,707.
Last year there were 689 sales with an average sale price of $807,764 for the same time period.
Don Campbell, president of the Real Estate Investment Network in Canada, said places like Airdrie and Okotoks experience what’s called the Doppler effect in the real estate industry.
“It’s where a centre booms and then the smaller centres around it follow either a year or a year and a half later,” said Campbell.
“But the thing that’s really affected Okotoks, and now especially Airdrie, is the transportation change. The Ring Road (Stoney Trail). For Okotoks, of course, it was the expansion of Highway 2 a few years ago that really started to drive and bring to everyone’s attention Okotoks. Because nobody really went south of Calgary. Everybody went between Edmonton and Calgary and always knew that Airdrie was there. Okotoks is now on the radar.”
With any real estate market, it’s about affordability, said Campbell, and markets like Airdrie and Okotoks, for example, were driven by potential homebuyers who felt that they couldn’t afford to live in Calgary.
Stoney Trail has had huge impact on the Airdrie market, said Campbell. Also, many new jobs have been created in the northeast part of Calgary.
“So rather than live in the northeast, people are living in Airdrie which is almost the exact length of time to get to work,” he said.
Source:http://www.calgaryherald.com/story_print.html?id=7660339&sponsor=curriebarracks
Creb: http://www.creb.com/public/town-and-country/documents/2012-q3-towns-report.pdf
http://www.creb.com/public/town-and-country/quarterly-stats.php
© Copyright (c) The Calgary Herald Friday, November 16, 2012 I have sold a property at 28 CASTLEGLEN CRES NE in CALGARYby Diane Richardson on Fri, Nov, 16, 2012 04:03 AM
I have sold a property at 28 CASTLEGLEN CRES NE in CALGARY.
This exceptionally maintained 4 bedroom home is just waiting for a new family to move-in and grow. 2009 saw this home get new laminate floors, a new bathroom with jetted-tub and low-flow-toilet and a new new fridge & stove. New shingles in 2011 and the oak cabinets look as good today as when they were installed. The attractive and practical living space this home offers makes it perfect for a growing family or empty-nesters. The front-drive, oversized, single detached garage is just out the back door with a gorgeous deck behind. There's plenty of room to enjoy in the big, fenced yard and downstairs is fully-finished with a 4th bedroom, a 3-peice bathroom and a great family room. With a separate entrance and a large laundry room that could easily convert into a basement kitchen. Don't wait to see this home, it's one of the nicest in the neighborhood.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012 Calgary top real estate investment market in Canada Calgary Herald Articleby Diane Richardson on Tue, Nov, 13, 2012 06:01 AM Calgary top real estate investment market in Canada
Edmonton ranked as second
CALGARY — Calgary has been ranked as the top real estate investment market in the country followed by Edmonton by the Real Estate Investment Network Ltd.(
In its Top Alberta Investment Towns report, REIN said that Alberta’s economy has come out on top after a few years of economic turbulence.
The report identifies towns and regions poised to outperform other regions of the province over the next three to five years.
And none is better than Calgary.
“After a couple of roller-coaster years, Calgary is back on a roll. The return of jobs to the city, as well as greatly reduced office vacancy rates show us that the city’s short slump has come to an end,” said the report. “Recording a GDP growth of three per cent in 2011, and one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country, it’s no wonder Calgary is sitting as one of the top places in North America for property investors. When you combine the economic fundamentals, the population growth, and a burgeoning provincial economy, it is easy to see why so many businesses and people have come to call the city home.
“The market is hot. With the pressure on the resale housing market, there is similar pressure on the rental market. Inventory has dropped for rental accommodations while monthly rents have increased. Real estate investors and real estate agents are reporting that rental listings are being pounced on. Savvy investors purchasing units and advertising them for rent upon close are receiving calls from anxious tenants wanting to see the unit before the investor has possession and/or has done any improvements to the property. Rental sites are reporting difficulty in compiling statistics become some communities have nothing for rent.”
REIN said housing affordability will begin to be an issue in Calgary, with rents increasing and a high average sale price. But when you look at that price versus average income it shows that other cities in Canada have a much larger problem on their hands.
“Calgary has the long-term economics to support long-term market strength while other cities do not,” said REIN.
The Top Alberta Investment Towns ranked in order are: Calgary, Edmonton, Airdrie, Red Deer, St. Albert, Fort McMurray, Lethbridge, Grande Prairie, Okotoks, Leduc, Sylvan Lake and Lacombe.
The report said Airdrie has been one of the fastest growing communities in the province.
“Its proximity to the economic engine of Calgary and the growth of the surrounding economy will push the physical and economic growth limits of the city in the next decade,” said REIN.
“With increasingly easy access to many areas of Calgary via the ring road as well as the growth of job centres in and around the city, Airdrie property owners should continue to feel upward pressure on both rents as well as home prices. As affordable housing becomes a growing problem in Calgary, Airdrie will benefit from lower average house prices. As the office centre of the west, Calgary may offer employment opportunities that Airdrie does not, but much of the labour force will turn to Airdrie as a place to call home.”
REIN’s top Canadian investment cities ranked in order are: Calgary, Edmonton, Hamilton, Surrey, Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows, Airdrie, Kitchener and Cambridge, Red Deer, St. Albert, Waterloo, Winnipeg, Saskatoon, and Halifax.
According to a research note by Scotia Economics, Alberta remains a key economic engine for Canada, with the highest provincial real GDP growth rate forecast for 2012 and 2013 at 3.4 per cent and 3.0 per cent respectively.
“The economy is growing strongly with contributions from consumer spending, business investment, particularly in the oilsands, and exports, which is encouraging given the strong Canadian dollar and soft global demand,” it said. “Provincial government spending also will continue to support growth, albeit at a slower pace than over the decade prior to the recession.”
In the second quarter of 2012, Alberta had a year-over-year population growth rate of 2.5 per cnet, the highest in the country.
“At this juncture, the federal government’s recent tightening of mortgage and home equity financing standards appears to have had a limited impact on Alberta’s housing market,” said Scotia Economics. “It continues to be supported by strong employment growth, significant wage gains and ongoing resource development.”
mtoneguzzi@calgaryherald.com
Twitter:@MTone123
© Copyright (c) The Calgary Herald
source:http://www.calgaryherald.com/business/Calgary+real+estate+investment+market+Canada/7534574/story.html Monday, October 29, 2012 I have sold a property at 147 AUBURN GLEN WAY SE in CALGARYby Diane Richardson on Mon, Oct, 29, 2012 04:02 AM
I have sold a property at 147 AUBURN GLEN WAY SE in CALGARY.
Immaculate 3 bed family home in Auburn Bay close to new hospital and upcoming shopping! This Cardel (Beaufort) home is well laid out with all the fixin's: granite, upgraded carpeting and hardwood flooring throughout. The generous front entrance opens to a mainfloor office/den space and then into the very inviting open concept kitchen, eating nook, dining area and cozy living room with a fantastic stone faced gas fireplace. Lots of natural light here giving it a bright and airy feel. The kitchen features loads of cupboard and counter space with a walkthrough pantry to the dble attached garage and laundry room. Enjoy sunny afternoons on your west facing deck in the back yard or morning sun on your private upper east facing balcony. Upstairs has a generous master suite with large ensuite and walk in closet. An additional 4 pce. bath supports the other two good sized bedrooms. There is also a very functional bonus room for entertaining. This home is move in ready and must be seen!
Thursday, October 25, 2012 New property listed in Castleridge, Calgaryby Diane Richardson on Thu, Oct, 25, 2012 04:02 AM
I have listed a new property at 28 CASTLEGLEN CRES NE in CALGARY.
This exceptionally maintained 4 bedroom home is just waiting for a new family to move-in and grow. With new shingles in 2011, newer appliances and low-flow toilet important upgrades have already been made. The laminate flooring looks brand new and the oak cabinets in the kitchen all contribute to the attractive and practical living space this home has to offer. The front-drive, oversized, single detached garage is just out the front door, with a gorgeous deck behind there's plenty of room in the big, fenced yard. Downstairs is fully-finished with a 4th bedroom, a 3-pce bathroom and a great family room. There's tons of storage downstairs and the large laundry room could easily convert into a basement kitchen. Don't wait to see this home, it's one of the nicest in the neighborhood.
Tuesday, October 9, 2012 Auburn Bay Homes for Sale SE Calgaryby Diane Richardson on Tue, Oct, 9, 2012 07:21 PM Brookfield Residential (formerly Carma Developers) has been creating communities in Calgary for more than 50 years. The company's commitment to Calgary is to create the kinds of neighbourhoods where people truly feel at home, with a level of quality that endures the passage of time.
Brookfield's Auburn Bay seems to resonate with customers year after year, as once again it is the winner of the Readers' Choice Gold award in the New Community category. Brookfield Residential remains committed to designing communities that meet the needs of new homebuyers, now and well into the future.
The company takes extra care to ensure a consistent standard of excellence in architectural guidelines, compatible home styles and quality finishing materials, plus the consistency that comes from working with the best homebuilders. All of these factors contribute to Brookfield Residential's unparalleled value.
What sets Brookfield apart from others is its passion and integrity, which comes with planning and developing beautiful, high-quality master-planned communities. Superior amenities, long-term commitment, quality standards and residents' associations combine to make Brookfield communities simply the best. As a result, Brookfield communities such as McKenzie Towne, Tuscany, Cranston, Aspen Hills and Auburn Bay have been Calgary Herald Readers' Choice award winners each year since 2002.
From the moment you enter Auburn Bay, you will instantly feel at home. A beautiful stone entry feature welcomes you in, with birch, pine and spruce trees lining the streets ushering you into a naturally tranquil environment. With architectural design taking its inspiration from cottage country, the community provides a cosy, warm and welcoming environment that people connect with right away.
At the heart of this 365-hectare (900-acre) community is a 17.5-hectare (43-acre) lake and a 5.25-hectare (13-acre) park, along with Auburn House, a 7,000-square-foot private residents' association facility. Auburn House offers year-round programming that ranges from fitness classes to mom-and-tot sessions.
Auburn House also hosts special events throughout the year, such as Easter and Christmas parties.There is always something fun and interesting happening at Auburn House. There is also a private community intranet site, www.auburnbay-connect.com, that allows residents to communicate with one another, discuss issues and events in online forums, see classified ads, register for programs, pay their fees or simply find out what events and programs are coming up next at Auburn House. Auburn Bay is situated next door to Seton, a vibrant new community that will soon provide easy access to all types of shops and services, as well as the under-construction South Health Campus Hospital (www.setonurbandistrict.com).
Homes in Auburn Bay start from the low $200,000s, ranging to more than $800,000 for lake-access homes. Auburn Bay offers a wide variety of living opportunities, with townhomes, semi-detached homes, single-family homes and estate homes.
It's a beautiful and distinctive community, with great value for new homebuyers and a true four-season cottage-country lifestyle. During the winter, you can bundle up and enjoy everything from hockey on the lake's Zamboni-cleared rink, to gliding around the skating rink that circles the entire lake. There's also a pleasure-skating area complete with an outdoor fire pit. Other neighbourhood activites include cross-country skiing and tobogganing.
In the summer, you can catch some rays and relax on the beach, or go for a paddleboat trip around the lake, enjoy family picnics and barbecues in the park, or experience the thrill of catching your first fish. Auburn Bay provides the perfect background for creating beautiful family memories, or simply reliving your own childhood. New show homes are now open by Baywest Homes, Cardel Homes, Cedarglen Homes and Jayman MasterBuilt. They are located just down the street from Auburn House, and provide new and creative plans to meet the needs of today's modern family.
Visit www.liveauburnbay.ca for more details, or visit a show home today.
You will find the following builders in Auburn Bay:
Townhomes:
Mosaic Lakeside
Chesapeake
Semi-Detached:
Brookfield Homes
Single Family Homes
(rear detached garage):
Discovery Homes
Brookfield Homes
Single Family Homes
(double attached garage):
Baywest Homes
Cardel Homes
Cedarglen Homes
Jayman MasterBuilt
Estate Homes:
Albi Homes
Morrison Homes
source http://www.calgaryherald.com/columnists/Auburn/5599001/story.html Friday, October 5, 2012 I have sold a property at 5060 Lockehaven DR in Victoriaby Diane Richardson on Fri, Oct, 5, 2012 04:03 AM
I have sold a property at 5060 Lockehaven DR in Victoria.
5060 Lockehaven Drive in Ten Mile Point, on Victoria’s beautiful coastline is a custom, built-by-owner home where the love and commitment to excellence are evident throughout.
Seldom does a home like this come on the market, anywhere. Designed to live harmoniously in it’s environment this property makes the most of the 1.09 acres and the breath-taking ocean views.
The gardens are professionally landscaped with native species; Gary Oak, Arbutus and Maple mix with the Fir trees, rhododendrons, ferns and wild flowers. Creating a private oasis for the residents and a favourite locale for songbirds.
Or, maybe you prefer to watch the whales as they make they’re way through Haro Straight and enjoy the high-jinx of the otters as they play in the sparkling ocean waters.
Click on 'FEATURES OF THIS HOME" under Additional Documents & Links: for more details on this home's features.
Monday, October 1, 2012 Imperial Oil moving Calgary office out of downtownby Diane Richardson on Mon, Oct, 1, 2012 04:58 PM
Imperial Oil moving Calgary office out of downtown
Quarry Park location move beginning in 2014
BY MARIO TONEGUZZI, CALGARY HERALD SEPTEMBER 28, 2012
Source; http://www.calgaryherald.com/business/commercial-real estate/Imperial+moving+Calgary+office+downtown/7316081/story.html
CALGARY — Imperial Oil announced Friday plans to relocate its downtown Calgary offices to a campus-style office complex in southeast Calgary to consolidate and support its growing operations.
The complex will be located on a 20-acre site in Quarry Park and will bring together Imperial staff from several downtown Calgary office locations. It will contain five low-rise office buildings with 800,000 total square feet of office space, support facilities, food service, wellness centre and other employee amenities, said Imperial Oil.
“Imperial has embarked on a decade-long period of substantial growth and expansion. This new campus will provide an opportunity to consolidate our Calgary offices in one location, offer additional space for our growing workforce and provide a superior working environment for our people,” said Paul Masschelin, senior vice-president of finance and administration for Imperial Oil, in a statement. “The complex will be constructed to high standards of energy efficiency and environmental stewardship, and will promote new opportunities for employee collaboration in their daily work.”
Employees will move in two phases, beginning in 2014. Full occupancy is expected in 2016.
The company currently has about 2,300 Calgary employees spread over three downtown buildings in Calgary’s downtown.
Imperial currently leases office space in Fifth Avenue Place, on 2nd Street S.W., which used to be known as Esso Plaza. The company leases space in both towers on the site, as well as space at BP Centre, across the street.
Pius Rolheiser, spokesman for Imperial Oil, said the Quarry Park location will have capacity for up to 3,000 employees.
“The capacity to grow and to accommodate future growth was an important consideration,” he said, adding cost was an important consideration as well but it wasn’t the only one.
“Imperial’s a company that plans to be here for decades to come. We’re just getting ready to start up the Kearl project which will operate for 40 to 50 years ... This new office complex gives us the flexibility and the room, the space, to support our growth in operations for a long time into the future.”
Cody Clayton, president of Remington Development Corporation, said the move by Imperial “signifies a massive change in the way people think of real estate for commercial real estate.”
“Obviously Calgary has been a very downtown-focused real estate market when it comes to oil and gas and to have someone of Imperial Oil’s stature choose Quarry Park to us says a lot,” said Clayton. “It immediately qualifies Quarry Park as a real alternative to companies. In the past, we’ve had other oil and gas companies look out here. We haven’t had success with them.
“But I think by now having Imperial actually make the decision to come out here, there will be others that will look at this and seriously consider it.”
Clayton said in other markets, such as Houston and Dallas, many oil companies have gone to a campus-style setting for their offices.
“People aren’t looking for necessarily being on the 50th floor of an office tower downtown,” he said.
Susan Thompson, business development manager for real estate for Calgary Economic Development, said it’s great news that Imperial is growing enough that it feels the need to develop its own facility.
“At this point, to be honest, it’s a good thing for the downtown considering (the new) Eighth Avenue Place (tower) is fully committed and they don’t start moving in until 2014 and (another project) City Centre doesn’t have tenants really taking occupancy until about the end of 2015, start of 2016,” said Thompson. “And all our forecasts are telling us our vacancy is going to be pretty tight downtown. So if Imperial Oil leaves that actually frees up some space.”
A trend to moving outside a downtown core is often spurred by companies taking advantage of low land prices, shorter development times, lower rents, plenty of parking and the ability to offer more amenities to their employees, added Thompson.
Greg Kwong, executive vice-president and regional managing director of commercial real estate firm CBRE Limited in Calgary, described the move as “huge” and could spark other oil companies to look outside the core for possible office space.
“It would be on scale with when they announced The Bow — the size of the building and the impact on the market,” he said. “It’s the first major oil company to move outside the core. But if you look at it on the grand scheme of things other major markets, oil and gas markets, like Houston and Dallas, there are many oil and gas firms located out in the suburbs.”
Quarry Park consists of 385 acres. It has 1.2 million square feet of office space already built of which there is only 1.5 per cent vacancy. There is potential for another two million square feet of office space that can be built, including the Imperial Oil project.
It also has 100,000 square feet of retail space and Remington is planning a hotel for the site.
On the residential side, about 200 single-family residences have been built and are occupied. There’s another 60 town houses built with about 40 occupied. There’s also a 144-unit rental apartment that is under construction and anticipated to be completed for the summer of next year.
Also, Remington has plans for a five-building condo project of 175 units. The first two buildings are under construction with 68 units.
Clayton said Remington also has land for another 60 town houses and 1,500 multi-family units as well as 50 vacant single-family residential lots.
More information
SE Calgary Homes for Sale
Wednesday, September 26, 2012 Okotoks to seek water from other sources to accommodate growthby Diane Richardson on Wed, Sep, 26, 2012 06:15 AM
Okotoks to seek water from other sources to accommodate growth
Town shifts gears after lifting population cap
By Eva Ferguson, Calgary Herald September 25, 2012 9:16 PM
CALGARY — The Town of Okotoks will have to be even more aggressive in its pursuit of finding more water for residents now that a long-term cap on population growth has been lifted.
After purchasing three new water licences along the Sheep River over the past two years, the latest for as much as $1 million, the town can supply water to all of its 25,000 residents.
But Okotoks Mayor Bill Robertson hopes to purchase even more licences in an effort to provide water supply to as many as 60,000 residents in the future.
The burgeoning town just south of Calgary has for years fought to stay small under a 30,000-resident population cap enacted in 1998. But town council voted this week to lift the ban in frustration over development growth that continues to go up haphazardly around the town’s borders.
“Our backs are against the wall,” Robertson said.
“We keep seeing the M.D. of Foothills allowing all of this intense growth on our doorstep, but we’re not getting any of those revenues.”
Robertson and others who voted five to two in favour of eliminating the cap argue if they allow growth within their town’s borders at least they can control it and benefit from those revenues.
Coun. Matt Rockley agreed: “If we can plan the development, we can ensure it is more compact, it uses less land . . . and it can be serviced with transit, and with water.”
Historically, the town’s challenge has been accessing water services from the surrounding Sheep River, its nearest and only existing water resource.
In 2006, the province issued a final moratorium on allowing any new water licences from the South Saskatchewan River basin, which feeds into the Sheep.
But the Town of Okotoks has been able to buy up existing licences from private landowners or oil companies who have used the water for underground extraction.
Another option might be to build a dam upstream along the Sheep River, collect spring run off in a separate reservoir and use that for Okotoks’ needs.
The town is also looking to enact policies and guidelines that would make it easier for residents to conserve water on their own property, reducing their own rates and keeping existing supplies up.
Homes could be refitted to store dish water, rain water and other light waste waters in a holding tank to use for watering their property or even flushing toilets. Residents are already being asked to conserve water through a bylaw that only allows outdoor watering two days a week.
Robertson added how much Okotoks ends up paying for water will also depend on future weather conditions and how dry farmland in southern Alberta will be in future years.
As global warming becomes more of an issue, and depending how severe future droughts are, water markets can become very volatile in the near future, the mayor said.
“It just is what it is,” Robertson said. “We’ve got all these challenges, and we’ll have to deal with them head on.”
While other towns like Airdrie, Chestermere and Strathmore all benefit from water service from the City of Calgary, Robertson fears building a pipeline and paying for water from the big city might be too expensive.
“Going to the city is one of our options, but we’re not really looking at it right now,” he said.
But Paul Fesko, manager of strategic services for the City of Calgary’s water resources, said pumping city water into Okotoks is completely feasible.
He explained the Town of Okotoks would have to fund construction of a pipeline which could be built over two years, and then any increased costs would be built into the town’s water rates.
Fesko couldn’t say whether those increased costs would be more or less than having to keep purchasing water licences on the Sheep River.
“It’s all about what is the cheapest way to get a glass of water on the table in Okotoks,” he said.
eferguson@calgaryherald.com
© Copyright (c) The Calgary Herald
http://www.calgaryherald.com/news/alberta/Town+Okotoks+seek+water+from+sources+other+than+Sheep+River/7298912/story.html
Sunday, September 23, 2012 I have sold a property at 47 SUN HARBOUR RD SE in CALGARYby Diane Richardson on Sun, Sep, 23, 2012 04:02 AM
I have sold a property at 47 SUN HARBOUR RD SE in CALGARY.
Fish Creek Park out your front door! This well maintained townhouse is right up the hill from Lake Sikome and in the heart of Sundance. If you love to be near open spaces this is the home for you. Park in your attached garage and enter into a spacious foyer that leads to the kitchen with upgraded flooring, solid oak cabinets and stainless steel appliances. Gorgeous oak hardwood in the large living room and dining room with a corner gas fireplace and large sliding door onto a private deck. Upstairs is a large master bedroom with walk-in closet and 4-pce ensuite. The two other bedrooms are good size with a 4-pce main bath. Downstairs is nicely finished with a large family/rec room and big laundry room with lots of storage. Condo living means there's no grass to cut or snow to shovel, just grab your towel and head to the beach or head to Fish Creek Park and enjoy the Calgary sunshine.
Wednesday, September 19, 2012 Homes for Sale SE Calgary - Midnapore -by Diane Richardson on Wed, Sep, 19, 2012 06:20 PM Midnapore is a community within the SE of the City of Calgary.
Midnapore was once an unincorporated community with its own train station, but as Calgary grew larger, it was annexed into being part of that city in 1961 and established as a neighbourhood in 1977. It is bounded to the north and east by Fish Creek Provincial Park, to the south by Sun Valley Boulevard and to the west by Macleod Trail.
Midanpore is a popular district and those looking for real estate for sale in Midnapore SE Calgary can choose from affordable starter homes to spacious lakeside properties.
In 2011 the neighbourhood had a population of 6,888. Residents in this community had a median household income of $68,492 in 2005, and there were 11% low income residents living in the neighborhood. As of 2006, 15.8% of the residents were immigrants. A proportion of 18.4% of the buildings were condominiums or apartments, and 29.3% of the housing was used for renting. Midnapore community info.
Midnapore Lake was developed by Keith Construction, which also developed several other lake communities in Calgary. The Midnapore Lake Residents Association (MLRA) is a not-for-profit association which owns, maintains and operates the facilities of the lake and park. Each residence is required to contribute to the assets of the MLRA each year to ensure the financial viability of the MLRA. More info.
Midsun The Mid-Sun Community Association strives to enhance the quality of life of the communities
of Midnapore and Sundance in southeast Calgary by providing a voice, as well as direction, to meet the expressed needs of residents.
There were 8 Midnapore Single Family Homes Sold in August of 2012, with an average sale price of $582,675 and a median sale price of $341,500. The average days on market (DOM) for these 8 sales was 19 days.
Closest Schools for the Community of Midnapore
|
Closest Midnapore LRT Stations
| Station |
Distance |
| LRT - Shawnessy Station |
1.18 km |
| LRT - Fish Creek Lacombe Station |
1.67 km |
| LRT - Somerset/Bridlewood Station |
1.96 km |
| LRT - Canyon Meadows Station |
2.76 km |
| LRT - Anderson Station |
4.73 km |
Click or call,403.397.3706, to schedule your private viewing of any Homes for Sale in Midnapore .Or, to receive customized search of listings in Midnapore or South Calgary email me
Categories: #CalgaryHomesforSale | #yycrealestate | Airdire Homes for Sale | Airdrie Homes for Sale | Alberta economy | Arbour Lake, Calgary Real Estate | Aspen Woods, Calgary Real Estate | Auburn Bay, Calgary Real Estate | Banff Trail, Calgary Real Estate | Bearspaw Acreages for Sale | Brookfield | Bungalows for Sale in Calgary | Calgary | Calgary Home | Calgary Home for Sale Cranston | Calgary Home Prices | Calgary Homeowner | Calgary Homeowner,Calgary Homes for sale | Calgary Homes | Calgary Homes for Sale | Calgary Homes for Sale SE | Calgary Homes for Sale Search by price | Calgary House Prices | Calgary Housing market | Calgary Real Estate Outlook | Calgary Rental Demand. | Calgary Schools | Calgary SE Homes for Sale | Calgary's housing market | Castleridge, Calgary Real Estate | condos for sale | Contact me Diane Richardson | Cranston 3 bedroom homes | Cranston Bungalows for Sale | Cranston Homes for Sale | Cranston Real Estate Info | Cuirteis Point Real Estate | Evanston, Calgary Real Estate | four new public schools opening this fall | General | Homes for Sale Calgary | Homes for Sale Calgary SE Re/Max | Homes for sale in Auburn Bay | Homes for Sale in Calgary | Martindale, Calgary Real Estate | McKenzie Towne Homes for Sale | Midnapore Community Information | Midnapore For Sale | Midnapore Homes for Sale | MLS® active listings for Calgary | New Brighton Homes for Sale | New Homes | New Homes in Cranston | New Mortgage Changes effective July 9th 2012 | New Towers approved for Calgary Downtown | North Saanich, Dean Park-North Saanich Real Estate | Okotoks | Okotoks Homes for sale | Okotoks Population | Okotoks Real Estate | Prominence Patterson, Calgary Real Estate | Quarry Park Homes for Sale | Re/max | RE/MAX Realtor Calgary | SE | SE Calgary Homes for Sale | Search by Neighbourhood | Selling my Calgary Home | Sidney Real Estate | Strathmore | Strathmore Real Estate | Strathmore, Strathmore Real Estate | Sundance, Calgary Real Estate | Ten Mile Point, Victoria Real Estate | Tuscany, Calgary Real Estate | Valley Ridge, Calgary Real Estate | Whats my home worth? |
