Property Appraiser vs. Assessor: Understanding the Differences

A property appraiser is a professional who determines the value of a property for various purposes. They often work for private firms, as independent consultants, or for specific clients, including homeowners, buyers, and lenders. The property appraiser evaluates factors such as property condition, location, and market trends to determine an accurate property value. In Calgary, appraisers are crucial for determining fair market prices, especially in a competitive Calgary real estate market.

An assessor, on the other hand, is a public official responsible for assigning property values for taxation purposes. Working for local governments or tax offices,…

1060 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

When you move from renting or living at home with your family, to owning, things change. Home ownership requires more responsibility, and there are costs that can sometimes be overlooked by future home buyers.

At the Real Estate Partners team with RE/MAX FIRST we believe that clarity and transparency are key components to a successful and rewarding home purchase for our clients, this blog covers some of the most important hidden costs of home ownership in Calgary whether you're looking to buy a condominium, townhome, or detached single family home. 

As a renter, you're typically not responsible for much (if any) maintenance in a home, your lease may reflect basic yard work, switching out lights, etc but when it comes to owning, there's a number…

3573 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Understanding Home Life Expectancy in Alberta: How Long Will Your Home Last in the Alberta Climate?

Living in Alberta means enjoying stunning mountain views, beautiful prairies, and yes—some of the harshest weather in the country. From frigid winters to scorching dry summers, our climate puts serious stress on our homes. Whether you're in Calgary, Edmonton, or nestled in the foothills, knowing how long your home and its components are expected to last can save you a ton of headaches and money.

As someone who's been hands-on in both real estate and construction, I can tell you that understanding the life expectancy of your property is crucial. It affects everything from budgeting for repairs to making smart upgrades that increase value and…

69 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Should I Pay Down My Mortgage or Invest If I Have Extra Money?

What a great problem to have! If you are waking up on the last day of the month to an extra $500 in your chequing account, it might make sense to ask yourself if that money could be working harder for you, earning more than the 0.02% it's earning in your chequing account. Many Canadians face the dilemma of whether to use excess funds to pay down debt or invest. Deciding between paying down your mortgage or investing can feel like a tug-of-war between security and growth. Both options have compelling arguments; the right choice depends on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and priorities. Let’s explore the numbers, benefits, risks, and potential strategies. 


Use our quick navigation…

573 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Calgary in the 1960s: Oil & Infrastructure Boom

Homes, Communities & Opportunity

The 1960s ushered in a new era for Calgary—one defined by rapid modernization, expanding suburbs, and infrastructure investment. As both a real estate expert and builder, I’m intrigued by how this decade laid the groundwork for today’s growth corridors and commuter-friendly communities. From new highways to civic projects, the ‘60s reshaped Calgary—and created lasting opportunities in the housing market.

Economic & Population Growth

Another wave of growth: Calgary’s population rose approximately 50% from 1960 to 1970, driven by the continued oil boom and economic diversification.
Infrastructure investment: Major projects like the Trans-Canada and Queen Elizabeth…

136 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

January 2025 Calgary Real Estate Statistics Recap 

Calgary’s housing market saw a notable increase in supply to start the year, with inventory levels reaching 3,639 units in January. While this marks a significant 70% year-over-year gain, inventory remains lower than the 4,000+ units typically available at this time of year. Supply grew across all property types, with the most substantial increases seen in apartment-style condominiums.

"Supply levels are expected to improve throughout the year, contributing to a more balanced market and slower price growth," said Ann-Marie Lurie, Chief Economist at CREB®. "However, supply adjustments vary by property type. Detached, semi-detached, and row homes remain…

1482 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Inside Calgary’s Newest Communities: Discover Life in Hotchkiss and Beyond

As Calgary continues to grow, so do the opportunities for modern homeownership. From expansive prairie estate lots to walkable urban villages, the city’s newest communities are built around lifestyle, accessibility, and sustainability. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a growing family, or an investor, 2025 has something exceptional to offer. Let’s dive in.

Use our quick navigation guide below to jump to any point of our blog on Calgary’s Hottest New Communities 2025:  

  • Hotchkiss: Southeast Calgary’s Rising Star 
  • Calgary’s Hottest New Communities
  • New Community Trends to Watch in 2025
  • Smart Home Integration
  • Multi-Generational Living
  • Walkable, Amenity-Rich…

66 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post