Big news for homeowners: new federal program for adding rental suites
The federal government has just unveiled a new mortgage refinancing program to help homeowners build additional living spaces, such as basement suites, secondary suites, basement apartments or converted garages.
Starting in January 2025, this insured refinancing option will make it easier to create rental units and, in turn, help homeowners manage rising mortgage costs. A similar program was available until 2016 but was phased out to cool the housing market. Now, with housing in short supply, it’s back – giving homeowners a chance to add rental opportunities and even generate extra income.
As the government stated, "New rental suites would provide more homes for Canadians and could provide an important source of income for seniors continuing to age at home."
Key program details:
• Eligibility: You must already own your home, live in one of the current units (or have a close relative living there), and plan to add new units.
• Refinancing: You can access insured refinancing to fund the creation of additional units.
• Unit requirements: The new units must be self-contained, like basement suites or laneway homes, and follow local zoning rules. Short-term rentals like Airbnb are not allowed.
• Number of units: You can have up to four units on your property, including your existing home.
• Property value: The "as improved" property value must be under $2 million.
• Loan-to-value (LTV): You can refinance up to 90% of your property's value, including the new units.
• Amortization: Up to 30 years.
• Project costs: Financing must not exceed the total cost of the project.
This program could be a good option if you're considering adding a rental unit or creating more space for family.
However, it's important to understand the costs and how refinancing might impact your finances. If you'd like to see if this program makes sense for you, feel free to reach out. I can help you walk through the details and explore your options.
Get ready to embrace the warmth and excitement of summer! As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, we are thrilled to share valuable insights and tips to make the most of this vibrant season.
In this edition, we have curated a collection of articles that will enhance your summer experience while keeping your real estate goals in mind. From exploring the rental market to discovering the coolest outdoor pools and water parks, we have you covered.
We strive to provide you with not only exceptional service but also valuable resources to enhance your real estate journey. If you're ready to find your dream home or investment property, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
"Just because you talk to a REALTOR® doesn't mean you have to move"
May sales reach a record high
Thanks to a significant gain in apartment condominium sales, May sales rose to 3,120, a new record high for the month. While the monthly gains have not outweighed earlier declines, this does reflect a shift from the declines reported at the start of the year. At the same time, we continue to see fewer new listings on the market than last year, causing inventory levels to fall. With a sales-to-new-listings ratio of 85 per cent and months of supply of one month, conditions continue to favour the seller placing further upward pressure on home prices. “Calgary’s housing market continues to exceed expectations with the recent gain in sales activity this month,” said CREB® Chief Economist Ann-Marie Lurie...READ MORE
The Market on Stephen Avenue (Jun 13, 20, 27) The Stephen Avenue Market returns this summer. Visit every Tuesday, starting from June 13th, to discover new local favorites and support small businesses. ART SPOT: 15 Year Anniversary Art Show (Jun 17) Celebrate 15 years of arts and culture at ART SPOT! Enjoy 70+ local artists, live music, performances, interactive art, activities, BBQ, and more. Free admission, suitable for families. Carnival Show and Shine (Jun 17) Visit the Edgemont retirement residence for a unique show and shine event with a carnival theme. Enjoy a dazzling display of classic cars, along with fun-filled activities like face painting, balloon artistry, circus games, and more. Entrance is free, and you can grab a delicious lunch for just $10. Father’s Day Brunch at Gasoline Alley Museum (Jun 18) Celebrate your amazing dad's hard work and love by treating him to a special Father's Day Brunch at Gasoline Alley Museum. World Picnic Day (Jun 18) Celebrate World Picnic Day by enjoying a peaceful day by the river. Float along the Bow River with loved ones, bring your favorite snacks and drinks, and find a secluded spot to spread out a blanket. Plan your ideal river picnic today by booking a raft with Lazy Day Raft Rentals and get a chance to win a float in our draw. Crescent Heights Night Market Fest (Jun 21) Introducing an exciting new market in Crescent Heights! Discover local favorites and support small businesses. The evening market is from 4:30 – 9:30 PM. Game Con Canada Powered by Telus (Jun 24 – 25) Join the biggest gaming expo in western Canada, uniting enthusiasts of various gaming genres for gameplay, camaraderie, and novel discoveries. The event showcases a wide array of games including video games, virtual reality, augmented reality, mobile games, tabletop games, card games, Esports, and much more. Kensington Night Market (Jun 29) The Kensington Night Market is back on its 3rd year. Explore, connect, and discover your new local favorites while supporting small businesses in Calgary!
Finding a rental home in the Calgary area, including Airdrie, Okotoks, and Cochrane, can be an exciting yet challenging venture. Each locale offers distinct neighbourhoods and unique characteristics. This inclusive guide is here to assist you in the rental process across these vibrant areas.
Begin by immersing yourself in the local rental market. The rental landscape in the Calgary area varies significantly, encompassing areas like downtown Calgary, Okotoks, Airdrie, and Cochrane.
The rental market can be highly competitive, underlining the importance of thorough research. Get to know the standard rents and property types across different areas. Websites like Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji Calgary, RentFaster, and Realtor.ca offer a multitude of listings to aid your research.
In a bustling market like the Calgary area, assertiveness and prompt decision-making are key. Prime properties are often taken quickly, so be ready to make informed decisions promptly. Ensure to maintain a professional demeanour with prospective landlords and be prepared to sign a lease when you find the right fit.
Being well-versed with the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) of Alberta is essential. This law details the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants, covering topics like security deposits, rent increases, and eviction rules. Understanding these regulations helps protect your rights.
Before you sign the lease, ensure to conduct a meticulous inspection of the property. Record any damages or maintenance needs, and see to it that they are well-documented in the lease agreement to prevent future conflicts.
Take your time to explore the diverse neighbourhoods in the Calgary area. From the lively Beltline in Calgary, the serene green spaces in Okotoks, the family-friendly environment of Airdrie, to the captivating beauty of Cochrane, there's a neighbourhood for every preference.
Renting a home in the Calgary area can be a fulfilling journey. With these tips, you're well-equipped to traverse the rental market and find a home that caters to your needs. Remember, preparedness and a solid understanding of the local market are your greatest tools. Happy house hunting in this dynamic region of Alberta!
Calgary offers a selection of delightful outdoor pools for residents and visitors to enjoy. Explore the refreshing experiences at Forest Lawn, Millican Ogden, Mount Pleasant, and Riley Park.
Forest Lawn Outdoor Pool - Escape the summer heat at this community oasis in Calgary. Dive into the inviting waters and enjoy a refreshing swim in this welcoming outdoor pool.
Millican Ogden Outdoor Pool - This outdoor pool offers family-friendly fun in Calgary. With its inviting waters and lively atmosphere, it's the perfect spot for cooling off and creating lasting memories.
Mount Pleasant Outdoor Pool - Nestled in a peaceful setting, this outdoor pool provides a calm escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
Riley Park Outdoor Wading Pool - Visit this wading pool for a playful aquatic adventure in Calgary. It offers a fun-filled experience for children, with splash features and a welcoming atmosphere.
Sundance is a serene residential neighbourhood in southeastern Calgary, known for its strong sense of community and proximity to natural beauty.
With a variety of housing options, including single-family homes and apartments, residents enjoy exclusive access to Lake Sundance, a private man-made lake offering recreational amenities.
The neighbourhood's location near Fish Creek Provincial Park provides opportunities for outdoor activities, while nearby shopping centers cater to daily needs. Sundance is well-connected to the rest of the city, fostering a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle for its residents.
We hope this newsletter finds you well and enjoying the spring months. Summer will be here before we know it!
As we enter May, the real estate market continues to experience a dynamic shift. This month promises to be an interesting time for both buyers and sellers.
In this month's newsletter, we strive to continue providing you with actionable information that you can use in your daily life: how to choose the right Internet provider and what flowers are best this season.
Is there a topic you would like to know more about? We’d love to hear more about what interests you.
As always, please feel free to reach out. We are here and look forward to helping you achieve your real estate goals this season.
"Just because you talk to a REALTOR® doesn't mean you have to move"
Prices reach new record high
Persistent sellers’ market conditions placed further upward pressure on home prices in April. After four months of persistent gains, the total unadjusted benchmark price reached $550,800, nearly two per cent higher than last month and a new monthly record high for the city. “While sales activity is performing as expected, the steeper pullback in new listings has ensured that supply levels remain low,” said CREB® Chief Economist Ann-Marie Lurie...READ MORE
Mother’s Day Tea-tray Styling Workshop (May 11) Create a beautiful moment for Mom with this one-of-a-kind design workshop that’s just in time for Mother’s Day! Bearspaw Mother’s Day Market (May 13) Celebrate Mother’s Day at the pop-up market featuring over 75 unique, eccentric, and amazing vendors. Some will offer $5 items for kiddos to purchase as gifts for Mom, registration for Mother's Day tea will be available at the door. Honouring our Matriarch Mother’s Day Market (May 13 – 14) Visit this unique and memorable craft marketplace featuring Indigenous Artists, Creators & Makers from the Calgary and Treaty areas 7, 6 & 8, and beyond! Mother’s Day Brunch (May 13 – 14) Enjoy a special Mother's Day themed brunch including special décor, a specialty menu and desserts, a fresh flower for mom and fun crafts for the kids to make mom something special! Found Spring Market: Snack Time (May 14) Treat yourself and your mom for a veritable feast of locally-made snacks and snack-themed items in the beautiful Hemingway Room at the Commons. Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet at the Grey Eagle (May 14) Celebrate Mother's Day with an incredible brunch buffet at the Grey Eagle Hotel Ballroom. Reservations are required. Locked Zoo: Secret Safari (May 27) Embark on an epic adventure at Calgary Zoo with an exhilarating two-hour escape game. Explore the zoo after hours, solve puzzles, see animals without crowds, and enjoy beverages and dinner boxes for purchase. The challenge is not timed, so take your time and enjoy the experience. Zoo Brew (Jun 3) Enjoy an adult-only evening of great beer, food and entertainment at the Calgary Zoo
The internet is often one of the first items on people's moving checklists. In many cases, it combines entertainment, home phone, home security, and fulfils remote work functions.
We have summarized the main points to consider when selecting your internet service provider (ISP).
SPEED: Your location will determine your options. Fiber-optic internet is currently the fastest internet infrastructure available, with download speeds of up to 1 gigabit per second (Gbps). However, this option may not be available to you if the infrastructure has not yet been built in your community or condominium building. Other options include cable with speeds ranging from 10-500 Mbps and DSL, which uses telephone lines to transmit data at speeds ranging from 1-100 Mbps.
PRICE: When shopping for the best deal, consider several factors to determine the best option for you. These include the type of connection, download and upload speeds, data caps or usage limits, installation fees, equipment fees, and cancellation fees, especially for term contracts.
OFFERS & SERVICE: ISPs often reward new customers over loyal long-term clients, and some promotions may only be available to new clients. When moving, switching providers may offer great savings or provide more value at the same cost.
It's important to check reviews and talk to your neighbours to gauge the real experience that other consumers have had.
The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) offers a great resource to help you with your research. You can visit their website at crtc.gc.ca.
While TELUS and Shaw are the most well-known internet service providers (ISPs) in Canada, there are many additional alternatives you may want to consider. We have done the research for you, and you can download a full list of internet service providers to expand your options.
Spring is a time of renewal, and nothing embodies this spirit quite like the burst of colour and fragrance that comes with spring flowers. As the weather warms up, gardens and parks are transformed with vibrant blooms that are sure to lift your spirits.
Here are some of the top flowers to know about this year.
African Violet: A low-maintenance plant that is often gifted for Mother’s Day Coneflowers: A colourful, easy-to-care for plant that brings vibrant single and double blossoms. Pot Marigold: A cheerful flower that you will most likely recognize, but it’s popular for a good reason. Hibiscus: A beautiful tropical plant with trumpet-shaped flowers that is much easier to grow than most other warm weather variations. Peonies: A favourite for many because of the big, fluffy flowers that will brighten any garden. Daylilies: An easy-to-grow flower that will return year after year with minimal effort on your part.
Learn the facts and information of each flower HERE.
Douglasdale is a quiet residential neighbourhood in the southeast of Calgary, bordered by 114 Avenue S to the north, 130 Avenue S to the south, Deerfoot Trail to the east and the Bow River to the west.
With a couple of schools and its proximity to parks, Douglasdale is a great fit for many families.
There have been exciting changes to the Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians act!
Work permit holders are now allowed to purchase residential property as long as they have 183 days or more of validity remaining on their work permit and have not purchased more than one residential property.
Previously, vacant land that was zoned for residential or mixed-use could not be purchased by non-Canadians. This restriction has now been lifted.
Non-Canadians will now be able to purchase residential property for the purpose of development. According to the CMHC, “development” encompasses expansions or remodels that are “tantamount to the construction of a new building or a change of use”, or essentially creating a new residential property. Unfortunately, repairs, renovations, or remodeling the property will not count as “development”.
The maximum threshold for purchasing residential property by a privately held corporation or entity controlled by a non-Canadian has increased from 3% to 10%.
Happy April! We hope this newsletter finds you in good spirits, eager to embrace the vibrant energy of spring. It's the perfect time to give your home some TLC.
In this month's edition, we’ve included some insights about two important topics to help you prepare your home for the season ahead: spring maintenance tips and advice about how to increase your home's curb appeal. More than ever, budget-friendly ideas to help you create a stunning and well-maintained home are key.
As always, please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need assistance with your real estate needs. We’re here to help!
Wishing you a fantastic and productive spring season.
"Just because you talk to a REALTOR® doesn't mean you have to move"
Prices rise as conditions favour the seller
Sales and new listings have improved over the levels reported at the beginning of the year. As a result, the spread between sales and new listings supported some expected monthly inventory level gains. However, the 3,233 available units reflected the lowest March inventory levels since 2006 and left the months of supply just above one month, firmly in the seller’s territory. While conditions are not as tight as last March, low inventory levels leave purchasers with limited choice, once again driving up home prices...READ MORE
Easter Eggstravaganza (Apr 7 – 10) Celebrate Easter with friends and family at the Calgary Zoo. Have fun playing educational games, enjoying delicious treats, and exploring the zoo all included in your day admission ticket. Calgary Book Drive & Sale (April 14 – 29, May 3 – 14) Join this book drive and sale in support of RESET Society by donating your gently used books and shopping from over 100,000 books. Help change the lives of women and children experiencing the violence and trauma of sexual exploitation. The Spring Market at Deerfoot Inn & Casino (Apr 16) Shop from over 85 vendors offering everything from food, beer, spirits, plants, fashion & art. Free Parking & Free Entry. The Calgary National Women’s Show (Apr 22 – 23) Come at the Stampede Park for the ultimate girl’s day out. Experience a day filled with fashion, food and fun! Calgary International Beerfest (May 5 – 6) Visit one of the best beer festivals in the world, with 700+ beers from 200+ breweries, beer seminars, food and beer pairings, entertainment, and so much more!
Spring is the season for rejuvenation, making it the ideal time to tackle critical maintenance tasks. By prioritizing these duties, property owners can protect their assets.
In general, a good rule of thumb is to set aside between 1 – 4% of the property’s value every year as a budget for maintenance and repairs. In today’s economic climate, that can be a hard reality to face but it’s well worth it.
Preventative maintenance saves you money in the long run. Fixing the caulking around the window of your house, for example, can cost between $3 – 8 per linear foot (or less, if you do it yourself). Compare that to replacing a window, which can cost several hundreds of dollars or more.
Prioritize these essential spring maintenance tasks to start.
Essential Spring Maintenance Tasks
Gutters and downspouts: Inspect and clean to prevent water damage, foundation issues, and ensure proper drainage.
Roof: Examine for damage, such as missing or broken shingles, to prevent leaks and costly repairs.
HVAC system: Service the system, including filter replacements and duct cleaning, to prolong its life and increase efficiency.
Window and door seals: Check caulking around windows and doors to reduce drafts and energy costs.
Outdoor spaces: Homeowners should invest in landscaping projects, while apartment owners must maintain common outdoor areas for tenants.
Plumbing and water systems: Inspect for leaks or damage to prevent costly water damage and mold growth.
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Test detectors and replace batteries as needed to ensure occupant safety.
If you are unsure, hire a professional to handle complex or dangerous tasks.
As you do your spring maintenance, consider taking the time to also spruce up your decorating by tapping into some of the top trends of 2023, like adding some subtle pastels or vintage vibes.
First impressions count and a property's exterior is the first thing buyers see when they visit. That’s why a property's curb appeal plays a significant role in attracting potential buyers and boosting its overall value.
In fact, landscaping and home appraisal experts estimate that an attractive and well-maintained exterior can boost a property’s value between 5 – 20%, or more, depending on the location and other factors. The return on investment can be huge.
Here are some of the best exterior improvements to prioritize from a ROI perspective.
Landscaping: Maintain a neat lawn, trim hedges, and prune trees. Add colourful flowers or plants.
Exterior cleaning: Power wash the exterior, including siding, driveway, and walkways.
Fresh paint: Apply a fresh coat of paint to the front door, trim and shutters for a welcoming, polished look.
Update hardware: Replace outdated or damaged hardware, such as door handles, house numbers, and lighting fixtures.
Declutter: Remove unnecessary items and debris from the front yard, porch, and walkways.
Driveway and walkways: Repairing or upgrading your driveway and walkways can make your property look more polished and inviting.
Homeowners planning to sell should contemplate an affordable makeover to boost their property's value. Keep in mind your budget, home style and whether to DIY or hire a professional.
Another consideration is whether to play it safe with traditional upgrades or try to stretch your ROI a bit further by jumping on trends of the day. This year, for example, adding natural textures to your home exterior is especially popular. Adding wooden elements, like wood posts on your front porch or wood shutters, is a quick way to boost curb appeal in a contemporary way.
Erin Woods is a residential community that is in the east of Calgary. It is bounded to the east by 52 Street E, to the south by Peigan Trail and to the north and west by the Canadian National Railway tracks.
The area offers panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains, plenty of recreational opportunities for residents and easy access to the rest of the city. It’s home to an elementary school, as well as generous amounts of open fields and green space.