Market Watch

Why Late Summer Is One of the Best Times to Move in Calgary

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 16:59:10 GMT

If you've been thinking about making a move, late summer might just be the perfect time to do it. While spring often gets the spotlight in real estate, August offers unique advantages for both buyers and sellers in Calgary. With pleasant weather, motivated buyers and sellers, and the opportunity to settle in before fall, late summer can be an ideal time to make your next move.

More Selection, Less Competition

By late summer, many homes that were listed during the busy spring market are still available, while new listings continue to come online. Buyers often have a wider selection of properties to choose from and may face less competition than they would during the peak spring season.

This can mean fewer multiple-offer situations and more time to carefully consider your options before making one of the biggest financial decisions of your life.

A Great Time for Families

For families with school-aged children, moving before September offers the chance to get settled before the new school year begins. It allows time to unpack, establish routines, and help children adjust to a new neighbourhood before classes are in full swing.

If you're relocating within Calgary, moving in late summer can make the transition much smoother for everyone involved.

Sellers Can Still Benefit

If you're considering selling your home, don't assume you've missed the market. Serious buyers are still actively searching throughout August, especially those who want to be in their new home before autumn.

Many of these buyers have already been looking for several months and are ready to make a decision when the right home comes along. A well-priced, well-presented property can still generate strong interest.

Perfect Weather for Moving

Anyone who has moved during a Calgary winter knows the challenges snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can bring. Late summer offers long daylight hours and generally favourable weather, making moving day easier for homeowners, movers, and everyone lending a helping hand.

It also gives you time to complete outdoor projects, enjoy your new backyard, or simply explore your new community before cooler weather arrives.

Time to Settle Before the Holidays

Buying and moving before fall gives homeowners several months to settle into their new space before the busy holiday season begins. Whether it's decorating your new home, meeting your neighbours, or tackling small improvement projects, you'll appreciate having extra time to make the house truly feel like home.

Buyers May Find More Negotiating Opportunities

As the market begins to transition from the busy spring and early summer months, some sellers become more motivated to negotiate. While every property is different, buyers may find opportunities to negotiate on price, possession dates, or other terms that weren't possible during the height of the market.

Having an experienced REALTOR® by your side can help you identify these opportunities and negotiate with confidence.

Thinking About Making a Move?

Whether you're buying your first home, upsizing, downsizing, or relocating within Calgary, late summer offers many advantages that shouldn't be overlooked. The combination of comfortable weather, motivated buyers and sellers, and the chance to get settled before fall makes this one of the smartest times of year to make a move.

If you're wondering whether now is the right time for you, I'd be happy to discuss your goals and provide an up-to-date look at what's happening in your local market. Every move is unique, and having the right guidance can make all the difference.

Ready to make your next move? Let's connect and create a plan that helps you achieve your real estate goals before summer comes to a close.

Understanding the full cost of Buying a Home in Calgary

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 13:29:56 GMT

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial milestones you'll ever reach. While most buyers focus on saving for a down payment, there are several additional expenses that can catch people by surprise. Understanding these costs ahead of time will help you budget confidently and make your home-buying experience much less stressful.

If you're planning to purchase a home in Calgary this year, here are some of the hidden costs you should be prepared for.

1. Home Inspection

Although a home inspection isn't always mandatory, it's one of the smartest investments you can make. A qualified home inspector can identify potential issues with the property's structure, roof, electrical system, plumbing, or foundation before you finalize your purchase.

Spending a few hundred dollars on an inspection could save you thousands in unexpected repairs down the road.

2. Legal Fees and Closing Costs

Every real estate transaction requires a real estate lawyer to handle the legal transfer of ownership. In addition to legal fees, you'll also pay for land title registration and other administrative costs associated with closing your purchase.

It's important to include these expenses in your budget so there are no surprises on possession day.

3. Property Tax Adjustments

Depending on when you take possession of your new home, you may need to reimburse the seller for property taxes they've already paid for the remainder of the year.

This adjustment is calculated during the closing process and is a common cost that many first-time buyers don't anticipate.

4. Home Insurance

Mortgage lenders require buyers to have home insurance in place before the transaction closes. The cost will vary depending on the home's location, size, age, and coverage you choose.

Shopping around for quotes before closing can help you find the best value while ensuring your new investment is protected.

5. Utility Set-Up Fees

Once you move in, you'll need to set up utilities such as electricity, natural gas, water, internet, and television services. Some providers charge activation or connection fees, and you may also need to provide deposits depending on your account history.

These smaller expenses can add up quickly during moving week.

6. Moving Expenses

Whether you're hiring professional movers or renting a truck, moving costs are often higher than expected. Be sure to budget for:

Professional movers or truck rental
Packing supplies
Storage, if needed
Cleaning supplies
Meals and incidental expenses during your move

Planning ahead can make moving day much smoother.

7. Immediate Home Improvements

Even if you purchase a move-in-ready home, you'll likely want to make it your own. Many buyers choose to repaint walls, replace light fixtures, install window coverings, or upgrade appliances shortly after moving in.

Creating a separate budget for these projects will help you avoid stretching your finances too thin after closing.

8. Ongoing Maintenance

Owning a home comes with ongoing responsibilities that renters don't typically have. Seasonal maintenance is especially important in Calgary's climate and can include:

Furnace servicing
Air conditioning maintenance
Gutter cleaning
Roof inspections
Lawn care and snow removal
Replacing furnace filters
Minor plumbing or electrical repairs

A good rule of thumb is to set aside money each year for routine maintenance and unexpected repairs.

9. Emergency Fund

No matter how carefully you plan, unexpected repairs can happen. Whether it's replacing a hot water tank, repairing a furnace during winter, or fixing a leaking roof, having an emergency fund provides peace of mind and helps protect your investment.

Plan Ahead for a Stress-Free Purchase

Buying a home is an exciting journey, and understanding the full picture of homeownership allows you to make informed financial decisions. By budgeting for these additional expenses alongside your down payment and mortgage, you'll be well prepared for a smooth transition into your new home.

If you're thinking about buying a home in Calgary, I'd be happy to help you understand every step of the process—from creating a realistic budget to finding the right home for your lifestyle and goals. My goal is to ensure there are no surprises, so you can enjoy the excitement of becoming a homeowner with confidence.

Ready to start your home search? Let's connect and create a plan that works for you.

Calgary Real Estate Market Update — June 2026

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 23:31:33 GMT

Calgary's market is shifting. Get June 2026 data on prices, inventory, and what it means for Calgary home buyers and sellers.