the real estate blog

For many Calgary home buyers, the search for the right home doesn't stop at the city limits.

As home prices, inventory and lifestyle priorities continue to shape the Calgary-area market, more buyers are considering communities just outside the city. Airdrie, Cochrane and Okotoks are three of the most popular options—and while all three offer more of a small-community feel than Calgary, they each have their own personality, advantages and considerations.

So, which one is right for you?

The answer depends on where you work, how you spend your weekends, what type of home you're looking for and how much you value commute time versus space and lifestyle.

Airdrie: Convenience and Growth

Located just north of Calgary, Airdrie is one of Alberta's fastest-growing communities. The City of Airdrie's 2026 census recorded a population of 93,957, up 4.35% from the previous year.

For buyers who still want relatively easy access to Calgary while enjoying a community outside the city, Airdrie can be an attractive choice.

Why consider Airdrie?

Proximity to Calgary: Airdrie's location makes it particularly appealing for people who work in Calgary but want to live outside the city.

A growing selection of amenities: With its rapid population growth, Airdrie has developed into a substantial city of its own, with shopping, recreation, restaurants, schools and community services.

Family-friendly housing options: Buyers will find everything from condos and townhomes to larger detached homes, making the community suitable for a variety of budgets and stages of life.

Strong long-term growth: Airdrie's continued population growth is contributing to ongoing development and investment in the community. The City projects continued growth over the coming decades.

What should buyers consider?

Growth can come with growing pains. Buyers should consider their specific commute, preferred neighbourhood and access to schools and amenities rather than simply assuming that every part of Airdrie offers the same lifestyle.

Airdrie can be particularly well suited to buyers who want a balance between Calgary access and suburban space.

Cochrane: Small-Town Feel With Mountain Access

West of Calgary, Cochrane offers something different.

The community has grown significantly in recent years, with Alberta's Regional Dashboard reporting a population of 39,397 in 2025—an increase of 22.8% over five years.

Cochrane is especially appealing to buyers who prioritize outdoor recreation, a smaller-community atmosphere and access to the foothills and mountains.

Why consider Cochrane?

Outdoor lifestyle: If weekends often involve hiking, biking, camping or heading toward the mountains, Cochrane's location can be a major advantage.

Community atmosphere: Cochrane retains a distinct small-town identity while continuing to add new neighbourhoods, amenities and services.

Variety of housing: From established neighbourhoods to newer developments, buyers have a range of options depending on their budget and preferences.

Continued investment: Cochrane is experiencing significant growth and is planning for future housing needs. A 2026 Town of Cochrane housing assessment identified continued demand for a range of housing types, including smaller homes and more affordable options.

What should buyers consider?

The trade-off for Cochrane's lifestyle can be the commute. If you're driving into Calgary every day, the location of your workplace—and the time of day you travel—should be a major part of your decision.

Cochrane tends to make the most sense for buyers who say, "I want more of a community feel and I don't mind being west of Calgary."

Okotoks: Community, Amenities and South Calgary Access

South of Calgary, Okotoks has become another popular alternative for buyers who want to leave the city while maintaining access to Calgary.

Okotoks offers a blend of established neighbourhoods, newer developments, recreational opportunities and a strong community identity.

Why consider Okotoks?

A strong community feel: Okotoks has a more traditional town atmosphere while still offering many of the amenities buyers want for everyday life.

The Sheep River and pathway system: Outdoor space and recreational opportunities are a major part of the Okotoks lifestyle.

Family appeal: The combination of schools, recreation, parks and neighbourhood amenities makes Okotoks a popular choice for families.

South Calgary access: For someone who works in Calgary's southern or southeastern areas, Okotoks may be a particularly practical choice compared with communities north or west of the city.

What should buyers consider?

As with Airdrie and Cochrane, the commute needs to be considered on a neighbourhood-by-neighbourhood basis.

It's also worth thinking beyond the purchase price. Your monthly housing costs, property taxes, commuting expenses and time spent in the car can all influence whether moving outside Calgary actually saves you money.

Airdrie vs. Cochrane vs. Okotoks: Which One Is Best?

There isn't one community that's best for everyone.

Instead, think about what matters most to you.

Of course, these are broad comparisons. The right neighbourhood can matter just as much as the community itself.

Don't Just Compare Home Prices

One of the biggest mistakes buyers make when considering a move outside Calgary is looking only at the listing price.

A home that costs less outside Calgary isn't necessarily the less expensive option once you factor in:

• Commuting costs

• Fuel and vehicle expenses

• Time spent travelling

• Property taxes

• Utilities

• Home maintenance

• Access to schools and childcare

• Recreation and amenities

It's also important to compare similar properties. A $650,000 detached home in one community may offer a very different lot, age, floor plan and level of finish than a $650,000 home somewhere else.

The Calgary-area market can also vary significantly by property type. Recent CREB data has shown that lower-density housing, particularly detached homes, can experience different conditions from apartment-style properties.

That means your decision shouldn't simply be based on headlines about whether "the market" is going up or down.

The Best Community Is the One That Fits Your Life

Before deciding between Airdrie, Cochrane and Okotoks, ask yourself a few questions:

Where do I work?
Your daily commute could make one community dramatically more convenient than another.

How often do I need to go into Calgary?
A buyer who works from home most of the week may have a very different definition of an acceptable commute than someone who drives into Calgary five days a week.

What do I want my weekends to look like?
Mountain adventures might point you toward Cochrane, while other buyers may prioritize shopping, recreation or community amenities.

What type of home do I actually need?
If you want a large yard and more living space, looking outside Calgary may open up additional possibilities. If you're looking for a condo or low-maintenance lifestyle, your options may look quite different.

What will the move cost me beyond the purchase price?
Don't forget to calculate the full cost of your lifestyle—not just the mortgage payment.

So, Should You Buy in Airdrie, Cochrane or Okotoks?

For some buyers, Airdrie will offer the best combination of Calgary access, amenities and housing options.

For others, Cochrane will win because the lifestyle and proximity to the mountains are worth the extra distance.

And for buyers who want a strong community atmosphere south of Calgary, Okotoks may be the perfect fit.

The important thing is not to choose based on a simple "best community" list. Instead, identify what matters most to you and compare the communities—and individual neighbourhoods—against those priorities.

The good news is that you don't have to limit your search to Calgary.

Sometimes the right home is just outside the city.

If you're considering making the move from Calgary to Airdrie, Cochrane or Okotoks, a local real estate professional can help you compare neighbourhoods, housing options and current market conditions so you can make a decision based on more than just the list price.

As summer begins to wind down, many Calgary families start asking the same question: Is there still enough time to move before the school year begins?

The good news is that, depending on where you are in the buying or selling process, the answer is often yes.

While spring is traditionally known as the busiest season for real estate, August remains an active month in Calgary. Buyers are motivated to settle into their new homes before classes start, and sellers can still benefit from strong demand before the market shifts into fall.

Why August Can Be a Great Time to Move

There are several advantages to making your move before September arrives.

Get settled before school starts. Moving before the first day of school gives children time to adjust to their new home, neighbourhood, and routines. It also allows parents to focus on the school year instead of juggling a move at the same time.

Take advantage of beautiful weather. Calgary's warm summer days make moving, landscaping, and tackling those first home projects much easier than waiting until cooler temperatures arrive.

Motivated buyers and sellers. Many buyers are eager to secure a home before fall, while sellers who remain on the market are often committed to making a deal happen.

If You're Selling, Time Is Still on Your Side

If you've been debating whether to list your home this summer, there's still an opportunity to attract serious buyers.

Your outdoor spaces are likely looking their best. Green lawns, colourful gardens, and sunny patios create excellent first impressions during showings and in listing photos. Buyers can easily picture themselves enjoying the remainder of summer and entertaining outdoors.

Preparing your home doesn't have to take weeks. A few simple updates can make a big difference:

• Freshen up your landscaping.

• Declutter and depersonalize living spaces.

• Complete any small maintenance items.

• Ensure your home is professionally cleaned before photos and showings.

These small efforts can help your property stand out in Calgary's competitive market.

If You're Buying, Be Ready to Act

Homes that are priced well and located in desirable communities continue to attract attention.

If you're hoping to be in your new home before September, preparation is key.

Start by:

• Getting pre-approved for your mortgage.

• Clearly identifying your must-haves versus nice-to-haves.

• Being flexible with your schedule for viewings.

• Working closely with your REALTOR® so you can move quickly when the right property becomes available.

Having these pieces in place can make the difference between securing your ideal home and missing out.

Can You Still Close Before School Starts?

Every transaction is different, but many home purchases can close within 30 to 60 days. Even if moving in before the first day of school isn't possible, purchasing now still allows you to settle into your new home well before winter arrives.

An experienced REALTOR® can help you understand realistic timelines based on your unique situation and current market conditions.

Thinking Beyond the School Calendar

Not every move needs to happen before September.

Many buyers choose to purchase in late summer because there is often slightly less competition than during the spring rush. Sellers also benefit from working with motivated buyers who are ready to make decisions rather than simply browsing.

Whether you're upsizing, downsizing, relocating, or buying your first home, August can be an excellent time to make your move.

Ready to Make Your Move?

If you've been wondering whether there's still time to buy or sell before the busy fall season, the answer may be yes. With the right strategy and guidance, you can make the process smooth, efficient, and far less stressful.

If you're thinking about making a move in Calgary, I'd be happy to answer your questions, discuss the current market, and help you create a plan that works for your timeline. Let's connect and make your next move a successful one.

If you've been following real estate headlines over the past year, you've likely seen countless stories about interest rates. While mortgage rates certainly play a role in affordability, they aren't the only factor that should influence your decision to buy a home in Calgary.

For many buyers, waiting for the "perfect" rate can mean missing opportunities in a market that's constantly evolving. Instead of focusing solely on borrowing costs, it's important to consider the bigger picture.

Your Lifestyle Matters More Than Timing the Market

Buying a home isn't just a financial decision—it's a life decision.

Are you running out of space? Looking for a shorter commute? Planning to grow your family? Ready to stop renting? These life changes often have a much greater impact on your quality of life than whether your mortgage rate is a fraction of a percent lower.

The right home at the right time for your life is often more valuable than trying to perfectly predict market conditions.

Home Prices Don't Always Wait for Lower Rates

Many buyers assume that if interest rates fall, homes will become more affordable. In reality, lower borrowing costs often bring more buyers back into the market.

When demand increases, competition can rise as well, which may lead to:

• More multiple-offer situations

• Faster sales

• Higher sale prices

• Fewer opportunities to negotiate

In other words, a lower mortgage rate doesn't necessarily mean you'll spend less overall.

Calgary Continues to Offer Strong Value

Compared to many major Canadian cities, Calgary continues to offer excellent value for homebuyers. The city provides a wide variety of housing options, from affordable condos and townhomes to established family neighbourhoods and luxury properties.

With continued population growth, ongoing infrastructure investment, and a strong local economy, Calgary remains an attractive place to put down roots.

Focus on What You Can Control

No one can accurately predict where interest rates or the housing market will be six months from now. What you can control is:

• Improving your credit score

• Saving for a larger down payment

• Getting pre-approved for a mortgage

• Understanding your budget

• Working with a local REALTOR® who understands Calgary's neighbourhoods and market trends

Being prepared allows you to act confidently when the right home becomes available.

Every Situation Is Different

There's no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to buying a home. For some people, waiting may make sense. For others, moving now could be the better financial and personal decision.

The key is looking at your individual goals rather than trying to time the market perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Interest rates are an important part of the home-buying process, but they shouldn't be the only consideration. Calgary continues to offer excellent opportunities for buyers who are prepared and focused on finding the right home for their needs.

If you're thinking about buying—or you're simply wondering whether now is the right time—I'd be happy to discuss your options. Every move starts with a conversation, and having the right information can make all the difference.

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.

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.

Author: Stuart Bartwicki, REALTOR® — CIR Realty

If you've been paying attention to the Calgary market lately, you've probably noticed things feel a little different than they did a year or two ago. And you're right — they are. But different doesn't have to mean confusing. Let me break down what's actually happening, what it means for you, and how to navigate it with confidence.

Let's dig in.

Inventory Is Up — But That's Normal for Spring

Calgary had roughly 7,000 active listings in May. That's about the same as last year, but sitting above the long-term average. And here's the thing — inventory always rises through the spring market, so a lot of this is just the natural seasonal rhythm playing out.

What's interesting is where the inventory is coming from. The increase is mostly in apartments and townhomes. Detached homes? Still relatively tight. So if you're shopping for a single-family home, you're still dealing with a more competitive landscape than the headline numbers might suggest.

Sales Have Cooled — But Context Matters

We saw just over 2,000 homes sell across Calgary in May. That's down about 16% from the same time last year. Now, that sounds like a big drop — and it is — but we're comparing against some of the strongest sales activity this city has ever seen. We've been on quite a run the past few years, so a pullback was always going to feel noticeable.

New listings have also declined, but they haven't fallen enough to make up for the slower sales pace. The net result? More choice for buyers and a market that's tipping toward balance — which, honestly, is healthier for everyone in the long run.

It Depends on What You're Buying

This is where the headline numbers can be a bit misleading. Market conditions vary a lot by property type right now.

Detached homes are sitting at about 2.5 months of supply. That's what I'd call a balanced market — not quite the seller's advantage we've seen in recent years, but still reasonably tight. Well-priced, well-presented detached homes are still selling.

Apartment-style condos are a different story. With over 5 months of supply, we're in clear buyer's market territory. There's simply more inventory, more competition from new construction, and more rental options for people who aren't ready to commit to buying. If you're selling a condo right now, you need to be realistic about pricing and prepared for a longer timeline.

What's Driving Buyer Caution?

There are a few forces at play here:

• Affordability. Let's be honest — it's harder to buy today than it was a few years ago. Prices have climbed, and the cost of borrowing is still elevated compared to the ultra-low rate era.

• Migration is slowing. We saw huge inflows of people from other provinces during and after the pandemic. That's cooled off, and with it, some of the demand pressure that was driving the market.

• More options. Buyers have more homes to choose from, more new builds to consider, and more rental supply to fall back on. That kind of choice naturally slows the urgency to pull the trigger.

None of this is panic territory. It's just a more measured, thoughtful market — and that rewards the buyer (and seller) who comes in prepared.

Let's Talk Prices

Calgary's overall benchmark price hit $570,000 in May. That's up from where we started the year, but still about 3% lower than May 2025.

When you break it down by type:

• Detached homes have shown the strongest price performance. Benchmark went from $724,000 in January to $747,000 in May. That's real resilience.

• Apartment-style condos are feeling the most pressure. Prices are sitting roughly 9% below where they were this time last year.

The gap between detached and condo performance is the big story right now. If you own a detached home, you're in a relatively strong position. If you own a condo — especially if you're thinking about selling — understanding current market value is critical.

The Bottom Line

Calgary has shifted into a more balanced market. That's the one-sentence summary.

• Sellers: Well-priced, well-presented homes are still selling. But particularly if you own a condo, expect more competition and longer timelines than we've seen in the past four years.

• Buyers: You have more choice and less pressure. That doesn't mean you should wait forever — the right home at the right price still moves — but you have room to be thoughtful.

• Everyone: Preparation and realistic expectations win in a market like this. That's true whether you're buying, selling, or just figuring out your next move.

Remember — these are broad strokes. Market conditions vary from neighbourhood to neighbourhood and property to property. If you want information that's specific to your home or your community, I'd love to help. Reach out anytime.

— Stuart

Stuart Bartwicki, REALTOR® — CIR Realty. I've been helping Calgary families navigate real estate since 2018. Former teacher, lifelong learner, and believer that the best results come from sharing real knowledge, openly and generously.