February Market Update

Why Now Is an Incredible Time to Buy in Calgary

I hear it ALL the time…

“Should we wait?”
“Are rates going to drop?”
“Is the market going to crash?”

Here’s the truth — and I’m going to say it clearly:

This is one of the most strategic buying windows we’ve seen in the Calgary market in years.

Not chaotic.
Not overheated.
Not collapsing.

Strategic.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

According to the latest data from the Calgary Real Estate Board:

• Benchmark price in Calgary sits around $570,000–$585,000 (depending on property type)
• Detached homes remain strong but balanced
• Inventory levels have improved compared to early 2024
• Days on market are stabilizing
• Sales-to-new-listings ratio is trending toward balance

We are no longer in extreme bidding-war territory — and we’re not in a distressed market either.

We’re in opportunity territory.

Interest Rates: Stability Is a Strategy

The Bank of Canada has held its key interest rate steady in recent announcements.

Stable rates create:

• Predictability
• Confidence
• Negotiation leverage
• Planning power

When rates are bouncing, buyers freeze.
When rates stabilize, buyers move strategically.

And here’s the insider truth:

When rates eventually decrease — competition increases.

The buyers who move before rate cuts are the ones negotiating from strength.

First-Time Buyers: This Is Your Bridge Market

Your first home isn’t your forever home.
It’s your wealth-building launch pad.

Right now you have:

• Less competition than 2022–2023
• More negotiating room
• Seller flexibility
• Creative financing options
• Programs many buyers don’t even realize they qualify for

This is not about perfection.
It’s about positioning.

Move-Up Buyers: The Spread Matters

If you’re selling a $600,000 home and buying an $800,000 home…

A 5% market shift impacts both properties.

Often the spread between the two becomes more favorable in a stable market than in an aggressive seller’s market.

In fast markets, your replacement home jumps faster than your current one.
In balanced markets, you gain leverage on the bigger purchase.

Strategy over headlines.

Downsizers: Equity Is Your Superpower

Many homeowners in Strathmore, Chestermere, and Calgary have seen significant equity growth over the last five years.

This market gives you:

• Time to prepare properly
• Strategic pricing options
• Serious buyers
• Opportunity to negotiate possession terms

You don’t need chaos to win.
You need positioning.

What I’m Seeing On the Ground

• Showings are steady.
• Buyers are educated and prepared.
• Sellers who price properly are still getting strong results.
• Homes that are overpriced are sitting.

Strategic pricing creates interest.
Interest creates leverage.
Leverage creates results.

It still matters who you work with.

The Big Picture

Calgary continues to benefit from:

• Interprovincial migration
• Relative affordability compared to Vancouver & Toronto
• Strong employment sectors
• Long-term infrastructure growth

We are not in a bubble.
We are in a maturing, stabilizing market.

February Healthy Recipe: Maple Dijon Salmon Power Bowl

Ingredients:
• Baked salmon fillet
• Quinoa
• Roasted sweet potatoes
• Kale or spinach
• Avocado
• Pumpkin seeds
• Maple Dijon dressing (olive oil + Dijon + lemon + pure maple syrup)

Why I love it:
• High protein
• Omega-3 rich
• Supports energy
• Quick weeknight meal
• Elevated without being complicated

Final Thought

If you’re waiting for the “perfect time” — you’ll miss the strategic time.

The Calgary market right now rewards:

• Prepared buyers
• Smart sellers
• Strategic planners

Whether you’re buying your first home, moving up, or simplifying life…

Let’s build a plan around your numbers, not the news cycle.

𝐂𝐇𝐑𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐀 𝐀𝐋𝐄𝐌𝐀𝐍
RE/MAX Key
The REPs Group
Strathmore | Chestermere | Calgary | Wheatland County | Rocky View
Phone: 403-324-4343
Email: christaalemanrealtor@gmail.com
Website: www.christaalemanrealtor.com

Love where you live.