Calgary Real Estate Blog

We have just listed 36 714 Willow Park Drive SE for sale in the popular Calgary community of Willow Park!

View the full listing details including pictures, Google Map information and more! MLS® C3515051

Willow Park 2 Storey CondoLocation is wonderful! Quick access to all amenities, LRT, transportation, shopping, downtown and much more. Willow Park Golf and Country Club right across the street! Spacious kitchen with eating area has been updated and looks out to newly fenced private yard with patio and wooden deck. Easy for BBQ’s with your guests enjoying the sliding door from dining room or kitchen access to patio as well! Big dining room adjacent to living room with fireplace. Two-piece bathroom on main. Upstairs has two big bedrooms with walk-in closets and also a full bathroom. Basement is developed with family room, workshop, laundry room and loads of storage. Covered parking stall is very close to this condo! Recreational facilities include a beautiful outdoor pool, hot tub and tennis courts. One of the best places to live in Calgary! Beautiful location in the complex, looking out to treed courtyard. See now! View all Calgary Real Estate Board MLS® listings for sale in Willow Park.

See all condos currently listed for sale on the Calgary Real Estate Board MLS® in Willow Park.

Looking for the newest MLS® listings that Calgary REALTORS® have listed for sale on the Calgary Real Estate Board MLS® System? Here are easy links to view 7 days of “Just Listed” Single Family Homes, 7 days of “Just Listed” Condominiums and All New MLS® Listings (Houses & Condos) from the past 24 hours.

Sign up for a free Calgary Real Estate Market Report at http://www.mikolajow.com/free-calgary-market-report.php Every month you will receive a customized report with a 12 month summary showing average and median prices of active and sold Calgary real estate listings (with sold prices) in the neighbourhoods of your choosing with their locations displayed in Google Maps.

Go to Calgary Real Estate Blog

We’ve updated the Calgary Real Estate Marketing section of our website to include a copy of our advertisement from the March 23, 2012 issue of Calgary Real Estate Board News.

CREN® is published by and distrbuted weekly with the Calgary Herald! It is available for pick-up in over 1250 locations through Calgary and the surrounding communities – at Co-op, Safeway and Sobey’s grocery stores, financial institutes, LRT stations, restaurants, hotels, real estate offices, and many other locations.

Buying a home may be the largest and most complex financial transaction you ever undertake. If you’re ready to buy a home, wouldn’t you prefer to work with the most qualified real estate professional you can find? Jeff Mikolajow is an Accredited Buyer’s Representative.

In this issue, our advertisement features the following properties:

Ravencrest Village – 3 Acres101 Ravencrest Drive $785,000• Amazing 3.04 acres in Ravencrest Village. Strategically placed trees for privacy and enjoyment of birds, this beautiful property is designed for relaxing family living. Open with vaulted ceilings, natural light abounds. You will feel as though you are enjoying the outdoors with the spectacular view all around. Main floor boasts master bedroom with 4-piece bathroom including separate shower and soaker tub, 2-piece bath, lovely kitchen/island, living/dining with stone faced gas fireplace and beautiful Beech wood floors. French doors to verandah, deck and fabulous fenced, treed yard with garden shed. Mud and laundry room on main. Upstairs has two bedrooms, loft and 4-piece bath. Fabulous front verandah. Basement unspoiled/insulated with rough-in for bathroom. Home is set back, away from public road and has a paved driveway for easy access all year round. Fenced with Garden Shed, Dog kennel. Co-operative water, state of the art raised septic system. Backs on pathway to Environmental Reserve and Sheep River.• MLS® C3509629

Deer Ridge Bi-Level with Detached Garage587 Deerpath Court SE $329,900• Located at entrance to quiet cul-de-sac across from a playground, this lovely bright bi-level is ready to move into! Single garage 14×22! Kitchen features an awesome raised granite eating bar that opens to living room, lots of cabinetry and full size pantry. Both bathrooms updated with Toto low flush toilets. Downstairs, a cozy gas stove helps warm the family room. Also a large computer room, a bedroom and 3 piece bath and laundry/furnace room enhance this roomy bi-level. Upgrades include upstairs windows, casings and baseboards and more. Covered/screened patio lets you enjoy late nights outdoors without the mosquitos and has a natural gas line for your BBQ. Phantom screen door! Sunny, west facing private back yard with room to play and for gardens. Lilac trees in the front and back yard! Deer Ridge has easy access to Deerfoot Trail, Anderson and Macleod Trail. Walk or bike to Fish Creek Park and Sikome Lake! Deer Valley Market Place is being extensively renovated – Enjoy a coffee at the new Starbucks! • MLS® C3505391

McKenzie Towne 2 Storey with Detached Garage146 Elgin Way SE SOLD• NOTE HUGE LOT!! Super location with only local traffic into the cul-de-sac. Lovely big fenced yard with DOUBLE DETACHED GARAGE AND RV PARKING. Watch the children play from your kitchen or as you enjoy the spacious deck leading to mud room. BBQ with another access to the roomy kitchen/eating nook with island/breakfast bar and lots of cabinetry. High ceilings enhance living with grandeur. Living room has gas fireplace and is great open space for versatility. Bonus room/den, 2 piece bath and laundry also on main. Upstairs boasts beautiful Master with gas fireplace, 4-piece ensuite bath and walk-in closet. Two other good sized bedrooms and full bath up. Brand new carpets throughout main and upstairs. Efficiently developed basement with 4th bedroom family/games room, 3-piece bath and lots of storage. Home has so much to offer – SPACE IN AND OUT, HIGH CEILINGS, LOADS OF NATURAL LIGHT!! VERY SPECIAL!! SEE NOW!! PLEASE NOTE THE SIZE OF LOT!!• MLS® C3508081

Acadia Bungalow440 96 Avenue SE $369,900• Three bedroom charming, well maintained bungalow in the heart of Acadia with refinished oak floors! Brand new upstairs 4 piece bathroom & soaker tub. Upstairs windows have been replaced! Newer furnace and recently installed soffits, fascia and leaf guards on both the house and garage! Single detached garage with new door and a good size private yard – hard to find at this affordable price! Close to schools, shopping and transportation! Beautiful curb appeal. Call today to view this lovely home and live close to amenities and with easy access to everything. Quick drive to downtown..• MLS® C3506392

Willow Park – Willow Court Green Condo1605 11010 Bonaventure Drive SE SOLD• Willow Court Green! Great location across from Southcenter Mall, Fish Creek Library, Safeway, Trico Center which offers fitness, skating, children’s programs, child care and MUCH MORE. On bus route, close to LRT, coffee and specialty shops, major transportation routes, quick drive downtown. Two bedroom condo with newer kitchen, hardwood floors upstairs and many upgrades. You will love the decor and it is amazing for this affordable price. Fences in complex are newer. You may want to park you car and walk to just about all amenities. The total registered size of this condo includes both above and below grade floors. 2 bedrooms are below grade. Lovely! • MLS® C3513235

Killarney Glengarry 2006 Attached 2 Storey2439 33 Street SW $553,600• Attached Two Storey in Killarney with over 1800 square feet above grade and a double garage. Main floor features a winding stair case with dark stained wood railings and iron spindles that also opens to the basement. Formal living and dining areas at the front and a large family room with gas fireplace and casual eating area separated from the kitchen by an island with raised eating bar. Plenty of cabinet space, built in wine racks and a corner pantry area for extra storage! Upstairs in the master retreat, a 3 sided fireplace separates the main bedroom from the bright 5 piece ensuite with jetted soaker tub, spacious glass shower, granite counter and 2 sinks. Also upstairs, you will find 2 generous sized bedrooms (one with a walk in closet), a 4 piece bathroom with granite counters & tiled floor and the laundry area. The basement is undeveloped, wide open and has roughed in plumbing and two windows. • MLS® C3506994

Royal Oak 2 Storey Condo21 Royal Crest View NW $329,900• Two storey condo attached with double attached garage! Great location! Neutral colours and efficient floor plan. Entrance has high ceilings and is very spacious. Kitchen and eating nook with island overlooking lovely living/great room with gas fireplace is very nice and open. 2-piece bath on main with laundry facilities as well. Lots of windows allow tons of natural light. Upstairs has master bedroom with 4-piece ensuite bath and two other bedrooms and another 4-piece bathroom. Basement rough-in plumbing, great big windows and loads of room for future development. Public transportation close. Quick access to amenities and everything. Lovely complex! PETS allowed with board approval. YOUR OWN DOUBLE ATTACHED GARAGE AT THIS PRICE!! SUPER LIVING SPACE! Seller says sell now!! Take advantage of low interest rates and buy this now!!• MLS® C3505987

Willlow Park 2 Bedroom Condo#408 11010 Bonaventure Drive SE SOLD• Willow Court Green in Willow Park! Great location across from Southcenter Mall, Fish Creek Library, Safeway, Trico Center which offers fitness, skating, children’s programs, child care and MUCH more. On Bus routes, close to LRT, coffee and specialty shops, major transportation routes and a quick drive to downtown. This two bedroom condo offers a cozy main floor with living, dining and kitchen charmingly decorated and lovely. Good location with a nearby courtyard and completely fenced yard. Two large living and master bedroom windows are newer, Fences in complex and unit roof shingles have been replaced making this a condo that has had some major projects completed. There have been some upgrades inside as well with an open kitchen which overlooks the living and dining rooms. Make this home! See today and enjoy life – you may even choose to park your car and take the bus or walk to amenities. The total registered size of this bi-level condo includes both above and below grade floors. 2 bedrooms are below grade.• MLS® C3508136

Calgary Real Estate News – March 23, 2012

Go to Calgary Real Estate Blog

According to the spring 2012 RE/MAX Market Trends Report, released today by RE/MAX, major Canadian real estate markets continued to show exceptional resiliency throughout the first quarter of 2012. The stage is set for a heated spring 2012!

While activity in Calgary’s residential real estate market mirrors 2011, one factor is decidedly different—consumer confidence is once again on the rise. Although the ascent remains slow and cautious, demand has increased for all types of residential housing, most notably in mid-to-late February. As a result, unit sales in the city are up nearly four per cent, with 2,806 homes changing hands to the end of February, compared with 2,707 homes during the same period the previous year.

Some multiple offers have occurred in the inner core’s most desirable areas. Yet, very few homes are selling over list price, although sale-price-to-list-price ratios are starting to improve. Days on market remain relatively stable at approximately 50. The rising momentum in the marketplace has been attributed, in part, to buyers re-entering the market, after months of sitting on the fence. Many are more mature purchasers who are thinking long-term, taking note of good pricing and unprecedented interest rates. While conditions remain balanced overall, the supply of entry-level homes on the west side is tight. Product priced under $400,000—and located in good neighbourhoods—is generally moving very well throughout the city, as first-time buyers continue to lead the charge.

Activity has climbed at virtually all price points, up to and including the $1 million range. Turnkey homes, with realistic sticker prices, are in greatest demand, as buyers are reluctant to spend additional money on major renovations. Most are willing to wait for the right properties to come on-stream.

Rowhouse style townhomes are particularly popular, with sales of condominium towns ahead 10 per cent year-over-year (331 units vs. 300 units). Single-family homes have also experienced an upswing of six per cent (2,048 vs. 1,940), despite a nine per cent decline in new listings compared to one year earlier. Average price has stabilized and is returning to an upward, albeit very modest, trajectory, with the exception of the condominium apartment segment which remains off 2011 levels in both sales and pricing. Calgary’s total residential average price now sits at $412,300, up over $1,000 compared to 2011. The upper end of the market has held up well in all segments, with 58 home sales over $1 million vs. 61 last year (February year to- date). All indicators point to a healthy spring market, as activity continues to gain momentum. Prices are once again heading into positive growth territory, although trending will remain modest in the months ahead.

The tides of optimism are turning, which bodes well for Calgary’s residential real estate market moving forward.

Go to Calgary Real Estate Blog

We have just listed 587 Deerpath Court SE for sale in the popular Calgary community of Deer Ridge!

View the full listing details including pictures, Google Map information and more! MLS® C3513760

Deer Ridge Bi-Level with Detached GarageLocated at the entrance to a cul-de-sac across from a playground, this clean and bright bi-level is ready to move into! The kitchen features a raised granite eating bar that opens to the living room. Plenty of cabinet space and a full size pantry. Both bathrooms updated with Toto low flush toilets. Downstairs, a cozy gas stove helps warm the family room. There is a large computer room, a bedroom and 3 piece bath. Covered & screened patio lets you enjoy late nights outdoors without the mosquitos and has a natural gas line for your BBQ. Single 14×22 garage. Sunny, west facing back yard is private and there is room to play and for gardens. Lilac trees in the front and back yard! Deer Ridge has easy access to Deerfoot Trail, Anderson and Macleod Trail. Walk or bike to Fish Creek Park and Sikome Lake! Deer Valley Market Place is being extensively renovated – Enjoy a coffee at the new Starbucks! Call to book a showing today! View all Calgary Real Estate Board MLS® listings for sale in Deer Ridge.

Easily create and save customized searches of the Calgary Real Estate Board MLS® by neighbourhood, MLS® Number, postal code, city or Google Maps.

Looking for the newest MLS® listings that Calgary REALTORS® have listed for sale on the Calgary Real Estate Board MLS® System? Here are easy links to view 7 days of “Just Listed” Single Family Homes, 7 days of “Just Listed” Condominiums and All New MLS® Listings (Houses & Condos) from the past 24 hours.

Sign up for a free Calgary Real Estate Market Report at http://www.mikolajow.com/free-calgary-market-report.php Every month you will receive a customized report with a 12 month summary showing average and median prices of active and sold Calgary real estate listings (with sold prices) in the neighbourhoods of your choosing with their locations displayed in Google Maps.

 
Go to Calgary Real Estate Blog

We have just listed 1605 11010 Bonaventure Drive SE for sale in the popular Calgary community of Willow Park!

View the full listing details including pictures, Google Map information and more! MLS® C3513235

Willow Court Green Condo Across From Southcentre MallWillow Court Green! Great location across from Southcenter Mall, Fish Creek Library, Safeway, Trico Center which offers fitness, skating, children’s programs, child care and MUCH MORE. On bus route, close to LRT, coffee and specialty shops, major transportation routes, quick drive downtown. Two bedroom condo with newer kitchen, hardwood floors upstairs and many upgrades. You will love the decor and it is amazing for this affordable price. Fences in complex are newer. You may want to park you car and walk to just about all amenities. The total registered size of this condo includes both above and below grade floors. 2 bedrooms are below grade. Lovely! View all Calgary Real Estate Board MLS® listings for sale in Willow Park.

Easily create and save customized searches of the Calgary Real Estate Board MLS® by neighbourhood, MLS® Number, postal code, city or Google Maps.

Looking for the newest MLS® listings that Calgary REALTORS® have listed for sale on the Calgary Real Estate Board MLS® System? Here are easy links to view 7 days of “Just Listed” Single Family Homes, 7 days of “Just Listed” Condominiums and All New MLS® Listings (Houses & Condos) from the past 24 hours.

Sign up for a free Calgary Real Estate Market Report at http://www.mikolajow.com/free-calgary-market-report.php Every month you will receive a customized report with a 12 month summary showing average and median prices of active and sold Calgary real estate listings (with sold prices) in the neighbourhoods of your choosing with their locations displayed in Google Maps.

Go to Calgary Real Estate Blog

We’ve updated the Calgary Real Estate Marketing section of our website to include a copy of our advertisement from the March 16, 2012 issue of Calgary Real Estate Board News.

CREN® is published by and distrbuted weekly with the Calgary Herald! It is available for pick-up in over 1250 locations through Calgary and the surrounding communities – at Co-op, Safeway and Sobey’s grocery stores, financial institutes, LRT stations, restaurants, hotels, real estate offices, and many other locations.

Buying a home may be the largest and most complex financial transaction you ever undertake. If you’re ready to buy a home, wouldn’t you prefer to work with the most qualified real estate professional you can find? Jeff Mikolajow is an Accredited Buyer’s Representative.

In this issue, our advertisement features the following properties:

Ravencrest Village – 3 Acres101 Ravencrest Drive $785,000• Amazing 3.04 acres in Ravencrest Village. Strategically placed trees for privacy and enjoyment of birds, this beautiful property is designed for relaxing family living. Open with vaulted ceilings, natural light abounds. You will feel as though you are enjoying the outdoors with the spectacular view all around. Main floor boasts master bedroom with 4-piece bathroom including separate shower and soaker tub, 2-piece bath, lovely kitchen/island, living/dining with stone faced gas fireplace and beautiful Beech wood floors. French doors to verandah, deck and fabulous fenced, treed yard with garden shed. Mud and laundry room on main. Upstairs has two bedrooms, loft and 4-piece bath. Fabulous front verandah. Basement unspoiled/insulated with rough-in for bathroom. Home is set back, away from public road and has a paved driveway for easy access all year round. Fenced with Garden Shed, Dog kennel. Co-operative water, state of the art raised septic system. Backs on pathway to Environmental Reserve and Sheep River.• MLS® C3509629

Killarney Glengarry 2006 Attached 2 Storey2439 33 Street SW $582,750• Attached Two Storey in Killarney with over 1800 square feet above grade and a double garage. Main floor features a winding stair case with dark stained wood railings and iron spindles that also opens to the basement. Formal living and dining areas at the front and a large family room with gas fireplace and casual eating area separated from the kitchen by an island with raised eating bar. Plenty of cabinet space, built in wine racks and a corner pantry area for extra storage! Upstairs in the master retreat, a 3 sided fireplace separates the main bedroom from the bright 5 piece ensuite with jetted soaker tub, spacious glass shower, granite counter and 2 sinks. Also upstairs, you will find 2 generous sized bedrooms (one with a walk in closet), a 4 piece bathroom with granite counters & tiled floor and the laundry area. The basement is undeveloped, wide open and has roughed in plumbing and two windows. • MLS® C3506994

McKenzie Towne 2 Storey with Detached Garage146 Elgin Way SE SOLD• NOTE HUGE LOT!! Super location with only local traffic into the cul-de-sac. Lovely big fenced yard with DOUBLE DETACHED GARAGE AND RV PARKING. Watch the children play from your kitchen or as you enjoy the spacious deck leading to mud room. BBQ with another access to the roomy kitchen/eating nook with island/breakfast bar and lots of cabinetry. High ceilings enhance living with grandeur. Living room has gas fireplace and is great open space for versatility. Bonus room/den, 2 piece bath and laundry also on main. Upstairs boasts beautiful Master with gas fireplace, 4-piece ensuite bath and walk-in closet. Two other good sized bedrooms and full bath up. Brand new carpets throughout main and upstairs. Efficiently developed basement with 4th bedroom family/games room, 3-piece bath and lots of storage. Home has so much to offer – SPACE IN AND OUT, HIGH CEILINGS, LOADS OF NATURAL LIGHT!! VERY SPECIAL!! SEE NOW!! PLEASE NOTE THE SIZE OF LOT!!• MLS® C3508081

Acadia Bungalow440 96 Avenue SE $374,900• Three bedroom charming, well maintained bungalow in the heart of Acadia with refinished oak floors! Brand new upstairs 4 piece bathroom & soaker tub. Upstairs windows have been replaced! Newer furnace and recently installed soffits, fascia and leaf guards on both the house and garage! Single detached garage with new door and a good size private yard – hard to find at this affordable price! Close to schools, shopping and transportation! Beautiful curb appeal. Call today to view this lovely home and live close to amenities and with easy access to everything. Quick drive to downtown..• MLS® C3506392

Coventry Hills34 Coverton Circle NE SOLD• This Coventry Hills home on a great corner lot is bright with lots of windows to let in the sun. You will enjoy the extra spacious living room and the vaulted ceilings throughout the main floor. Kitchen has maple cabinets, plenty of counter and cabinet space and an eating nook. The back door provides easy access to the garage, yard and space for your BBQ! This home shows very well! Fully developed basement has a huge L-shaped family room with some shelves and a corner gas fireplace, a big bedroom and a 3piece bath with oversized shower. The oversized (24′x24′) double garage will fit 2 vehicles and still allow for storage or a work area and there is still lots of room for street parking. Location has easy access to Deerfoot and all amenities – schools, shopping, movie theatres, Cardel Place. Shows very well! Call now to arrange a showing!• MLS® C3508523

Deer Ridge Bi-Level with Detached Garage587 Deerpath Court SE $329,900• Located at entrance to quiet cul-de-sac across from a playground, this lovely bright bi-level is ready to move into! Single garage 14×22! Kitchen features an awesome raised granite eating bar that opens to living room, lots of cabinetry and full size pantry. Both bathrooms updated with Toto low flush toilets. Downstairs, a cozy gas stove helps warm the family room. Also a large computer room, a bedroom and 3 piece bath and laundry/furnace room enhance this roomy bi-level. Upgrades include upstairs windows, casings and baseboards and more. Covered/screened patio lets you enjoy late nights outdoors without the mosquitos and has a natural gas line for your BBQ. Phantom screen door! Sunny, west facing private back yard with room to play and for gardens. Lilac trees in the front and back yard! Deer Ridge has easy access to Deerfoot Trail, Anderson and Macleod Trail. Walk or bike to Fish Creek Park and Sikome Lake! Deer Valley Market Place is being extensively renovated – Enjoy a coffee at the new Starbucks! • MLS® C3505391

Royal Oak 2 Storey Condo21 Royal Crest View NW $329,900• Two storey condo attached with double attached garage! Great location! Neutral colours and efficient floor plan. Entrance has high ceilings and is very spacious. Kitchen and eating nook with island overlooking lovely living/great room with gas fireplace is very nice and open. 2-piece bath on main with laundry facilities as well. Lots of windows allow tons of natural light. Upstairs has master bedroom with 4-piece ensuite bath and two other bedrooms and another 4-piece bathroom. Basement rough-in plumbing, great big windows and loads of room for future development. Public transportation close. Quick access to amenities and everything. Lovely complex! PETS allowed with board approval. YOUR OWN DOUBLE ATTACHED GARAGE AT THIS PRICE!! SUPER LIVING SPACE! Seller says sell now!! Take advantage of low interest rates and buy this now!!• MLS® C3505987

Willlow Park 2 Bedroom Condo#408 11010 Bonaventure Drive SE $181,500• Great location across from Southcenter Mall, Fish Creek Library, Safeway, Trico Center which offers fitness, skating, children’s programs, child care and MUCH more. On Bus routes, close to LRT, coffee and specialty shops, major transportation routes and a quick drive to downtown. This two bedroom condo offers a cozy main floor with living, dining and kitchen charmingly decorated and lovely. Good location with a nearby courtyard and completely fenced yard. Two large living and master bedroom windows are newer, Fences in complex and unit roof shingles have been replaced making this a condo that has had some major projects completed. There have been some upgrades inside as well with an open kitchen which overlooks the living and dining rooms. Make this home! See today and enjoy life – you may even choose to park your car and take the bus or walk to amenities. The total registered size of this bi-level condo includes both above and below grade floors. 2 bedrooms are below grade.• MLS® C3508136

Calgary Real Estate News – March 16, 2012

Go to Calgary Real Estate Blog

RE/MAX of Western Canada and the Western Hockey League are giving away $25,000 in cash and prizes!

Visit www.whlremaxhometeam.ca to register and complete each small task for extra ballots!

The grand prize winner will receive a $15,000 RE/MAX Home Entertainment Prize. The RE/MAX Home Entertainment Prize includes $5,000 in cash courtesy of RE/MAX of Western Canada and a $10,000 gift card from The Brick.

There will also be 4 additional prizes each of a $2500 gift card from The Brick!

Enter by April 30, 2012!

Go to Calgary Real Estate Blog

As a Governor for the CREB® Charitable Foundation, I feel that this article about the 25th Anniversary of the Foundation is a great introduction to this year’s celebratory “25 for 25″ program! I’m proud to be an elected representative of the membership of the Calgary Real Estate Board and feel that Calgary REALTORS® will be pleased with what we are giving back to Calgarians this year!

From the March 9, 2012 issue of CREB News.

The CREB® Charitable Foundation turns 25 this year and is celebrating in a big way by giving back to the Calgary and area community.

Since its inception in 1987, the CREB® Charitable Foundation and Calgary and area REALTORS® have been working with the community developing innovative and sustainable solutions to shelter-related needs and initiatives.

Contributing $4.2 million to charities and organizations – including the Brenda Strafford Society, Inn From the Cold and the YWCA – the CREB® Charitable Foundation is launching the 25 for 25 program commemorating it’s 25 year anniversary.

In 2012, on behalf of Calgary and area REALTORS®, CREB® Charitable Foundation is distributing 25 gifts of $25,000 each to 25 charities and/or non-profit organizations throughout Calgary and area. The first 10 25 for 25 recipients are to be selected by the Charitable Foundation board of Governors with the remaining 15 to be nominated and voted upon by area REALTORS® starting in July.

“Calgary and area REALTORS® are very appreciative of the business they receive in our communities. More often than not they lead the way in stepping up to give back” said Tom Scott, president of the CREB® Charitable Foundation. “CREB® Charitable Foundation was formed 25 years ago by these REALTORS® to act as a vehicle to distribute funding in the community in an organized and responsible manner.”

Of the first 10 grants, two have already been presented. On March 5, Calgary YMCA was presented with $25,000 for its Strong Kids Campaign and on March 9, $25,000 was distributed to the Banff YWCA for its Bow Valley Women’s Shelter Program.

The Strong Kids campaign raises financial support for families unable to afford the cost of participation in a YMCA program or activity. Donated funds are distributed for a number of things within the program including helping a child attend day camp for the first time or helping youth gain the confidence and skills to avoid addiction, violence and isolation.

The YWCA of Banff has been serving the Bow Valley for the last 100 years working to empower women and their communities through “leadership, advocacy and provision of meaningful services.”

The 25 for 25 program wraps up in November 2012 with a gala luncheon.

The CREB® Charitable Foundation includes a membership of over 5,100 area REALTORS® and includes recent contributions of $101,000 in 2011 to Inn From The Cold, Kerby Centre and Sonshine Community Services.

Go to Calgary Real Estate Blog

This is the first monthly statistics release by the Calgary Real Estate Board that includes the HPI MLS® Home Price Index. Please view the February 2012 monthly housing summary from the Calgary Real Estate Board to see the new Benchmark pricing and how it compares to average pricing.

Sales activity on the rise throughout the Calgary region

Improved activity in the last week of the month boosted city sales

Calgary, March 1, 2012 – Sales activity improved across all residential sectors this month compared to a year ago, according to CREB® data released today. Calgary and area sales growth pushed February total residential activity up by 11.6 per cent compared February 2011, mainly due to increased activity in the surrounding towns.

“City sales were boosted by a lot of activity in the last week of the month,” says Bob Jablonski, CREB® president. “This points towards the improvements that we expect to see in our spring market activity.”

Single family sales and condominium townhouse sales were the bright lights in the city of Calgary, while condo apartments continue to lag in volume of sales. There were 1,284 single-family homes sold in February 2012, a 10.9-per-cent increase over last-year figures, and a 5.6-per-cent year-to-date increase. Condo townhouses gained 11.4 per cent year-over-year in February sales.

“More selection and a wider range of prices have drawn consumers to the condominium townhouse and single family markets,” says Jablonski. “As is the case with all property types, we saw modest price improvements compared to February last year, but overall levels remain below peak pricing.”

Meanwhile, condominium apartment sales totaled 248 for February 2012, an 11.7-per-cent decline over last-year figures. Despite the 12.7-per-cent year-over-year decline in new listings, inventory levels rose to 1,031 units.

Fewer new city listings are coming to the market, with a year-over-year decline of 10.2 per cent. Inventories also fell by 8.5 per cent over last year’s figures, with a total inventory of 4,736 for the month. The opposite is true in the surrounding towns, where listings recorded a year-over-year improvement of 12.1 per cent and no significant change in inventories.

“The lack of new listings in the city compared to the surrounding towns provides insight into the improved activity in the surrounding areas, as those who are actively seeking a home in the surrounding towns are not limited in their choice by lack of new listings in the market,” Jablonski says.

Within the city of Calgary, the decline in new listings, combined with improving sales, contributed to reduced inventory levels, pushing absorption rates for single-family and condominium townhome markets into balanced territory. However, the condominium apartment inventories rose and sales activity weakened, keeping the market in buyer’s territory.

Pricing showed modest improvement in February 2012 over January, with the single-family MLS® Home Price Index increasing by 1.0 per cent after several months of relatively flat pricing. Single-family prices rose by 3.2 per cent over February 2011. While prices continue to remain below peak levels, the improvement points to stable price growth.

The apartment index rose by 2.1 per cent over January figures, and increased by 0.7 per cent over last year’s levels. Prices remain well below peak levels, but are trending into positive territory, pointing towards recovery in this market. Overall index levels for townhomes remain similar to levels recorded in January 2012.

“While the apartment market continues to lag the other sectors in the city, the balanced conditions in the total city market point towards stable pricing,” says Jablonski. “There do appear to be some positive headwinds. Following several months of decline, prices appear to have stabilized lately and recorded some modest gains in February,” Jablonski concludes.

Despite the variances in the specific property types, all indicators in the Calgary region continue to point towards stable growth in Calgary’s overall housing sector.

Go to Calgary Real Estate Blog

We’ve updated the Calgary Real Estate Marketing section of our website to include a copy of our advertisement from the March 16, 2012 issue of Calgary Real Estate Board News.

CREN® is published by and distrbuted weekly with the Calgary Herald! It is available for pick-up in over 1250 locations through Calgary and the surrounding communities – at Co-op, Safeway and Sobey’s grocery stores, financial institutes, LRT stations, restaurants, hotels, real estate offices, and many other locations.

Buying a home may be the largest and most complex financial transaction you ever undertake. If you’re ready to buy a home, wouldn’t you prefer to work with the most qualified real estate professional you can find? Jeff Mikolajow is an Accredited Buyer’s Representative.

In this issue, our advertisement features the following properties:

Ravencrest Village – 3 Acres
101 Ravencrest Drive $785,000
• Amazing 3.04 acres in Ravencrest Village. Strategically placed trees for privacy and enjoyment of birds, this beautiful property is designed for relaxing family living. Open with vaulted ceilings, natural light abounds. You will feel as though you are enjoying the outdoors with the spectacular view all around. Main floor boasts master bedroom with 4-piece bathroom including separate shower and soaker tub, 2-piece bath, lovely kitchen/island, living/dining with stone faced gas fireplace and beautiful Beech wood floors. French doors to verandah, deck and fabulous fenced, treed yard with garden shed. Mud and laundry room on main. Upstairs has two bedrooms, loft and 4-piece bath. Fabulous front verandah. Basement unspoiled/insulated with rough-in for bathroom. Home is set back, away from public road and has a paved driveway for easy access all year round. Fenced with Garden Shed, Dog kennel. Co-operative water, state of the art raised septic system. Backs on pathway to Environmental Reserve and Sheep River.
• MLS® C3509629

Killarney Glengarry 2006 Attached 2 Storey
2439 33 Street SW $582,750
• Attached Two Storey in Killarney with over 1800 square feet above grade and a double garage. Main floor features a winding stair case with dark stained wood railings and iron spindles that also opens to the basement. Formal living and dining areas at the front and a large family room with gas fireplace and casual eating area separated from the kitchen by an island with raised eating bar. Plenty of cabinet space, built in wine racks and a corner pantry area for extra storage! Upstairs in the master retreat, a 3 sided fireplace separates the main bedroom from the bright 5 piece ensuite with jetted soaker tub, spacious glass shower, granite counter and 2 sinks. Also upstairs, you will find 2 generous sized bedrooms (one with a walk in closet), a 4 piece bathroom with granite counters & tiled floor and the laundry area. The basement is undeveloped, wide open and has roughed in plumbing and two windows.
• MLS® C3506994

McKenzie Towne 2 Storey with Detached Garage
146 Elgin Way SE SOLD
• NOTE HUGE LOT!! Super location with only local traffic into the cul-de-sac. Lovely big fenced yard with DOUBLE DETACHED GARAGE AND RV PARKING. Watch the children play from your kitchen or as you enjoy the spacious deck leading to mud room. BBQ with another access to the roomy kitchen/eating nook with island/breakfast bar and lots of cabinetry. High ceilings enhance living with grandeur. Living room has gas fireplace and is great open space for versatility. Bonus room/den, 2 piece bath and laundry also on main. Upstairs boasts beautiful Master with gas fireplace, 4-piece ensuite bath and walk-in closet. Two other good sized bedrooms and full bath up. Brand new carpets throughout main and upstairs. Efficiently developed basement with 4th bedroom family/games room, 3-piece bath and lots of storage. Home has so much to offer – SPACE IN AND OUT, HIGH CEILINGS, LOADS OF NATURAL LIGHT!! VERY SPECIAL!! SEE NOW!! PLEASE NOTE THE SIZE OF LOT!!
• MLS® C3508081

Acadia Bungalow
440 96 Avenue SE $374,900
• Three bedroom charming, well maintained bungalow in the heart of Acadia with refinished oak floors! Brand new upstairs 4 piece bathroom & soaker tub. Upstairs windows have been replaced! Newer furnace and recently installed soffits, fascia and leaf guards on both the house and garage! Single detached garage with new door and a good size private yard – hard to find at this affordable price! Close to schools, shopping and transportation! Beautiful curb appeal. Call today to view this lovely home and live close to amenities and with easy access to everything. Quick drive to downtown..
• MLS® C3506392

Coventry Hills
34 Coverton Circle NE SOLD
• This Coventry Hills home on a great corner lot is bright with lots of windows to let in the sun. You will enjoy the extra spacious living room and the vaulted ceilings throughout the main floor. Kitchen has maple cabinets, plenty of counter and cabinet space and an eating nook. The back door provides easy access to the garage, yard and space for your BBQ! This home shows very well! Fully developed basement has a huge L-shaped family room with some shelves and a corner gas fireplace, a big bedroom and a 3piece bath with oversized shower. The oversized (24′x24′) double garage will fit 2 vehicles and still allow for storage or a work area and there is still lots of room for street parking. Location has easy access to Deerfoot and all amenities – schools, shopping, movie theatres, Cardel Place. Shows very well! Call now to arrange a showing!
• MLS® C3508523

Deer Ridge Bi-Level with Detached Garage
587 Deerpath Court SE $329,900
• Located at entrance to quiet cul-de-sac across from a playground, this lovely bright bi-level is ready to move into! Single garage 14×22! Kitchen features an awesome raised granite eating bar that opens to living room, lots of cabinetry and full size pantry. Both bathrooms updated with Toto low flush toilets. Downstairs, a cozy gas stove helps warm the family room. Also a large computer room, a bedroom and 3 piece bath and laundry/furnace room enhance this roomy bi-level. Upgrades include upstairs windows, casings and baseboards and more. Covered/screened patio lets you enjoy late nights outdoors without the mosquitos and has a natural gas line for your BBQ. Phantom screen door! Sunny, west facing private back yard with room to play and for gardens. Lilac trees in the front and back yard! Deer Ridge has easy access to Deerfoot Trail, Anderson and Macleod Trail. Walk or bike to Fish Creek Park and Sikome Lake! Deer Valley Market Place is being extensively renovated – Enjoy a coffee at the new Starbucks!
• MLS® C3505391

Royal Oak 2 Storey Condo
21 Royal Crest View NW $329,900
• Two storey condo attached with double attached garage! Great location! Neutral colours and efficient floor plan. Entrance has high ceilings and is very spacious. Kitchen and eating nook with island overlooking lovely living/great room with gas fireplace is very nice and open. 2-piece bath on main with laundry facilities as well. Lots of windows allow tons of natural light. Upstairs has master bedroom with 4-piece ensuite bath and two other bedrooms and another 4-piece bathroom. Basement rough-in plumbing, great big windows and loads of room for future development. Public transportation close. Quick access to amenities and everything. Lovely complex! PETS allowed with board approval. YOUR OWN DOUBLE ATTACHED GARAGE AT THIS PRICE!! SUPER LIVING SPACE! Seller says sell now!! Take advantage of low interest rates and buy this now!!
• MLS® C3505987

Willlow Park 2 Bedroom Condo
#408 11010 Bonaventure Drive SE $181,500
• Great location across from Southcenter Mall, Fish Creek Library, Safeway, Trico Center which offers fitness, skating, children’s programs, child care and MUCH more. On Bus routes, close to LRT, coffee and specialty shops, major transportation routes and a quick drive to downtown. This two bedroom condo offers a cozy main floor with living, dining and kitchen charmingly decorated and lovely. Good location with a nearby courtyard and completely fenced yard. Two large living and master bedroom windows are newer, Fences in complex and unit roof shingles have been replaced making this a condo that has had some major projects completed. There have been some upgrades inside as well with an open kitchen which overlooks the living and dining rooms. Make this home! See today and enjoy life – you may even choose to park your car and take the bus or walk to amenities. The total registered size of this bi-level condo includes both above and below grade floors. 2 bedrooms are below grade.
• MLS® C3508136

Calgary Real Estate News – March 16, 2012