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If you thought Calgary already felt like a big city, stay tuned for what the future holds.  Over the next 50-60 years, analysts are predicting that the population of Calgary will double.  In a city that already accommodates 1.15 million residents, this is an enormous growth projection over a relatively short period of time.  In the next five years alone, an estimated 100,000 people will move into Calgary.

So how will Calgary handle its rapid growth, and still maintain all the desirable qualities that make this city such a popular destination?  According to the Municipal Development Plan, we can expect to see a progressive expansion of the suburban areas that surround the downtown core.  Proper planning and infrastructure development is crucial in a growing city.  Building desirable housing on the outskirts of the city will prevent congestion and alleviate strain on the current infrastructure.  By the year 2069, city planners expect that at least 50% of the residents in Calgary will live in outlying suburban areas. 

Improving the transit system has also been a priority for the city of Calgary, and the benefits are already being enjoyed by the people who live here.  Creating convenient and affordable transportation options is the only way to convince people to park their cars, reduce emissions, and turn to public transit as a convenient way to travel to and from work.  The CTrain now services 44 stations that stretch as far north as Crowfoot and Saddletown, and as far south as Somerset-Bridlewood. 

Like many other growing cities in Canada, affordable housing is an important issue.  If you were born and raised in Calgary, there is no doubt that you have noticed house prices increasing steadily.  Even the flooding couldn’t dampen the appeal of our local market.  However, compared to all major cities like Toronto and Vancouver, Calgary is still considered to be an affordable city to own a home.  House prices are much lower, and on average, household incomes are higher.  Calgary is a fantastic place to live, work, and raise a family.  As long as the city can continue to keep up with the growing population, the future of Calgary is bright.

Are  you looking to Sell or Buy a home in Calgary and need someone who won’t rest until you’ve found your dream home or until your home is sold? I’ll work hard to earn your trust and to deliver exactly what you need. Contact me at 403-589-0004 or at TheHowardTeam.net.

About Bryon Howard

Bryon Howard and his team of Calgary real estate professionals sell an average of two homes a week. He is a member of the MLS Million Point Club, which ranks him roughly in the top 1% of productive realtors in Calgary. His aim is not just to please clients but to help them buy/sell a home in Calgary at the best price, in the shortest time, and with the least hassle. He is a member of the RE/MAX House of Real Estate that leads in the Canadian market. Learn more about Bryon at TheHowardTeam.net.

Buying your first home isn’t as glamorous as you may think.

We go over some common first time home buying disasters to help you know what you should watch out for.

It is important to be prepared as sometimes the unexpected can happen.

It’s best to be proactive in your home-buying journey, it does not come without challenges but with enough information, and the help of your Calgary Realtor, it can turn out to be an interesting & smooth journey to homeownership.

Learn what to do if you find yourself in a similar situation! http://ow.ly/ASCrP

Make your first time home buying experience a good one! There are some things you need to look out for to ensure your experience goes smoothly. It is important to do your homework and work with a great real estate agent. See more tips here! http://ow.ly/AxYvU

This video addresses lenders who are offering low interest rate mortgages. It explains that customers should be aware of other terms and conditions when agreeing to such mortgages to ensure they are receiving the same value. Examples of banks and lenders who have offered such deals are further investigated.

Peace Bridge
Courtesy of Jeff Whyte Photography

There is no doubt that 2014 has unfolded so far as a seller’s market in Calgary.  Here are the reasons why

• Inventory is low and homes are selling incredibly fast in Calgary Real Estate Market.
• The value of real estate continues to increase in major cities across Canada, and Calgary is certainly keeping up with the pack. People who are looking for homes need to be prepared to act quickly.
• With the reduced inventory of Calgary properties to choose from, it’s important to come forward with a serious offer to the seller; if you find the home that meets your needs and your budget.

Meanwhile, if the last few months have been any indication, it appears that inventory is slowly on the rise. Although it will take some time before we transition back into a buyer’s market, here are some tips to know:

• If you are thinking of buying this summer, mortgage rates are sitting at record lows for yet another season. This makes a tremendous difference in terms of affordability; it can save you thousands of dollars over the course of your mortgage.

• If you are thinking of buying in the next few months, it’s a good idea to speak to your Calgary mortgage broker and request a rate hold so you are ready to make a move when the right property comes on the market.

• Keep in mind, a rate hold doesn’t require any obligation on your part, but it does give you the ability to determine your monthly payments more accurately. Particularly if you are a first-time buyer, choosing a home that fits into a monthly budget that you are comfortable with is important to meet your short and long-term objectives.

• Whether you are planning on buying a home in Calgary, looking for your first investment property, or thinking of building the home of your dreams, you can make a decision with confidence. Calgary continues to a desirable and profitable place to invest.

This city has established itself on a strong foundation and the future is looking bright. So many people move to Calgary because they are looking for new opportunities.

Your next real estate opportunity could be just around the corner.

Are you looking to Sell or Buy a home in Calgary and need someone who won’t rest until you’ve found your dream home or until your home is sold? I’ll work hard to earn your trust and to deliver exactly what you need. Contact me at 403-589-0004 or at TheHowardTeam.net.

About Bryon Howard

Bryon Howard and his team of Calgary real estate professionals sell an average of two homes a week. He is a member of the MLS Million Point Club, which ranks him roughly in the top 1% of productive realtors in Calgary. His aim is not just to please clients but to help them buy/sell a home in Calgary at the best price, in the shortest time, and with the least hassle. He is a member of the RE/MAX House of Real Estate that leads in the Canadian market. Learn more about Bryon at TheHowardTeam.net.