Calgary Real Estate Insights & Community News

As we wrap up December 2025 and look toward the new year, the feeling in the Calgary real estate market is distinctly different from where we started.

If 2022 and 2023 were defined by "frenzy," and 2024 was a year of "adjustment," then 2025 was the year Calgary found its balance.

For those of us living and working in established SE communities like Lake Bonavista and Willow Park, this year brought a welcome return to normalcy—but "normal" has a new definition. Here is our summary of what happened in 2025, and our expert outlook for what homeowners can expect in 2026.

The 2025 Retrospective: The "Deep Breath"

We entered 2025 with questions about inventory and interest rates. We leave it with answers.

• Inventory Returned: After years of historic lows, 2025 saw listing numbers creep back up to healthy levels. Buyers finally had more than one house to choose from on a Saturday tour.

• The Return of Conditions: The most significant shift this year was the return of the "conditional offer." Financing and inspection conditions are back. In 2025, sold-as-is, unconditional offers became the exception, not the rule.

• Price Resilience: Despite more options for buyers, prices in desirable neighborhoods did not crash. They stabilized. In premium communities like Lake Bonavista, quality renovated homes continued to command strong value, proving that location truly is future-proof.

Looking Ahead: The 2026 Forecast

So, what does the crystal ball show for 2026? Based on the data trends we are tracking, we expect a year of "Predictable Stability."

1. The "Flight to Quality" Will Intensify In 2026, we anticipate that the gap between "turnkey" homes and "fixer-uppers" will widen. As construction costs remain high, buyers in 2026 will be willing to pay a premium for homes where the work (roof, windows, kitchen) is already done. If you are planning to sell in 2026, pre-listing prep will be your highest ROI activity.

2. A Balanced Spring Market We do not expect the chaotic "early spring" starts of previous years where the market exploded in February. Expect a traditional spring market that builds slowly in March and peaks in May. This gives sellers time to prepare without feeling rushed.

3. SE Calgary Remains a Stronghold While new construction on the city fringes faces stiff competition, land-locked communities with large lots (like ours in the South East) are becoming increasingly rare commodities. We predict 2026 will see renewed interest in "forever homes" in established neighborhoods as families look to settle down for the long haul.

Your Strategy for 2026

If you are thinking of making a move in the new year, leave the "2022 mindset" behind.

• Sellers: Patience and presentation are key. You cannot just put a sign on the lawn; you need a marketing strategy that highlights value.

• Buyers: You have the luxury of due diligence. Use it. 2026 is the year to find the right home, not just any home.

Thank you for trusting us with your real estate journey in 2025. Whether you are staying put or planning a change, we are here to help you navigate 2026 with confidence.

— Jeff & Shirley Mikolajow