If you have been following the headlines, you know the story of the last few years: bidding wars, zero conditions, and a frantic pace. But as we move from 2025 into 2026, the narrative has changed.
The "frenzy" is behind us, and we have entered a period of balance.
For homeowners in established communities like Lake Bonavista and Willow Park, this shift brings both opportunities and new rules of engagement. Here is exactly what is happening in the Calgary market right now, and what it means for your 2025 real estate goals.
The 2025 Shift: By The Numbers
The most distinct change we are seeing this year is in inventory. Across Calgary, active listings have risen significantly compared to the lows of 2023-2024.
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Inventory Levels: We are seeing inventory levels hover around 30-35% higher than this time last year.
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The "Balanced" Signal: The Sales-to-New-Listings Ratio (a key metric for measuring demand) has settled into the 50-60% range. This is the definition of a balanced market—neither the buyer nor the seller holds all the cards.
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Price Stability: While some sectors (specifically condos and row homes) are seeing price adjustments due to a flood of new supply, detached homes in desirable SE communities such as Willow Park and Lake Bonavista are proving resilient. Prices aren't skyrocketing like they did in 2022, but they aren't crashing either. They are stabilizing.
What This Means for Lake Bonavista Sellers
Lake Bonavista has always been a "micro-market" of its own. Because lifestyle communities (lake access, mature trees, great schools) are finite resources, they insulate sellers from some of the volatility seen in new-build suburbs.
However, the "24-hour sale" is no longer the standard - and shouldn't be expected.
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Days on Market (DOM): Expect homes to sit for 30 to 45 days rather than a single weekend. This is normal in a balanced market.
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Condition of Property: In 2025, buyers are pickier. They have more choices. A home with updated mechanicals (furnace, windows) or a modernized kitchen will significantly outperform a "fixer-upper" right now.
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Pricing Strategy: Overpricing in 2025 results in stagnation. The most successful sellers this quarter are those who price accurately from day one, rather than "testing the market" with an inflated number.
The Opportunity for Move-Up Buyers
If you have been thinking of upsizing—perhaps moving from a townhouse to a detached home in Lake Bonavista—2026 might be your "Goldilocks" year. Why? Because the gap is closing. The townhouse/condo market is softer, yes, but the detached market has also cooled its jets. You have the luxury of time to shop, the ability to include inspection conditions in your offer, and less fear of competing against 15 other offers.
The Bottom Line
2026 is not a year for panic; it is a year for strategy. The market is healthy, but it rewards preparation over speed.
Are you curious what your home would list for in today's balanced market? We don't just give you a number; we give you a strategy.
Contact Jeff & Shirley Mikolajow today to discuss your 2026 plans.
- All Listings
- Under $100,000
- $200,000 - $300,000
- $300,000 - $400,000
- $500,000 - $600,000
- $800,000 - $900,000
- $900,000 - $1,000,000
- Over $1,000,000
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