As we move into the winter months, I’m seeing our market shift in a way that’s very typical for this time of year. Activity has slowed slightly across the board — sales, new listings, and inventory have all pulled back compared to October. In November, we recorded 1,553 sales and 2,251 new listings, which pushed the sales-to-new-listings ratio to 69%. While this helped ease some inventory pressure, we still ended the month with 5,581 active listings — which is 28% higher than last year and about 15% higher than what we usually see in November.

Over the past few months, supply has consistently been sitting above typical levels, mostly due to growth in higher-density housing — our row and apartment segments. Much of this additional choice is connected to Calgary’s strong new-build sector, where some properties eventually make their way to the resale market, especially late in the year. Because of this, conditions in the apartment market — and to a lesser extent the row market — have leaned more toward a buyer’s market. In contrast, the detached and semi-detached markets remain relatively balanced, aside from a few pockets experiencing heavier competition from new construction.

Not surprisingly, this extra supply is having the biggest impact on pricing in the apartment and row sectors. Year-over-year, apartment prices are down 7% and row prices are down 6%. Detached home prices have eased by about 2%compared to last November, but they still sit above last year when we look at year-to-date numbers. Our total residential benchmark price for November came in at $559,000, nearly 5% lower than the same month last year.

Detached Market

In the detached segment, November saw 823 sales, just slightly below last year and still within normal activity for the month. New listings did pull back, which helped soften inventory compared to October, but we’re still sitting well above last year’s very low supply levels. Overall, supply is now more aligned with long-term norms, and months of supply continues to hover around three months — a sign of balanced conditions.

Prices did trend down month-over-month due to seasonal patterns. The detached benchmark for November came in at $733,000, nearly 2% lower than last November. But when we step back and look at the year-to-date picture, detached prices remain 1% higher than they were at this time last year. The majority of downward pressure is concentrated in the North East, North, and East districts, where competition from new builds is especially strong.

Semi-Detached Market

Semi-detached sales this month were consistent with last year and still well above long-term averages. However, with new listings higher than typical, inventory climbed to its highest November level in five years. Months of supply has now stayed above three months for three consecutive periods, bringing this segment into more balanced territory.

The benchmark price for semi-detached homes eased slightly this month to $671,700, but remained stable year-over-year. So far this year, this segment has shown the strongest price growth at nearly 3%, with the City Centre leading the way with a 4% increase, helping offset small declines in the North district.

Row Homes

Row home sales eased to 257 units this month — still above long-term trends, but lower than last year’s record-high November. What’s standing out here is supply: even though new listings were similar to last year and inventory followed a normal seasonal dip, we’re still sitting at the highest November inventory levels since 2018. This extra supply has kept months of supply slightly elevated for several months now and is placing pressure on pricing.

The row benchmark price for November was $424,400, down month-over-month and over 6% lower than last year. Year-to-date, row prices have dipped nearly 2%, with some of that decline driven by ongoing supply gains rather than just seasonal slowdown.

Apartment Condominiums

The apartment market continues to face the most significant supply challenges. November sales dropped to long-term norms, but new listings stayed elevated, and inventory reached a record high for the month of November. Months of supply is now hovering close to six months, and has been above four months since summer — firmly placing this segment in buyer-friendly conditions.

As a result, pricing has been adjusting for several months. November’s apartment benchmark price was $309,300, which is 7% lower than last year. Year-to-date, prices are down just over 2%, with the North East experiencing the largest pullback at nearly 5%. The only district where prices held flat this year was the West.

Regional Highlights

Airdrie

Airdrie is following typical seasonal patterns with sales, new listings, and inventory all easing month-over-month. Both sales and listings remained in line with long-term norms, but earlier inventory gains have carried through, leaving supply elevated for November. A growing number of newer homes hitting the resale market is part of the reason behind this. Prices have felt some of this pressure, and year-to-date detached benchmark prices are now sitting nearly 1% below last year — though still far above where they were several years ago.

Cochrane

Cochrane saw a seasonal pullback in new listings this month, but even with that, November still reached a record high for new listings. Sales remain strong for November, but not at a level that could offset the rise in supply. Inventory is now at its highest November point since 2018. Some of this activity is tied to new homes being listed on the resale market. Despite the recent supply gains, year-to-date detached prices remain almost 2% higher than last year.

Okotoks

Okotoks stood out this month with sales actually increasing compared to last month and holding steady with last year. This is likely connected to higher new-listing activity in both October and November, giving buyers more options. While inventory has trended up recently, it still sits well below long-term averages, keeping market conditions relatively tight. Prices have seen some minor seasonal adjustments, but overall, year-to-date prices across every property type remain higher than last year.

Selling your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming — in fact, with the right preparation, it can be an empowering and exciting experience. W0e’ve seen firsthand how small, thoughtful changes can make a big impact on buyer interest and final sale price.

Whether you're preparing to list soon or simply planning ahead, here are five proven strategies to help your home shine in today’s market.

1. Declutter & Depersonalize

Buyers need to be able to picture themselves living in your home, and that’s easier when the space feels clean, open, and neutral.
A few quick ways to get started:

• Pack away personal photos and keepsakes

• Store away items you don’t use daily to create more breathing room

• Clear countertops and surfaces to make each room feel larger and more functional

A simplified space helps buyers focus on the home — not the belongings inside it.

2. Deep Clean for a Fresh Start

Nothing says “well cared for” like a sparkling-clean home. A deep clean is one of the most cost-effective steps you can take before selling.
Be sure to:

• Wash windows to enhance natural light

• Deep clean carpets, floors, and grout

• Dust fans, light fixtures, doors, and trim

• Pay special attention to often-missed details like vents and baseboards

A spotless home sets the tone for a positive showing experience from the moment buyers walk through the door.

3. Highlight Your Home’s Best Features

Every home has standout elements — your job is to let them shine!
Consider:

• Positioning a cozy chair or décor around a fireplace to draw attention

• Opening up spaces to emphasize flow and architectural features like built-ins

• Adding simple pops of colour through pillows, blankets, or fresh flowers

Thoughtful staging brings your home’s story to life and helps buyers feel its full potential.

4. Let There Be Light

Lighting plays a huge role in how inviting a home feels. Aim to make every room bright, warm, and welcoming.
Try:

• Opening all blinds and curtains to maximize natural light

• Replacing burnt-out bulbs and using consistent colour temperatures

• Adding floor or table lamps to soften shadowed areas

Bright spaces photograph better — and show even better in person.

5. Stage Each Room with Purpose

Buyers appreciate clarity, so make sure each room communicates its intended use.
Ideas:

• Transform an unused nook into a home office or reading corner

• Remove items that distract from the room’s purpose (like gym gear in a bedroom)

• Dress beds with crisp linens and plump pillows for a hotel-inspired feel

Purposeful staging shows buyers how every inch of your home can be enjoyed.

Bonus Tip: First Impressions Matter

Curb appeal sets the tone before buyers even step inside. A few quick updates can make a lasting impact:

• Power wash the walkway or driveway

• Add a clean welcome mat

• Place potted plants or seasonal décor near the entrance

A warm, inviting exterior encourages buyers to walk in with confidence and excitement.

Ready to Sell? We’re Here to Help.

By following these five simple strategies, you’ll create a listing that stands out and captures the attention of motivated buyers. If you’re thinking about selling or want advice tailored to your home, we’d love to guide you every step of the way.

Keeping your home looking its best is one of the simplest ways to protect its value whether you're preparing to sell soon or just want to enjoy a sparkling space every day. One of the most common issues we see in Calgary homes is hard water stains. Our mineral-rich water leaves behind chalky buildup on faucets, sinks, glass shower doors, and stainless steel appliances.

The good news? You don’t need harsh chemicals or expensive cleaners to tackle them. With a few eco-friendly household ingredients, you can restore shine to your surfaces safely, naturally, and inexpensively.

Below, we’ve rounded up our favourite realtor-approved, environmentally conscious methods to remove hard water stains and keep your home show-ready.

What Exactly Are Hard Water Stains?

Hard water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium. When water evaporates, these minerals remain behind, leaving cloudy white spots or streaks—especially noticeable on shiny or reflective surfaces.

You'll most commonly find them on:

• Stainless steel appliances

• Faucets and showerheads

• Sink basins

• Glass shower doors

• Toilets

• Tile and porcelain surfaces

These stains can dull the look of a home, but the right natural cleaners make restoring shine easy.

Eco-Friendly Methods to Remove Hard Water Stains

These safe, sustainable cleaning methods use simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen—perfect for homeowners who want a greener clean.

1. Vinegar & Water Spray (A Classic Go-To)

Why it Works:
Vinegar’s mild acidity dissolves mineral buildup without damaging most surfaces.

What You’ll Need:

• White vinegar

• Water

• Spray bottle

• Microfiber cloth

How To Use It:

1. Mix equal parts vinegar and water.

2. Spray onto the stained area.

3. Let sit 5–10 minutes.

4. Wipe with a microfiber cloth and rinse clean.

Perfect for faucets, sinks, showerheads, and stainless steel.

2. Baking Soda Paste for Gentle Scrubbing

Why it Works:
Baking soda is lightly abrasive, making it excellent for scrubbing without scratching.

What You’ll Need:

• Baking soda

• Water

• Sponge or cloth

How To Use It:

1. Mix baking soda with water into a paste.

2. Apply to the stain and sit 10–15 minutes.

3. Scrub gently.

4. Rinse and dry.

Great for tubs, sinks, and stainless steel finishes.

3. Lemon Juice & Baking Soda for Deep Cleaning

Why it Works:
Lemon juice’s natural acidity breaks down mineral deposits, while baking soda boosts the scrubbing power.

How To Use It:

1. Apply lemon juice to the stain.

2. Sprinkle baking soda on top.

3. Let bubble for 5–10 minutes.

4. Scrub and rinse.

Works well on stainless steel, porcelain, and glass.

4. Cream of Tartar for Stainless Steel Shine

Why it Works:
This gentle acidic powder helps lift mineral residue without scratching delicate surfaces.

How To Use It:

1. Mix cream of tartar and water into a paste.

2. Apply, sit for 10–15 minutes, and gently scrub.

3. Rinse and dry fully.

A fantastic option for keeping appliances showing their best.

5. Citric Acid for Stubborn, Set-In Stains

Why it Works:
Citric acid is highly effective for dissolving tough calcium and lime buildup.

How To Use It:

1. Mix citric acid powder with warm water.

2. Apply and let sit 10–15 minutes.

3. Scrub, rinse, and dry.

Perfect for shower doors and heavy-scale areas.

Preventing Hard Water Stains Before They Form

A little maintenance goes a long way especially if you're preparing your home for market. Try these quick habits:

• Wipe down wet surfaces with a microfiber cloth after use.

• Use a squeegee on glass shower doors daily.

• Install a water softener to reduce mineral content long-term.

• Clean regularly with vinegar or lemon to prevent buildup.

These small steps help keep your home sparkling and photo-ready for showings.

Final Thoughts

Hard water stains are a common challenge in many Calgary homes, but they don’t have to dull your space. By using simple, eco-friendly cleaning methods—vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, cream of tartar, and citric acid—you can restore shine to your stainless steel and bathroom surfaces without harsh chemicals.

Whether you’re maintaining your home for personal enjoyment or prepping it for potential buyers, these natural cleaning solutions help keep your home looking its absolute best.

If you ever need advice on preparing your home for sale or want personalized tips to improve your home’s value—we’re always here to help!