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ESPRESSOLD
By Annie & PaulaBusiness
ESPRESSOLD episodes
- 3 | What's 2025 Real Estate Looking Like?
Episode Overview
In this episode, we dive into the key insights from the Calgary Real Estate Board's (CREB) 2025 Housing Forecast and Alberta’s Economic Outlook for the year ahead. We’ll explore how economic trends, population shifts, and evolving market dynamics are shaping the housing market.Strong Housing Demand
- Alberta’s growing population, job gains, falling interest rates, and improved housing supply options are keeping housing demand above long-term averages.
- Despite slower migration and competition from newly built homes, home resales are projected to exceed 26,000 units—20% above long-term trends.
Market Segment Trends
- Rental Market
- Detached Homes
- Resale Listings
Price Growth Dynamics
- Higher-Priced Homes: Slower price growth due to competition from newly built luxury properties.
- Lower-Priced Homes: Stronger price growth fueled by steady demand and limited supply.
Overall Market Balance
- With increased inventory, the market is expected to stabilize, leading to more balanced price growth and absorption rates compared to the past three years.
Economic Strengths
- Energy Sector Growth: High energy prices, favorable exchange rates, and increased oil production (aided by the TMX pipeline) are fueling Alberta’s thriving economy.
- Population Growth: Rapid in-migration from other provinces and countries is boosting housing demand and construction.
- Economic Diversification: Investments in renewable energy, carbon capture, food production, and artificial intelligence are supporting growth.
Challenges & Opportunities
- Potential U.S. Tariffs: Could slow economic growth if implemented.
- Interest Rates: If the Bank of Canada lowers rates, Alberta could see a surge in economic activity and housing demand.
- Optimistic Projections: Without U.S. tariffs, Alberta’s economy could grow nearly twice as fast as current forecasts, further boosting migration and housing demand.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 real estate market and Alberta’s economy are poised for growth, though challenges like slower migration and potential U.S. tariffs may create headwinds. Even so, strong population growth, economic diversification, and improving market balance offer a positive outlook for the year ahead.Resources Mentioned:
- Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB) 2025 Forecast
- ATB Economics Projections
- Insights on Alberta's economic diversification efforts
Key Takeaways: CREB Housing Market Forecast 2025Economic Summary: Alberta in 2025
41 min - 2 | Five Signs You're Outgrowing Your Home
Description:
Feeling cramped or frustrated in your current home? In this episode, we cover the top signs your family has outgrown your space and share practical tips to make the move easier.Key Points:
- 5 signs it’s time to upsize.
- How to handle financial and emotional challenges.
Key Takeaways:
- Lack of space? Declutter first, but don’t ignore the signs that you might need a bigger home.
- Need more privacy? Growing families often require more rooms or dedicated spaces.
- Changing lifestyle? From hobbies to hosting, your home should match your current phase of life.
- Neighborhood not working? A move might be about more than just square footage—it’s about finding the right community.
39 min - 1 | The Real Estate Wealth Roadmap – From First Home to Financial Freedom
Happy 2025!
In this episode, we’re diving into how to turn your first home into the cornerstone of a wealth-building strategy. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, this episode will inspire you to think beyond just owning a home—it's about building financial freedom.
- Total Sales: 1,322
- Sales-to-List Price Ratio: 106.61% (Sellers Market)
- Months of Inventory: 2.3 (Sellers Market)
- Average Price: $605,074
➡ Calgary remains an affordable option compared to Vancouver or Toronto, offering great opportunities for first-time buyers.Buy Smart
- Target up-and-coming Calgary neighborhoods like Mahogany, Seton, and Montgomery.
- Consider properties with income potential, such as a basement suite or separate entrance.
House Hacking
- Rent out part of your home to offset your mortgage.
- Example: Secondary suites in Calgary can generate $800–$1,200/month, helping you build equity faster.
Leverage Your Equity
- Calgary's steady appreciation rates mean significant equity growth in just a few years.
- Use tools like a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) to invest in additional properties.
In 2018, clients purchased a home for $680,000. Over time, the home appreciated by $150,000. Using their equity, they purchased an investment property with rental income covering expenses plus $500/month. Their basement suite generates an additional $1,200/month. Now, they own two properties and are well on their way to financial freedom.
- Work with a Local Realtor: Gain insights into high-potential properties and rental markets.
- Understand Zoning Laws: Ensure compliance with Calgary's secondary suite regulations.
- Plan for Maintenance: Always budget for repairs and upkeep.
- Explore financing strategies like the Smith Manoeuvre, allowing you to write off interest paid on rental property loans.
Building wealth in real estate is about more than just buying a home. It’s about a long-term relationship with a knowledgeable real estate agent who understands your goals and can provide ongoing market insights, property evaluations, and strategic advice to maximize your investments.
51 min - 30 | BONUS: December Interest, Mortgage & Market Updates
What We Cover:
Interest Rate Update (Dec 11)
New Mortgage Rules (Effective Dec 15)
- 30-year amortization for first-time buyers.
- Higher income limits for insured mortgages.
- Easier stress test rules.
Calgary Blanket Rezoning Controversy
- City’s zoning changes to allow more multi-unit homes.
- Lawsuit challenges from community groups.
November 2024 Market Update (CREB)
- 45% increased inventory compared to last November
2025 Q1 Outlook
- Interest rate drop + mortgage changes = increased buyer activity.
- Prices likely stable or slightly higher.
- Sellers’ market expected to continue.
40 min - 29 | Planning for Real Estate Success in 2025: The Power of Intention Over Expectation
Episode Summary:
In this episode, we dive into a game-changing approach to planning your real estate journey for 2025. By focusing on intention—the things you can control—versus expectation—the external factors you can’t, you’ll be better prepared to navigate the ever-changing market with confidence. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, investor, or seller looking to upsize or downsize, this episode provides actionable, intentional strategies to help you achieve your goals.What You’ll Learn:
- Do a Personal Real Estate Audit – Take control of your finances by assessing your savings, credit, and debt-to-income ratio.
- Build Your Knowledge Bank – Educate yourself on interest rates, loan options, and market trends to stay empowered.
- Define Your Non-Negotiables – Identify your must-haves and nice-to-haves for a focused search.
- Understand Your Why – Clarify the purpose behind your move to guide intentional decision-making.
- Prep Your Home and Mind – Stage both your property and your mindset to embrace the next chapter.
- Time It with Your Goals – Align your move with personal readiness, not just market timing.
Key Takeaway:
In 2025, let your intentions guide your real estate journey, not external expectations. When you focus on what’s within your control, you’ll find clarity, confidence, and success in every step.Call to Action:
Enjoyed this episode? Share it with someone planning their 2025 real estate journey! Don’t forget to subscribe for more insights and strategies to help you live intentionally.41 min - 28 | Seasons of Change: Real Estate Trends, Personal Growth, and Reflections on 2024
Join us for a heartfelt and insightful conversation as we dive into the ups and downs of the 2024 real estate market, share personal and business highlights, and reflect on the lessons we've learned this year. Whether you're curious about seasonal market trends, looking for inspiration in balancing work and life, or just want to wrap up the year with us, this episode has something for everyone.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
Seasonal Real Estate Trends:
- How the market shifted throughout 2024.
- Key takeaways for buyers, sellers, and agents.
- Predictions for 2025 and tips to stay ahead.
Life and Business Catch-Up:
- Milestones we celebrated this year (both personal and professional!).
- Challenges we faced and how we overcame them.
- A peek behind the curtain of balancing family life and a busy real estate career.
28 min - 27 | Airing Out the Facts: Radon 101
Understanding Radon – A Homeowner’s Guide
Episode Overview:
We’re breaking down radon gas—what it is, why it’s a concern in Calgary and Canada, and how to protect your home and family with co-owner of Great West Radon, Dorothy Bewernick.Key Topics:
What is Radon?
A radioactive gas from soil and rock that can seep into homes, especially in airtight properties.Why It Matters:
Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Calgary’s climate and soil make it a particular risk.Testing for Radon:
- DIY kits vs. professional testing—what to consider.
- Best time to test: winter for accuracy.
- Test every 2 or 5 years or after renovations.
Mitigation:
- Sealing cracks and installing radon systems.
- Costs range from $1,500–$2,700.
- Check for available subsidies in Calgary.
Takeaway:
Radon is a silent risk, but regular testing and mitigation can keep your home safe. Tune in to learn how!LEARN MORE AT:
https://greatwestradon.com/Dorothy.47 min - 26 | Buyers - Leaning Into Leisure
Are you or someone you know looking for a real estate agent who truly understands your unique needs? Too often, clients end up with agents who push properties without fully understanding what’s important to them, creating unnecessary obstacles. Today, we’re discussing key areas every real estate agent should focus on to make your life easier—so you can focus on leisure, not logistics.
- Real estate success begins with understanding a client’s lifestyle, family structure, and priorities. For instance, we’ll talk about a client with multigenerational living needs who, due to poor advising, ended up in a row house far from his community and place of worship. This situation could have been avoided if the agent had conducted a thorough needs analysis at the outset.
- Buying a home is time-consuming, and it’s essential to know when your agent is available to fit into your busy schedule. We’ll discuss best practices for setting expectations around scheduling, to make the process as efficient as possible for you.
- An organized evaluation process makes all the difference. By using a well-structured Excel spreadsheet to calculate ROI and prioritize essential criteria, clients can clearly understand which properties are worth viewing. This saves time and ensures focus on properties that meet your goals.
- Before diving into house viewings, it’s vital to clarify representation agreements, deposit funds, and other important details. We’ll talk about how advanced planning by your agent—such as organizing inspections and financial discussions—can ease your mental load and keep you in the loop every step of the way.
- A great real estate agent should provide you with reference materials outlining the steps in the buying process. This helps you stay informed and ensures that the process remains smooth from start to finish.
- We’ll highlight essential questions to ask a potential realtor before you decide to work with them. Your real estate agent should prioritize understanding your needs, not delivering a sales pitch.
- We clarify what a buyer consultation should entail: it’s not a sales pitch but a fact-finding conversation where you, the client, lead the discussion.
If you’re ready to enjoy the home-buying process rather than feeling overwhelmed by it, listen in as we break down the steps to finding a real estate professional who’s dedicated to making life easier for you. Leaning Into Leisure is here to show you how to lean back while your agent handles the details.
31 min - 25 | Supersized Rate Cut Breakdown
Segment 1: Why the Jumbo Cut?
- Inflation in Canada has dropped significantly:
- The effect of deflation:
- Employment rates have worsened:
- Bottom line: The supersized rate cut aims to stimulate the market again, encouraging consumers to spend and businesses to invest.
Segment 2: Impact on Mortgage Payments
- For every $100,000 of mortgage, expect a $30/month reduction.
- Example: A $600K mortgage could save homeowners around $180 per month.
- Who benefits first?
- Long-term effects: It might take 1-1.5 years for the average consumer to fully feel the economic impact.
Segment 3: What if Your Mortgage is Up for Renewal?
- 2.2 million mortgages will be up for renewal between now and 2026 (5-year fixed rate holders).
- Best news for those renewing soon as interest rates drop.
Segment 4: What About Home Prices?
- Calgary housing market: Are prices at their peak, or will we see another rise due to increasing competition? This is a key question to watch.
- Next interest rate announcement: December 11—an important date to keep an eye on for further developments.
32 min - 24 | Fall Market Update 2024 SummaryA summary from CREB's Chief Economist, Ann-Marie from October 15, 2024 about the shift in this Fall Market.
Buyers Waiting for Rate Drops: Many buyers are holding off, waiting for interest rates to decrease—similar to how people wait for Black Friday sales.
Interprovincial Migration Boosting Market: There's a strong influx of people moving to Calgary from other parts of Alberta, supporting housing demand.
Impact of International Migration on Rentals: International migration is affecting the rental market first. Average rent in August 2024 was $2,049, a 2% decrease from August 2023.
Price Trends:
- Prices have risen since late 2020 and generally stayed elevated.
- Spring 2024 saw strong growth, likely a seasonal trend.
- Market conditions are not balanced yet but are shifting away from extreme seller-favorable conditions.
Spring Market Highlights:
- In Spring 2024, 70% of homes sold over list price, compared to a normal rate of 10%.
- Conditions are gradually normalizing, but balance will take several months (aiming for 3.5-4 months on market).
Overall Market:
- Despite some price drops, they don’t erase prior gains.
- There is still strong demand, especially in the lower price range, which remains a seller’s market.
- The market is transitioning towards more stability but is not fully balanced yet.
31 min
About ESPRESSOLD
From the publisher's feed
Join two seasoned Calgary and Area Realtors in the ESPRESSOLD podcast, where they dive into candid coffee conversations about the dynamic real estate market. From the latest trends to demystifying…
questions that may seem too intimidating or too small, this podcast offers valuable insights for both seasoned homeowners and first-time buyers. Get ready for a relaxed yet informative journey through the intricacies of real estate, bringing clarity to the complex and making the market more accessible for everyone.