Author: Katie OSullivan

Canmore: From Mining Town to Mountain Paradise

Posted on by Katie OSullivan

Three Sisters and the Bow River

Nestled amidst the breathtaking Canadian Rockies, Canmore is a picturesque town that exudes natural beauty and charm. While it may be known today as a world-class destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, Canmore has a fascinating history that dates back to its humble beginnings as a mining town. In this blog post, we will embark on a journey through time and delve into the captivating history of Canmore, from its early days as a coal-mining community to its transformation into a vibrant mountain paradise.

Coal Mining Origins

The history of Canmore can be tracked back to the 19th century when coal was discovered in the Bow Valley. The presence of coal in the Canmore area was known to Indigenous peoples long before European settlement. The coal deposits were first explored by European settlers in the late 1800s. The first coal mine in Canmore was established in 1887 by the Canadian Anthracite Coal Company. This led to the opening of several other mines including the Bankhead mine located northwest of Canmore. The opening of these mines attracted a wave of miners seeking employment, which evolved Canmore into a thriving mining community.

Life in the mining town

During its mining heyday, Canmore bustled with activity. The town was a close-knit community where miners and their families worked and lived together. Company houses, schools, and other amenities were established to cater to the growing population. The town’s rich multicultural fabric reflected the diverse backgrounds of its residents, who hailed from various parts of the world, including Scotland, Wales, Italy, and Eastern Europe.

The role of the Canmore mines

The opening of mines in Canmore was pivotal to the economy and population of the town as we know it today. The coal extracted from the mines was renowned for it’s exceptional quality. Anthracite is a hard and lustrous coal, and while difficult to ignite, it burns hot and with little smoke, making it ideal for generating steam. The coal extracted from the mines fueled the development of near by towns and was crucial for the expanding railway system. (rmoutlook.com)

Closure of the mines

Following the decline in demand for coal in the 20th century, the Canmore mines faced major challenges. After being bought and sold by numerous companies the last mine was closed in 1979. Leaving a town of people unemployed. Not a mining town anymore, Canmore went through a major transformation. The natural beauty surrounding the location of Canmore made it a desirable place for people to live and visit. This awe-inspiring landscape has transformed Canmore into an exhilarating playground, where adventure knows no bounds and the spirit of exploration thrives. With each summit reaching higher, the allure of this outdoor haven grows stronger, captivating the hearts and souls of those seeking to immerse themselves in the untamed beauty of nature’s grandest spectacle.

Winter Olympics

The winter months bring copious amounts of snow to Canmore and in 1988, Canmore hosted the Winter Olympics. This world tuned in to observe the best biathletes and skiers perform in the quaintness of Canmore, resulting in many being awestruck by its beauty. This publicity from the Olympics put Canmore on the map for wanderlust enthusiasts and trailblazers leading to increased visitors. The town had re-established itself as a top travel destination, once again becoming a prosperous desirable location for people to live, work and thrive.

Modern Canmore

Today, Canmore is a vibrant and thriving community that seamlessly blends its rich heritage with a modern mountain-town lifestyle. Its charming downtown area is adorned with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants, attracting both locals and tourists. The town continues to embrace its natural surroundings, offering a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and climbing.

Canmore’s history is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its community. From its humble beginnings as a coal-mining town to its transformation into a world-renowned tourist destination, Canmore has evolved while retaining its unique character and natural beauty. Exploring the town’s history allows us to appreciate the journey it has undertaken and the people who have shaped it into the beloved mountain paradise it is today.

Thinking of visiting Canmore? Click Here to learn about things to do in the area.

The Art of Keeping a House Organized

Posted on by Katie OSullivan

 

Tips for a Clutter-Free Home!

Living in the mountains means you have a multitude of equipment for all your adventures. This amassment of belongings can result in a cluttered space. The change of winter to summer is the perfect time to declutter and organize.

Maintaining an organized home is essential for creating a peaceful and functional living space. A well-organized house not only enhances productivity and reduces stress but also saves time and promotes a sense of well-being. While the task may seem overwhelming, with a few practical strategies and habits, you can transform your home into an oasis of orderliness. In this blog post, we will explore some effective tips and techniques to keep your house organized and clutter-free.

The most beneficial time to de clutter and organize is when you are doing your seasonal gear swap over. Put the skis, snowboards, and ice skates away and get your bike, canoes and hiking shoes dusted off for another season of fun and adventure. Use some of these simple but effective tips and kick start yourself into a stress free, fun loving summer.

  1. Declutter and Simplify: The first step towards an organized home is decluttering. Start by sorting through your belongings and getting rid of items you no longer use or need. Donate or sell things that are in good condition but serve no purpose in your life. Remember, less is more, and simplifying your possessions will make organizing a breeze.
  2. Establish a Routine: Maintaining a consistent routine is crucial for keeping your house organized. Set aside specific times for tidying up each room, doing laundry, and cleaning. By following a routine, you prevent clutter from accumulating and maintain a clean environment effortlessly.
  3. Embrace Smart Storage Solutions: Investing in practical storage solutions is a game-changer when it comes to organizing your house. Utilize storage containers, baskets, bins, and shelves to store items neatly and efficiently. Labeling containers will make it easier to find things when needed and ensure they are returned to their designated spots. The Rubbermaid stackable bins are great for getting all your belonging organized.
  4. One In, One Out Rule: Adopt the “one in, one out” rule to prevent unnecessary accumulation of belongings. Whenever you purchase a new item, make a conscious effort to remove a similar item to maintain balance. This practice not only helps control clutter but also encourages mindful consumption.
  5. Create Zones: Designate specific areas or zones for different activities within your home. For example, create a reading nook, a workspace, and a play area for children. Having dedicated zones makes it easier to keep things organized and prevents clutter from spreading throughout the house.
  6. Daily Maintenance: Incorporate daily maintenance habits into your routine to keep your home tidy. Simple tasks like making your bed, doing the dishes, and putting away items after use make a significant difference. By taking care of small tasks regularly, you avoid accumulation and maintain a clutter-free environment.
  7. Digital Organization: In today’s digital age, keeping your virtual spaces organized is just as important as physical spaces. Regularly declutter your digital files, delete unnecessary emails, and organize documents into folders. Utilize productivity apps and digital calendars to stay on top of tasks and appointments.
  8. Involve the Whole Family: Keeping a house organized is a collective effort. Involve your family members in the organization process and assign age-appropriate responsibilities. Teach children the importance of tidiness and establish organizing habits from a young age. By sharing the workload, you create a sense of ownership and foster an organized household.

Maintaining an organized home is an ongoing process, but the benefits far outweigh the effort involved. By decluttering, establishing routines, embracing smart storage solutions, and involving your family, you can create an organized haven that promotes a peaceful and stress-free lifestyle. Remember, an organized home is not only visually appealing but also enhances your overall well-being. If you start implementing even just one of  these tips today you will enjoy the rewards of a clutter-free and organized living space instantly.

 

Read more useful blogs about mountain living HERE.

June 2023 Newsletter

Posted on by Katie OSullivan

Summer starts with a continuation of low inventory and high demand!

As we enter the month of June, we are all just wowed by the spectacular weather which has allowed all of us such a great opportunity to jump right into all the outdoor fun that our Bow Valley affords.  I was out for a run the other day and ran past happy hikers, excited mountain bikers and wrapped up with the quiet paddle strokes of paddleboarders and a couple in a canoe.  Are we ever lucky to call this home.

April and May sales volume was comparable to the sales volumes we saw before 2016. We do attribute this to the incredibly low inventory. Since we have been keeping local statistics in the early 2000’s, the average listing inventory is more than double that of our current 106 listings on the market. When we note that almost 20% of these present listings are Hotel Condos (that did not exist back when we started) it does explain why many buyers are in a holding pattern waiting for the right home to become available.  Sales volume is still down from the last few years and is more in line with 2015.  With this in mind we are expecting to see steady sales volume but could increase when our inventory grows.

Now is still a great time to get your property on the market if that is something you are considering.  As always, we are happy to update you on where your property may sit in this new market to see if the time is right.

Lastly, we are never too busy for your referrals, we absolutely love helping friends and family of our past and current clients.

 

For more info and market stats: canmorerealestate.com/newsletter/

May 2023 Newsletter-Listing Inventory Staying Low Forcing Buyers To Be Patient!

Posted on by Katie OSullivan

With the beginning of May the trails are opening, and weather has been incredibly warm. Unfortunately, Alberta is experiencing wildfires especially up north however it was very close to home as a prescribed burn in Banff National Park got out of control but thankfully it was quickly brought back under control.  We are thankful for all the hard work fighting the fires and our thoughts are with those affected.

Our local market continues to have a substantial lack of inventory with the lowest number of active listings of any May on record. Comparing active listings, we are 46% lower than the average for May over the last 10 years. This lack of inventory is causing the number of buyers to build as many are waiting for the right property for them. When high demand properties are hitting the market, we are seeing multiple offers in some cases when we see a listing drop the price to a less aggressive asking price more in line with the market, we are also seeing multiple offers.

The number of sales is also down but that is directly related to inventory levels as well. The Average list to sale ratio (the percentage of the asking price that a property sells for) has is back above 99 percent which again can be related to the lack of inventory. Months of inventory is also showing the market to be a strong seller’s market less than 3 months of inventory.

If you have been thinking about selling or wondering how the last few years have affected your value, please let us know, we would love to connect and update you on your property and the current market.

 

See the full newsletter HERE

Another wonderful property sold! 201, 106 Stewart Creek Landing

Posted on by Katie OSullivan

Congratulations to all parties involved in the sale of this exceptional home. Located in the desirable neighborhood of Three Sisters, this property was not on the market for very long. 

The community takes its name from the nearby Three Sisters peaks, which are visible from the area. The district is designed to blend in with the natural environment and offer residents access to outdoor recreation opportunities, such as hiking, biking, skiing, and golfing. The community features a range of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums, as well as amenities such as parks, trails, and a community center.

This property boasts ultimate luxury in the spacious 1324 sqft 3 bedroom 2 bath condo in Serenity Ridge. In immaculate condition, you  immediately notice the high standards of quality, workmanship and attention to detail. The kitchen is a delight with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, large eating bar and undercounter lighting. The kitchen opens through to the dining and living room, all with wood floors. The living room features a fantastic gas fireplace with rundlestone surround and fir mantle and walks out to the first view deck.

The primary retreat master bedroom has a spa inspired 5 piece ensuite bath with a large shower and separate soaker tub. On the other side of the living space is the 2 additional bedrooms that are flooded with light and views with access to the 2nd deck off the 2nd bedroom. Other features include toe warming infloor heat, abundance of storage in the unit and in the parkade, 2 indoor parking stalls and access to an outdoor hot tub and firepit.

 

If a property like the one mentioned above appeals to you and your needs or if you have a property you would like to sell please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Check out our current listings here. 

Excellent News! 6, 717 7th Street is off the Market

Posted on by Katie OSullivan

Great news! We’re excited to announce that the property located at 6, 717 7th Street, Canmore has been sold. This beautiful piece of real estate has found a new owner, and we extend our warmest congratulations to the parties involved in the successful sale.

The property at 6, 717 7th Street, Canmore is a stunning piece of real estate that offers a prime location in the heart of Canmore, a picturesque town nestled in the Canadian Rockies. With its breathtaking mountain views, proximity to outdoor recreational activities, and charming small-town atmosphere, Canmore is a highly sought-after destination for both residents and tourists alike.

The property boasts numerous features that likely contributed to its successful sale, such as its modern design, spacious layout, and convenient location. Whether it’s being used as a primary residence, a vacation home, or an investment property, the new owners are sure to enjoy all that this property has to offer.

We would like to express our gratitude to all parties involved in the sale, including the buyers, sellers, and any real estate professionals who were instrumental in facilitating the transaction. It’s a testament to the thriving real estate market in Canmore and the desirability of properties in this area.

As the Canmore real estate market continues to evolve, we remain committed to providing exceptional service to our clients and helping them achieve their real estate goals. If you’re considering buying or selling property in Canmore or the surrounding area, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for expert assistance. We look forward to assisting you with all of your real estate needs.

More information: canmorerealestate.com/featured-listing/6-717-7th-street/

Congratulations! 114 Rundle Road in Canmore Sold!

Posted on by Katie OSullivan

We are thrilled to share the exciting news that the beautiful property located at 114 Rundle Road in Harvie Heights has been sold! This stunning home, nestled in the breathtaking Canadian Rockies, has found its new owner, and we couldn’t be happier for all parties involved.

The seclusion and privacy will inspire you in this Harvie Heights property with a lot that is over a quarter acre. Perfect for either full time use or as your mountain escape this 2+ bedroom, 2 bath home features plenty of storage in the home along with an oversized heated single car garage and large shed.

As you enter the home you are pulled from the entry through to the open living space with large windows bringing in the light and sun. The living room features a wood burning fireplace which flows to the dining area and kitchen with large eating bar.

Also on this level is a three piece bath. Upstairs is the primary retreat with recently updated four piece ensuite bath, walk in closet and a second closet. The lower level has the second bedroom along with an office or potential third bedroom, laundry room and storage/utility space. Enjoy the peace and tranquility of the wrap around deck as the home is surrounded by the forest and mountains.

The outdoor space of this property is equally impressive. With a large deck, a fenced backyard, it’s a perfect oasis for outdoor enthusiasts and those who appreciate the beauty of nature.

Canmore is a renowned mountain town in Alberta, Canada, known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and vibrant community. This town is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with its close proximity to Banff National Park, numerous hiking and biking trails, and world-class skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. Canmore also offers a thriving arts and culture scene, with galleries, theaters, and festivals throughout the year.

The sale of 114 Rundle Road is a testament to the strong demand for quality properties in Canmore’s real estate market. The picturesque location, modern features, and outdoor lifestyle that Canmore offers make it an attractive destination for buyers seeking an exceptional mountain living experience.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the new owner of 114 Rundle Road in Canmore, as well as to the sellers and all parties involved in the successful sale. We wish the new owners many wonderful memories in their new home and hope they enjoy all the beauty and lifestyle that Canmore has to offer.

Thank you for joining us in celebrating this exciting news. Stay tuned for more updates and news about the Canmore real estate market!

More info: canmorerealestate.com/featured-listing/114-rundle-road/

April 2023 Newsletter -With The Arrival Of Spring Will Listing Inventory Continue to Rise From The Sustained Lows of The Last 4 Months

Posted on by Katie OSullivan

With The Arrival Of Spring Will Listing Inventory Continue to Rise From The Sustained Lows of The Last 4 Months

The first quarter of 2023 has just passed and Spring has arrived! While the winter ski season was not what we have been used to, bluebird days make the spring skiing spectacular. Spring is always an amazing time in Canmore and Banff as the snow on the mountains combined with warm blue skies makes for picture perfect days. With the pathways and trails beginning to dry out we start to think about putting the skis away and breaking out our hiking boots, runners and mountain/road bikes, as we move into a late Spring and look forward to another stunning Summer in Canmore and Banff. Only 5 years ago, pre covid we were talking about a rare balanced market which has not been the case since 2020.

 

Our listing inventory is still incredibly low so high demand and prices continue to draw plenty of interest when priced correctly.  Buyers do not have as much urgency as they did during the pandemic but the drive and commitment to buyer something is still strong.  Our months of inventory calculation is another good measurement of how the market is doing and the rule of thumb historically is that 6 months of inventory is close to a balanced market.  As an example in 2019 the average Months of inventory** was 5.5 yet the average for the first quarter of 2023 is 3.5.

 

In regards to pricing the first quarter saw more activity in the lower price ranges and as we are starting to see new listings come on to the market we expect to see sale prices steady with a slight rise in 2023.  As an example last year we did not see the listing inventory rise much until June through August and while we are tracking to be a little ahead of that we have typically seen the market rise in March/April.

 

As always thank you for choosing us in your buying and selling and should you know of anyone else who may be interested in buying or selling please let us know we are never too busy for your referrals. Lastly, we are here to help you or anyone you know for all your real estate needs.

**Months of inventory is a calculation on the numbers of months it would take to sell all the currently listings with no new inventory coming to Market based on number of past sales**

March 2023 Newsletter -February Sales Were Up…. Depending How You Look At It.

Posted on by Katie OSullivan

The title may not be what you were expecting however the numbers are interesting when you dig deeper.  If we remove the last three record breaking years we see the number of sales in February being 8% higher than the average number of sales for the 5 years before covid.  What makes this more surprising is that we still had that many sales with listing inventory to start the month 55% lower than those same 5 years prior to covid.  In almost all years we see the listing inventory starting to rise through February but this year it stayed exactly the same.  That could definitely be a function of the lack of inventory however new listings hitting the market in February 2023 is down by 23%. As we start to transition from our winter to our spring market we do expect more listing’s to come to market however with the lack of supply we have been experiencing we do have many buyers that are waiting for the right property so it does look like the lack of inventory will continue through the spring market.

During the less active months like February we do see more swing’s in the statistics with less quantity of data.  As an example only 2 single family homes sold, the data does not reflect the current market.  Next month we will do our first quarterly newsletter of the year which is a much better foray into a more overall outlook.

As you can see above, if you are thinking of selling your home now may just be the perfect time. We would love to get together to go over all of this and how it will relate to you and your property.

We are excited to help you with your real estate needs today or in the future. If you know someone who is looking to buy or sell please give us a call, we are never too busy for your referrals!

For over 20 year we have supported the YWCA Banff and Bow Valley Victim Services to help eradicate abuse all a part of our long term commitment to the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation. During this time we have realised over $85,000 here in the valley in financial support for this worthy cause and we are looking for more help from you.  YWCA Banff remains committed to shaping a safe and inclusive Bow Valley that empowers women and their communities for a better future. With limited revenues from the hotel and uncertainty of government funding since the onset of the pandemic, as well as significant increases to the demand for our services, the YWCA Banff needs support more than ever.

We encourage you to take some time to check out the VINEart Gala and Silent Auction which takes place on March 18th. Bidding on silent auction items will also close on March 18th.

Proceeds from the VINEart Gala help all those accessing our YWCA services, including women and families across the Bow Valley to build their own thriving futures, free from violence.

Read the full Newsletter HERE

Canmore’s Diverse Community Events!

Posted on by Katie OSullivan

If your new to the Canmore, you will quickly realize that the community is all about supporting local, appreciating arts and creativity, and enjoying the outdoors. Living here, you cannot help but find yourself captivated by the multitude of events that happen throughout the year. Whether it’s a -40 day in winter or a +40 day in summer there is almost always something to occupy yourself with in Canmore.

The ‘Great White North’ rings true to its name:

No better way to start the year than with a New Years Eve party. Each year the Town of Canmore put on a NYE event, Ring it in at the Rink. This event caters to all ages with ice skating, live music, DJ’s, crafts, and fireworks at midnight. NYE at the Rink is a fun family friendly event that gets everyone in a positive mindset for the year to come.

Once the excitement of NYE is over and February approaches its time for another community-based event, Canmore Winter Carnival. Living in Canmore you quickly discover a love of winter. Being in such close proximity to four Ski hills, the Nordic center and ice-skating rinks, it’s hard to imagine living anywhere else. The Canmore Winter Festival is a celebration of all things winter. It happens every year in mid-February. There are multiple events, ice carving, Axe throwing, Biathlon demonstrations and log saw challenges, to name a few. The creative talent in this town is outstanding and the ice carvings are not to be missed.

Spring Has Sprung:

As the temperature increases so does the ambiance in town. Spring skiing emits a different kind of energy. There is a buzz in the air, the trees are turning green, and the vast array of local wildflowers are starting to creep out. With this energy comes a new human, one that has hidden the amongst the locals for months. Disguising themselves as a skier, ice skater, climber, you name it they have tried it. Who is the illusive human? That would be the mountain biker. Canmore has a massive biking community. Whether its road, town, or mountain bike, once the first tree starts budding (sometimes even before) you will start to see peddles being pushed.

As we start to see bikers, we know that Canada Day is just around the corner. There is a free pancake breakfast hosted by the Rotary Club and a parade on Main Street throughout the day.  That evening there is a firework display at around 10pm. It is always a great day out for people of all ages.

Sweet Melodic Summer:

 

One of Canmore’s biggest events each year is Folk Fest. Happening on the Heritage Day weekend in august, it is the perfect mid-summer celebration of music, with open air concerts and some wonderful musicians from all over Canada. Located mainly in Centennial Park it is lovely to see the town bustling with jingles in the air.

Canmore derives form the Gaelic word ‘Ceann Mór’ meaning Big Head. As with many Canadian towns, Canmore has a lot of Gaelic and Celtic influences. In early September Canmore host a highland games celebration. Scottish music, a wonderful British car show, tug-o-war competitions, heavy sports games  and of course a Cèilidh (Traditional Scottish gathering with music, dancing and story telling) are just some of the astonishing events over this weekend.

As the Leaves Turn:

We start to get into the fall colors not long after the highland games and Larch season is not one to be missed. As the trees start to change the larch trees are radiant with wonderful shades of yellow and amber which really pop against the mountainous greys and greens of the valley.  A vast amount of people come to visit to experience this beauty. We recommend a hike through larch valley in September, you will be in awe at the beauty of fall, it truly is breathtaking.

As the snow starts to trickle, ski season creeps back in and before you know it you will be on the slopes with some of Canada’s best snow at your fingertips.

Christmas in Canmore is magical, it really feels like you step into a Hallmark movie. The atmosphere around town is infectious, the lights, decorations and snow really make for a picture-perfect Christmas setting. The craft markets at this time of year are the perfect place to pick up extra special hand-crafted local gifts for your loved ones.

Whether you enjoy skiing in the winter, or relaxing in lakes in the summer, Canmore has something for you. This town is a vibrant, active, and social hub hidden right at the edge of the mountains. Just over an hour from Calgary international airport, Canmore is easily accessible and the perfect quaint mountain town to call home.

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