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Canmore: A Nature Photographers Dream

Posted on by Katie OSullivan

Are you aspiring to be a nature photographer? Wanting to perfect what you have learned? A professional in the industry? Canmore has everything you need to grow as a shutterbug. With vast mountainscapes, contrasting vibrant colors and flowing rivers, you will never run out of creative inspiration. The scenery in Canmore changes season to season which inspires people’s innovative side. Spring sparkles with thriving wildflowers, summer boasts lush greens and coruscating teals,  fall introduces radiant ambers and winter shines with bright white and conflicting sky blues. Join us for this season to season breakdown of what to expect when capturing the perfect shot in the mountains.

Summers Alpine Glow:

The days grow longer in summer, giving photographers an awe-inspiring lengthy window of sun soaked peaks to capture. The mountain tops glow bright pinks, oranges and reds in response to the sunrise (usually between 5am and 6:30am).  Many photographers take this opportunity to head down to Policeman’s Creek and try their hand at getting the perfect alpine glow shot of the Three Sisters. Into the late evening, as the day draws to an end, a different opportunity arises. The ombre effects of the night sky creeping in, casting a shadow over the Bow Valley. Getting off the Valley bottom is a great option to seize the perfect image. Take an evening hike up Ha-Ling Peak to watch the sunset but be sure to have a headlamp, bear spray and know your route.

Fall Delivers a lot More than Pumpkin Spice Lattes:

Contrasting colors is what fall is all about and Canmore does not lack in its fall offerings. Although mostly surrounded by evergreen trees, Larch trees are hidden in sporadic pockets around the Valley. Due to being deciduous conifers, when the weather cools in fall, the needles on the larch trees transform the valley views into a golden opportunity for photographers. Heading outside of town to some of the more densely populated larch forests is a highly suggested. Larch Valley, located near Lake Louise is the ideal place to capture this phenomenon. The backdrop of the mountains set off against the greens and yellows of the forest leads to dramatic and vivid snaps that will leave you wanting more.

 Brrr-illiant White Snow as Fall Comes to an End:

Winter in Canmore is the adventure lovers dream. Between skiing, snowboarding and ice skating, not to mention all the other winter sports, there is rarely time to rest. If adventure photography is your passion, there will be an abundance of moments to capture. The everchanging environment progresses with the temperature fluctuations throughout winter. This means that having your camera at hand is a must for all your winter excursions. Head to the slopes to snap some epic action shots. Grab some xc ski’s, book into a backcountry hut and glide your way to some awe-inspiring locations. Even just going for a wonder around town will produce some breathtaking photos.

Spring Serenity and Mountain Blooms:

The warmer weather brings a new found energy for all living things in the Valley. The bears are awakening to blossoming meadows, budding trees and a warm breeze. Spring is a great time to work on your wildlife photography. The season brings a whole new lease of life to your capturing opportunities. Take a drive down the Bow Valley Parkway from Banff to Lake Louise and you will be sure to see some awesome landscapes and potentially some of the astounding wildlife. Moraine Lake has gained its popularity in recent years as a great spot to snap the sunrise. Be sure to take time to appreciate the moodier weather that comes with spring. The perfect time to take advantage of some low lying clouds, grey skies and puddle reflection’s.

The landscapes of the Bow Valley are a never ending blank canvas for photographers. No matter the season, you will be sure to find an incredible moment to capture through the lens. The changing seasons bring completely new inspiration to the aspiring cameraman. Whether you are here for a quick visit or you live long term in the Valley you will never tire of venturing out with  your trusty camera at hand.

Check out our blog on Canmore’s History to learn more about this mazing mountain town.

 

August 2023 Newsletter-Low Inventory continues into August.. Will the rest of the year bring us closer to a balanced market?

Posted on by Katie OSullivan

As I am writing this, I can hear the music at the Canmore Folk Music Festival in the background.  It is so amazing that our local festival is the longest running folk music festival in Alberta starting in 1978. I feel like a broken record with the message of a continuing lack of inventory. Over the last five months, our listing inventory has only deviated from the average by at most 6.5%.  It is this lack of inventory that has slowed down the number of sales as the buyers do not have much for choice, so we are seeing some buyers expand their parameters of what they are looking for while others are just being patient as they wait for that ‘right’ property to be available.

The data for July is skewed as over half of the sales and close to half of the new listings were just reported sales that happened previously at a new hotel condo development that is under construction to be completed in 2026.  If we remove those added properties our months of supply is 2.43 for the entire market which continues that trend of a sellers market (a months of inventory between 4-6 is often referred to as a balanced market) Last year at this time we had expected a rise in inventory which did occur but it was not sustained as the pent up demand worked quickly through those listings bringing the inventory through the winter at the 2nd lowest on record (only behind 2 months the previous year)

We do continue to expect more listings to come on through August, September and October but will it be enough to move the market to be more in balance. That will take a substantial increase as we continue to have buyers waiting on the sidelines for that right property to come to market.

We hope you have enjoyed your summer to this point and the remaining summer is amazing!  We are here to help with all your real estate needs and are never too busy for your referrals. Thank you!

**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**

 

To read the full Blog and access graphs click HERE.

Pawsitively Perfect: Exploring Canmore’s Canine Haven

Posted on by Katie OSullivan

 

Thinking of bringing your canine friend along with you to the Rockies? Fret not, in this blog post, we’ll embark on an unforgettable journey through Canmore, uncovering the many reasons why dogs and their owners find this town a truly pawsitively perfect destination.

Leash Your Mind: Unless Signage Rewinds

The town of Canmore has strict dog leashing rules and its important to follow them. The community prides itself in being accessible for all. Including our furry friends. In order to maintain this we all need to follow the rules. This limits the amount of dog fights and negative dog- human interactions. The town is thriving, meaning there are people from all walks of life here. Respecting the leash rules makes it a comfortable experience for everyone. In saying that, there are multiple off leash areas where your dog can run free and enjoy the mountains as much as  you will.

Boundless Bark Park: Unleash the Fun

No matter what part of town you find yourself in there is likely a dog park not far from you. Most trails and dog parks in town have dog waste bags available so please pick up after your four legged companion and dispose of it correctly. The Pallister fenced dog park offers a open space for dogs that like to run and play fetch. Located just off  the highway, its the prefect place to stop after a long drive. The Alpine dog park is a wonderful fenced off space. The area has many trees and is a playground for those adventurous pups that like to explore and meander through wooded trails. The Quarry Lake dog park is Canmore’s most popular. It is not fenced but there is ample signage of the off leash areas. This dog park has the trifecta. An open space for fetching needs, a wooded area for adventure seekers and a swimming pond to cool off in on those hot summers days.  Located in a wildlife corridor be sure to keep an eye and know where you dog is at all times.

Paws & Patios: Where Tails Wag & Hearts Sway

Since May 5th, 2022 dogs are allowed on patios once they are lashed and do not have to pass through any indoor areas to get to the patio. This was brilliant news for business and dog owners. Canmore has multiple patios, especially in summer. The main street closes to allow space for more outdoor seating for restaurants and coffee shops. The majority of restaurants allow dogs in these patios. If you are curious about which patios accept dogs, take a walk down main street and ask or check out this helpful list for both Canmore and Banff from banffawaits.com. Several establishments even offer doggy treats and water bowls, making dining experiences a delightful treat for our four-legged friends.

Wagcation Wonderland: Cozy Retreats for You & Your Pup

IF you are visiting then you will need somewhere for you and your pup to stay. Canmore has you covered. The Malcom Hotel is centrally located and offers dog friendly accommodation. They even boast supplying dog treats on their website. If you are looking for somewhere just outside town that offers dog friendly accommodation check out Copperstone Resort in Dead Mans Flats. If you are thinking about camping there is many options for you. Most are located just outside of the town itself but are a brilliant way to indulge in nature with your four legged friend. Visit explorecanmore.ca for a full list of options.

If you plan to visit with your dog you have ample options for places to stay, areas to walk, and pet friendly dining experiences.  If everyone works together obeying domesticated animal rules and regulations the town will be able to open up more opportunities for our furry friends to enjoy the picturesque community as much as we do. There are also many events that are pet friendly in Canmore. Head over to our blog Canmore’s diverse Community Events to learn more.

SOLD 11, 717 7th Street

Posted on by Katie OSullivan

Another beautiful home sold in the Bow Valley. Congratulations to everyone who made this sale possible.

This quiet 755 sqft south facing top floor unit is in the heart of Canmore, just a short stroll to all the services Main Street has to offer, close to biking & walking trails and the Bow River. As you walk in you are pulled into the large open living area, including a very generous kitchen with an expansive peninsula work space and upgraded back splash and stainless steel appliances. The dining/living room boasts an extensive number of wrap around windows that flood the living area with sunshine. The living room and viewing deck allow for spectacular southern views from the Three Sisters to East End of Mount Rundle. The large Primary bedroom also enjoys these same stunning views and is steps away from the full bath. Completing this unit is the spacious laundry/storage room for all your mountain gear plus an easy access assigned parking stall with plug in. This 40+ self managed complex is the perfect choice for your Canmore property.

 

If you or someone you know are thinking of buying or selling, we would be happy to assist in anyway possible.

Pedaling Paradise: Exploring Canmore’s Breathtaking Bike Trails

Posted on by Katie OSullivan

If you’re a biking enthusiast, you’re in for an exhilarating treat! Canmore boasts a network of stunning bike trails that wind through picturesque landscapes, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for both beginner and seasoned riders. This blog is your one stop spot if biking through lush forests and open meadows sounds alluring to you.

 

Beginners Trails

If you are new to biking or you are looking for a low key casual ride Canmore has many options for you. The trial around then Bow River is perfect for a nice afternoon ride. While biking the loop next to the turquoise colors of the river you journey over an old engine bridge. The path is gravel and easily maneuverable for bikers of all levels. If your venturing into the world of mountain biking and looking for a beginner trail, the Canmore Nordic Center has many trails. Any of the green trails (Nordic Center trail map) are perfect for someone wanting to dip their toes into the world of mountain biking.  Take a longer ride and bike the Legacy Trail to Banff. This fully paved path is one of Canmore’s most well known rides. You can either bike back or take Roam public transport.

 

Intermediate Trails

If you are a competent rider that likes a more technical the Bow Valley is the place for you. The Montane Traverse, located on the sunny side of the valley, provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Starting at Cougar Creek this trail starts off with a kick, two steep hills get your heart rate elevated right from the get go. It then moves into some fun cross country, including a couple of creek crossings and some exhilarating downs.  While there is too many trails in the Nordic Center to cover in this blog, it arguably boasts the more popular intermediate trail among locals, the Odyssey Trail. Starting at the day lodge you can take the FYI and EKG trails to the meadows and link to Odyssey from there. The trail is well marked and has great berms and lots of flow, perfect to get your adrenaline going.

Advanced Trails

There is honestly a trail for every style of rider in Canmore and it does not lack options for advanced riders. The trail system is ever evolving, The Nordic center have just added a new trail called Top Gun. Not for the faint of heart, it includes some wooden wall rides and unavoidable jumps. The Reclaimer trail is another black trail. It starts of step with a few quick turns but them levels out into a nice flowy trail. You can bike up to the trail head but it is also to get someone to shuttle this fun exhilarating trail. If you have the ability to get to Exshaw (located 17km east if Canmore), check out Prospector trail. It starts with a steep incline with some switchbacks. There is  some rock slab, wooden features and  an over all sense of adventure on this route.

When biking in Canmore be sure to always check the routes, know where your going and be bear smart. If you are stopping in town with your bike ensure it is locked up and secure. Canmore has a bike route for everyone. Bring the family along and have a day out enjoying the easier routes. Peddle yourself to some amazing viewpoints and through meadows. Push yourself on more technical terrain. Enjoy the ride, let the wind blow through your hair and most importantly get outside and have some fun.

Want to know more about the history of Canmore? Check out our blog Canmore: From Mining Town to Mountain Paradise.

July 2023 Newsletter: With Summer Comes Continued Low Inventory!

Posted on by Katie OSullivan
It was great to see the town excited for Canada Day and a spectacular Canada Day Parade, even with an extended route. With the weather being so great locals and visitors alike can get out and enjoy this mountain paradise we call home.

A year ago, we had concern over our low inventory and had hopes we would see it rise… Unfortunately, it has lowered even further. Number of listings on July 1st, 2023, is the lowest on record for July and is down 28% lower than 2022. This lack of inventory has some buyers standing pat and waiting for the right property to come to market. This leads us to believe this lack of inventory will continue but we hope to see the levels increase over the next few months as we have typically seen in our market.

Average sale prices over the last quarter have both increased and dropped over the 2nd quarter of 2022 depending on the market segment. We saw drops in Single Family Homes, Half Duplexes, Townhomes and Lots, while Apartment condos and hotel condos both saw increases. With the lack of sales (tied to lack of inventory) these can be deceiving as we have seen sale prices rise throughout the market segments.

Days on market in the last year have had slight increases which can be attributed to sellers pushing price points, so buyers have had a better chance (time wise) to make an offer and negotiate. In some situations, we are seeing sellers reduce pricing if they were too aggressive with their initial asking price. Days on market is still incredibly low so buyers must be ready to jump if the right property hits the market.

We hope you have a great July, and we would be so thankful if you could pass along our information if you know of anyone looking to buy or sell.

Stats, Graphs and full blog HERE.

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.

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. 

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**