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        <title>Blog</title>
        <link>https://janelmartinkowski.maxwellrealty.ca/blog/</link>
        <description></description>
<item>
    <guid>https://janelmartinkowski.maxwellrealty.ca/blog/the-truth-about-as-is-home-purchases/</guid>
    <link>https://janelmartinkowski.maxwellrealty.ca/blog/the-truth-about-as-is-home-purchases/</link>
        <author>websupport@maxwellrealty.ca (MaxWell Realty Admin)</author>
        <title>The Truth About As-Is Home Purchases</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
What &quot;As-Is&quot; Really Means When Buying a Home





The words &quot;as-is&quot; in a real estate listing have a way of stopping buyers in their tracks. The phrase carries an implied warning — this home has issues, and we're not going to fix them. Proceed with caution, or better yet, proceed elsewhere.


That reaction is understandable, but it's not always accurate. &quot;As-is&quot; is one of the most misunderstood terms in real estate, and the misunderstanding goes both ways — buyers sometimes avoid as-is properties they should have considered, and sometimes accept conditions in as-is purchases they absolutely shouldn't have.


Here's what the term actually means, what it doesn't mean, and how to protect yourself when it's part of the deal.


What &quot;As-Is&quot; Actually Means


When a property is listed or sold as-is, the seller is communicating one thing: they will not be making repairs, providing credits, or negotiating on the basis of the property's condition. What you see is what you get. The seller is not promising a functioning furnace, a waterproof basement, or a roof with years of life left. They are selling the property in its current state and they are done discussing it.


That's it. That's the whole meaning.


What &quot;as-is&quot; does not mean is that you have no recourse, no right to inspect, or no ability to walk away. It does not mean the seller can conceal known defects without consequence. It does not mean you're agreeing to accept whatever surprises the property contains. And it absolutely does not mean you should skip the home inspection.


&quot;As-Is&quot; Is Not the Same as Waiving Your Inspection


This is the most critical distinction, and it gets muddled constantly.


Buying as-is means the seller won't fix anything. It does not mean you can't find out what's there. You still have every right — and every reason — to include a home inspection condition in your offer on an as-is property. In fact, the inspection is arguably more important on an as-is purchase than on a conventional one, precisely because you know the seller has already decided they're not going to address whatever the inspector finds.


The inspection on an as-is purchase serves a specific purpose: it tells you what you're actually buying. Armed with that information, you can decide whether the purchase still makes sense at the agreed price, whether you want to walk away, or whether you want to renegotiate based on what was found. The seller may decline to renegotiate — that's their right on an as-is sale — but you at least make your decision with full information rather than hope.


Waiving your inspection condition on an as-is property is a separate and much more significant decision. In competitive markets, buyers sometimes waive inspection conditions to strengthen their offers. That's a calculated risk on any property. On an as-is property, it's a compounded risk — you're not only agreeing to buy without knowing what's there, you're buying a property the seller has already told you they won't be fixing. Those are two very large unknowns stacked on top of each other.


If you're considering waiving an inspection on an as-is property, make sure you understand exactly what you're taking on.


Why Sellers List As-Is


Understanding why a property is being sold as-is gives useful context for what you might be walking into.


Estate sales are one of the most common sources of as-is listings. When a property is being sold by an estate, the executor often has no direct knowledge of the home's condition — they didn't live there, they don't know what was repaired when, and they have no authority to make representations about the property on behalf of a deceased owner. As-is is often the only realistic option. These properties can range from well-maintained homes whose owners simply aged in place to properties that haven't seen significant upkeep in decades. The condition varies enormously — the as-is designation tells you about the sale structure, not the property itself.


Power of sale and foreclosure properties are typically sold as-is because the selling party — usually a lender — has never occupied the property and has no obligation to represent its condition. These can be good value opportunities, but they require careful due diligence because deferred maintenance in a vacant property can compound quickly.


Sellers who know there are issues sometimes use as-is as a way of signalling that the price reflects the condition, and that they don't want to enter a negotiation they've already priced into the listing. This is actually a fairly transparent approach — you know what the conversation is before you start it.


Sellers who simply don't want the hassle of a negotiation over repair credits or inspection findings sometimes list as-is as a matter of preference rather than necessity. The property may be perfectly sound — they just want a clean transaction.


Disclosure Still Applies


Here's where buyers sometimes get confused: selling as-is does not exempt a seller from their legal disclosure obligations.


In most Canadian provinces, sellers are required to disclose known material latent defects — issues that are not discoverable through a reasonable inspection but that the seller is aware of. A leaky foundation that's been patched and painted over. A history of flooding in the basement. A structural problem that was identified but never remediated. These must be disclosed regardless of whether the sale is as-is.


What as-is does relieve the seller of is the obligation to fix things. It does not relieve them of the obligation to be honest about what they know. A seller who conceals a known material defect on an as-is sale is not protected by the as-is designation — they've misrepresented the property, and that's a different conversation entirely.


If you're buying as-is and you discover after possession that the seller knew about a significant defect and failed to disclose it, you may have legal recourse. This is a conversation for a lawyer, not a REALTOR® — but it's worth knowing the protection exists.


How to Approach an As-Is Purchase


Do your homework before you offer. If the property has been on the market for a while, find out why. Review the listing history. Ask your agent what they know about the property and the seller's situation.


Get the inspection. Always. See above.


Price the condition into your offer. If the inspection reveals $40,000 worth of work, your offer should reflect that — not as a negotiating tactic, but as an accurate representation of what the property is worth to you in its current state. The seller may not move, but you should make your offer based on real numbers, not on hope that it'll all work out.


Know your walk-away point before you make the offer. On an as-is purchase, you're agreeing to accept the property as found. Have a clear sense of what &quot;as found&quot; would have to look like for you to walk away, and stick to it.


Factor in carrying costs for repairs. If the property needs significant work, think through not just the cost of the repairs but the timeline. Can you live in the property while the work is done? Will you need to carry two properties while it's uninhabitable? Those costs are part of the true purchase price.


Work with an agent who has experience with as-is transactions. The paperwork and negotiation dynamics are different, and an agent who's done it before will know what to look for.


The Bottom Line


As-is is a sale condition, not a warning sign. Some of the best value purchases in real estate come with an as-is designation — estate properties, power of sale homes, and sellers who have simply priced the condition honestly into their asking price. The key is going in with your eyes open, getting the inspection, understanding what the disclosure rules require of the seller, and making your decision based on real information rather than assumptions about what the two words actually mean.



MaxWell Realty Canada is a real estate company with offices across Canada. This article is intended for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal or professional real estate advice. Always work with a licensed REALTOR® and qualified professionals in your area.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 11 Aug 2026 14:52:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://janelmartinkowski.maxwellrealty.ca/blog/how-to-get-a-real-estate-license-in-alberta/</guid>
    <link>https://janelmartinkowski.maxwellrealty.ca/blog/how-to-get-a-real-estate-license-in-alberta/</link>
        <author>MBourque@MaxwellRealty.ca (Megan Bourque)</author>
        <title>How to get a real estate license in Alberta</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
How to Get a Real Estate Licence in Alberta





 


If you want to become a REALTOR® in Alberta, the first step is actually obtaining a real estate associate licence through the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA). You then join a brokerage and, if applicable, become a REALTOR® member through the appropriate real estate association.


Here is the process in simple terms:


1. Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements


Before starting your education, you must meet RECA's eligibility requirements. Generally, you must:




Be at least 18 years old


Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident


Have valid government-issued identification


Have at least a Canadian high school education or equivalent


Demonstrate English language proficiency


Meet RECA's good character and suitability requirements 




2. Create a myRECA account


Create an account through myRECA, RECA's online system for licensing and education. This is where you complete your eligibility process and manage your licensing requirements. 


3. Complete the eligibility process


RECA must approve you as eligible to take the required pre-licensing education.


This includes providing information and documentation related to your education, identity and suitability. 


4. Complete the required real estate education


For someone entering residential real estate, there are two main education components:


Fundamentals of Real Estate This introduces you to the fundamentals of the Alberta real estate industry.


Practice of Residential Real Estate This focuses on applying your knowledge to the actual practice of residential real estate.


Both courses must be completed through a RECA-recognized education provider, and you must successfully complete the associated exams. 


5. Pass the RECA exams


You must successfully complete the required pre-licensing exams.


This is an important part of the process because the exams test your knowledge of the legislation, rules, principles and practices you will need as a real estate professional. RECA currently lists the pre-licensing examination fee at $235. 


6. Complete your criminal record check


As you approach completion of your education, you will need to provide RECA with a Certified Criminal Record Check. RECA uses this as part of its suitability review for licensing. 


7. Choose a real estate brokerage


Once your education and licensing requirements are complete, you need to find a licensed Alberta brokerage willing to take you on.


This is an important decision for a new REALTOR® because brokerages can differ significantly in:




Commission structures


Fees


Training


Mentorship


Lead generation support


Technology


Marketing


Administrative support


Culture


Transaction support




8. Apply for your licence through your brokerage


Your brokerage's broker initiates the licensing process with RECA. You complete the licensing application and pay the applicable licensing fees. 


9. Receive your real estate licence


Once RECA approves the application and all requirements have been satisfied, you receive your real estate associate licence.


At this point, you can legally trade in real estate on behalf of clients under your brokerage. RECA states that anyone trading in real estate on behalf of another person for compensation must hold the appropriate licence. 


10. Join your REALTOR® association and start your business


After becoming licensed, you can complete the applicable REALTOR® membership process and begin building your business.


Your licence gets you into the industry. Your success will depend on what you do afterward—building a database, generating leads, learning the sales process, understanding contracts, developing your personal brand, and learning how to convert prospects into clients.


The Simple Roadmap


Eligibility → Education → Exams → Criminal Record Check → Choose Brokerage → Licence Application → Real Estate Licence → REALTOR® Membership → Build Your Business
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 07 Aug 2026 17:03:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://janelmartinkowski.maxwellrealty.ca/blog/what-the-bank-of-canadas-latest-hold-means-for-your-next-move/</guid>
    <link>https://janelmartinkowski.maxwellrealty.ca/blog/what-the-bank-of-canadas-latest-hold-means-for-your-next-move/</link>
        <author>websupport@maxwellrealty.ca (MaxWell Realty Admin)</author>
        <title>What the Bank of Canada's Latest Hold Means for Your Next Move</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Rates on Hold, Eyes on September: What It Means for Buyers and Sellers


By Ron Alfred De Guzman, MaxWell Realty Insights | August 07, 2026





The Bank of Canada held its policy rate at 2.25 on July 15. It was the sixth consecutive hold since the Bank cut to this level last October. The decision came alongside firmer second-quarter growth and inflation trending toward target. That combination is giving the housing market something it has not had much of this year: a stretch of predictability.


Why the Bank Held


Governor Tiff Macklem framed the decision around three points. Economic growth has resumed after a flat start to the year. Inflation should ease gradually if energy prices settle. Uncertainty remains elevated with ongoing Middle East tensions and Canada-US trade talks. Headline inflation actually came in hot, with CPI rising to 3.2 in May. The Bank is looking through that number, treating it as largely energy-driven rather than a sign of runaway demand.


What a Hold Actually Means for You


For anyone with a variable-rate mortgage or line of credit, nothing changes today. Bank prime rates stayed at 4.45. Fixed rates are a different story. They track Government of Canada bond yields rather than the policy rate directly, so they can still drift while the Bank stays on the sidelines. As of mid-July, five-year fixed rates were trading close to 3.99 to 4.04. Five-year variable rates were hovering in the 3.35 to 3.55 range.


The bigger takeaway is timing. The next rate announcement lands September 2. That gives buyers, sellers, and anyone approaching a mortgage renewal roughly seven weeks of a known rate environment. Mortgage pre-approvals stay valid. The qualifying stress test does not shift underneath anyone mid-search. It is a meaningful window to shop lenders, lock in a rate hold, or finish preparing a listing without worrying about the ground moving.


A Market Already Responding


The hold has landed alongside genuine signs of life in the housing market. One national mortgage brokerage reported a close to 60 jump in home purchases this spring. Buyers grew tired of trying to time the market and instead took advantage of stable prices while rates held steady. Housing activity has been strong enough to contribute positively to Canada's GDP figures for May.


Most economists expect the Bank to hold again on September 2, though a small hike remains a live possibility if energy-driven inflation persists. Either way, the six-week gap between decisions is being treated less as a countdown and more as a planning window.


What This Means Heading Into Fall


A rate hold will not solve every affordability question on its own, but predictability has value. Buyers who have been waiting for certainty now have a defined stretch to move with confidence. Sellers preparing to list this fall can point to a stable rate backdrop as one less thing standing between a buyer and an offer.


If you are weighing a purchase, a renewal, or a fall listing, this is a good moment to have that conversation before the September decision resets the clock. Your MaxWell REALTOR® can help you think through timing in your specific market.


Sources: Bank of Canada, True North Mortgage, Mortgages for Less, Pegasus Mortgage Lending
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 07 Aug 2026 13:46:00 -0600</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://janelmartinkowski.maxwellrealty.ca/blog/invermere-columbia-valley-real-estate-market-update-july-2026/</guid>
    <link>https://janelmartinkowski.maxwellrealty.ca/blog/invermere-columbia-valley-real-estate-market-update-july-2026/</link>
        <author>chrisraven09@gmail.com (Chris Raven)</author>
        <title>Invermere Columbia Valley Real Estate Market Update July 2026</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
July 2026 Real Estate Market – Invermere &amp; Columbia Valley


The July 2026 real estate market in Invermere and the Columbia Valley, British Columbia, was calmer but still strong. Sales slowed compared to last year, but prices inched higher and well‑priced homes continued to move.


Fewer Sales Across the Columbia Valley


In July 2026, there were 45 residential sales recorded in the Invermere and Columbia Valley area, a 21.05 drop from July 2025. This includes properties in Invermere, Windermere, Fairmont Hot Springs, Radium Hot Springs, Panorama, and surrounding rural Columbia Valley communities. The decline shows a slower, more balanced pace rather than a sudden downturn.


New Listings Ease Back In Invermere Area


There were 90 new listings across the region in July, down 3.23 year over year. Fewer new properties coming onto the market in Invermere, Windermere, Fairmont and Radium helps prevent an oversupply. This supports pricing for sellers while still offering buyers a good selection of homes, condos, and recreational properties.


Columbia Valley Home Prices Edge Higher


The average list price for July 2026 was $724,046, up 1.16 from 2025. The average sale price reached $684,589, an increase of 3.90. For homeowners in Invermere and the wider Columbia Valley, this confirms that property values remain stable to slightly rising, especially for well‑maintained homes and desirable lake‑access or view properties.


Buyers Paying Closer To Asking Price


The average sale‑to‑list price ratio rose to 94.44, up from 92.59 last year. Buyers in the Columbia Valley are coming closer to asking price when they see value, whether they are purchasing in Canal Flats, Edgewater, Radium Hot Springs, or Invermere itself. Realistic pricing and professional marketing remain key to attracting strong offers.


Days On Market Drop For Local Listings


Average days on market fell sharply from 131.26 days to 83.18 days, a 36.63 decrease. Well‑priced listings in Invermere, Windermere, Panorama and area are selling faster once they hit MLS. This is good news for sellers who want results without a long, drawn‑out listing period.


Inventory And Months Of Supply In The Columbia Valley


Active inventory at the end of July 2026 stood at 458 listings, up 1.10 from last year. Months of supply rose from 10.47 to 11.82, a 12.84 increase. More inventory and higher months of supply suggest a balanced market in the East Kootenay region, giving buyers more choice while still supporting sellers who price correctly.


What July 2026 Means For Sellers


If you own property in Invermere or the Columbia Valley, July’s numbers are encouraging. Prices are stable to rising, homes are selling faster, and buyers are still active throughout the Valley. To maximize your sale, focus on accurate pricing, strong online presentation, and exposure to out‑of‑area buyers who are searching for lake, golf, and recreation properties in our region.


What July 2026 Means For Buyers


For buyers looking in Invermere, Windermere, Fairmont Hot Springs, Radium Hot Springs, Panorama or Canal Flats, the current conditions are favourable. There is more inventory to choose from and less pressure from multiple offers than in past peak years. However, because days on market have dropped, attractive and well‑priced homes still move quickly, so being pre‑approved and ready to act is important.


Contact Maxwell Rockies Realty for a Personalized Market Evaluation and Strategy


Maxwell Rockies Realty is based in Invermere and focused on the Columbia Valley and Okanagan real estate market. We monitor local statistics every month and combine them with on‑the‑ground experience to guide your decisions. If you are thinking about buying or selling in Invermere, Windermere, Fairmont Hot Springs, Radium Hot Springs, Edgewater to Golden, Panorama, Cranbrook and Kimberley, or Kelowna and Vernon, contact Maxwell Rockies Realty for a personalized market evaluation and strategy.


Overview: 





SOLD LISTINGS 





NEW LISTINGS 





AVERAGE LIST PRICE





AVERAGE SALE PRICE





AVERAGE PERCENTAGE OF SELLING PRICE TO LIST PRICE





AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET TO SALE





MONTHLY INVENTORY





MONTHS SUPPLY OF INVENTORY



 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 06 Aug 2026 13:18:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://janelmartinkowski.maxwellrealty.ca/blog/market-update---july-2026---price-declines-driven-mostly-by-apartment-condominiums/</guid>
    <link>https://janelmartinkowski.maxwellrealty.ca/blog/market-update---july-2026---price-declines-driven-mostly-by-apartment-condominiums/</link>
        <author>MBourque@MaxwellRealty.ca (Megan Bourque)</author>
        <title>Market Update - July 2026 - price declines driven mostly by apartment condominiums  </title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 













Calgary, Alberta, August 4, 2026 – As we move into the second half of the year, it is not a surprise to see slower market activity. In July, both sales and new listings eased over June levels, declining to 1,904 sales and 3,323 new listings. Sales were nine per cent lower than last year’s levels, while new listings were 15 per cent lower. The adjustment in both sales and new listings caused little change in the sales-to-new-listings ratio, which sat at 57 per cent. In July, the unadjusted total residential benchmark price was $569,200, down slightly over June and two per cent lower than levels reported last year. The persistent oversupply of apartment condos is contributing to a steeper price decline of over eight per cent. Meanwhile, at the other end of the spectrum, detached prices have eased by under two per cent compared to last year, mostly driven by adjustments in the North East and North Districts. “Several consecutive years of high construction levels and the sudden drop in mostly international migration have contributed to the shift in housing market conditions mostly for higher-density homes, a transition that started in the second half of last year,” said Ann-Marie Lurie, Chief Economist at the Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB®). “While new home construction is slowing, there are over 17,000 apartment-style units under construction. This continues to weigh on rental and higher-density properties, driving price adjustments.”     While demand has slowed this year, levels remain stronger than those reported during the challenging market conditions experienced from 2015 to 2019. What has shifted significantly is the additional supply choice across the housing spectrum. Total resale inventory levels remained relatively stable compared to both June and July 2025. However, the slower July sales pushed the months of supply up to three and a half months. While the months of supply is rising across all property types, conditions remain mostly balanced in the detached and semi-detached sectors. In the higher-density sectors, the market continues to favour the buyer for apartment-style homes with nearly five months of supply, while row is experiencing some signs of oversupply.

















































Detached


Sales in July eased to 1,012 units, down nearly two per cent over last year. These numbers have been trending lower throughout most of the year. While slower sales are partly due to changing economic conditions, we have also seen a pullback in the number of new listings. In July, new listings fell to 1,707 units, nine per cent lower than last year, contributing to the year-over-year inventory declines that have persisted since March. The pullback in sales this month outpaced the pullback in inventory levels, causing the months of supply to rise to nearly three months. While this is still in a balanced range, conditions do differ from under two months in the West District to over five months in the North East District. Added competition from the new home market is also weighing on recently built homes listed on the resale market. As of July, the unadjusted detached price in Calgary was $743,900, lower than June and nearly two per cent lower than prices reported last July. While prices have eased over 2025’s peak, it has not erased all the gains reported over the past several years. Price movement has varied significantly across each district. Compared to last year, prices have improved in both City Centre and the West District. The steepest decline occurred in the North East at nearly six per cent. 


Semi-Detached


Despite a typical monthly pullback, sales remained similar to last year, keeping year-to-date levels relatively consistent with 2025. While new listings eased in July, they remain down three per cent so far this year. Throughout most of 2026, conditions have remained relatively balanced, with a sales-to-new-listings ratio remaining near 60 per cent and months of supply below three months. As of July, the unadjusted benchmark price was $691,000, down from June but similar to last year's level. While prices have remained relatively stable for semi-detached homes, there is variation throughout the city. Most sales activity occurred in the City Centre, where year-to-date prices have remained stable compared with 2025. The West District was the only district to record a year-over-year price gain, while the steepest declines occurred in the North East, where buyers' market conditions have emerged. 


Row


For the third consecutive month, row sales have trended down, contributing to a year-to-date decline of 15 per cent. Over the past several months, we have also reported a pullback in new listings, keeping the sales-to-new-listings ratio above 55 per cent.  While inventory levels have also been trending down, they remain elevated based on long-term trends. The steep pullback in sales this month was enough to push the months of supply up to nearly four months. An upward trend in the months of supply over the past few months has prevented any further price increases. In July, the unadjusted benchmark price eased to $418,500, down over the previous month and six per cent lower than last year’s levels. Added competition in the new home market has also weighed on resale row prices. However, like other property types, year-to-date price declines range from 12 per cent in the North East and East Districts to a three per cent decline in the West District. 


Apartment Condominium


Increased rentals and new supply are weighing on ownership demand for resale condos as sales have fallen by nearly 26 per cent so far this year. While new listings have been easing over last year’s levels and are helping to bring down inventory, the 1,999 units available in the resale market are still elevated compared to long-term trends and sales. The combined impact of additional supply and reduced demand has kept the months of supply in a range that has favoured the buyer since the end of spring 2025. The persistent excess supply has placed downward pressure on prices. As of July, the unadjusted benchmark price was $297,600, down over June, over eight per cent lower than last year’s levels and 13 per cent below peak levels reported in 2024. While the rate of decline has ranged across districts, all districts have reported relatively steep adjustments in prices. 

 

REGIONAL MARKET FACTS


Airdrie


Sales continued to trend down in July compared to 2025, contributing to the year-to-date decline of nearly 14 per cent. However, new listings have also been easing, helping to push the sales-to-new-listings ratio back above 55 per cent in July. While this did little to cause a shift in inventory, the months of supply eased back below four months. Should this trend continue, it will help to support a more balanced state in the Airdrie market. Nonetheless, supply choice in the resale market along with added competition coming from both the new home market in Airdrie and supply choice in Calgary are weighing on prices. Detached prices in July eased to $603,100, four per cent lower than last year’s levels. This decline has outpaced Calgary’s, and now the price spread between Calgary and Airdrie is returning to levels that are more consistent with historical norms.  


Cochrane


While sales have eased for two months in a row, year-to-date, they remain higher than levels reported in 2025. This was partly possible due to gains in new listings, which have raised inventory over last year’s levels. Much of the inventory growth was driven by higher-density homes. In July, the months of supply pushed above four months, and the sales-to-new-listings ratio dropped to 46 per cent. This represents a shift from earlier in the year, and if it persists, it could have further implications for prices. Overall, the unadjusted detached benchmark price was $659,400 in July, down over June and nearly four per cent lower than last year. Like other markets, the added competition from new home products and competing markets is weighing on resale prices.


Okotoks


With 78 new listings and 70 sales in July, the sales-to-new-listings ratio rose to 90 per cent, causing inventories to trend down over the previous month. Supply has improved over the low levels that have persisted over the previous five years but remain below long-term trends and have kept the months of supply relatively low at two months. However, benchmark prices have continued to trend down, likely due to the increased competition coming from the new home sector and new community developments occurring in the south end of Calgary. As of July, the unadjusted detached benchmark price eased to $695,700, over two per cent lower than prices reported last July. 


Chestermere

Year-to-date sales in Chestermere have reached 333 units, 18 per cent lower than last year. The decline in sales has not matched the decline in new listings, keeping the sales-to-new-listings ratio relatively low at 36 per cent. This has resulted in relatively persistent inventory gains, driving up months of supply, which pushed near seven months in July. Additional supply choice in the resale market, competing new home market and supply in Calgary has weighed on prices in Chestermere. As of July, the unadjusted detached benchmark price was $771,900, down over June and nearly five per cent lower than prices reported in July of 2025. 










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    <pubDate>Wed, 05 Aug 2026 14:04:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://janelmartinkowski.maxwellrealty.ca/blog/how-to-make-the-most-of-the-end-of-summer-market/</guid>
    <link>https://janelmartinkowski.maxwellrealty.ca/blog/how-to-make-the-most-of-the-end-of-summer-market/</link>
        <author>websupport@maxwellrealty.ca (MaxWell Realty Admin)</author>
        <title>How to Make the Most of the End-of-Summer Market</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
End-of-Summer Selling Window


By Ron Alfred De Guzman, MaxWell Realty Insights | August 04, 2026





August has a reputation as real estate's quiet month, and the data backs it up. Buyers and sellers often shift into vacation mode, leading to a temporary slowdown in market activity, but this can create a less competitive environment for those who stay active. The market slows considerably heading into late August, and sellers who list during this window are more likely to be dealing with fewer competing listings than during the spring rush. Vancouverhomesearch

Wahi




The trade-off cuts both ways. Fewer showings and less urgency don't mean the market is weaker, since serious, motivated buyers still shop in July and August, and well-prepared homes can stand out more clearly with less noise around them. For sellers who don't want to compete with the flood of spring listings, or who missed that window, late summer offers a real opening, especially with fall's second wave of activity still a few weeks out. Many Prairie and Alberta markets see a fall revival once families settle into the new school year, which means listing in the tail end of summer can capture serious buyers before that autumn competition ramps back up. Therichardsgroup

Themckelviegroup




For sellers taking advantage of this quieter window, curb appeal does a lot of heavy lifting with buyer traffic lower overall. A few high-impact, low-cost fixes:




Fresh mulch in garden beds gives landscaping an instantly tidy, finished look and helps retain moisture through late-summer heat.


A trimmed lawn and clean edges between lawn, walkway, and flower beds signal a well-maintained property at a glance.


A refreshed entryway, think a clean or repainted front door, updated house numbers, and working exterior lighting, since the front door is often the focal point of a home's exterior, and a little extra attention there can make a noticeable difference. Redfin




Potted flowers or planters by the entrance add a welcoming pop of colour without any real investment.




The pitch for sellers: less competition for eyeballs plus a handful of weekend fixes can be a strong combination heading into the last stretch of summer.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 04 Aug 2026 15:30:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://janelmartinkowski.maxwellrealty.ca/blog/beaumont-market-update-july-2026/</guid>
    <link>https://janelmartinkowski.maxwellrealty.ca/blog/beaumont-market-update-july-2026/</link>
        <author>ablais@maxwellrealty.ca (Andrew Blais)</author>
        <title>Beaumont Market Update: What July's 7 Price Drop Does and Doesn't Tell You</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Every month I pull the latest Beaumont numbers from the REALTORS® Association of Edmonton — and this month I also went through the individual July sales one by one, because the headline figure needed a closer look. Here's what July actually tells us, including the part that's genuinely encouraging and the part that isn't.


The Headline: Average Sale Price Fell 7.3


The average Beaumont single-family sale price in July was $551K, down 7.33 from July 2025. If you own a home here, that number deserves an explanation rather than a shrug — so let's break down what's behind it.


Most of the Drop Is a Mix Shift


An average sale price measures the homes that happened to sell, not the value of homes generally. And what sold this July was noticeably different from a year ago:


July 2025: 9 sales under $500K, 14 between $500–600K, 17 between $600–700K, 6 above $700K. July 2026: 18 sales under $500K, 11 between $500–600K, 10 between $600–700K, 5 above $700K.


Sales under $500K doubled while the $600–700K band shrank from 17 to 10. Shift that many transactions from the upper-middle of the market to the entry level and the average falls, even if no individual home lost a dollar of value.





There's a supporting data point worth knowing about. Across all 44 July sales, the median price per square foot was $298 — against $297 in July 2025. Median home size (about 1,830 sq ft) and median year built (2012) were nearly identical between the two months as well.


I want to be careful about how much weight that carries. Forty-four sales in one month is a small sample, and price per square foot doesn't account for lot size, condition, finishes, basement development, or which street a home sits on. It's a useful signal, not proof. But combined with the price-band shift, the most reasonable read is this: the 7.3 decline reflects what sold in July, not a broad drop in Beaumont home values.


The Part That Isn't Just a Mix Shift


Here's the finding I'd want to know about if I owned a home in Beaumont: the upper-middle of the market genuinely slowed. Sales between $600–700K fell from 17 to 10 year-over-year — a real decline in transaction volume, not a statistical artifact.


Pair that with the market-wide numbers and a clear picture emerges. Entry-level and mid-range homes are where the activity is. Above roughly $600K, there are fewer buyers competing, which means longer timelines and more negotiation. If you're selling in that upper range this year, plan for it — last summer homes were selling in about 37 days on average; this year the market is taking roughly twice as long.


The Rest of July's Numbers


Sales are holding. 45 homes sold in July, up 2.27 from last year. Year-to-date sales sit at 263, up 1.94.


New listings keep climbing. 101 new listings came to market in July (up 2.02 year-over-year), bringing the year-to-date total to 594 versus 512 last year — a 16 increase. Inventory remains the defining feature of this market.


Homes are taking longer to sell. July's average days on market was 72, up 33 year-over-year. Year-to-date, the average is 76 days versus 45 in 2025 — a 69 increase. This is the clearest and most consistent signal that conditions have moved toward buyers.


Asking prices are still rising. The average asking price on new July listings was $619K, up 4.53 year-over-year, with the YTD average at $611K (up 2.01). Note that this measures what sellers are asking on new listings — a separate population from the homes that actually sold.


The ask-to-sell ratio slipped to 0.982, down from 0.988 a year ago (YTD: 0.984 versus 0.992). Buyers are negotiating, though not dramatically — sold homes still averaged within about 2 of their asking price.


Where the Sales Happened


Three Beaumont communities recorded five or more sales in July, which is enough activity to be worth reporting:


Triomphe Estates — 7 sales, median $590K (range $435K–$640K) Beauridge — 5 sales, median $436K (range $386K–$531K) Élan — 5 sales, median $485K (range $444K–$600K)


Other communities saw one to four sales each — too few to draw conclusions from, so I'm not going to publish medians that could mislead someone about their own home's value. If you want to know what's happening on your specific street, that's a conversation with real comparables, not a citywide or neighbourhood average.


What This Means If You're Selling


Pricing precision matters. With 594 new listings year-to-date and homes averaging 76 days to sell, buyers have both selection and time. If your home sits below $500K, you're in the busiest part of the market. If it's above $600K, expect a longer timeline and more negotiation — and price accordingly from day one.


I covered the specifics in my recent post on selling in this market, including why your competition now includes builder inventory alongside your neighbours.


What This Means If You're Buying


Selection is good and there's room to negotiate, particularly above $600K where fewer buyers are competing. Below $500K it's busier — that's where half of July's sales happened — so expect more company at that end, though still nothing like the competition buyers faced last summer.


The Bottom Line


July's 7.3 headline decline is mostly a story about which homes sold, not what homes are worth — and the per-square-foot figures, small sample notwithstanding, support that. The genuine shift worth watching is at the upper-middle of the market, where transaction volume dropped meaningfully. Alongside that: inventory up, days on market up, and a market that has moved decisively away from the seller-favoured conditions of last year.


Curious what your specific home is worth in today's market — not last year's, and not the citywide average? Get a free market evaluation or get in touch and I'll walk you through the comparables that actually apply to your street.


Andrew Blais | MaxWell Heritage Realtyandrew@maxwellheritage.com | 780-387-1284


Data source: REALTORS® Association of Edmonton, July 2026, with individual sale analysis from MLS® records.
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    <pubDate>Tue, 04 Aug 2026 09:44:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://janelmartinkowski.maxwellrealty.ca/blog/how-much-does-it-cost-to-become-a-realtor-in-alberta/</guid>
    <link>https://janelmartinkowski.maxwellrealty.ca/blog/how-much-does-it-cost-to-become-a-realtor-in-alberta/</link>
        <author>MBourque@MaxwellRealty.ca (Megan Bourque)</author>
        <title>How much does it cost to become a REALTOR® in Alberta?</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
How Much Does It Cost to Become a REALTOR® in Alberta?


 





The cost to become a licensed real estate associate in Alberta is approximately $3,000–$4,000+, depending on education costs, exams, background checks, board/association fees, and the brokerage you choose.


Here is a practical breakdown:










Expense

Approximate Cost






RECA eligibility application


~$100




Fundamentals of Real Estate course


~$1,250




Practice course


~$800




Exam/proctor fees


~$300




Criminal record check


~$90




RECA new licence &amp; registration


$800




Assurance Fund levy


$225




REALTOR® board/association fees


Varies




Brokerage startup/administration fees


Varies




Estimated total


$3,500+










RECA's current 2026–2027 fee schedule lists the new real estate associate licence and registration at $800, which includes a $475 licensing component and a $225 Assurance Fund levy; the remaining amount reflects the applicable registration/licensing components. 


RECA's own licensing guide also identifies education, exam fees, criminal record checks, licensing, insurance and the Assurance Fund as part of the cost of entering the industry. 


Don't Forget the Ongoing Costs


Getting licensed is only the beginning. A REALTOR® should also budget for ongoing business expenses such as:




Annual RECA licensing and insurance costs


REALTOR® association/board membership


MLS® fees and services


Brokerage fees


CRM and technology


Website and domain


Marketing and advertising


Business cards and signs


Photography/video


Lockbox/access services


Professional development and training


Vehicle and fuel expenses


Accounting and bookkeeping




A good rule of thumb: Someone entering the industry should have enough money set aside not only to obtain their licence, but also to operate their business for the first 6–12 months while building their database and generating their first clients.
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    <pubDate>Fri, 31 Jul 2026 17:05:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://janelmartinkowski.maxwellrealty.ca/blog/back-to-school-survival-guide-20262027-for-calgary--area-families-tips-timelines-local-resources--contests-with-prizes/</guid>
    <link>https://janelmartinkowski.maxwellrealty.ca/blog/back-to-school-survival-guide-20262027-for-calgary--area-families-tips-timelines-local-resources--contests-with-prizes/</link>
        <author>cwhelan@maxwellrealty.ca (Colleen Whelan)</author>
        <title>Back-to-School Survival Guide 2026/2027 for Calgary &amp; Area Families: Tips, Timelines, Local Resources &amp; Contests with Prizes</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Back to School


We're Colleen Whelan and Corinne Maher, a mother/daughter real estate team proudly serving Calgary and surrounding communities. While helping people buy and sell homes is what we do professionally, what we love most is building relationships and supporting the communities we call home.


Between us, we've experienced many back-to-school seasons Corinne is a proud mom of three, and Colleen is a proud grandmother of six. We know firsthand that this time of year is filled with excitement and plenty of juggling schedules and activities, while savouring the beautiful season of summer &amp; fall.


That's exactly why we created this Back-to-School Survival Guide — practical tips, quick meal ideas, local August/September activity ideas, a fall home maintenance checklist, colouring contest and an exciting invitation to enter our 2026 MaxWell Sweepstakes, valued at $5,000 Our hope is that these pages help make your family's transition into the new school year a little easier, and a little more enjoyable.


Real estate is about so much more than buying and selling homes. It's about helping families put down roots, love the communities they live in &amp; transition through life’s milestones — and we feel grateful to be part of that journey.


Thank you for spending a few minutes with us. Here's to a wonderful school year filled with learning, growth, and lasting memories.



Warmly,


Colleen Whelan &amp; Corinne Maher


The Bless This House Team


In partnership with The Colleen Whelan Real Estate Team


MaxWell Capital Realty


Download the Full Guide Here (Free)



 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 31 Jul 2026 12:47:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://janelmartinkowski.maxwellrealty.ca/blog/simple-ways-canadians-are-beating-the-heat-at-home/</guid>
    <link>https://janelmartinkowski.maxwellrealty.ca/blog/simple-ways-canadians-are-beating-the-heat-at-home/</link>
        <author>websupport@maxwellrealty.ca (MaxWell Realty Admin)</author>
        <title>Simple Ways Canadians Are Beating the Heat at Home</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Heat-Smart Homes: Simple Upgrades Keeping Canadians Cool This Summer


By Ron Alfred De Guzman, MaxWell Realty Insights | July 31, 2026





Canadian summers are getting hotter, and a lot of homes were not built for it. Roughly 37 percent of Canadian households do not have air conditioning, and the gap varies widely by region. In British Columbia, only about 32 percent of homes have AC, compared to 85 percent in Ontario. As heat warnings become a regular part of summer, staying cool without cranking the AC is becoming a real skill, and a real selling point.


Why It Matters More Than Comfort


Health Canada recommends keeping indoor temperatures below 26°C to protect older adults from heat-related illness. Prolonged heat exposure is not just uncomfortable, it is a genuine health risk, especially for children, seniors, and pets. That makes heat-smart design a practical concern for every homeowner, not just a nice-to-have.


Block the Sun Before It Gets In


The biggest source of indoor heat is sunlight pouring through windows. Closing blinds or curtains during the day is one of the simplest, most effective fixes. High-quality blackout curtains with thermal lining can reduce heat entering a room by up to 33 percent. Look for heavier fabrics, light or reflective backing, and a snug fit against the wall to trap the heat outside where it belongs. Reflective window film is another low-cost option that bounces UV rays away before they warm the glass.


Let the Air Move


Cross-ventilation works with almost no cost at all. Opening windows on opposite sides of the home, especially overnight when outdoor temperatures drop, creates a natural draft that flushes out trapped heat. Ceiling and box fans will not lower the actual room temperature, but they speed up evaporative cooling on skin, which makes a real difference in how a space feels.


Reduce Indoor Heat Sources


Ovens and stovetops add heat exactly where you do not want it. Shifting to no-cook meals, a slow cooker, or the barbecue during a heat wave keeps the kitchen from working against the rest of the house. Cold showers and baths are also a quick way to bring body temperature down without touching the thermostat.


Bring in Some Green


Shade does more than block sun on a patio. Trees, shrubs, and even large potted plants placed near windows or on a balcony can meaningfully lower the amount of heat reaching a home's exterior walls and glass. It is a slower fix than curtains, but one that pays off every summer going forward.


The Real Estate Angle


None of these upgrades require a major renovation, and most cost very little. But they matter to buyers. A home that stays comfortable through a heat wave, with good window coverings, functioning cross-ventilation, and some strategic shade, shows better and lives better. In a market where outdoor living space and summer comfort are already top of mind for buyers, heat-smart details are a quiet but real advantage.


Sources: Statistics Canada, Health Canada, CAA North &amp; East Ontario, Yahoo Style Canada
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 31 Jul 2026 12:36:00 -0600</pubDate>
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