Summer isn't usually the most popular time to shop for a new home, but there are plenty of reasons why shopping THIS SUMMER is a smart decision!
1. More Listings = More Choice
The most recent market data confirms it: inventory is finally on the rise. After years of extremely tight supply in the Calgary housing market, rising new listings—particularly in the condo and townhome segments—are finally offering buyers more options than they've had in quite some time. Across all price ranges and market sectors, inventories have grown to more balanced levels over the last few months, leading to better conditions for buyers overall.
Whether you're hunting for a detached home in the suburbs or a modern infill near downtown, having choice in the housing market place means a few things:
- Less pressure to rush into a decision
- A better chance of finding the home that checks every box
- More room to negotiate on price and terms
2. Balanced Conditions = More Breathing Room
After years of intense seller's market conditions, Calgary's housing market is finally shifting to a more balanced market, where sellers no longer have a significant advantage.
For buyers, this shift offers two major benefits:
- Better Odds of Success: With fewer bidding wars, your offer is more likely to be the only one at the table. This means you have a much better chance to succeed, even at a price below asking.
- More Favourable Terms: Now that the market has cooled, sellers are much more willing to work with offer conditions like home inspections or the requirement to sell another property to finance the deal.
3. Prices are Stable
Although the Calgary market has cooled, home prices have for the most part remained stable. This allows for a much more comfortable buying experience for a few reasons:
- You're not attempting to predict a sales price in a rapidly escalating market
- You can properly do your homework on values, reviewing comparable sales to estimate worth
- You can comfortably buy and sell in the same market, without having to factor in significant value swings
4. Better Weather = An Easier Move
It's a simple but often overlooked fact: Moving is much more enjoyable when it is nice out than in wet, rainy or snowing conditions! But it's not just the move; property viewings, inspections and appraisals all go more smoothly when you're not contending with snowbanks or minus-30° windchills.
Plus, buying in the Summer allows you to settle in before the snow returns!
5. Summer Tends to Bring Out Motivated Sellers
Sellers who have been listed since the Spring tend to get much more motivated in the Summer, when showings slow down and the school year is looming. Plus, Sellers who list in the Summer are often serious about closing before Winter hits, meaning they are less likely to turn down a fair offer. Whether they're relocating, upsizing, or cashing out after years of appreciation, many are keen to move forward.
This creates a great environment for negotiation, particularly if you're prepared, pre-approved, and working with an experienced agent.
Timing Matters—But Strategy Matters More
Being a savvy homebuyer means you are prepared and ready for the market. The best strategy still involves:
- Getting pre-approved so you can act quickly
- Working with a real estate agent who understands Calgary's neighbourhood trends
- Watching the market for price reductions or re-listed homes that may offer hidden value
