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Around the Kitchen Island, #2

Sellers | Is Summer a Good Time to Sell in Calgary?

If you've ever thought about selling your home during the summer, chances are someone has told you to wait until spring. After all, the kids are out of school, vacation plans are in full swing, and if you're lucky enough to live in Calgary, the mountains, lakes and patios tend to pull our attention away from just about everything else. It feels logical that the housing market would slow down too.

But here's the thing: real estate doesn't stop in the summer. It simply changes.

The spring market often gets most of the attention, which has created the perception that it's the only "good" time to sell. While spring is certainly busy, summer continues to bring buyers into the market, and many of them have a reason they can't wait until September. People are still being transferred for work. Families are trying to move before the next school year begins. Some homeowners have already sold and need to find their next home. Others want to get settled before winter arrives.

The buyer pool may be a little smaller than it is in April or May, but the buyers who are actively looking in July and August are often highly motivated. They're not browsing for fun. They're looking because they need to make a move.

One of the biggest advantages of selling a home in summer is something many homeowners overlook: less competition. Spring brings a flood of new listings to the market. By mid-summer, many of those homes have already sold, and inventory often begins to shrink. That means buyers have fewer options to choose from. A well-prepared, well-marketed home can sometimes stand out more in July than it would have during the busiest weeks of spring.

Summer also happens to be one of the best seasons for showing off a property. Lawns are green. Gardens are blooming. Trees are full. Patios, decks and outdoor living spaces are being used exactly as they were intended. Longer daylight hours make it easier to schedule showings and allow homes to feel brighter and more inviting.

In a city like Calgary, where we spend so much of the year looking forward to summer, buyers aren't just purchasing a house. They're buying a lifestyle. They're picturing morning coffee on the deck, evenings around the fire table, and backyard barbecues with friends and family. That emotional connection can be a powerful part of the selling process.

Now, does summer have its challenges? Of course. Showings can be a little less predictable. Some buyers will be away on vacation. Weekend activity may fluctuate depending on long weekends, travel plans or the weather. But serious buyers remain serious buyers.

In my experience, the season itself is rarely the deciding factor in whether a home sells successfully. Pricing, presentation and marketing matter far more than the month on the calendar. A home that's priced correctly and marketed effectively in July will almost always outperform an overpriced home listed in April.

Which brings me to something I tell clients often: there isn't a perfect time to sell a home. There's a right time for your life.

Whether that's spring, summer, fall or winter, the best time to make a move is when it aligns with your goals, your timeline and what's happening in your world. The market will always have its seasonal rhythms. Life doesn't always wait for them… and sometimes, summer is exactly the right time to make your move.

Thinking about selling your home in Calgary this summer? I'd be happy to talk through your options, answer your questions, and help you decide whether the timing makes sense for you—without any pressure and on your timeline.

See you around the kitchen island,

Erika

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See it in Person! Sunday Open House

Sunday, June 14, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Please visit our Open House at 1840 33 AVENUE SW in Calgary. See details here

Open House on Sunday, June 14, 2026 2:00PM - 4:00PM

Tucked into the heart of Marda Loop on a corner lot, this detached 4-level split offers over 1,660 sq. ft. of developed living space, giving you room to spread out without sacrificing the walkable inner-city lifestyle that makes this community so desirable. Step inside to a warm and inviting front living room anchored by a gas fireplace, the perfect spot to curl up with a book, host friends, or unwind after a long day. The updated kitchen brings together style and function with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, generous prep space, and an easy connection to the dining area that keeps everyone part of the conversation. Upstairs, you’ll find 2 bedrooms and a full 4-piece bathroom, including a spacious primary retreat complete with a walk-in closet. The lower level offers even more room to spread out with a second family room featuring a wood-burning fireplace, creating the ultimate movie night or hangout space. A 4-piece bathroom and laundry area complete the level. Downstairs, the basement adds flexibility with an additional bedroom plus a den that could easily function as a fourth bedroom, home office, workout space, or guest room. There’s also a large crawlspace for all the extra storage you never seem to have enough of. Outside, the covered side deck with built-ins creates a great extension of the living space and is ready for BBQ season (all it needs is the grill!) The yard offers plenty of room for a firepit, outdoor dining, gardening, or future landscaping ideas, giving the next owner the opportunity to create a backyard that suits their lifestyle. Mature landscaping and the corner lot placement give the space a sense of privacy while still keeping you connected to the energy of the neighborhood. Living in Marda Loop means being surrounded by some of Calgary’s favorite local coffee shops, restaurants, boutiques, fitness studios, and parks, all just minutes from your door. Enjoy nearby green spaces, playgrounds, pathways, and the beloved outdoor pool during the summer months. Families will appreciate the access to nearby schools, while commuters will love being just minutes to downtown. It’s a community known for its perfect blend of inner-city energy and neighborhood charm. Whether it’s quiet mornings with coffee under the covered side deck, summer BBQs with friends, or cozy winter nights by the fire, this home was made to be lived in. This is your chance to enjoy detached living in one of Calgary’s most sought-after inner-city communities.

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Around the Kitchen Island, #1

Buyers | Don’t Shop for the House. Shop for the Life You Want.

One of the things that always surprises me when I'm out showing homes is how quickly buyers can fall in love with a paint colour.

I can't tell you how many times I've heard, "I LOVE this house!" only to discover what they really loved was the navy kitchen island, the light fixture over the dining room table, or the perfectly styled throw pillows.

And honestly? I get it. I love beautiful spaces too; but, after walking through hundreds of homes with buyers over the years, I've learned something:

The homes people end up loving most aren't always the prettiest ones. They're the ones that fit their lives.

I remember working with buyers who had a very specific picture in their minds. They wanted the perfect kitchen, the perfect finishes, the perfect everything. Then we walked into a house that wasn't what they had envisioned at all.

The paint needed updating. The light fixtures weren't great. It certainly wasn't Pinterest-worthy.

But the moment we stepped into the backyard, everything changed. Suddenly they weren't talking about paint colours anymore. They were talking about where the BBQ would go. Where friends would gather. Where the dog would run. They were already imagining summer evenings and family dinners.

They weren't looking at a house anymore. They were picturing a life.

That's usually the moment I know we're onto something.

When you're looking at homes, pay attention to how a property makes you feel, but make sure you're falling in love with the right things.

Paint can be changed. Light fixtures can be replaced. Even kitchens can be renovated. Location, community, lot size, natural light, and the way a home functions for your day-to-day life are much harder to change.

The next time you're scrolling listings or walking through a home, ask yourself one simple question:

Can I picture my life here?

Because the best homes aren't always perfect. They're the ones that feel perfect for the people living in them. The ones where you can picture Sunday morning coffee, family dinners, summer BBQs, a dog racing around the backyard, or simply ending a long day and feeling like you're exactly where you're supposed to be.

That's the feeling worth paying attention to.

See you around the kitchen island,
Erika

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Quiet and Relaxing | Southwood - SW Calgary

Newly listed property at 1403 104 AVENUE SW in Calgary. See details here

From family dinners around the table to evenings spent entertaining in the backyard, this Southwood bungalow is designed for the moments that make a house feel like home. With over 2,100 sq. ft. of developed living space, an open-concept layout and a thoughtful balance of shared and private spaces, it's a home designed to adapt to everyday life. Imagine summer evenings spent in the private backyard, gathering with friends on the patio, enjoying the mature trees, colourful gardens and the peaceful atmosphere that makes Southwood such a sought-after place to call home. Inside, the spacious kitchen, complete with granite countertops and ample prep and storage space, flows effortlessly into the dining and living areas, creating a natural place for family and friends to come together. The main floor features three comfortable bedrooms, a generous 5-piece bathroom and plenty of natural light throughout. Whether you're hosting holiday dinners, helping with homework at the kitchen counter or enjoying a morning coffee before the day begins, this home feels easy to live in. Downstairs, the fully developed basement adds an additional 978 sq. ft. of flexible living space. A large recreation area offers room for movie nights, games, hobbies or a home gym, while the den provides excellent versatility for a home office, guest room or future fourth bedroom (subject to installation of an egress window). A 4-piece bathroom, dedicated laundry area, enclosed wine room and ample storage complete the lower level. The backyard is a true extension of the home and offers the kind of outdoor space that's becoming increasingly difficult to find. Mature trees and established landscaping create a private setting, while multiple seating areas provide room to entertain, garden or simply enjoy a quiet evening outdoors. Whether you're hosting friends on the patio, tending to the gardens or unwinding at the end of the day, it's the kind of yard that's been loved, cared for and truly lived in. The attached single garage adds everyday convenience, while the quiet location allows you to enjoy all the benefits of established community living. Surrounded by mature trees and a well-established neighbourhood setting, this home is just minutes from schools, parks, playgrounds, transit, Southcentre Mall and the Southland LRT Station. With easy access to major routes and nearby Fish Creek Park, Southwood continues to be one of Calgary's most connected and enduringly popular communities. This is the kind of home that's easy to picture yourself in, and even easier to make your own.

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the Mint-uation (… get it?!)

Every spring, I tell myself I'm going to be more practical in my garden.

Then I plant mint.

And every summer, I remember exactly why.

Mint is the overachiever of the herb world. Give it a little sun, a little water, and suddenly you're wondering if you've accidentally started a mint farm. (Trust me, keep it in a pot unless you're looking for a lifelong commitment.)

The best part? It's one of those plants that makes you look far more put together than you actually are.

Friends coming over? Throw some mint in sparkling water and suddenly you're hosting.

Need a quick side dish? Add it to watermelon and feta and people will ask for the recipe.

Want to feel fancy on a Tuesday? Toss a few leaves into a cocktail and call it self-care.

A Few of My Favourite Uses for Fresh Mint

  • Sparkling water, lime, and mint

  • Watermelon, feta, and mint salad

  • Fresh mint tea

  • Homemade simple syrup for cocktails or iced tea

  • Fruit platters that look like you planned ahead

  • Pretty much anything that needs a little summer energy

And speaking of summer energy...

This is one of those recipes that tastes like you spent far more effort than you actually did. My favourite kind.

No complicated ingredients. No kitchen gadgets you'll use once and then store beside the bread maker.

Just a ridiculously refreshing drink that's perfect for patio season.

Blackberry Mint Moscow Mules

This is one of those recipes that tastes like you spent far more effort than you actually did. My favourite kind.

Ingredients

  • 6 oz blackberries

  • ½ cup fresh mint

  • 8 oz vodka

  • 2 oz lime juice

  • 2 sliced limes

  • 12 oz ginger beer

Directions

  1. Muddle the blackberries and mint in a pitcher.

  2. Add the vodka, lime juice, and sliced limes.

  3. Gently stir in the ginger beer.

  4. Pour over ice and garnish with extra blackberries and mint.

So if you've got a mint plant sitting on your deck right now, consider this your sign to stop admiring it and start using it. Your summer drinks, salads, and hosting game will thank you.

And if your mint somehow takes over the entire container by August? Don't worry. That's not a bug. It's a feature.

— Erika 🌿

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Charming Little Thing | Marda Loop - South Calgary

Newly listed:  1840 33 AVENUE SW in Calgary. See details here

Tucked into the heart of Marda Loop on a corner lot, this detached 4-level split offers over 1,660 sq. ft. of developed living space, giving you room to spread out without sacrificing the walkable inner-city lifestyle that makes this community so desirable. Step inside to a warm and inviting front living room anchored by a gas fireplace, the perfect spot to curl up with a book, host friends, or unwind after a long day. The updated kitchen brings together style and function with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, generous prep space, and an easy connection to the dining area that keeps everyone part of the conversation. Upstairs, you’ll find 2 bedrooms and a full 4-piece bathroom, including a spacious primary retreat complete with a walk-in closet. The lower level offers even more room to spread out with a second family room featuring a wood-burning fireplace, creating the ultimate movie night or hangout space. A 4-piece bathroom and laundry area complete the level. Downstairs, the basement adds flexibility with an additional bedroom plus a den that could easily function as a fourth bedroom, home office, workout space, or guest room. There’s also a large crawlspace for all the extra storage you never seem to have enough of. Outside, the covered side deck with built-ins creates a great extension of the living space and is ready for BBQ season (all it needs is the grill!) The yard offers plenty of room for a firepit, outdoor dining, gardening, or future landscaping ideas, giving the next owner the opportunity to create a backyard that suits their lifestyle. Mature landscaping and the corner lot placement give the space a sense of privacy while still keeping you connected to the energy of the neighborhood. Living in Marda Loop means being surrounded by some of Calgary’s favorite local coffee shops, restaurants, boutiques, fitness studios, and parks, all just minutes from your door. Enjoy nearby green spaces, playgrounds, pathways, and the beloved outdoor pool during the summer months. Families will appreciate the access to nearby schools, while commuters will love being just minutes to downtown. It’s a community known for its perfect blend of inner-city energy and neighborhood charm. Whether it’s quiet mornings with coffee under the covered side deck, summer BBQs with friends, or cozy winter nights by the fire, this home was made to be lived in. This is your chance to enjoy detached living in one of Calgary’s most sought-after inner-city communities.

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Effortlessly Modern | Silverado - SW Calgary

Newly listed: 196 Silverado Plains PARK SW in Calgary. See details here

This is the kind of home that makes you exhale the second you step inside. Welcome to effortless bungalow living in the heart of Silverado. A home that perfectly blends comfort, style, and low-maintenance ease in one beautifully designed space. From the moment you walk in, you’ll feel the warmth and openness of this bright 3-bedroom villa, where natural light pours through large windows and an inviting open-concept layout creates a sense of calm and connection throughout. The main living area is both stylish and welcoming, anchored by a stunning gas fireplace and a striking focal wall with custom built-ins that add character, function, and a beautiful architectural statement. Warm hardwood floors flow seamlessly through the space, while the thoughtful layout makes everyday living and entertaining feel completely effortless. At the heart of the home, the kitchen is truly designed for gathering. Featuring extensive cabinetry, sleek quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, a brand new gas range, and a massive central island, this space is equal parts beautiful and practical. Whether you’re hosting friends, preparing meals, or enjoying a quiet morning coffee, the generous design provides exceptional functionality without sacrificing style. The adjacent dining area is filled with natural light and opens directly onto a spacious covered deck, the perfect extension of your living space and an ideal setting for summer evenings, morning sunshine, or simply relaxing outdoors in comfort. The primary bedroom offers a peaceful retreat, thoughtfully designed with large windows and a calming atmosphere that makes it easy to unwind at the end of the day. The elegant 4-piece ensuite features dual sinks, quartz counters, modern finishes, and a glass walk-in shower, creating a spa-like experience at home. Two additional bedrooms provide flexible space for guests, a home office, or hobbies, along with a beautifully finished second full bathroom. This home truly shines in its thoughtful design and ease of living, offering the convenience of single-level living without compromising on space or style. The double attached garage provides secure parking and additional storage, while extra driveway parking ensures convenience for visitors. The covered deck adds valuable outdoor living space, creating a private and comfortable place to enjoy Calgary’s seasons while embracing a low-maintenance lifestyle. Perfectly located in Calgary's South West community of Silverado, you’ll enjoy peaceful surroundings, scenic walking paths, nearby parks and amenities, and quick access to major routes for an easy commute. Beautifully maintained and move-in ready, this home offers the perfect opportunity to simplify your lifestyle while elevating your everyday living experience.

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Sophisticated & Liveable | Quarry Park - SE Calgary

Newly listed:442 Quarry Park BOULEVARD SE in Calgary. See details here

Defined by striking two-story ceilings and expansive windows, this beautifully appointed executive townhome in the vibrant, amenity-rich community of Quarry Park offers over 2,400 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space. As an end-unit, the home benefits from additional windows that bring in natural light and enhance the sense of openness throughout the main living areas. The front entry opens to a dramatic formal living room where the open-to-above design creates an immediate sense of height and light. Large windows fill the space with natural brightness, setting the tone for the home’s airy and welcoming feel. Further into the home, the layout unfolds into the open-concept kitchen, dining area, and family room. The kitchen sits at the center of it all, finished with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, extensive cabinetry, and an oversized central island offering both prep space and casual seating. The island naturally becomes the heart of the home, perfect for morning coffee, casual meals, or conversation while preparing dinner. The dining area sits just beyond, providing an inviting setting for everyday meals or entertaining. The adjoining family room is anchored by a gas fireplace with built-in shelving, creating a warm gathering space for relaxed evenings at home. At the back of the home, convenient access leads to the yard and double detached garage. Upstairs, a spacious bonus room at the top of the stairs offers a flexible second living area ideal for a media space, reading nook, or home office. The primary bedroom is generously sized and designed as a quiet retreat, complete with an ensuite featuring dual vanities, a soaker tub, and separate shower. The second bedroom features a distinctive architectural detail with French doors opening to a Juliet balcony, allowing fresh air and natural light to flow into the room. Upper-level laundry adds everyday convenience just steps from the bedrooms. The fully developed basement adds valuable living space with a third bedroom, 4pc bath and a large recreation area that easily adapts to your needs, whether as a media room, home gym, guest retreat, or additional family space. Outside, the yard offers functional outdoor space with room for seating and easy access to the double detached garage. Buyer is advised that the property has recently undergone remedial work to address building envelope and balcony issues. At the time of listing, some interior and exterior repairs (including drywall, carpet, and exterior stonework) may still be in progress or visible. Quarry Park offers walkable amenities, scenic river pathways, parks, restaurants, cafés, and shops minutes from home. The Remington YMCA is also within walking distance, offering fitness and recreation. With quick access to major roadways and downtown Calgary, the community blends urban convenience with outdoor living. With its thoughtful design, generous living space, and exceptional Quarry Park location, this home offers a refined place to call home.

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