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        <title>Camrose Real Estate Blog</title>
        <link>https://www.camroserealty.ca/blog/</link>
        <description>Discover Camrose and the Central Alberta area with CIR Realty-Keller Walker Team. Stay-up-to-date with real estate market updates, events and activities, home maintenance tips, featured listings, and more. </description>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.camroserealty.ca/blog/its-rodeo-time.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.camroserealty.ca/blog/its-rodeo-time.html</link>
        <author>colewrealty@gmail.com (Cole Walker)</author>
        <title>It's Rodeo Time</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
The 2026 Ponoka Stampede: One of Alberta's Must-See Summer Events


Summer in Central Alberta means rodeo season, and few events capture the spirit of Western Canada quite like the Ponoka Stampede. Returning June 25 through July 1, 2026, the Ponoka Stampede celebrates its 90th year and continues to attract rodeo fans, competitors, and families from across North America.


Located just over an hour from Camrose, the Ponoka Stampede has become one of Alberta's premier summer traditions. What started in 1936 has grown into one of the world's top rodeos, drawing elite cowboys and cowgirls to compete in front of thousands of spectators for substantial prize money and championship titles.


But the Ponoka Stampede is much more than rodeo.


Throughout the week, visitors can enjoy professional rodeo performances, thrilling chuckwagon races, live concerts, a midway, trade shows, pancake breakfasts, family activities, and the famous downtown parade. The combination of Western heritage, community spirit, and entertainment makes it one of Alberta's most anticipated summer events.


One of the highlights each year is the chuckwagon racing. Some of the best drivers in the sport compete nightly, culminating in championship races that showcase the speed, strategy, and excitement that have made chuckwagons a staple of Alberta's Western culture.


The 2026 event will also feature six nights of live entertainment, with artists including Dwight Yoakam, Waylon Wyatt, Cooper Alan, Sawyer Brown, and Hunter Brothers scheduled to perform throughout the week. Whether you're a lifelong country music fan or simply looking for a great night out, the concert lineup adds another level of excitement to an already packed schedule.


The annual parade remains one of the most popular events of Stampede week. This year's parade theme, &quot;Year of the Cowgirl,&quot; celebrates the important role women have played in ranching, rodeo, and Western heritage throughout Alberta's history. Thousands of spectators are expected to line the streets of downtown Ponoka to take in the floats, horses, bands, and community displays.


For residents of Camrose and the surrounding area, the Ponoka Stampede offers an easy day trip and a chance to experience one of Alberta's most iconic events. Whether you're attending the rodeo, taking in a concert, exploring the midway, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, there's something for every age and interest.


Events like the Ponoka Stampede are part of what makes Central Alberta such a special place to live. The strong sense of community, deep agricultural roots, and appreciation for Western heritage continue to bring people together year after year.


If you haven't experienced the Ponoka Stampede before, 2026 might be the perfect year to start a new family tradition.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 18 Jun 2026 18:13:00 -0600</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.camroserealty.ca/blog/alberta-housing-market-snapshot.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.camroserealty.ca/blog/alberta-housing-market-snapshot.html</link>
        <author>colewrealty@gmail.com (Cole Walker)</author>
        <title>Alberta Housing Market Snapshot</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Alberta Housing Market Snapshot


As of September 2025, data for the province show:






The average home price across all property types in Alberta: ~ CA$502,063, up ~0.6 year-over-year but down ~0.1 from August. WOWA






By property type:






Detached homes: ~ CA$579,099 (↓ 0.8 y/y) WOWA






Semi-detached: ~ CA$504,910 (↑ 0.2 y/y) WOWA






Townhouses: ~ CA$372,266 (↓ 0.9 y/y) WOWA






Condo/apartment: ~ CA$281,042 (↓ 1.6 y/y) WOWA










Sales volume: ~ 6,099 home sales in the month, down ~5.6 year-over-year. WOWA






New listings: ~ 10,635, up ~7.0 compared with a year earlier. WOWA






Inventory: ~ 20,992 units on the market, up ~17 year-over-year. WOWA






Sales-to-new-listings ratio (SNLR): For the province ~ 57 (indicative of a balanced market) but varies by city (e.g., Edmonton ~60 = seller’s market; Calgary ~45 = more balanced) WOWA






Housing starts (i.e., new home construction) in Alberta: ~ 4,537 urban starts in September 2025 — up ~20.5 compared with September 2024. economicdashboard.alberta.ca






For the first three quarters of 2025: housing starts up ~21 compared to the same period in 2024. bildalberta.ca







What’s Driving the Market?


Several forces are interacting and shaping how the housing market in Alberta behaves right now:






Population growth &amp; migration: Alberta remains relatively more affordable compared with major coastal markets, which draws inter-provincial migration and newcomers. Mortgage Sandbox+1






Supply constraints in certain segments: Although starts are up, supply is still comparatively tight in some housing types (especially detached homes in hot markets) which helps maintain price levels. Mortgage Sandbox+1






Interest rates and mortgage cost: Borrowing costs remain an important variable. With higher rates, affordability is squeezed; any easing of rates could stimulate demand.






Construction / starts uptick: As noted, new construction is gaining momentum in Alberta — which may moderate price growth if supply catches up. bildalberta.ca+1






Regional variation: Alberta is not monolithic. The market in Calgary may differ from Edmonton and smaller centres. For instance, Calgary’s SNLR is lower (around 45) indicating more balanced conditions. WOWA







What the Data Suggests – Key Takeaways






The provincial average price is relatively stable, with only modest increases year-over-year (+0.6) and some monthly softness.






With more new listings and increasing inventory, the market appears to be moving toward balance rather than being firmly a seller’s market across the board.






However, in many segments (especially detached homes in desirable neighbourhoods) supply remains tight and competition persists – making it still favourable for sellers in those niches.






The increase in housing starts is promising for long-term supply, but since construction takes time, the immediate pressure remains on affordability and availability.






For buyers, especially first-timers or in more affordable brackets (townhouses, condos), there may be opportunities emerging with more listings and a bit less competition.






For sellers in strong sub-markets, pricing power remains — but they may face slightly longer days on market (depending on type and location) than during the peak rapid-appreciation era.







What to Watch: Risks &amp; Opportunities


Opportunities






Areas/sub-markets where inventory is rising but pricing hasn’t escalated yet could present good value.






Detached homes are still commanding higher values and may offer upside if affordability improves.






With construction up, some new builds may come to market with favourable features (energy efficiency, modern layouts) giving choice to buyers.






Risks &amp; Cautions






If interest rates increase further (or remain high for extended periods), affordability may deteriorate, slowing demand.






External shocks: oil/energy-sector fluctuations (important in Alberta), migration shifts, or policy changes (taxes, incentives) could influence the market.






While starts are up, if many of those are multi-unit or lower-cost builds and not detached homes, the supply issue in high-demand segments may persist.






For sellers: markets that were extremely hot may see more price resistance from buyers as inventory rises.







Outlook


Looking ahead into late 2025 and into 2026, the housing market in Alberta appears to be in a moderate growth / stabilising phase. A few likely scenarios:






Prices will likely continue upward but modestly — rather than sharp double-digit jumps. The ~0.6 increase year-over-year already suggests a maturing market.






Inventory and new listings increasing will help provide more choice for buyers, gradually shifting some power from sellers to a more balanced dynamic.






If mortgage rates begin to ease, demand could strengthen and accelerate pricing — especially in the more affordable segments.






Regional segmentation will matter more: savvy buyers/sellers will benefit from understanding sub-market dynamics (city vs. suburb, detached vs. condo).






For investors, luxury/high-end segments may offer interesting prospects (depending on local job/growth prospects), but risk should be carefully weighed.







Final Thoughts


For anyone involved in housing in Alberta — whether buying, selling, investing or renting — the message is that the market is changing. The boom-era explosive growth is behind us, but the fundamentals (population growth, relative affordability vs major markets, new construction) remain supportive.


If you’re a buyer, you may have a bit more time and choice now — but you’ll still want to act thoughtfully, check local neighbourhood data, consider how long you plan to hold the property, and be comfortable with financing. If you’re a seller, you likely still have favourable conditions in certain segments — but you might need to be more strategic about pricing, marketing and property condition in a slightly more balanced marketplace. And if you’re an investor, understanding neighbourhood-specific trends, supply pipelines, and rental demand will be key – especially as supply increases and competition grows.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 14 Nov 2025 09:02:00 -0700</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.camroserealty.ca/blog/the-best-return-on-home-renovations.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.camroserealty.ca/blog/the-best-return-on-home-renovations.html</link>
        <author>colewrealty@gmail.com (Cole Walker)</author>
        <title>The Best Return on Home Renovations</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



























The Best Return on Home Renovations: Where to Invest for Maximum Value


Home renovations can be a great way to improve your living space, but when it comes to getting the most value for your money, some projects offer a better return on investment (ROI) than others. Whether you're planning to sell soon or just want to boost your home’s appeal, knowing which upgrades pay off can help you prioritize your spending. Here's a look at some of the best home renovations for a high ROI.


1. Kitchen Remodel


The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, and a remodel can yield impressive returns. Upgrading outdated appliances, installing new counter tops, and refreshing cabinetry can give your kitchen a modern, functional look without the need for a full overhaul. Even small changes, like new hardware or a fresh backsplash, can make a significant impact. Home buyers tend to gravitate toward updated kitchens, so this project typically offers one of the highest ROIs.


Estimated ROI: 60-80


2. Bathroom Renovation


Like kitchens, bathrooms are high-traffic areas that benefit from strategic upgrades. Replacing old fixtures, adding a new vanity, or updating tile work can make a big difference. If you have the budget for it, a master bath with a double vanity, updated shower, or even a soaking tub can elevate the space. Buyers are often willing to pay more for a well-designed, functional bathroom.


Estimated ROI: 60-70


3. Curb Appeal Enhancements


First impressions matter, and the exterior of your home is the first thing potential buyers will see. Simple projects like landscaping, painting the front door, or installing new lighting fixtures can improve your home’s curb appeal significantly. If your budget allows, adding a new roof, replacing windows, or installing a porch can boost your home’s value and attract more interest.


Estimated ROI: 70-90


4. Finished Basement or Attic


If you have unused space in your basement or attic, finishing it can provide a big boost to your home’s value. Turning these areas into functional living spaces—like a home office, gym, or extra bedroom—can appeal to families looking for more square footage. Just be mindful of not overbuilding for your neighborhood’s standards; you want to ensure your renovation aligns with the market value of homes in your area.


Estimated ROI: 60-75


5. Energy Efficiency Upgrades


Home buyers are increasingly looking for properties that are energy-efficient. Adding insulation, upgrading windows, or installing smart thermostats can not only make your home more comfortable but can also help reduce energy costs. Additionally, green features like solar panels or energy-efficient appliances are highly desirable and can increase your home’s marketability.


Estimated ROI: 50-70


Conclusion


The key to maximizing the return on your home renovation lies in understanding which projects offer the best value. While kitchen and bathroom remodels tend to provide the highest ROI, small, cost-effective updates like boosting curb appeal or finishing a basement can also deliver substantial results. Prioritize projects that will appeal to a broad range of buyers while staying within your budget, and you’ll see the return on your investment when it’s time to sell.























































 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 24 Jan 2025 08:55:00 -0700</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.camroserealty.ca/blog/alberta-real-estate-market-2024.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.camroserealty.ca/blog/alberta-real-estate-market-2024.html</link>
        <author>colewrealty@gmail.com (Cole Walker)</author>
        <title>Alberta Real Estate Market 2024</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Alberta Real Estate Market 2024: Key Trends and Statistics


As we move into the later portion of 2024, the Alberta real estate market is poised for continued evolution, driven by shifting economic conditions, demographic trends, and changing consumer preferences. With a diverse economy largely influenced by natural resources and a growing technology sector, Alberta’s real estate landscape reflects both resilience and adaptation.


Residential Market Overview


The residential real estate market in Alberta has shown robust activity as of early 2024. The average home price in the province is approximately $475,000, marking a 5 increase from 2023. This growth is particularly evident in major cities such as Calgary and Edmonton, which are experiencing heightened demand amid limited inventory.


Key Residential Statistics:




Calgary:



Average Home Price: $550,000


Year-over-Year Increase: 6


Homes Sold (2024 Year-to-Date): 15,000






Edmonton:



Average Home Price: $440,000


Year-over-Year Increase: 4


Homes Sold (2024 Year-to-Date): 12,000








Despite these increases, the market is still grappling with a tight inventory, currently averaging about 1.7 months of supply. This situation is leading to competitive bidding in many neighborhoods, further driving prices upward.


Rental Market Dynamics


The rental market in Alberta continues to show strong demand, with average rents for a two-bedroom apartment reaching approximately $1,450. Calgary's rental prices have surged by around 9 year-over-year, while Edmonton has seen an increase of 5. These trends reflect ongoing demand as more people seek rental options amidst rising home prices.


Commercial Real Estate Trends


The commercial real estate sector in Alberta is also experiencing positive momentum. The industrial vacancy rate has dropped to 3.2, driven by growth in e-commerce and logistics. The retail sector is recovering as consumer confidence grows, though office spaces are still navigating a hybrid work environment, resulting in a vacancy rate of around 14 in major cities.


Economic Influences


Alberta's economy is recovering well, with a projected GDP growth of 3 for 2024, largely due to rising oil prices and investments in renewable energy. The unemployment rate has decreased to 5, contributing to increased consumer confidence and purchasing power.


Future Prospects


Looking ahead, analysts expect the Alberta real estate market to maintain its upward trajectory, although growth may moderate as the market stabilizes. Factors such as population growth, particularly in urban centers, will continue to drive demand. However, potential interest rate hikes and global economic uncertainties could introduce volatility.


In summary, the Alberta real estate market in 2024 is characterized by rising home prices, strong rental demand, and a recovering commercial sector. Stakeholders must remain vigilant and adaptable to navigate the evolving landscape effectively, leveraging opportunities presented by the province's economic growth and demographic shifts.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 30 Oct 2024 10:20:00 -0600</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.camroserealty.ca/blog/camrose-county-farmland-values.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.camroserealty.ca/blog/camrose-county-farmland-values.html</link>
        <author>colewrealty@gmail.com (Cole Walker)</author>
        <title>Camrose County Farmland Values</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
The province of Alberta has witnessed a significant surge in farmland prices in recent years, reflecting various economic, social, and environmental factors. This trend of escalating land values has reshaped the agricultural landscape and posed challenges for both farmers and policymakers.


One primary driver behind the rise in farmland prices in Alberta is the increasing demand for agricultural products, both domestically and internationally. Alberta's reputation as a leading producer of wheat, barley, canola, and livestock has attracted investment in farmland as individuals and corporations seek to capitalize on the growing global demand for food.


Additionally, factors such as urbanization, population growth, and changing land use patterns have further constrained the availability of agricultural land, pushing prices upward.


While the rise in farmland prices in Alberta presents opportunities for investors and landowners, it also poses challenges for young farmers and those looking to enter the agricultural sector. Access to affordable farmland is crucial for the sustainability and growth of the agricultural industry, and policymakers must address this issue through measures that promote land affordability, support new entrants into farming, and ensure the long-term viability of Alberta's agricultural sector.


Below is a graph showing the provincial average per acre compared to that of Camrose County




 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 12 Mar 2024 09:45:00 -0600</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.camroserealty.ca/blog/simple-decluttering-ideas-to-get-your-home-ready-to-sell.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.camroserealty.ca/blog/simple-decluttering-ideas-to-get-your-home-ready-to-sell.html</link>
        <author>colewrealty@gmail.com (Cole Walker)</author>
        <title>Simple decluttering ideas to get your home ready to sell.</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
























Decluttering your home before listing it for sale is a crucial step to enhance its appeal and create a positive impression on potential buyers. Here are some effective steps to declutter your home:






Start Early: Begin the decluttering process well in advance of listing your home. This allows you to tackle the task gradually, room by room, rather than feeling overwhelmed by trying to do everything at once.






Create a Plan: Develop a plan that outlines which areas of your home need decluttering and organizing. Consider starting with high-traffic areas like the living room, kitchen, and bedrooms.






Set Clear Goals: Establish specific goals for decluttering each room. Determine what items you want to keep, donate, sell, or discard. This will help you stay focused and make the process more efficient.






Declutter Room by Room: Tackle one room at a time. Begin with the easiest room or the one that will have the most significant impact on potential buyers. This approach can make the process more manageable and rewarding.






Use the Three-Box Method: When sorting through items, use the three-box method – one box for items to keep, one for items to donate or sell, and one for items to discard. This system streamlines decision-making.






Minimize Personal Items: While potential buyers want to envision themselves in your home, too many personal items can be distracting. Pack away family photos, personal memorabilia, and excessive decorations to create a more neutral and spacious atmosphere.






Evaluate Furniture: Assess the furniture in each room. Remove any pieces that make the space feel cramped or hinder the flow. Consider staging rooms with minimal, well-placed furniture to highlight the room's potential.






Organize Storage Spaces: Buyers often scrutinize storage spaces. Ensure closets, cabinets, and pantries are organized. Neat, well-organized storage areas give the impression of ample storage space.






Address Clutter Magnets: Identify areas that tend to accumulate clutter, such as entryways, countertops, and tables. Keep these spaces clear to create a clean and inviting first impression.






Consider Professional Staging: If possible, consider hiring a professional stager. Staging can enhance your home's appeal and help potential buyers visualize the space's potential.






Dispose of Unwanted Items Responsibly: Dispose of items you don't want responsibly. Donate usable items to charities, sell valuable items online or through a garage sale, and recycle or properly dispose of items that can't be reused.






By systematically decluttering your home, you can showcase its full potential to prospective buyers and create a more inviting and spacious atmosphere. This, in turn, can contribute to a faster and potentially more lucrative sale.

















































 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 16 Jan 2024 08:37:00 -0700</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.camroserealty.ca/blog/simple-steps-to-help-increase-the-salability-of-your-home.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.camroserealty.ca/blog/simple-steps-to-help-increase-the-salability-of-your-home.html</link>
        <author>colewrealty@gmail.com (Cole Walker)</author>
        <title>Simple steps to help increase the salability of your home. </title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 




Clean and Declutter:




Clean your home thoroughly, paying attention to often overlooked areas.


Declutter to make rooms appear more spacious and allow potential buyers to envision their belongings in the space.








Enhance Curb Appeal:




First impressions matter. Improve the exterior of your home by maintaining the lawn, trimming bushes, and adding some potted plants or flowers.


Consider a fresh coat of paint for the front door and any areas that need it.








Make Necessary Repairs:




Fix any minor repairs such as leaky faucets, squeaky doors, or chipped paint.


Address major issues like roof leaks or faulty plumbing that might deter potential buyers.








Neutralize and Depersonalize:




Paint rooms in neutral colors to appeal to a wider audience.


Remove personal items like family photos to help buyers imagine themselves in the space.








Stage Your Home:




Arrange furniture to highlight the functionality of each room.


Consider hiring a professional stager to create an inviting atmosphere.








Good Lighting:




Ensure that rooms are well-lit. Natural light is preferable, so open curtains and blinds.


Use strategic lighting fixtures to enhance the ambiance.








Upgrade or Update:




Consider making cost-effective updates like replacing outdated fixtures, cabinet hardware, or faucets.


Upgrade appliances if possible, as this can add perceived value.








Highlight Key Features:




Draw attention to unique or desirable features of your home, such as a fireplace, hardwood floors, or built-in storage.








Set the Right Price:




Research the market and set a competitive and realistic price for your home.


Consider consulting a real estate agent for guidance on pricing.








Market Effectively:




Use high-quality photos for online listings.


Leverage social media and other online platforms to reach a wider audience.








Create a Welcoming Atmosphere:




Make your home smell inviting by using subtle air fresheners or baking cookies before showings.


Play soft background music during open houses.








Provide Information:




Prepare a list of features, upgrades, and any recent improvements to share with potential buyers.


Include information about the neighborhood, schools, and nearby amenities.








Remember, the goal is to make your home appealing to a broad range of potential buyers. Each small improvement can contribute to an overall positive impression and potentially lead to a quicker sale and more money in your pocket. 


Maximizing the sale of your home involves presenting it in the best possible light to potential buyers. Here are some simple tips to help you achieve that:






Clean and Declutter:




Clean your home thoroughly, paying attention to often overlooked areas.


Declutter to make rooms appear more spacious and allow potential buyers to envision their belongings in the space.








Enhance Curb Appeal:




First impressions matter. Improve the exterior of your home by maintaining the lawn, trimming bushes, and adding some potted plants or flowers.


Consider a fresh coat of paint for the front door and any areas that need it.








Make Necessary Repairs:




Fix any minor repairs such as leaky faucets, squeaky doors, or chipped paint.


Address major issues like roof leaks or faulty plumbing that might deter potential buyers.








Neutralize and Depersonalize:




Paint rooms in neutral colors to appeal to a wider audience.


Remove personal items like family photos to help buyers imagine themselves in the space.








Stage Your Home:




Arrange furniture to highlight the functionality of each room.


Consider hiring a professional stager to create an inviting atmosphere.








Good Lighting:




Ensure that rooms are well-lit. Natural light is preferable, so open curtains and blinds.


Use strategic lighting fixtures to enhance the ambiance.








Upgrade or Update:




Consider making cost-effective updates like replacing outdated fixtures, cabinet hardware, or faucets.


Upgrade appliances if possible, as this can add perceived value.








Highlight Key Features:




Draw attention to unique or desirable features of your home, such as a fireplace, hardwood floors, or built-in storage.








Set the Right Price:




Research the market and set a competitive and realistic price for your home.


Consider consulting a real estate agent for guidance on pricing.








Market Effectively:




Use high-quality photos for online listings.


Leverage social media and other online platforms to reach a wider audience.








Create a Welcoming Atmosphere:




Make your home smell inviting by using subtle air fresheners or baking cookies before showings.


Play soft background music during open houses.








Provide Information:




Prepare a list of features, upgrades, and any recent improvements to share with potential buyers.


Include information about the neighborhood, schools, and nearby amenities.








Remember, the goal is to make your home appealing to a broad range of potential buyers. Each small improvement can contribute to an overall positive impression and potentially lead to a quicker and more lucrative sale.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 17 Nov 2023 15:01:00 -0700</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.camroserealty.ca/blog/central-alberta-activities.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.camroserealty.ca/blog/central-alberta-activities.html</link>
        <author>colewrealty@gmail.com (Cole Walker)</author>
        <title>Central Alberta Activities </title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Central Alberta, a beautiful region in the heart of the province, has a wealth of activities and events happening throughout the year. From festivals to sporting events and everything in between, there's always something to see and do. Here are some of the top things happening in Central Alberta:






Westerner Days: Westerner Days is a popular annual festival held in Red Deer that draws visitors from all over the province. The festival includes a variety of entertainment options, including live music, carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, and more. Westerner Days typically takes place in late July, and it's a great way to enjoy the beautiful Alberta summer weather.






Sylvan Lake Winterfest: Winterfest is a family-friendly event held in Sylvan Lake in February each year. The festival includes a range of winter activities, such as ice skating, ice fishing, and snowshoeing, as well as food vendors and live entertainment. The highlight of the event is the Polar Bear Dip, where brave participants take a dip in the icy waters of Sylvan Lake.






Central Alberta Film Festival: The Central Alberta Film Festival is an annual event that showcases local and international films. The festival typically takes place in Red Deer and features a range of film genres, including documentaries, shorts, and feature-length films. It's a great way to support local filmmakers and enjoy some thought-provoking cinema.






Alberta Open Farm Days: Alberta Open Farm Days is an annual event that gives visitors the opportunity to visit local farms and learn about agriculture in the province. The event takes place in August and includes a range of activities, such as farm tours, workshops, and farmers' markets. It's a great way to learn about where your food comes from and support local farmers.






Red Deer Rebels Hockey: The Red Deer Rebels are a Western Hockey League team based in Red Deer. The team plays regular season games from September through March, and attending a game is a great way to enjoy some high-energy sporting action.






These are just a few of the many exciting events happening in Central Alberta throughout the year. Whether you're a local resident or planning a visit to the area, there's always something to see and do in this vibrant region of the province. So grab your calendar and start planning your next adventure in Central Alberta today
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 28 Feb 2023 14:46:00 -0700</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.camroserealty.ca/blog/is-this-the-new-norm-in-real-estate.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.camroserealty.ca/blog/is-this-the-new-norm-in-real-estate.html</link>
        <author>colewrealty@gmail.com (Cole Walker)</author>
        <title>Is this the new norm in real estate?</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Often as real estate professionals we are often asked for insight into what the overall real estate market is doing and going to do in the future especially when things slow down slightly in the overall market. While this can vary drastically from region to region and town to town with current statistic's we can help shed some light on what &quot;might happen&quot; Let's take a closer look at some of the stats in Alberta


-According to Statistics Canada's October 2022 Labour Force Survey, Alberta had an unemployment rate of 5.2 per cent last month, down 0.3 percentage points from September and better than last year's 7.8 per cent.


-Alberta Housing Market as of October 2022. The average price of a home in Alberta was $430,964 in October 2022, a 2 increase year-over-year and a 0.2 decrease compared to last month.



























-The average house price in Calgary is $513,000. In October 2022, average home prices in Calgary up by 10.3 compared to the previous year.





-The average house price in Edmonton is $372,400. In Edmonton, the average house price down by -0.6 in October 2022 -compared to the same month of the previous year.





Looking at the above numbers, while Edmonton is down slightly by 0.6 year over year the overall numbers are fairly strong. Even with current interest hovering around 5 the Alberta economy seems to be stable. We are still seeing a good influx of interest from BC and Ontario residents looking to cash out and move to Alberta. With the overall demand of interest from these buyers as well a strong labor market we are expecting to still see the overall Alberta real estate market remain stable for the next 6 to 8 months.   
























 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 28 Nov 2022 10:30:00 -0700</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.camroserealty.ca/blog/solving-the-problem-of-removing-snow-and-ice-from-your-driveway-and-walkways.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.camroserealty.ca/blog/solving-the-problem-of-removing-snow-and-ice-from-your-driveway-and-walkways.html</link>
        <author>colewrealty@gmail.com (Cole Walker)</author>
        <title>Solving the Problem of Removing Snow and Ice From Your Driveway and Walkways</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Every winter, homeowners in Alberta face the dilemma of how to rid their driveways and walkways of snow and ice build-up without doing any damage in the process. Rock salt and other de-icers are typically used to melt down snow and ice, while shoveling may still be needed to remove loosened but slow-melting &quot;tough spots.&quot; Yet, most concrete drives, walkways and stairs can suffer harm from the use of de-icing salts. 





 





Salt Damage to Concrete Driveways





Concrete is a highly durable driveway and walkway material that withstands the pressure of even extremely weighty vehicles rolling over it. However, something as seemingly weak as salt can do significant damage to concrete. 





 





When salt crystals make their way into the concrete through its surface pores, they then attract water, increasing the water-saturation of the concrete by as much as 10. Additionally, if run-off from ice and snow melted by de-icing salts is not quickly shed off your driveway, it will puddle and seep inside the concrete, increasing the water-saturation further. Once temperatures drop below the freezing point, the water inside your concrete will expand and cause small cracks and fissures as well as surface spalling. A winter with numerous freeze-thaw cycles like we experience in many parts of Alberta can do serious damage to a driveway with excess water content. 





 





If you have just had concrete poured before winter, it is especially critical that it was installed correctly. At least 30 days should be allowed for the new pavement to thoroughly dry out before winter sets in. Concrete with additional water added to it or to its surface during construction will be especially vulnerable to salt damage during winter. 





 





Non-Salt Driveway De-icing Solutions 





Aside from just letting the snow accumulate or shoveling/chipping off the ice and snow as best you can, there are four other solutions to clearing off your driveway in winter that do not involve salt. 





 





Sand: It is possible to only use sand on your driveway and walkways. This will not melt the snow/ice, but it will provide extra traction. Mixing sand and salt is a compromise solution that is also popular. If conditions are too slippery, however, sand will not be a safe alternative.





 





Heated driveways: Installing electric heating coils under an asphalt driveway or hydronic (waterantifreeze circulating) plastic tubing in a poured concrete driveway can effectively melt surface snow/ice. You will have control over temperature settings and can heat only a portion (even just tire lanes) of the driveway if wished. A heated driveway will require an initial investment of at least several thousand dollars and will increase utility bills during the winter season but will last for many years to come. 





 





Snow-melting mats: While snow melting mats are frequently used on outdoor walkways, stairways, and entry areas, you can also turn your driveway into a heated snow melting powerhouse with heated driveway mats. These mats, consisting of a powerful heating element sandwiched between two layers of rubber, can melt several inches of snow in only an hour or two. They are slip-resistant, do not allow melt-off to refreeze, utilize your normal power outlets, and can be easily taken up and stored for next year. Like heated driveways, these snow-melting mats require a large up-front investment and increased utility bills during the winter season. 





 





Rubber Paving: Having a poured-in-place rubber surface installed on your drive as well as walkways and stairs provides the homeowner with a surface that ice does not stick to and that black ice cannot form on. This allows for a safer, slip-resistant surface to walk on and for ease of shoveling. A poured-in-place rubber surface is slightly porous, so snow and ice are not able to stick to the surface. When water on the surface of your drive and walkways freezes, it expands, displacing the air underneath and creating a vacuum to the surface below. Because the poured-in-place rubber surface is porous, that vacuum cannot be created making it easy to simply push the packed snow and ice off without having to chip away at the build up of ice. The poured-in-place rubber surface is durable, long-lasting and environmentally friendly. It can be poured over top of existing damaged concrete or asphalt, making it a less expensive alternative to having the concrete removed and re-poured. 





 





While salt is the most used and less expensive de-icing method, it is also a method that does major damage to concrete and asphalt driveways and walkways each and every year, resulting in costly repairs later on. It is also the least environmentally friendly option. Finding alternative ways to rid your driveway of ice and snow will minimize your salt use and extend the life of your concrete and asphalt surfaces for years to come.





 





~ Melanie Kehler, Urban Rubber Paving Inc.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 09 Dec 2021 09:04:00 -0700</pubDate>
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