First-Time Home Buyer’s Guide to Edmonton: Costs, Grants & Areas to Watch

Top Colour Trends for 2025: What’s In 1. Warm Neutrals & Earthy Elegance Say goodbye to stark white walls—2025 is all about muted beiges, warm taupes, sand, mushroom, and camel tones . These cozy hues bring an elevated calm and create a perfect backdrop for layering. Designer Tip: Pair earthy tones with wood accents, curved furniture, and statement lighting. 2. Sunset Shades Think burnt sienna, terracotta, peachy clay, ochre, and coral-inspired tones . These colours mimic desert landscapes and are ideal for feature walls or accessories like throw pillows and art. 3. Moody Blues & Deep Greens Saturated hues like navy, emerald, forest, and deep teal are showing up in cabinetry, powder rooms, and even ceilings. These tones ground a space and add instant depth. 4. Bold Accents: Aubergine, Mustard & Maroon Used sparingly, these jewel tones make powerful statements—especially in furniture, rugs, and wall art. Colour Trends on Their Way Out ❌ Cool Greys The cool, bluish greys that dominated the last decade are being phased out in favour of warmer, inviting tones . ❌ Stark White Everything While white still has its place, overly sterile all-white interiors are losing favour. Designers are mixing whites with creams and earthy undertones for a softer, more lived-in feel. ❌ Neon & Ultra-Modern Colours Bold neons and high-gloss finishes are being traded in for matte textures and timeless colour palettes. Home Decor & Design Trends: 2025 Edition ✅ What’s In Plaster & Limewash Walls : Natural, textural finishes that give walls a soft, hand-crafted appearance. Statement Stone : Bold marble veining and dramatic countertops in kitchens and bathrooms. Curves & Arches : From furniture to doorways, curved lines and arches are dominating. Biophilic Design : Bringing the outside in with indoor plants , natural light , and raw materials like stone, rattan, and reclaimed wood. Layered Lighting : Say hello to sconces, floor lamps, and statement pendants. Overhead-only lighting is out. Vintage Mix : A blend of old and new. Think antique mirrors, 70s-style wood tones, and mid-century modern pieces mixed with minimalist design. ❌ What’s Out Open Concept Everything : While still desirable, people are opting for defined spaces and cozy nooks, especially post-pandemic. Fast Furniture : Quality over quantity. Sustainable, well-crafted pieces are in; cheap, mass-produced items are out. All-Matching Sets : Mix-and-match styles are being celebrated—think curated, not cookie-cutter. Minimalism Without Personality : Ultra-sparse interiors are giving way to more layered, expressive spaces. How to Apply These Trends Affordably Paint one room (or even one wall) in a warm or moody colour. Swap your throw pillows and curtains for more textural, earthy fabrics. Add a statement lamp or sconce for a lighting refresh. Bring in a vintage chair or mirror from a local market or Facebook Marketplace. Layer rugs and add greenery to make your space feel alive and connected to nature. Final Thoughts 2025 is the year of warmth, depth, and personality in residential design. Whether you’re updating your space for your own enjoyment or preparing to list your home, these trends will help you stay current and make your space feel timeless and elevated. Want to know which upgrades will add the most value for resale in your area ? Let’s talk! I’d love to help you design with ROI in mind. 📩 Reach out for a personalized home design or staging consultation.

Your Home is More Than a Place to Live—It’s Your Future’s Foundation

If you're looking for a long-term wealth strategy that has stood the test of time, real estate should be at the top of your list. Unlike flashy stocks or volatile crypto, real estate builds real , tangible , generational wealth — and it can happen faster than you think. One of the most powerful yet realistic strategies? Buy 5 properties in 5 years. This simple but strategic plan can pave your path to millionaire status — and here’s why. Why Real Estate Is Still King 1. Cash Flow: Rental properties can generate consistent monthly income that increases over time. It’s money in your pocket, month after month, even while you sleep. 2. Appreciation: Historically, real estate grows in value. In places like Edmonton, where population and development are increasing, your properties could be worth significantly more in just a few years. 3. Leverage: Real estate allows you to use other people’s money (your lender’s) to grow your wealth. A 5%–20% down payment can control a 100% asset. 4. Tax Advantages: From depreciation to mortgage interest deductions and capital gains deferrals, real estate investing is loaded with tax benefits. 5. Forced Equity: Unlike other investments, you can directly increase the value of a property by renovating or reconfiguring the space — this is money you create, not just wait for. The “5 in 5” Strategy Explained Buying 5 properties in 5 years isn’t about being reckless — it’s about being intentional and strategic . Here’s how it works: Year 1: Buy Your First Property Start with a property that cash flows. Maybe it's a suited home, a condo, or a small multifamily. Live in it or rent it out — just get in the game. Year 2–5: Repeat the Process Each year, use your saved cash flow, appreciation, and equity growth to qualify for the next property. With programs like CMHC’s Select program, BRRRR strategies (Buy, Renovate, Rent, Refinance, Repeat), or joint ventures, your momentum grows. By year 5, you own 5 doors — possibly more if you’ve invested in multifamily properties or suited units. What Makes This Strategy So Powerful? Let’s break it down: Each property gains equity from appreciation and mortgage paydown. Each property cash flows , meaning you’re earning income each month. Each property has tax benefits , helping your net income stay higher. Each year adds more leverage , growing your buying power for the next one. By year 5, your portfolio could be generating thousands per month in passive income — and worth hundreds of thousands , or even millions , more than when you started. But What If the Market Changes? That’s the beauty of real estate: you don’t need to time the market — you just need time in the market . A long-term mindset, paired with solid fundamentals (like buying cash-flowing properties in growth areas), makes this strategy low-risk and high-reward. Real Examples: What Could 5 in 5 Look Like? Here’s a simplified example based on the Edmonton market: Total Portfolio Value: $2.24M Estimated Equity: $430K+ Monthly Passive Income: $2,425+ All within 5 years.

Move to Edmonton, Alberta Canada’s Best-Kept Secret for Affordable Living, Big Opportunity, and Better Quality of Life Thinking of relocating? Whether you're moving from another province or another country , Edmonton is the smart choice for your next chapter. Why Edmonton? ✅ Affordable Homes Ditch the sky-high real estate prices of Ontario and BC. In Edmonton, your money goes further—whether you're buying a first home, upsizing, or investing. ✅ Strong Job Market From trades and tech to healthcare and business, Alberta is booming. Plus, there’s no provincial sales tax and a pro-business climate . ✅ Family-Friendly Communities Top schools, spacious neighborhoods, huge parks, and endless family activities. You’ll love raising your family here. ✅ Multicultural & Welcoming Edmonton is one of the most welcoming cities in Canada—with support systems for new Canadians, interprovincial movers, and international buyers alike. ✅ Investment Potential Cash-flowing rentals, BRRR opportunities, long-term holds, short-term stays—Edmonton’s housing market is one of Canada’s most undervalued . Who’s Moving Here? 📍 Families from BC & Ontario seeking space and stability 📍 Remote workers looking for a better lifestyle and more square footage 📍 New Canadians ready to build a life in a diverse, opportunity-rich city 📍 Real estate investors chasing serious ROI 📍 Professionals tired of the rat race—and ready to live more for less Ready to Make Edmonton Home? We’re here to help you every step of the way—from your first questions to your first keys. Our relocation experts at the Alberta Real Estate Team specialize in helping: ✅ Interprovincial movers ✅ International relocations ✅ First-time buyers ✅ Investors & landlords ✅ Families seeking a fresh start Let’s Get Started Book your free Edmonton Relocation Consultation today. We’ll walk you through your options, share insider info on top neighborhoods, and help you find the perfect place to call home. 👉 Contact us at info@aret.ca 👉 View Our Edmonton Relocation Guide below Still Researching? Sign up below and we’ll send you: ✅ Our Top 10 Edmonton Neighborhoods for Families & Investors ✅ Insider Tips on Moving to Alberta ✅ Monthly Real Estate Market Updates The Alberta Real Estate Team Your trusted relocation and investment experts in Edmonton, Alberta 🇨🇦

Why Foreclosures Can Be a Game-Changer for Investors and Home Buyers Foreclosures present unique opportunities for both investors and home buyers to acquire properties at prices significantly below market value. This can be a transformative advantage in today’s competitive real estate market. Whether you're on the hunt for your dream home or seeking your next investment property, foreclosed homes can often serve as the golden ticket to substantial savings and increased equity. However, successfully navigating the complex foreclosure process requires not only a solid understanding of the legal and financial implications but also a strategic approach and the right team of experts by your side. From real estate agents who specialize in foreclosures to financial advisors familiar with investment strategies, having the appropriate support can greatly enhance your chances of making a profitable purchase while minimizing risks. Buying a foreclosure can be a smart financial move, offering several advantages for homebuyers and investors. Here are some additional benefits to consider: 1. Lower Purchase Price Foreclosed homes are often priced below market value because lenders want to sell them quickly. This can result in significant savings compared to traditional home purchases. 2. Potential for Instant Equity Since foreclosures are typically sold at a discount, buyers may gain instant equity once the property is purchased and improved. This is especially beneficial for investors looking to flip homes or rent them out. 3. Less Competition in Certain Markets While some foreclosures attract multiple buyers, others may have less competition , allowing savvy buyers to negotiate better deals. 4. Opportunity for Customization Many foreclosed homes require repairs or renovations, giving buyers the chance to customize the property to their liking while increasing its value. 5. Favorable Financing Options Depending on the property’s condition, buyers may qualify for special financing programs designed for foreclosures, such as renovation loans. 6. Investment Potential Foreclosures can be a great opportunity for rental income or resale profits. Investors can buy low, renovate, and sell at a higher price, maximizing their return.  7. Motivated Sellers Banks and lenders are eager to sell foreclosed properties, meaning buyers may have more negotiating power to secure a better deal.

Real Estate Investing for Beginners: Your Guide to Getting Started in Edmonton Introduction Investing in real estate can be an excellent way to build wealth and secure your financial future. Edmonton, with its stable market and growth potential, offers a fantastic opportunity for beginner investors. In this guide, we'll walk you through the basics of financing your first property, highlight some of the best neighborhoods to invest in, and share tips on how to maximize your success as a landlord. Getting Financing 1. Self-Financing Self-financing involves using your own savings or liquid assets to purchase a property. This method eliminates the need for loans and avoids interest payments, but it requires having substantial funds available. Benefits: - Full ownership with no debt - No interest payments or loan approval process - Complete control over the investment Drawbacks: - Requires significant savings - Limits diversification since all funds are tied up in one investment Tips: - Carefully assess your financial situation to ensure you can afford to self-finance without compromising your emergency fund. - Consider partnering with friends or family to pool resources and share the investment cost. 2. Using a Bank Banks offer various loan options for real estate investors, such as conventional mortgages and home equity loans. These loans allow you to leverage your investment, spreading the cost over time with manageable monthly payments. Types of Bank Loans: - Conventional Mortgage: A standard home loan with a fixed or variable interest rate. - Home Equity Loan: Borrowing against the equity in your existing home to finance a new property. *Qualifying for a Bank Loan: - Maintain a good credit score - Save for a substantial down payment (typically 20%) - Ensure stable income and employment history Tips: - Shop around for the best interest rates and loan terms. - Work with a mortgage broker to navigate the loan approval process. 3. Seller Financing In seller financing, the property seller acts as the lender, allowing you to make payments directly to them instead of a bank. This can be an attractive option if you have difficulty qualifying for a traditional loan. How Seller Financing Works: - Negotiate terms directly with the seller - Typically involves a promissory note and mortgage or deed of trust - Payments are made over an agreed-upon period Benefits: - Easier approval process - Flexible terms and interest rates - Potentially lower down payment *Risks:* - Higher interest rates than conventional loans - Shorter loan terms, resulting in higher monthly payments Edmonton Neighborhoods to Invest In Edmonton's real estate market offers diverse options for beginner investors. Here are a few neighborhoods worth considering: - Oliver: Close to downtown, this vibrant neighborhood offers a mix of condos and apartment buildings, making it ideal for rental properties. - Glenora: Known for its beautiful historic homes and strong community feel, Glenora is a sought-after area that attracts families and professionals. - Westmount: This trendy neighborhood features a mix of older homes and new developments, appealing to young professionals and families alike. Getting the Most Out of Being a Landlord Becoming a successful landlord requires more than just purchasing a property. Here are some tips to help you thrive: - Finding and Keeping Good Tenants: - Screen tenants thoroughly, checking references and credit history. - Create a clear, fair lease agreement. - Maintain open communication and respond promptly to tenant concerns. - Understanding Landlord Responsibilities: - Stay informed about local rental laws and regulations. - Ensure your property is safe and well-maintained. - Handle repairs and maintenance promptly to keep tenants happy. - Effective Property Management: - Consider hiring a property management company if you have multiple properties or limited time. - Use property management software to streamline tasks like rent collection and maintenance requests. - Regularly inspect your property to identify and address issues before they become major problems. Conclusion Real estate investing in Edmonton offers promising opportunities for beginners. By understanding the different financing options, choosing the right neighborhoods, and mastering the art of being a landlord, you can set yourself up for success. Remember, every great journey starts with a single step, so take the plunge and start your real estate investment journey today! For further learning, consider joining local real estate investment groups, attending seminars, and reading books on the subject. We specialize in helping investors get 5 homes in 5 years! If you are interested in learning how to do this, reach out to us today!

Hey everyone buckle your seatbelts, we are about to go on a 2 year ride of a lifetime !!! Well I guess it isn't a lifetime if you are old enough to remember 2006-2007 when it felt very similar as prices skyrocketed. We don't anticipate that kind of Real Estate boom but it will be very significant. I just love what Shaun Cathcart from the Canadian Real Estate Association just said in the Toronto star "Interest rates are starting to cool the real estate market but Alberta didn't get the memo". In having a detailed look into what most economists are saying it will be a 4-5% gain in prices, and of course they are never wrong !!! What will likely happen is the average price will be just that but the median price ( detached homes priced between $250000-$450000) will be much higher. If you are and or were thinking of making a move and you have a home to sell, do it sooner than later as the inventory is low. Currently there are bidding wars going on for good homes so you will get a good price and as we move closer to spring more inventory will come on. By doing this you will likely be able to catch the current pricing before it goes up to much. It sounds like an oxymoron but it's just tactical planning. If you are lucky enough to be in a position to invest in revenue properties you will benefit with the awesome rental market with the unique Alberta laws. If you are new to this, have no fear as we can walk you through the low stress process that many successful investors follow. Remember this outstanding quote "If you fail to plan you plan to fail"

Preparing your home for a private viewing is essential. These are the things you should focus on...