THE JOURNAL

    Calgary luxury real estate, from someone who actually works it.

    Pricing strategy, neighbourhood intelligence, market data, and the occasional opinion — written by Spencer for buyers and sellers in Calgary's most established communities.

    Spring vs Fall Luxury Listing Strategy in Calgary
    GUIDE · FEATURED

    Spring vs Fall Luxury Listing Strategy in Calgary

    Spring delivers the deepest Calgary luxury buyer pool; fall delivers the most decisive buyers with less competing inventory. Here's how to choose between them.

    June 3, 2026·8 min read
    READ THE FULL PIECE
    ALL ENTRIES
    When to Sell a Luxury Home in Calgary — A Month-by-Month Guide
    GUIDE

    When to Sell a Luxury Home in Calgary — A Month-by-Month Guide

    Calgary luxury homes sell best in March–May and September. Here's the month-by-month breakdown of DOM, sale-to-list ratios, and how to pick your listing window.

    June 1, 2026·15 min
    Alberta Closing Costs for Sellers — Lawyer Fees, RPR, and Mortgage Penalties
    GUIDE

    Alberta Closing Costs for Sellers — Lawyer Fees, RPR, and Mortgage Penalties

    Calgary luxury sellers pay $1,500–$3,500 in legal fees, $800–$1,500 for an RPR, and a mortgage discharge penalty up to $40,000+. Full Alberta breakdown.

    May 29, 2026·10 min
    How Calgary Luxury Realtor Commissions Actually Work
    GUIDE

    How Calgary Luxury Realtor Commissions Actually Work

    Calgary luxury commissions are fully negotiable under Alberta law and typically settle between 4.5% and 6%. Here's exactly how the math works, what the commission buys, and what's actually negotiable.

    May 25, 2026·9 min
    What It Really Costs to Sell a Luxury Home in Calgary
    GUIDE

    What It Really Costs to Sell a Luxury Home in Calgary

    Calgary luxury sellers typically pay 4–7% of the sale price in commission, GST, lawyer fees, mortgage penalty, RPR, and prep costs. Here's the full cost stack.

    Invalid Date·19 min
    How Much Will You Net Selling Your Home in Calgary?
    GUIDE

    How Much Will You Net Selling Your Home in Calgary?

    Real estate commissions, GST, lawyer fees, mortgage payout, and small disbursements typically reduce your Calgary home sale by 4–7%. Here's how to estimate your net.

    May 11, 2026·7 min
    A Buyer's Guide to Upper Mount Royal
    NEIGHBOURHOOD

    A Buyer's Guide to Upper Mount Royal

    How to read the streets, what the lot lines tell you, and where the real value sits in Calgary's most established prestige neighbourhood.

    April 27, 2026·6 min
    Pricing a Luxury Listing in Calgary
    SELLING

    Pricing a Luxury Listing in Calgary

    The first 21 days set the trajectory for the entire sale. Here's how I think about pricing strategy at the top of the market.

    April 27, 2026·5 min
    The Rise of Off-Market Luxury Listings
    MARKET

    The Rise of Off-Market Luxury Listings

    Half of Calgary's $2M+ sales in Q1 2026 never hit Realtor.ca. Here's why, and what it means if you're buying or selling at the top of the market.

    April 27, 2026·4 min
    Renovating vs. Rebuilding in Mount Royal
    BUYING

    Renovating vs. Rebuilding in Mount Royal

    When does it make sense to restore a heritage home, and when is the better play to rebuild? A frank look at the math.

    April 27, 2026·7 min
    Aspen Woods vs. Springbank Hill: Which Suits You?
    NEIGHBOURHOOD

    Aspen Woods vs. Springbank Hill: Which Suits You?

    Two of Calgary's strongest west-side prestige communities, side by side. The differences are real and they affect resale.

    April 27, 2026·6 min
    Q1 2026: Calgary Luxury Recap
    MARKET

    Q1 2026: Calgary Luxury Recap

    Eighteen sales over $2M closed in the first quarter — half of them off-market. Here's what the data says about where the high end of the Calgary market is heading.

    April 27, 2026·5 min
    Top 20 Calgary Neighbourhoods to Live in 2026
    NEIGHBOURHOODS

    Top 20 Calgary Neighbourhoods to Live in 2026

    Calgary’s diverse communities offer something for everyone – from luxury estates and lakeside retreats to walkable urban hubs. In this 2026 guide, we’ve curated the top 20…

    December 9, 2025·48 min
    Calgary’s Real Estate Market in 2025: A Buyer’s and Seller’s Outlook
    MARKET

    Calgary’s Real Estate Market in 2025: A Buyer’s and Seller’s Outlook

    In 2025, the Calgary real estate market is expected to remain robust, supported by past gains in population and employment, easing lending rates, and better supply options.…

    February 10, 2025·12 min
    Elveden Terrace: 1 of 2 Unique Development Opportunities in Springbank Hill
    GUIDE

    Elveden Terrace: 1 of 2 Unique Development Opportunities in Springbank Hill

    Elveden Terrace: 1 of 2 Unique Development Opportunities in Springbank Hill Springbank Hill, a vibrant and rapidly developing area in Calgary, is becoming a sought-after…

    September 1, 2024·7 min
    RIDEAU PARK
    GUIDE

    RIDEAU PARK

    RIDEAU PARK CALGARY Welcome to our guide on Rideau Park Calgary, a prestigious community known for its luxurious homes and vibrant atmosphere. Discover the essence of upscale…

    July 2, 2024·3 min
    West Springs
    SELLING

    West Springs

    WEST SPRINGS CALGARY West Springs Calgary is a charming neighbourhood in Calgary that offers a perfect balance of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. It features a…

    July 1, 2024·3 min
    EMPTY NESTERS ULTIMATE DOWNSIZING GUIDE 2024
    GUIDE

    EMPTY NESTERS ULTIMATE DOWNSIZING GUIDE 2024

    You just dropped off the kid at college. You drive into your driveway, which used to accommodate a fleet of vehicles but now fits only two. When you enter the house, you won’t…

    June 28, 2024·8 min
    RIDEAU PARK ULTIMATE NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE
    NEIGHBOURHOODS

    RIDEAU PARK ULTIMATE NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE

    RIDEAU PARK Rideau Park Neighbourhood Guide Tucked away in southwest Calgary is the hidden gem of Rideau Park. This leafy, peaceful neighbourhood is well-loved by long-time…

    June 28, 2024·7 min
    CANMORE NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE 2022
    NEIGHBOURHOODS

    CANMORE NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE 2022

    CANMORE Canmore, Alberta, Canada is a beautiful mountain town in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. It’s no surprise that it’s a favourite among visitors and residents alike.…

    June 28, 2024·8 min
    ULTIMATE GUIDE TO LIVING IN CHESTERMERE LAKE IN 2022
    GUIDE

    ULTIMATE GUIDE TO LIVING IN CHESTERMERE LAKE IN 2022

    CHESTERMERE There are a lot of myths and false beliefs that circulate about Chestermere, which is located in Alberta. Some people get the impression that the location is a sleepy…

    June 28, 2024·8 min
    BRITANNIA CALGARY ULTIMATE NEIGHBOURHOOD GUIDE 2024
    NEIGHBOURHOODS

    BRITANNIA CALGARY ULTIMATE NEIGHBOURHOOD GUIDE 2024

    BRITANNIA, CALGARY: A SYMPHONY OF LUXURY AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT Britannia, a distinguished neighbourhood in Calgary’s inner-city, is a harmonious blend of luxury and community…

    June 28, 2024·8 min
    BEL-AIRE CALGARY NEIGHBOURHOOD GUIDE [2022]
    NEIGHBOURHOODS

    BEL-AIRE CALGARY NEIGHBOURHOOD GUIDE [2022]

    BEL-AIRE Located in the southwest quadrant of Calgary is the neighbourhood of Bel-Aire. This small enclave is bordered to the north and south by 24th street and 26th street…

    June 28, 2024·7 min
    NAVIGATING REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS: A COMPARATIVE GUIDE FOR PROSPECTIVE BUYERS FROM BRITISH COLUMBIA IN CALGARY
    BUYING

    NAVIGATING REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS: A COMPARATIVE GUIDE FOR PROSPECTIVE BUYERS FROM BRITISH COLUMBIA IN CALGARY

    Welcome to my comprehensive guide comparing the real estate transaction processes in British Columbia and Calgary, Alberta. As you explore the differences between these two…

    June 28, 2024·7 min
    ULTIMATE GUIDE TO BUYING A HOME IN CALGARY
    BUYING

    ULTIMATE GUIDE TO BUYING A HOME IN CALGARY

    Calgary, the largest city in Alberta, Canada, offers a vibrant and growing real estate market. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced homeowner, navigating the…

    June 28, 2024·4 min
    UNVEILING THE CHARMS OF WEST SPRINGS, CALGARY: YOUR ULTIMATE DESTINATION FOR LUXURY LIVING
    GUIDE

    UNVEILING THE CHARMS OF WEST SPRINGS, CALGARY: YOUR ULTIMATE DESTINATION FOR LUXURY LIVING

    Calgary’s real estate landscape is dotted with exceptional neighbourhoods that epitomize a blend of sophistication and comfort. Among these esteemed locales, West Springs shines…

    June 28, 2024·3 min
    EXPLORING LUXURY HOMES IN ASPEN WOODS, CALGARY: YOUR GATEWAY TO ELEGANCE AND COMFORT
    NEIGHBOURHOODS

    EXPLORING LUXURY HOMES IN ASPEN WOODS, CALGARY: YOUR GATEWAY TO ELEGANCE AND COMFORT

    Calgary’s real estate landscape boasts a plethora of stunning properties that cater to those seeking the perfect blend of opulence and comfort. Among these prestigious…

    June 28, 2024·3 min
    FINDING YOUR DREAM LUXURY HOME IN WEST SPRINGS WITH THE RIGHT REALTOR
    GUIDE

    FINDING YOUR DREAM LUXURY HOME IN WEST SPRINGS WITH THE RIGHT REALTOR

    Are you in search of exquisite West Springs luxury homes that define elegance and opulence? Look no further than the captivating community of West Springs in Calgary. Nestled…

    June 28, 2024·5 min
    DISCOVER YOUR DREAM HOME WITH THE TOP LUXURY REALTOR IN UPPER MOUNT ROYAL, CALGARY
    NEIGHBOURHOODS

    DISCOVER YOUR DREAM HOME WITH THE TOP LUXURY REALTOR IN UPPER MOUNT ROYAL, CALGARY

    Are you on the hunt for the finest luxury homes in the esteemed neighbourhood of Upper Mount Royal, Calgary? Look no further than Luxury Homes Calgary – your ultimate destination…

    June 28, 2024·5 min
    WESTSIDE RECREATION CENTRE – A FOCAL POINT OF CALGARY’S UPPER WESTSIDE
    GUIDE

    WESTSIDE RECREATION CENTRE – A FOCAL POINT OF CALGARY’S UPPER WESTSIDE

    DISCOVERING THE GEM OF SOUTHWEST CALGARY: WESTSIDE RECREATION CENTRE Calgarians, we’ve all come to love our city for its picturesque landscapes and active lifestyle…

    June 28, 2024·3 min
    TIPS ON SELLING YOUR HOME IN SPRINGBANK HILL, CALGARY
    NEIGHBOURHOODS

    TIPS ON SELLING YOUR HOME IN SPRINGBANK HILL, CALGARY

    If you’re reading this, you are probably considering selling your home in the enchanting enclave of Springbank Hill, Calgary. As you must know, getting your home ready for…

    June 28, 2024·6 min
    HOUSE FOR SALE IN CALGARY: FEATURES HOME BUYERS WANT
    GUIDE

    HOUSE FOR SALE IN CALGARY: FEATURES HOME BUYERS WANT

    Many of us can relate to spending a lot of time scrolling through real estate listings, right? It’s where we daydream about our dream kitchens, the perfect backyard, and that…

    June 28, 2024·15 min
    SPRINGBANK HILL HOMES FOR SALE: NEGOTIATING THE BEST HOUSE PURCHASE PRICE
    GUIDE

    SPRINGBANK HILL HOMES FOR SALE: NEGOTIATING THE BEST HOUSE PURCHASE PRICE

    Canada’s real estate market can be an arduous journey for homebuyers, often involving multiple unsuccessful offers. This is also the same for Springbank Hill. Many buyers want to…

    June 28, 2024·9 min
    SPRINGBANK HILL HOMES FOR SALE: HOW TO MAKE AN OFFER ON A HOUSE
    BUYING

    SPRINGBANK HILL HOMES FOR SALE: HOW TO MAKE AN OFFER ON A HOUSE

    SPRINGBANK HILL HOMES FOR SALE: HOW TO MAKE AN OFFER ON A HOUSE If you’re gearing up to step into homeownership and find yourself pondering the intricacies of making an offer on…

    June 28, 2024·6 min
    WHAT IS ATTIC RAIN? HOW DO I FIX IT?
    GUIDE

    WHAT IS ATTIC RAIN? HOW DO I FIX IT?

    ATTIC RAIN CALGARY: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO PREVENTION AND SOLUTIONS INTRODUCTION TO ATTIC RAIN IN CALGARY Calgary, known for its unique climate, often experiences a phenomenon…

    June 28, 2024·6 min
    THE 9 BEST LUXURY CONDOS IN CALGARY
    CONDOS

    THE 9 BEST LUXURY CONDOS IN CALGARY

    UNVEILING CALGARY’S PREMIER LUXURY CONDOS: AN INSIGHT INTO URBAN ELEGANCE In the heart of Calgary, amidst its vibrant culture and picturesque landscapes, the luxury real estate…

    June 28, 2024·4 min
    TOP 11 LUXURY NEIGHBOURHOODS IN CALGARY
    NEIGHBOURHOODS

    TOP 11 LUXURY NEIGHBOURHOODS IN CALGARY

    A DEEP DIVE INTO CALGARY’S LUXURY NEIGHBOURHOODS: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS Calgary’s array of luxury neighbourhoods offers a diverse palette of lifestyle choices for potential…

    June 28, 2024·7 min
    CALGARY NEW CONSTRUCTION CONDOS: THE 2024 ULTIMATE GUIDE
    GUIDE

    CALGARY NEW CONSTRUCTION CONDOS: THE 2024 ULTIMATE GUIDE

    CALGARY NEW CONSTRUCTION CONDOS: THE 2024 ULTIMATE GUIDE Looking for a fresh start with a modern twist? Calgary’s booming condo market has something exciting waiting for you.…

    June 28, 2024·10 min
    ELBOW PARK CALGARY REAL ESTATE: THE ULTIMATE NEIGHBOURHOOD GUIDE
    NEIGHBOURHOODS

    ELBOW PARK CALGARY REAL ESTATE: THE ULTIMATE NEIGHBOURHOOD GUIDE

    Nestled in the heart of Calgary, Elbow Park is a neighbourhood that’s got it all – stunning homes, tree-lined streets, and a community spirit that’s second to none. This is the…

    June 28, 2024·9 min
    3 Reasons Not to Move to Springbank Hill
    NEIGHBOURHOODS

    3 Reasons Not to Move to Springbank Hill

    Discover Springbank Hill: A Thriving Suburban Gem Welcome to Springbank Hill, one of Calgary’s most sought-after neighbourhoods that’s been making waves with its significant…

    April 13, 2024·3 min
    Opulent Oases: Uncovering Calgary’s Most Exquisite Enclaves in Discovery Ridge
    GUIDE

    Opulent Oases: Uncovering Calgary’s Most Exquisite Enclaves in Discovery Ridge

    Nestled in the heart of Calgary’s southwest, Discovery Ridge is a luxurious wonderland that beckons the city’s elite. This affluent community is home to some of the most…

    April 12, 2024·3 min
    Raising Kids in Aspen Woods: A True Family Utopia
    NEIGHBOURHOODS

    Raising Kids in Aspen Woods: A True Family Utopia

    Nestle into your comfiest couch spot, friend, and let’s chat about Aspen Woods. When it comes to laying down roots for the fam, this Calgary community’s got it going on! What’s…

    April 12, 2024·3 min
    Finding Your Forever Family Home: The 5 Best Neighborhoods in Springbank Hill for 2024
    NEIGHBOURHOODS

    Finding Your Forever Family Home: The 5 Best Neighborhoods in Springbank Hill for 2024

    When it comes to raising a family, finding the right neighbourhood is key. You want a place that offers the perfect blend of community, amenities, and, of course, a great school…

    April 12, 2024·3 min