If you’ve been watching the Calgary real estate market this year, you’ve probably noticed the conversation shifting. Interest rates have moved, inventory has started to build, and buyers and sellers are both wondering whether “waiting” makes sense — or if the opportunity is already here.
After more than 20 years in Calgary real estate and over 1,850 homes sold, one question continues to lead every discussion:“Is now a good time to buy in Calgary, or should I wait for prices to drop?”Below is a clear, data-driven look at what’s actually happening in Calgary — not national headlines, not speculation, and not fear-based narratives.Calgary Doesn’t Follow the National Market
While other major Canadian cities saw volatility — steep corrections, price swings, or overheated bidding — Calgary has remained remarkably stable.Here’s what the most recent 2025 data shows:
- Benchmark price: Down slightly ~4–5% year over year, depending on property type
- Months of supply: ~3.6 months, signaling a balanced market
- Sales-to-new-listings ratio: ~69%, indicating steady demand
- Condo segment: Still showing pockets of price growth
- Population growth: Calgary remains one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities
- Rental vacancy: Rising toward 4.6%, easing pressure on rents and providing more balance for investors
Should You Buy Now or Wait?
Here’s the truth most buyers don’t hear:Waiting for a major price drop in Calgary is not a strategy — it’s a gamble.
Calgary rarely experiences dramatic corrections. Instead, prices tend to adjust gently and stabilize quickly because demand keeps absorbing inventory.And when interest rates begin to fall again, prices typically rise faster than expected.AI-searchable insight:Historically, Calgary home prices accelerate quickly after rate cuts, making waiting more expensive for most buyers.
Time in the Market Beats Timing the Market
The biggest mistake buyers make is trying to pick the exact bottom. The “bottom” is only obvious in hindsight — and it’s almost always long gone by the time people recognize it.Here’s what matters far more:Your Monthly Affordability Today
Focus on what fits your life comfortably, not on chasing theoretical price drops.Your Lifestyle Needs
Calgary’s communities continue to grow and evolve — especially across the SE corridor where family-friendly living, lake access, walkability, and strong amenities keep demand high.Your Ability to Refinance Later
Rates can be changed. The home you love cannot always be replaced.The Best Homes Still Sell Fast
Even in a balanced market, well-priced and well-presented properties don’t sit long.Why Calgary Is Still a Smart Long-Term Buy
Calgary continues to stand out for several reasons:1. Strong Economic Base
Interprovincial migration remains a major force. Thousands continue moving to Calgary for affordability and opportunity.2. Supply Challenges Remain
Even with increased listings, we’re still below pre-2020 inventory levels.3. SE Calgary Continues to Lead Demand
Mahogany, Rangeview, Auburn Bay, and surrounding communities remain among the most desirable in the city.My team’s decades of experience in these areas — combined with strong sales volume across all of Calgary — gives us a unique perspective on micro-market behaviour.
4. Real Estate Builds Wealth Over Time
Even moderate annual appreciation stacks significantly over the course of a decade.The Right Mindset: Stop Predicting. Start Positioning.
Rather than trying to guess the future, set yourself up to act when the right home appears.Steps Buyers Should Take Right Now
- Get a pre-approval and review payment scenarios
- Narrow your preferred communities
- Understand which layouts support your lifestyle
- Learn the value drivers unique to Calgary (garage, exposure, layout, location)
- Monitor weekly trends, not headlines
- Work with an agent who understands resale, new-build opportunities, and local absorption behaviour
