Calgary Bowness Montgomery Real Estate Home News - Ken Richter's Blog | Page #21

As winter approaches in Calgary, it's important to prepare your home to withstand the cold, snow, and icy conditions. Winter in Alberta can be harsh, and neglecting necessary maintenance could lead to costly repairs and discomfort. By taking on a few home improvement projects now, you can ensure your home stays warm, safe, and energy-efficient throughout the colder months. Here are key home improvement projects to tackle before winter in Calgary:

  1. Inspect and service your furnace: Your furnace will be working overtime during Calgary’s long winter months, so it’s essential to make sure it’s in good condition. Scheduling a furnace inspection and tune-up in the fall can help you avoid a breakdown when the temperature drops. Change the filters, check…

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If HGTV is any indication, people love the idea of renovating a home. Shows like Fixer Upper and Property Brothers are wildly popular, audiences tuning in every week to see neglected homes turn into dream homes. There's something about an underdog that people love to root for--homes included. 

These shows are inspiring. They make fixing up a home seem easy! You drive past an old house and say, "some exposed brick would do that property wonders," or, "it's got great bones - imagine what a fresh coat of paint could do!" Don't let the edited smiles of Chip and Joanna Gaines fool you; renovating a home is hard work. It can be incredibly rewarding and profitable, but you should know these things before making an offer on that shack down the street:

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Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and gratitude—but if you’re hosting, it can also be a source of stress. With careful planning and thoughtful touches, you can create a seamless Thanksgiving celebration that is as enjoyable for you as it is for your guests. Here are some tips to help you host a Thanksgiving that is stress-free, memorable, and delicious:

  • Shop early: "With your menu set, enter every ingredient you need on a shopping list. Divide the list into perishables and non-perishables, so you know what you can buy immediately (like spices and canned goods) and what you need to buy later (like dairy and produce). Shopping early helps ensure your grocer doesn't run out of what you need. It also gives you plenty of time to alter your…

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Since the COVID-19 epidemic, the rise of remote work has dramatically transformed the real estate landscape. Once tethered to specific locations near workplaces, homebuyers and sellers now have a new set of priorities that is reshaping where and how they make real estate decisions. Here is how remote work is influencing home buying and selling:

  1. Location Flexibility: Traditionally, homebuyers focused on living near city centers to cut down on commuting time. With remote work becoming a long-term reality, buyers now prioritize homes in suburban or even rural areas, where they can enjoy more space, privacy, and affordable housing options. This trend has sparked growth in previously overlooked regions, and cities once known as commuter hubs are…

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Every month the Calgary Real Estate Board releases a report detailing what has been happening in the real estate market. These reports provide valuable information to sellers, buyers, and investors alike. Real estate requires strategic decision making, so staying informed is crucial to ensure you are making the best moves possible.

Here are the highlights from The The Calgary Real Estate Board's market report for August 2024, which you can read in full by clicking here:

  • "Rising sales in the upper price ranges were not enough to offset the pullback occurring in the lower price ranges, as sales in September were 2,003" (CREB).
  • "New listings in September rose to 3,687 units, the highest September total since 2008" (CREB).
  • "September…

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Check out some of the fun events happening this month in Calgary!

October 1-31 Pumpkins After Dark
October 5-6 & 12-13 Halloweekends at Calaway Park
October 5-19 Superstitions and Secrets: The Dark Side of Victorian Society
October 11-26 Screamfest
October 12 Pumpkin Fest by Blue Grass
October 14 Thanksgiving Day
October 16 Rocky Horror Picture Show - 49th Anniversary
October 17 The Homegrown Short Film Showcase
October 18 Wild After Dark: Zoodunnit
October 18 Wordfest Presents: Literary Death Match
October 19 Brick Roundup 2024
October 24 The Vampire Circus
October 31 Halloween

Let us know what you're most looking forward to in the comments below!

(Image via Canva)

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Monday, September 30th, is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. 

CBC writes, "established in 2021 following recommendations in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's 94 calls to action, numerous commemorative events and ceremonies are held to remember the Indigenous children who died while being forced to attend residential schools, those who survived and the families and communities who are still affected by the lasting trauma."

There will be many events held around the city to foster learning and in recognition of the horrors of the residential school system, as we seek to honor victims and promise to never do such a thing again.

The following are links to various events:

Heritage Park: "Join us in this significant day of…

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Welcome to a stunning waterfront property located on the banks of the Bow River! Nestled on a nearly half-acre lot (0.46 acres), this mature, treed, and ultra-private location boasts 100 feet of river frontage, offering breathtaking views of both the river and the sweeping escarpment beyond.

This spacious four-bedroom, 2,775 sq. ft. two-story home is a true "diamond in the rough," presenting a fantastic opportunity to restore it to its former grandeur. The main floor features real hardwood flooring, granite countertops, a cozy gas fireplace in the living area, and incredible river views from the master bedroom, which also includes a 5-piece ensuite. Additional conveniences include main floor laundry.

Upstairs, you'll find a massive bonus room…

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As the crisp autumn air settles in and the days get shorter, creating a warm and inviting home office can make all the difference in how productive and comfortable you feel. Whether you’re working from home full-time or need a cozy spot to tackle tasks, transforming your office for fall can boost your mood and efficiency. Here are some tips to help you design a space that’s both functional and seasonally inspired.

  1. Indulge in Cozy Textures: The change in season calls for layers and warmth. Bring this feeling into your office with cozy textures like chunky knit throws, velvet cushions, and soft rugs. Adding a plush area rug under your desk can help keep your feet warm on colder mornings, while cushions on your chair add comfort during long work…

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It is the season for organizing! If you have never tackled your pantry space, today is the day. Brace yourself. It is going to be a wild but rewarding ride. Here are some tips to help you:

  • PURGE: "Empty your entire pantry, and thoroughly clean it before you begin the organization process. Check expiration dates, and toss anything that's past its prime or no longer in use. This will free up space in your pantry and help things stay organized longer" (HGTV). Remember: if you have not eaten something yet that has been there for a long time, you probably never will. Get rid of it and any guilt you may feel about it. 
  • SUPPLY: "We strongly believe that the dollar store should be your first stop once you decide to take pantry organization into your…

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