Real Estate Blog - Ken Richter

Using Scents to Win Over Buyers

When it comes to selling a home, first impressions go far beyond what buyers see. They’re also shaped by what buyers smell.

Psychology Today writes, "olfaction, also known as sense of smell, is the most primal and mysterious of our six senses. Throughout human evolution, our sense of smell has been a key to our survival. Humans are capable of distinguishing thousands of unique odors. Fragrances have the ability to evoke both positive and negative psychological states of mind and reactions in milliseconds."

So, how can you make a positive impact on buyers olfactory senses?  

First, remember that bad smells cannot be covered up. Noses are good at telling when something stinky has been doused with fragrance. There's no better first step than…

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JUST LISTED: 2528 17A Street NW

Welcome to this one-owner home in the heart of Capitol Hill!

Step into a true time capsule, immaculately preserved with original moldings, doors, and solid hardwood flooring hidden under the carpets. This well-maintained raised bungalow offers two bedrooms on the main level and sits on a large 28x117 ft infill lot on a quiet street, just steps from Confederation Park.

The bright, eat-in country kitchen features solid oak cabinets, while the vaulted ceilings in both bedrooms create an airy sense of space. The lower level is partially developed with a large family room and a 3-piece bathroom. A spacious laundry and utility area includes a newer furnace and hot water tank.

Outside, you’ll find a private backyard leading to a single detached…

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How Proximity to Schools Impacts Fall Real Estate Decisions

When the leaves start to turn and kids head back to class, schools suddenly become one of the biggest factors shaping real estate decisions. For many families, fall is not just about pumpkins and cozy sweaters—it’s about finding the best place for your child to get an education. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, proximity to schools plays a huge role in the fall real estate market.

Being close to schools offers families many advantages. First, neighbourhoods with schools often offer stronger community ties, sports programs, and after-school activities. These services give children a chance to make friends and build their own community within the neighbourhoods, leading to better socialization. The other big advantage is, simply,…

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Easy Lunch Ideas for On-The-Go Families

The crisp air, colorful leaves, and cozy sweaters are here—which can only mean one thing: fall routines are in full swing. Between back-to-school mornings, after-school activities, and the return of busier work schedules, finding time to prep healthy, satisfying snacks and meals can feel impossible.

Instead of reaching for takeout or the nearest bag of chips, a little inspiration can go a long way. That’s why we’ve rounded up a list of easy, delicious snack and meal ideas to keep you (and your family) fueled during the hectic back-to-school and back-to-work season.

Here are some recipes to get you started:

• Pizza Croissants (Women's World)
• Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Salad (Eating Well)
• Watermelon Salsa (Pure Wow)
• Taco in A Bag (All…

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The Advantages of Listing Your Home in The Fall

Summer in Calgary, Alberta has come to an end. Thankfully we always retain the sunny weather and warm afternoons, despite the golden leaves and pumpkin spice lattes.

This summer was a rainy one, but busy in the world of real estate! There were 2,099 sales in July alone. While many prospective home buyers made their move in the summer months, others hesitated. The Calgary Board of Real Estate writes, “in addition to the persistent economic uncertainty due to tariffs, sales and new listings were impacted by no further reductions in lending rates and added competition from the new home market” (read full report here). Not all of these concerns were addressed before the summer ended, but it has created a unique opportunity for sellers.

While the…

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JUST LISTED: 8543 Bowness Road NW

Attention Builders & Investors!
One of the best-priced M-C1 lots available in the city—an excellent holding opportunity in Bowness!

Redevelopment in this highly sought-after inner-city community is at its highest level ever. This huge 50x120 M-C1 zoned lot is perfectly positioned in a prime redevelopment area.

The property features:

• A spacious 28x24 garage with 11’ ceilings

• An upper level currently occupied by the owner

• A vacant, self-contained lower walk-out suite (illegal)

While the home requires some TLC, it offers outstanding potential as a holding property or a redevelopment project you can start right away. Take advantage of current government building incentives and maximize your investment.

…

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August 2025 Calgary Real Estate Market Statistics

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 2025, which you can read in full by clicking here:

• "As of August, the unadjusted total residential benchmark price was $577,200, down over last month and nearly four per cent lower than levels reported last year" (CREB®).
• "August reported 1,989 sales, nearly nine per cent lower than last year" (CREB®).
• "New listings…

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September 2025 Events Things to Do in YYC

Check out some of the fun events happening this month:

September 1 Labour Day
September 6 - October 12 Halloweekends at Calaway Park
September 10 Lynrd Skynrd: Celebrating 50 Years
September 12 The Confluence After Hours
September 12 Midway & A Movie: Zombieland
September 13-14 Railway Day at Heritage Park
September 13-14 Monster Jam
September 14 Rick Mercer's Stand Up for Canada Comedy Tour
September 18 The Calgary International Film Festival
September 18 Hot Dogs & Hot Takes on History
September 19-20 Franco Festival Calgary
September 19 Calgary Stampeders vs. BC Lions
September 20 Culturefest 2025
September 20 Calgary Police Classic
September 20 - October 12 Granary Road Harvest Fair Pumpkin Hunt
September 20 Alberta Biodiversity Festival
September 22 Equinox
…

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Settling Into The New School Year

Settling into the new school year is always a difficult transition. Summertime is filled with such a sense of freedom and possibility, that getting back into a new routine and structure can feel stifling and overwhelming. Here are some tips for you and your loved ones as you adjust to the changing of the seasons:

• Stay positive! Great Schools writes, "as the first day draws near, begin talking to your child about [their] expectations, hopes, and worries about the upcoming school year. Reassure [them] that other children are having the same feelings. Present school as a place where [they'll] learn new things and make friends."
• Keep your home environment as stable as possible to reduce new routine overload. Parent Map writes, "delay making other…

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Preparing Your Backyard For The Fall

This beautiful summer is slowly turning into a crisp fall, complete with frosty mornings and golden leaves. Stores are rolling out Halloween decor and pumpkin inspired treats, and back to school is in full swing. While you pack away your summer dresses to make room for sweaters, also start thinking of how you can prepare your backyard for autumn.

There are a number of things you should be doing before the snow hits in order to prepare your backyard for autumn and winter. What’s the light at the end of the tunnel as far as cleaning and preparing is concerned? After doing the following things your backyard will be ready for one final hurrah while the weather holds up!

First off, take care of outside structures such as children’s play places, tree…

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