All Blog Entries by Justin Havre Real Estate Team

Bungalow-style homes are among Canada's Canada's most popular architectural styles, beloved for their charm, functionality, and cozy appeal. Known for their low, sprawling profiles and efficient layouts, bungalows often feature one or one-and-a-half stories, making them perfect for those seeking simplicity and comfort. From Craftsman to California bungalows, the style comes in various forms, each with unique features but sharing a common focus on practicality and warmth.

Whether nestled in a quiet neighbourhood or standing out as a distinctive feature in a city, bungalow homes continue to capture hearts with their timeless design and efficient use of space.

Highlights of Bungalow-Style Homes

• Sub-Types of Bungalows: There are many bungalow

Alberta is a great place to retire. Living costs in Alberta are lower than in Ontario and British Columbia, and its provincial tax rates are the lowest in all of Canada, allowing you to stretch your retirement savings further. Plus, the abundance of sunshine and breathtaking landscapes can boost your overall quality of life. But what specific areas in Alberta stand out for retirees? Some might just surprise you.

Highlights of Retiring in Alberta

• Alberta offers affordable housing options well below the national average, with typical home prices in the $400s and $500s.
• The province features the lowest provincial tax rates in Canada, maximizing disposable income for retirees.
• Natural beauty is plentiful in Alberta, with outdoor activities

A loft apartment captivates with its vast open space and architectural quirks, often melding old industrial charm and modern design. Depending on ownership structure, lofts are either condos or apartments, but either way, they're known for their high ceilings and large windows. Residents enjoy the airy, open feel of lofts that can be hard to find in standard units. But as appealing as that might sound, prospective tenants should also consider the nuances of living in such a unique space. Does a loft's expansive layout and distinctive character outweigh its potential challenges?

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed real estate professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

Loft Apartments at a Glance

When you're mulling over the choice between a co-op and a condo, you're not just picking a home but deciding on a lifestyle. Much like the differences between condos and apartments, condos and co-ops are often confused and misunderstood. Co-ops often require prospective residents to pass a rigorous board approval process. On the other hand, condos offer greater independence, allowing owners to rent out their properties and make alterations without as many hurdles. Both options have distinct advantages and challenges, tailored to different needs and preferences. Consider what matters most to you in a home and a community. 

Co-Ops vs. Condos at a Glance

• Co-ops involve share purchases providing occupancy rights, while condos entail direct

The Chinook Blast Festival, Calgary’s signature winter festival, has been held in January and February every year since 2020. Offering a fusion of art, culture, and entertainment, Chinook Blast is one of the best annual festivals in Calgary. But how can visiting and resident attendees optimize their time here? Discover insider tips, hidden gems, and must-see attractions that promise to elevate the Chinook Blast experience.

Highlights of Calgary’s Chinook Blast Festival

• Chinook Blast 2025 will run from January 31 to February 17
• Vibrant winter festival in Calgary showcasing arts, sports, and more
• Features light installations, performances, art displays, and culinary delights
• Located in downtown Calgary at Stephen Avenue and The

Homes constructed mid-century in some of Calgary’s best neighbourhoods offer a distinctive architectural style, one that appeals to many homebuyers. If you’re looking for the charm of a mid-century modern home, Calgary offers many communities that developed during the 1950s. Here, you can find ready-to-renovate homes or those that have already been updated while preserving key mid-century modern elements. Discover the best neighbourhoods in Calgary featuring mid-century modern homes. 

Highlights of Mid-Century Modern Calgary

• Developed in the 1950s, Charleswood offers renovated executive-style homes near parks, universities, and hospitals.
• Close to downtown, Glendale features mid-century homes and abundant recreational opportunities like

Converting a basement into an apartment with kitchen and bathroom facilities allows homeowners to earn extra income if they rent out the space. A home with a basement suite is also highly likely to increase the property's value, especially if the owner wants to sell one day. However, the proper permitting needs to occur before the conversion, and owners should be comfortable being a landlord, as they will be renting a portion of their home to a tenant. For anyone thinking about converting a basement into an apartment, here's how to do it.

8 Steps For Turning Your Basement Into a Legal Apartment

• Confirm zoning regulations and eligibility for a secondary suite in your area.
• Obtain required development and building permits from the City of

New opportunities await when one chooses to relocate to a new area. Calgary, Alberta's largest city and a hub of innovation and opportunity, boasts a diverse and robust economy that has long been a cornerstone of Canada's economic landscape. Known for its dynamic mix of industries, Calgary has evolved from its early days as a centre for agriculture and oil to become a thriving metropolis with a forward-looking economy. Whether you're a job seeker, investor, or simply curious about Calgary's economic heartbeat, this guide to Calgary's economy offers a comprehensive look at what makes this vibrant city tick.

Calgary's Industries

One of the reasons so many people are moving to Calgary is because its economy is so diverse. Despite the nickname, there

The city of Airdrie is home to some of the most luxurious neighbourhoods in Alberta. These communities offer high-end homes, a wealth of local amenities and easy access to some of the best services in town. They're great options for homebuyers who value proximity to Calgary's big-city attractions but prefer Airdrie's small-town charm.

But which of the wealthiest neighbourhoods in Airdrie offers the best value in luxury real estate? Which ones are convenient for commuting to Calgary? This in-depth exploration of the city's expensive neighbourhoods is a one-stop shop for luxury real estate buyers considering moving to Airdrie.

Highlights of Richest Airdrie Neighbourhoods

• Ravenswood: Located in East Airdrie, featuring luxury homes priced

Calgary, Alberta, has experienced a boom in the development of master-planned communities. These neighbourhoods seek to provide residents with Calgary's best outdoor recreation and amenities, including extensive trail and park systems while providing easy access to the city.

With the growing population, new communities in Calgary play an integral role in ensuring the city can continue to deliver a high quality of life and a range of housing options for its residents. Let's explore the top master-planned neighbourhoods in Calgary, helping to determine which one may be the right fit for you.

Keys to Calgary's Master-Planned Neighbourhoods

• Rockland Park is a hotspot for new-construction homes and plentiful amenities in Northwest Calgary.