All Blog Entries by Justin Havre Real Estate Team

Picture this: You just planted a beautiful Bradford Pear tree in the front yard of your Calgary home. Then a storm hits, and those pretty branches snap like twigs. Now your yard is a mess.

Some trees look great at the garden center but cause major headaches later. The wrong tree can wreck your yard, damage your home, and cost you thousands in repairs.

Whether you’re designing your backyard or adding to the existing trees around your home, avoid these tree species.

Save This Quick Guide for Tree Shopping

• Silver Maple has roots that crack sidewalks and brittle branches that break in storms
• Bradford Pear trees look pretty but break easily and spread like weeds
• Black Walnut releases chemicals that kill your other plants
• Siberian Elm

When you consider the popular styles of residential architecture in Canada, you may wonder what sets mid-century modern homes apart from modern homes. At first glance, both styles seem to embrace simplicity, but their differences are more than just aesthetics. Modern homes often focus on minimalism with clean lines and neutral palettes, while mid-century modern homes bring life with bold colours and organic forms. Each style reflects the era's unique cultural and architectural evolution, but how do these differences impact the way you experience your living space? 

Keys to Modern vs. Mid-Century Modern Homes

• Modern homes emphasize minimalism with sleek lines, while mid-century modern homes feature bold colours and geometric patterns.

As homeowners consider investing more heavily in renewable energy, the decision often comes down to whether or not installing solar panels will boost their home's market value. Homes equipped with solar installations can see an increase in value, attracting buyers willing to pay a premium for energy efficiency. Plus, homeowners considering home additions can easily fold solar installation into the construction process.

However, the extent of this value-added feature varies widely depending on geographic location, local electricity costs, and the size of the installation. This variability raises the question: under what circumstances do solar panels make financial sense for homeowners?

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a

Ever wonder what stories the streets of Calgary's oldest neighbourhoods could tell? Inglewood, Downtown West End, and Eau Claire are more than just charming locales—they're living chronicles of an ever-evolving city that has preserved its roots. As you stroll through these areas, which are among the best neighbourhoods in Calgary, you'll notice pristine historic architecture alongside modern life. It's a fascinating juxtaposition that begs the question: how do these neighbourhoods balance heritage with progress? Discover the unique characteristics that make each neighbourhood a pivotal piece of Calgary's history.

Highlights of Calgary’s Oldest Neighbourhoods

• Inglewood, established in 1875, is Calgary's oldest neighbourhood with a vibrant arts

In March 2025, Calgary will host the elegant spectacle of Alberta Ballet's "The Wizard of Oz" and the roaring engines of the Calgary International Auto and Truck Show. Whether captivated by the arts or intrigued by automotive innovation, this month offers something to pique your curiosity. As the month progresses, the Beach Boys' iconic harmonies and the Calgary Career Fair networking opportunities await. Yet, the real question is: How will you decide which event takes precedence on your calendar full of exciting activities in Calgary? 

Highlights of March Events in Calgary

• Alberta Ballet's unique adaptation of “The Wizard of Oz” premieres March 13 to 15, 2025.
• The Beach Boys concert at WinSport Event Centre on March 25, 2025, promises

The benefits of garages are undeniable, but homeowners considering adding one to their home often weigh the benefits of a two-car garage versus a one-car garage. A two-car garage shelters vehicles and has space for storage and hobbies, potentially boosting value. On the other hand, the economy and efficiency of a one-car garage can't be overlooked, especially in tighter, urban spaces where every square foot counts. So, what factors should drive this decision, and how does one determine which garage size best fits their lifestyle?

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

Key Considerations for Garage Size

• Two-car garages offer more storage and

A property disclosure statement is an outline of known issues with the property, ensuring transparency and protecting both parties in a real estate transaction. While Alberta law does not require a formal seller disclosure form, sellers must still disclose known defects that could make the home unsafe or unlivable. Failing to disclose key issues—such as foundation cracks, water damage, or mould—can lead to legal trouble after the sale. Let’s break down what Alberta sellers need to know about property disclosures and how they can help you sell your home.

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

What Is a Property Disclosure Statement?

A property

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial and personal decisions you’ll make, and having a clear vision of what you want can make the process less overwhelming. By carefully curating a detailed homebuying wishlist and understanding the distinction between necessities and luxuries, you pave the way for a more focused and fulfilling home search experience. Here’s how to build a wishlist that balances your budget, lifestyle, and long-term goals.

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

5 Things to Consider For Your Dream Home Wishlist

• Split your wishlist into two lists: deal-breaker “needs” and nice-to-have “wants.”
• Prioritize needs like

The variety of home styles available to homebuyers is vast, ranging from modern masterpieces to Tudor revivals, but bungalow homes are among the most unique and popular styles on the market today.

Common characteristics of bungalow style architecture include their one-storey height, compact size, broad front porches, distinctive roofs, and open living areas with high ceilings. Many different homeowners enjoy the coziness and comfort found in bungalow-style houses, and everyone can enjoy the benefits of the bungalow.

Decorating a bungalow to meet your tastes often involves embracing the distinctive features of the bungalow architecture and working to make your decor and house layout work together. Keep reading to find out how to decorate and style

When considering investing in a tiny home, weighing the pros and cons of this unique lifestyle choice is important. While the allure of financial savings and minimalistic living is appealing, there are a few potential challenges to be aware of. From zoning regulations to resale value, it’s crucial to be aware of the more complex aspects of tiny home living. Whether you’re downsizing your home for retirement or buying your first home, understanding tiny homes is the first step toward determining if one could align with your home ownership goals.

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

Tiny Homes at a Glance

• Consider lifestyle needs: Tiny