Thanks for stopping by and checking out our Calgary infill’s buyers guide. this is tip #5 of our top 10 best Calgary infills buyer guide tips. In this tip we discuss the issue of warranties in depth.

When you are buying a new inner city infill it is important to most buyers to have some added peace of mind with the protection afforded by a home warranty. Not only does it say the builder is confident in his product but it does add another layer of diligence and comfort to your purchase. Lets be honest, having a warranty is an important detail we have come to expect when making any large tangible purchase whether it be a car, appliance, home or otherwise. Basically, a home warranty plan is a home insurance plan to assist you in the event of an incident which meets the criteria and guidelines of the warranties coverage. This plan can provide a heightened level of comfort for home-owners when unpredicted events go awry.

When buying a new inner city infill or a new home of any type you typically will have 2 warranties. The first is a builder warranty, most often for 1 year that the builder guarantees for issues of a comprehensive nature. This would typically cover any thing that may go wrong with the home. Second and sometimes required by a mortgage lender for financing reasons you might have a warranty program the builder is a part of that covers major items like structural deficiencies and for a longer term, typically 3 or 5 years. There are a variety of popular warranty programs in Alberta including the Alberta New Home Warrant, progressive warranty and national warranty programs.

When you are buying a new inner city home, ask about the warranty and get any details provided to you in writing. it is not unusual to ahve a 1 year builder and 5 year structural warrant provided to you as a part of the features the builder is offering with the home.

For more information on new inner city infill homes in Calgary you can search all infill listings or check out more from out Calgary infill buyers guide here.For assistance navigating the new infill home market, send me a message or call me anytime. Put my expertise to you!

Bridgeland is a inner city community in Calgary with an abundance of infills and redevelopment happening. Located close to the adjacent residential neighbourhoods of Renfrew and Crescent Heights by three different north, east and west escarpments. South of Bridgeland is the Bow River, the Calgary Zoo and Memorial Drive NE. Establishment dates back to 1914, making Bridgeland one of the oldest communities in Calgary that has close proximity to the downtown core. New infill developments are a particular kind of new Calgary home being constructed in the area to replace older, frail housing. Some residences in Bridgeland have spectacular views of the surrounding areas including the Rockies, the Bow River Valley and downtown Calgary. Access to amenities and services is made easy with routes such as Memorial Drive NE, Edmonton Trail NE and Deerfoot Highway that are close to or border Bridgeland. Head up to 16th Avenue N or Centre Street N to access a number of strip malls and businesses everything from grocer’s to auto-technicians. Bridgeland’s inner city location also gives residents great recreational opportunities provided by the numerous running and biking paths that meander along the Bow River and other parks. You can also check out what the area has to offer with the real estate search below!

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Calgary Infill Buyers Tips

Bridgeland Amenities and Services

Access to amenities and services in Bridgeland and the surrounding area is made easy by the immediate proximity to main routes such as Edmonton Trail NE and Memorial Drive NE. The Trans-Canada Highway corridor is not far north, while Deerfoot Trail is not far to the east allowing for more flexibility when having to commute from one place to another. Recreational opportunities for Bridgeland residents are provided by the Bow River Valley and parkway, Bottomlands Park and Tom Campbell’s Hill Natural Park and a few others. The Calgary Zoo is located within Bridgeland that is great fun for the whole family in all seasons. Bridgeland LRT station provides great access to and from downtown Calgary, as well as the cities NE, NW and downtown terminals.

Bridgeland schools

Bridgeland elementary designation for kindergartens to grade six is Stanley Jones Elementary with yellow bus transportation provided for students. The same goes for the Junior High designation which is Colonel Macleod Junior High. High school designation is Crescent Heights located in Crescent Heights, a neighbour of Bridgeland. Crescent Heights is walking distance for any high school student. Unfortunately the elementary and junior schools are a bit further, which is why yellow bus transportation is provided.

Bridgeland Demographics

Bridgeland is a great inner city infill community to live in. Recent census results by the City of Calgary has collected pertinent information for new home buyers. Here are some demographics for the area (City of Calgary, Civic Census 2009).

• Ages 24 and below – 18.7%
• Ages 25 to 54 – 53.0%
• Ages 55 and up – 28.4%
• Average household income – $44,363 (Statistics Canada, 2006 Census)
• Percentage of population with a High School Diploma or higher – 78.5%
• Ratio of residents who own their property – 45.6%
• Ratio of residents who rent their property – 54.4%

Public Transportation

Bridgeland LRT station is located between west and east Memorial Drive with overpass walkways for easy access. Take a two minute train into downtown from the terminal to get to work or catch a number of public bus routes. Calgary Transit routes that service the area include Deerfoot Centre, Varsity Acres and Bridgeland, Huntington, Douglas Glen, New Brighton, Renfrew and Spruce Cliff, 16th Avenue North, Downtown shuttle, Inner City Loop, McKenzie, Rosedale, Tuscany, Riverbend and Erin Woods. These aren’t the only routes that are available. There are over a dozen other different routes accessible via downtown LRT terminals. Getting around is convenient, allowing more time to live rather than commuting.

Bridgeland Community Boundaries Are:

• Northern Border – 7th Avenue , 9a Street , 8th Avenue NE from Edmonton Trail to Deerfoot Trail
• Eastern Border – Nose Creek from Centre Avenue to Memorial Drive NE
• Southern Border – Memorial Drive from Nose Creek to Edmonton Trail NE
• Western Border – Edmonton Trail  from Memorial Drive to 5th Avenue NE

Bridgeland Real Estate Search and Infill Listings

So we have touched on the cooking classes and where to go!! But now there is a more in depth look at where to go and why you should go there, along with real reviews from attenders! Hopefully this will assist you a bit more in your decision making, it’s understandable with all these amazing choices you could be confused!

Part 1:  The Best Calgary Cooking Classes Summary

Cookbook Co.

This location offers many different classes and of course amazing guest chefs. It is always guaranteed to be a great experience and you are bound to leave with a full tummy and great new recipes to cook up for your next dinner party!

Check out the reviews online and to check out the upcoming classes go here

Sunterra in the Keynote

This location has me wondering if I ever really need to go anywhere else, food wise. They seem to have it all, one thing they have that is more than fantastic is the Cooking Classes, not only are they affordable but they are fun!! Sunterra has all the classes you could need. From lunch”n”learns, to perfectly pair and private cooking classes you get your pick!

“Sunterra Cooking Classes offer something for everyone. Whether your oven is well-loved or used for storage, you know how to roast or have only mastered toast, our classes are sure to impress. And because we know that good food and good wine are simply better together, many of our classes incorporate wine and spirit pairings. Our classes are designed to send you away with the skills, inspiration and knowledge so you can recreate your own culinary masterpiece.”—Sunterra Website

You can check out the schedule for the cooking classes or stop into the keynote location and grab the “Cooking Classes” Brochure.

Ruby’s Kitchen

The goal in Ruby’s kitchen is to create a fun and relaxing environment while teaching you how to do cover your basics in the cooking world and more! A one of a kind cooking school that has the perfect atmosphere for a relaxing evening for a night of interactive fun!

Check out the awesome reviews online and then check out the schedule.

Savour the food

With the goal of simplicity and food in mind Savour the food cooking classes can only be one thing, Amazing!!The coolest thing about Savour the food is that they will come to your kitchen and you can cook with all your friends in the comfort of your own home!!

Check out Carla’s awesome online blog!  and to check out the website and book a class go to:

Atco Blue Flame Kitchen

With classes for every skill level, Atco Blue Flame Kitchen can meet everyone’s needs. Located in a easily accessible location Atco Blue Flame Kitchen offers corporate or private cooking lessons! Call and book today!!

Check out the reviews online and then you can book a class

Kulinary Kids

I am firm believer that cooking is a skill you should learn from the start. Attending cooking classes as a child will only help build on the skillset they will have in the future! Plus how fun is it too cook together!? At Kulinary kids they provide a fun and interactive learning experience for you and your child. Whether you want to book into a class just the two of you or book a whole birthday they leave it completely available to you!!

To check out the reviews or book a class or check the listings.

Kinjo Sushi and Grill

Find you are always going out for sushi and wonder, “how easy would it be too make it myself?” Well Kinjo makes this a very easy answer, stop into their amazing cooking classes and learn a tool you are never going to forget! Whether you are entertaining or cooking for one, these are skills that will impress many, who knows you might even impress yourself!

Check out the reviews and then book a class go

Nicole Gourmet

Having experienced the delicious creations of Nicole Gourmet I am definitely a cheerleader for her classes. Private cooking classes are available and a fun idea for the Bachlorette party or a Night out, Nicole is sure to assist you in building your cooking skill set.

You can check out the reviews and then book a class

 Have you tried any of these cooking classes? We want to hear from you! Leave a comment below and tell us what you think!

You may have already started your new condo search or maybe your starting to do some research, either way here are 5 important considerations to make when evaluating new condos in Calgary.

1. Price per square foot
2. Your view and its future
3. Project sales cycle
4. Have you got all the facts
5. Have you seen everything for your criteria

To help you understand how each of these questions can impact your new condos value and quality of living please send me a message below or call me any time for a no obligation buyers consultation. Also check out these links below for more insider buyers tips when looking at new condos!

More New Condo Insiders Tips

I am very fortunate to have several media sources ask for my opinion on the Calgary real estate market and a variety of specific topics. From the Calgary Herald to CBC News to the Mount Royal University Journal, I am regulary featured in Calgary media outlets for interviews, questions and opinion on the Calgary real estate market and overall Calgary economic picture. Below is a collage of some of my most recent print and TV media appearances.

Helping You Accomplish Your Calgary Real Estate Goals

If you want to explore your real estate options more I would love to help you make a fully informed decision that is in your best interests. Here are a few more articles on myself and how I put my clients first and foremost.

Meet Cody

My Resume

Video testimonials

Written Recommendations

Snow or shine there is always lots of activities to do outside in Calgary and area!

Here is a list that you may find useful for ideas. If I missed something leave a comment and I will add it to the list!

• The Zoo
• Go Fishing
• Go Ice Fishing
• Play Volleyball
• Build a snowman
• Go to Calaway Park
• Go for a walk or run
• Go Zorbing at C.O.P
• Go Horseback Riding
• Calgary Archery Club
• Plan a BBQ with friends

 

• Go Cross Country Skiing
• Go to the Shooting Range
• Go Skiing or Snowboarding
• Pack a picnic and find a park
• Take the kids to Sikome Lake
• Go Dog-Sledding in Canmore
• Raft the Bow or Elbow Rivers
• Go to the Glenmore sailing club
• The snow tubes at Mt. Norquay
• Go Rollerblade down by the river
• Find a good hill for Tobogganing

 

• Ride the Canada Olympic Park zip-line
• Check out one of Calgary’s great patios!
• Walk around Princess Edward Island Park
• Check out the downhill bike paths at C.O.P
• Ice Skating at Bowness park or Olympic plaza
• Take in one of Calgary’s many outdoor festivals
• Walk around Heritage Park, they have lots to do
• Go play Frisbee, Soccer, Football or Baseball outdoors
• Take the kids to a wading pool in one of Calgary’s parks
• Walk around 17th Ave and check out the cool shopping

 

• Go for a bike ride on Calgary’s extensive pathway system
• Visit Stanley park, Edworthy park or Confederation Park
• Walk around Inglewood and check out the cool shopping
• Walk around Kensington and check out the cool shopping
• Join a sports league like touch football or soccer or Frisbee
• Go Horseback riding or take in a competition at Spruce Meadows
• Pack your tent and go Camping ( I like Two Jacks Lakeside by Banff)
• Stop by Salsafest, Carifest, Lilac, Sled Island or one of Calgary’s many outdoor festivals
• Last but never least STAMPEDE! The Best Outdoor Show on Earth for 10 days every July

What is your favourite outoor activity to do in Calgary?

Selling your Calgary home or Condo is no small decision and you need the right advice and marketing to unlock your homes true value. As a Calgary REALTOR® I pride myself on providing the best possible client service and constantly improving my expertise through learning and education. This gives me the most cuttiing edge tools to help my clients accomplish their real estate goals and at the same time continually take my level of client service to a new level.

When you list your home or condo, give me the opportunity to show you how I can help you accomplish your real estate goals! You can chat, message or call me any time for a no-obligation sellers consultation and market analysis.

8 Reasons to List in Calgary with a Sellers Representative Specialist (SRS®)

1 – As your Calgary Sellers Representative Specialist I am a  highly trained service based REALTOR® who focuses on your specific goals.  From the first meeting every step of the entire process will be discussed with you and and we will address any specific concerns or needs you have.

2– When you hire me to list your home or condo it is about you and making sure you are more than completley satisfied through the process.

3 – Designations like the Seller Representative Specialist (SRS®) and other tools have provided me with experience and expertise to become a marketing expert. I am educated in an expansive variety of marketing procedures including a mix of traditional and digital marketing approaches that advocate effectively for you and maximize your homes exposure to the largest spectrum of possible buyers.

4 – As a SRS® I understand how important negotiating and the proper communication skills are. I am a member of Toastmasters and continually improve my communication skills. These are essential tools when trying to seal a successful deal.

5 – As your Calgary Sellers Representative Specialist I am passionate about putting my clients best interests above all else. I follow strict adherence to the utmost level of professional standards and ethics from the many levels of regulation we have as REALTORS®.

6 – I like to promise and still over deliver. When you hire me to list your home I will exceed your expectations. I set high standards for myself and constantly work to provide an exceptional level of service while developing a strong trust based relationship in the process with my clients.

7 – There is a difference between passive and active marketing. I understand how important it is to market your Calgary home for the most positive outcome. Active marketing combined with the correct price ensures you get the most for your home and unlock its true value.

8 – Connections play a vital role in the Calgary real estate market and I am uniquely positioned to use the relationships I have nurtured to add another level to the marketing and home selling process to achieve your goals.

Interview me today and let me show you how I can help you unlock your homes true value!

Rosscarrock is an inner city Calgary community located in the SW quadrant between the neighbourhoods of Shaganappi and Westgate. This inner city community less than three kilometres to downtown and has seen much new infill development in the past decade. Establishment for Rosscarrock dates back to 1954. Something unique about the community is that it has a land designation tagged R-2 that supplements construction of certain kinds of homes only, such as semi-detached, single-detached and duplex residences. Boundaries include some main routes in Calgary such as Bow Trail SW and 17th Avenue SW that provide easy access to amenities and services. Another great aspect of living in Rosscarrock is the abundance of recreational parks readily available including Edworthy Park, Douglas Fir Trail and Glendale Meadows.

10 Tips to buying a Calgary inner city infill

Rosscarrock Amenities and Services

Rosscarrock is home to Westbrook Mall, a haven for a number of businesses including Safeway and Wal-Mart to name a few. 17th Avenue SW is also home to many businesses from east to west. If you are an outdoor person take advantage of three ultimate parks and trails including Edworthy Park, Douglas Fir Trail and Glendale Meadows. Cross Bow Trail SW and reach the river parkway just down Spruce Cliff’s escarpment for an enjoyable experience by the Bow River. Westhills Rec. Centre is less than a five minutes drive west, while Killarney Rec. Centre is even closer than that!

Rosscarrock schools

Rosscarrock is home to one public school, an elementary, named Rosscarrock Elementary that teaches kindergartens to grade six. Junior high designation is Vincent Massey, while high school designation is to Ernest Manning, both of which are less than a ten minute walk from any point in Rosscarrock. Mount Royal University is less than five kilometres away and University of Calgary can be accessed via bus routes going downtown to the LRT terminal. Soon enough the Bow Trail SW LRT station will be up and running so access to downtown will be that much quicker.

Rosscarrock Demographics

Rosscarrock is a great community to live in with all the essentials for a comfortable living experience and more! Here are some stats from City of Calgary from surveys that a potential home buyer might find interesting (City of Calgary, Civic Census 2009)

• Ages 24 and below – 29.3%
• Ages 25 to 54 – 57.2%
• Ages 55 and up – 13.6%
• Average household income – $43,820 (Statistics Canada, 2006 Census)
• Percentage of population with a High School Diploma or higher – 75.4%
• Ratio of residents who own their property – 33.2%
• Ratio of residents who rent their property – 67.1%

Public Transportation

Public transportation for Rosscarrock can be found on 17th Avenue SW and Bow Trail in the eastern region. Not to worry there are multiple bus routes that serve different areas, covering a wide spectrum of city routes when commuting to and fro. New west LRT stations will be up and running by the end of 2012 that will make public transportation for Rosscarrock that much more convenient. Routes servicing Rosscarrock or areas close by include Renfrew and Spruce Cliff, Signal Hill, Valley Ridge, Circle Routes, Coach Hill, Strathcona, Cougar Ridge, BRT North and West, 69th Street, Glenbrook, Killarney and 26th Avenue. Walking to the eastern region from the furthest west point should take a person no longer than eight minutes to reach the closest bus stop.

Rosscarrock Community Boundaries Are:

• Northern Border – Bow Trail SW from 45th Street SW to 33rd Street SW
• Eastern Border – 33rd Street SW from Bow Trail to 17th Avenue SW
• Southern Border – 17th Avenue SW from 33rd Street SW to 45th Street SW
• Western Border – 45th Street SW from 17th Avenue SW to Bow Trail SW

If you have any questions about an inner city community such as Rosscarrock, contact me and I will be happy to help you in any way that I can.

 Search All Rosscarrock Real Estate Listings

Every year we seem to be annoyed by the Census Guy or Gal stopping by your door at what seems like the most inconvenient time, Well they have a method to their madness and this article is about to provide you with facts that will make you see how important these studies are for the Province that we are all thriving in.

Due to the massive developments in the oil sands and continued prosperity in our energy sector people have been flocking to our province, to give you an idea of the growth, the population grew 13.4% in the last 5 years, which is huge. It may leave some people nervous with thoughts that there will be an increase in unemployment but that is the far from the truth, this population growth came because of a huge increase in job openings Over 79,500 to be exact and growing since 2011 due to the natural resource sector, specifically the oil and gas sector. Alberta has led the North American job market for the last decade.

Alberta has the lowest unemployment rate coming in at 5% as of January 2012, and the West now has 10 million people living in it and with the current statistics we are only going to continue to grow and prosper economically. Alberta is also forecast to lead Canada with GDP growth in 2012.

The biggest problem we seem to be facing at this point is companies need more employees to grow and we don’t have them, with continued growth prospects the west is only bound to grow larger in order to fill these positions. Calgary is Canada’s head office leader per capita and Alberta incomes also lead Canada.

None of this growth would be possible without the Oilsands, they are estimated to provide the province and Canada with trillions of dollars in the next few decades. Oil sands are providing families with the economic means to prosper and live stable lives with the chances of obtaining more and growing.  As Alberta’s most populous city and Canada’s energy capital, not to mention home to 40% of the worlds oil and gas companies, Calgary also has more millionaires than anywhere else in Canada per capita.

I would suggest and the evidence is quite clear, the oil sands and not only Alberta’s growth but also Canada’s is correlated. When you break it down and look at the facts, analyze the science and consider the 4 E’s of the oil sands ( Energy Security, Environmental Performance, Economic Prosperity and Ethical Implications) you will see the benefits and the amazing progress. Before you accuse the oil sands of fictious accusations get educated and look at the facts. You may also want to ask yourself this: Would we be able to have the lives we have if we didn’t have the oil sands? Would we be able to provide a strong and stable home for our families without the oil sands? Have you truly looked into the environmental effects of the oil sands ? The answer to your question my friends is no, without the oil sands we would not be prospering the way we are. Not to mention the oil sands is the worlds only major oil reserve that funds democracy and public companies in a country where freedom of speech is protected and the environment is rigorously monitored.

•  Read 5 Shocking Lies about the oil sands
• 9 Amazing Truths about the oil sands
• Why Calgary is the bomb . com

When was the last time you went to the museum? You will probably say too long ago, well living in city means we have access to amazing information, exhibitions and museums.  Sometimes by putting some time aside for you and or your family, you can replenish your energy and enrich your mind with something historical, artistic and cultural. The following museums are all a part of Calgary and offer an expansive variety to accomplish some replenishment and relaxation as well as intellectual stimulation good for the whole family! So what are you waiting for!!! Check out some of the best in Calgary and one of the museums below!

Military Museum @ 4520 Crowchild Trail SW, Calgary, AB – Ph. 403.974.2869

Share some of the past with veterans from the First and Second World War by visiting The Military Museums of Calgary. Dedicated to the representation of all divisions of the Canadian Army, you will learn about the role of the army, navy and air force during some of the most important events in recorded history! You will find eight different gallery and museum rooms each dedicated to a different topic as well as in depth explanations of each display. Bring the young ones and let them play commander in the tanks, or perch on the airplanes. It’s all part of the fun!

The Olympic Hall of Fame and Museum @ Canada Olympic Park – 88 Canada Olympic Road SW, Calgary, AB – Ph. 403.247.5452

This museum is a great place to come and feel inspired by some of the amazing feats accomplished by Canadian athletes. The Olympic Museum is home to the biggest collection of its kind in all of Canada. With over 20 torches on display and a bundle of others that let the observer be interactive with some of the Olympic memorabilia, this museum is eventful and fun for the whole family. Discover some of the past and present athletes that have made Canada a top contender at the Olympic Games!

The Glenbow Museum @ 130 – 9th Avenue SE, Calgary, AB – Ph. 403.268.4100

Glenbow Museum is home to approximately 30,000 different artifacts and art pieces that will surely stimulate your imagination. Pieces are classified into three different types; modern, contemporary and historical. Three floors are dedicated to the culture and past history of Native Canadians, to the great migrations of the European nations and to the construction of a national asset, the great Canadian Pacific Railway. There are new and exciting adventures to be found at the Glenbow Museum regularly. Within the museum is also a memorabilia shop, archives, a library and a food concession.

Heritage Park Historical Village @ 1900 Heritage Drive SW, Calgary, AB – Ph. 403.268.8500

Heritage Park is where you will discover the 5 w’s for the history of Calgary and how it was living in the West in the past. Heritage Park Historical Village has an awesome selection of displays and events that are fun for the whole family. Deemed as a top-class attraction for tourists and local residents alike, Heritage Park is a year round facility that offers catering, educational opportunities and hosts conventions in its own massive ball room! Some things to do here include riding a real steam-train learn how to drive on bicycles and experience some of the old wild west that was the foundation for such a great place like Calgary!

Nickle Arts Museum @ 250 University Drive, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB – Ph. 403.220.7234

This museum is currently closed to move to a better location called the Taylor Family Digital Library still located within the U of C. This museum is dedicated to the study and exhibition of historically important artifacts, knowledge and other worthy information. Wide spectrums of different kinds of objects are on display including rugs, scrolls, pottery and artwork to name a few. The goal of the Nickle Arts Museum is to inspire the imaginations of people and students alike with the fantastic displays and information available at exhibits. New exhibitions are open regularly, so make sure to come back every once in a while! This museum is innovative in creating new discussion and insight into the past, present and future.

Each of these museums have their own niches that do well to capture the imagination and interest of visitors. Experience one of them soon to relax and replenish the mind from the hustle and bustle of an urban lifestyle!