Terri Champagne, REALTOR®

Getting ready to sell your home in Calgary? Follow these 7 expert-approved tips to prep your house for listing—from decluttering to pricing it right. Sell faster and for more!

Selling your home in Calgary can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure where to start. Whether you're moving up, moving on, or making a major life transition, a little prep goes a long way toward a smooth and profitable sale. 🏡💰

As a Calgary REALTOR® who helps homeowners make confident moves every day, I’m here to guide you through seven essential steps to take before listing your home for sale—no guesswork, no regrets.

1️⃣ Declutter & Depersonalize

Buyers want to imagine themselves in your space—not you. Removing personal items, excess furniture, and clutter makes rooms feel bigger, brighter, and more appealing. Think minimal, neutral, and welcoming.

Pro Tip: Start packing early! Anything you don’t use weekly can likely be stored or donated.

2️⃣ Boost Curb Appeal

First impressions matter—especially in real estate. A fresh lawn, clean walkway, and welcoming front door can instantly boost your home's perceived value.

🌿 A few planters, a power wash, and a new doormat can work wonders.

3️⃣ Deep Clean Everything

We're talking baseboards, vents, windows, appliances—every inch should sparkle. A spotless home sends the message that it's been well cared for.

🧼 Consider hiring a professional cleaner to make everything shine from floor to ceiling.

4️⃣ Tackle Minor Repairs

That squeaky door, chipped paint, or leaky faucet? Fix it now. Small issues can make buyers wonder what else has been neglected.

🔨 A pre-listing walk-through with your REALTOR® can help spot red flags before buyers do.

5️⃣ Stage For Success

Staging helps buyers picture how they’ll live in the space—and it can lead to faster, higher offers. From rearranging furniture to adding cozy touches, good staging highlights your home’s best features.

🛋️ Ask your REALTOR® if they provide staging services or have trusted partners who do.

6️⃣ Price It Right

Pricing your home correctly from day one is crucial. Overpriced homes sit on the market too long; underpriced homes leave money on the table. A strategic price based on market data attracts the right buyers quickly.

📈 A local real estate expert (👋 that’s me!) will help you analyze comps and market trends.

7️⃣ Work With a Pro (Like Me!)

Your home is one of your biggest investments—don’t leave your sale to chance. Working with an experienced Calgary REALTOR® means access to marketing, negotiation skills, and strategic advice that maximizes your return.

😊 I'm here to walk you through every step, from prep to possession, so you can sell with confidence.

Ready to List Your Calgary Home?

If you're preparing to sell in Calgary, Airdrie, Cochrane, or surrounding areas, I'm here to help make the process seamless and successful. Let's chat about your goals, your timeline, and what your next chapter looks like.

📩 Contact me today for a free home prep consultation or to get your custom Comparative Market Analysis (CMA).

Terri Champagne
REALTOR®, RE/MAX House of Real Estate
📞 403.614.7554 | 📧 terri@melstar.ca
🌐 terrichampagne.ca

Your Next Chapter Starts with Champagne

If you're a first-time home buyer or planning a relocation to Calgary, the Northwest (NW) quadrant offers the perfect mix of convenience, community, and lifestyle. Whether you’re moving for work, school, or a fresh start, NW Calgary is a standout choice—and here’s why.

What Makes NW Calgary So Desirable?

The NW quadrant of Calgary is known for its mature communities, scenic views, top-tier amenities, and easy access to everything a newcomer needs.

Key Highlights:

• Hospitals: Home to both Foothills Medical Centre and Alberta Children's Hospital, plus the newly expanded Calgary Cancer Centre.

• Education: Dozens of public and Catholic elementary, junior, and high schools, along with the University of Calgary and SAIT nearby.

• Shopping & Services: Everything from boutique shops to major retail at Market Mall, Northland Village, and Crowfoot Crossing.

• Location Perks:

  • 15–20 minutes to downtown Calgary

  • 20 minutes to Calgary International Airport (YYC)

  • 1 hour to the Rocky Mountains

These benefits make NW Calgary especially appealing to young professionals, families, and first-time home buyers looking for value, community, and lifestyle all in one.

Popular NW Calgary Communities for First-Time Buyers

Here’s a look at some of NW Calgary’s most sought-after neighborhoods—each with its own personality, housing styles, and price ranges:

Tuscany

A master-planned community with a welcoming, family-first atmosphere, Tuscany offers walking paths, schools, and a strong sense of connection.

• Home Types: Detached homes, townhouses

• Average Home Price: $650K–$750K

Arbour Lake

The only lake community in NW Calgary, Arbour Lake offers year-round recreation and stunning mountain views.

• Home Types: Single-family homes, condos, and townhomes

• Average Home Price: $600K–$850K

Brentwood & Varsity

These mature, centrally located communities are ideal for those who want to be close to the University of Calgary, Foothills Hospital, and LRT access.

• Home Types: Bungalows, split-levels, and apartments

• Average Home Price: $500K–$900K+

Rocky Ridge & Royal Oak

Newer NW neighborhoods with quick access to the CTrain, green spaces, and family-oriented amenities.

• Home Types: Modern single-family homes and townhomes

• Average Home Price: $550K–$750K

Bowness

A riverside gem, Bowness combines small-town charm with urban convenience. A favorite for buyers looking for character homes or infills near the Bow River.

• Home Types: Historic homes, new builds, townhomes

• Average Home Price: $450K–$800K+

Is NW Calgary Right for You?

If you're looking for a safe, scenic, and well-connected area in Calgary with access to great schools, healthcare, transit, and shopping—NW Calgary is a fantastic place to begin your homeownership journey.

Need Help Making the Move?

As a Calgary REALTOR® and relocation specialist, I help first-time buyers and newcomers feel confident through every step of the home buying process. I’ll walk you through each community, help you weigh your options, and make sure you feel at home long before move-in day.

📩 Have questions about buying a home in NW Calgary?
Let’s connect and explore your options together. No pressure—just personalized guidance.

Terri Champagne
REALTOR®, RE/MAX House of Real Estate
📞 403.614.7554 | 📧 terri@melstar.ca
🌐 www.terrichampagne.ca

Your Next Chapter Starts with Champagne

Whether you’re a seasoned seller or putting your first home on the market, understanding the legal details around your property is key to a smooth sale. One important topic that often comes up but isn’t always fully understood is the Dower Act—especially in Alberta.

No matter your generation—Boomer, Millennial, or Gen Z—knowledge is power when it comes to protecting yourself and your family during a home sale. This article breaks down what Dower rights are, why they matter, and how they could affect you if you’re selling your home.

What Are Dower Rights?

In Alberta, Dower rights are designed to protect a married spouse who isn’t listed as an owner on the title of the matrimonial home. Even if only one spouse’s name appears on the property title, the other spouse still has legal rights regarding major decisions about the home.

This means the non-owning spouse must consent to important actions like selling, leasing, mortgaging, or transferring the property. These protections are codified in Alberta’s Dower Act to ensure that spouses are treated fairly in decisions that impact the family home.

Why Does the Dower Act Matter to Sellers?

If you’re selling your home and your spouse lives there with you—but isn’t on the title—you’ll need their formal consent to proceed. This consent is given by signing two specific documents:

• A Dower Consent form

• A Dower Affidavit

These forms confirm the non-owning spouse agrees to the sale, and the process cannot move forward without them.

Key Points About Dower Rights in Alberta

• Protection for Non-Owning Spouse: Prevents a spouse not on title from being excluded from decisions affecting the family home.

• Consent Requirement: The non-owning spouse must sign off on selling, refinancing, or mortgaging the home.

• Life Estate Rights: If the owning spouse passes away, the non-owning spouse may have the right to live in the home for their lifetime.

• Applies Only to Legally Married Couples: These rights do not apply to common-law partners.

• Limited to the Matrimonial Home: The law applies only to the primary residence where the married couple lives, not to other properties owned.

Why We Want to Educate All Sellers

At its heart, the Dower Act is about fairness and respect within the family home. Whether you’re a Boomer downsizing, a Millennial selling your starter home, or Gen Z stepping into your first property sale, understanding these rights helps you avoid surprises and ensures a smooth transaction for everyone involved.

Being informed means you can confidently navigate the paperwork, legal requirements, and timelines involved—making the entire experience less stressful and more transparent.

Ready to Sell? Let’s Make It Simple

If you’re thinking about selling your home in Alberta, understanding Dower rights is just one part of the process—and I’m here to help you every step of the way. From explaining legal details to coordinating paperwork and negotiating the best deal, my goal is to make your sale seamless and stress-free.

Have questions about Dower rights or the selling process? Reach out today for a friendly, no-pressure conversation. Together, we’ll ensure your sale is smooth, fair, and exactly what you need it to be.

Contact me now to get started:

Terri Champagne, REALTOR

📞 403.614.7554 | 📧 terri@melstar.ca | 🌐 terrichampagne.ca

Buying your first home is a big deal—and if you’re a Millennial or Gen Z buyer ready to take the plunge, you might be asking one very important question:

Should I buy a brand-new home or go with a resale property?

Both choices come with serious perks (and a few trade-offs). As your go-to real estate matchmaker, I’m breaking it down so you can feel confident navigating the market—and making the best decision for your lifestyle, goals, and budget.

🛠️ The Case for New Construction

If you love clean lines, energy-efficient upgrades, and the smell of brand new everything, new construction might be calling your name.

✅ Pro #1: All the Modern Features

New builds typically come with smart tech, open layouts, and energy-efficient appliances already built in. Think: smart thermostats, EV charging stations, quartz countertops, and walk-in pantries. You don’t need to renovate to get your dream aesthetic—it’s already there.

✅ Pro #2: Fewer Surprises

Everything’s new—roof, furnace, plumbing, electrical. That means fewer repairs in the first 5–10 years and often builder warranties to back it up. You’ll likely spend less time on weekend DIY projects and more time living your best life.

✅ Pro #3: Customization

Some builders let you pick your floor plan, finishes, and upgrades before construction is complete. It's like designing your own home—without having to swing a hammer.

⚠️ Things to Watch:

• Longer timelines (especially in pre-construction)

• Higher price per square foot

• Landscaping and community amenities may still be under development

🏡 Why Resale Homes Still Hit Different

There’s something about walking into a home with history and character—it just feels lived in, loved, and established. For many buyers, resale homes offer value that can’t be replicated with new construction.

✅ Pro #1: Established Neighborhoods

Tree-lined streets, nearby schools, mature landscaping, and a strong sense of community—these are things you just can’t fast-track with new development. Plus, you’ll have a better idea of how the area really lives.

✅ Pro #2: Bigger Lots, Lower Costs

Older homes often sit on larger lots and may offer more square footage for your budget. There's also more room to negotiate on price, especially if the home needs a few updates.

✅ Pro #3: Built-In Charm

Crown molding, original hardwood, cozy fireplaces—if you appreciate vintage charm and character, resale is where it’s at. You won’t get that kind of soul in a spec build.

⚠️ Things to Watch:

• Potential for hidden maintenance costs

• Less energy-efficient unless updated

• May need updates or renovations (hello, TikTok DIYs!)

👇 So, What’s Right for You?

Here's the truth: there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It really comes down to what matters most to you.

Ask yourself:

• Do I want something move-in ready or am I open to a little sweat equity?

• Is smart home tech and energy efficiency non-negotiable?

• Am I drawn to established communities or newer suburbs with growth potential?

• What’s my timeline, and how flexible am I?

As a realtor who works closely with Millennial and Gen Z buyers, I’ll help you cut through the noise and make a smart investment—whether that’s a brand-new build or a resale gem with good bones.

Ready to start your home search?

Let’s chat about your must-haves, your budget, and what home really means to you. I'm here to make the process simple, strategic, and actually kind of fun.

📲 Book a consult or DM me anytime.
📞 403.614.7554
📧 terri@melstar.ca
🌐 terrichampagne.ca

Terri Champagne
REALTOR® | RE/MAX House of Real Estate
Your Next Chapter Starts with Champagne

If you're relocating to Calgary—or buying your first home here—you're probably wondering where the best neighborhoods are, what amenities are nearby, and how each part of the city fits your lifestyle. As a local real estate expert, I often guide newcomers and first-time home buyers through this exact process.

One of the most popular (and beloved) areas of the city? Southwest Calgary (SW Calgary). It offers a balance of urban convenience, natural beauty, and established community charm—making it a top choice for buyers starting their Calgary journey.

📍 An Overview of Southwest Calgary

Located just south and west of Calgary’s downtown core, the SW quadrant is known for its tree-lined streets, mature communities, and excellent access to both city life and the mountains.

Here’s why SW Calgary stands out:

• Proximity to Downtown: Just 10–15 minutes by car or CTrain.

• Access to Nature: Quick weekend escapes to Kananaskis and the Rocky Mountains.

• Hospitals: 3 major hospitals serve this area, including Rockyview General and Alberta Children’s Hospital.

• Schools: Over 50 public, private, and Catholic schools, plus Mount Royal University.

• Shopping & Amenities: From Chinook Centre and Westhills to the boutique shops in Marda Loop, you’ll find everything you need close to home.

• Airport Access: Approximately 30–35 minutes to Calgary International Airport (YYC).

🏘️ Top Communities in SW Calgary for First-Time Buyers & Newcomers

Whether you're purchasing your very first home or relocating from out of province (or even overseas), the Southwest offers a wide variety of communities to match your goals, lifestyle, and budget.

Here are some of the most popular neighborhoods in SW Calgary:

1. Aspen Woods

• Home Types: Luxury single-family homes, townhomes, and executive-style condos

• Price Range: $900K–$1.4M

• Why People Love It: Upscale living, excellent schools, close to the mountains.

2. Marda Loop / Altadore

• Home Types: Infills, condos, character homes

• Price Range: $750K–$1.2M

• Why People Love It: Trendy, walkable, full of cafés, parks, and community events. Great for young professionals and couples.

3. Lakeview

• Home Types: Bungalows, mid-century homes, renovated properties

• Price Range: $700K–$1M

• Why People Love It: Proximity to Glenmore Reservoir, quiet streets, and a strong community vibe.

4. West Springs

• Home Types: Newer detached homes, townhouses, and duplexes

• Price Range: $650K–$1.1M

• Why People Love It: Family-friendly, great schools, and quick access to downtown and the mountains.

5. Somerset & Bridlewood

• Home Types: Affordable single-family homes, condos, and townhomes

• Price Range: $350K–$550K

• Why People Love It: Budget-friendly, LRT access, and great for first-time buyers entering the Calgary market.

🧭 Thinking About Moving to Calgary? Let’s Make It Simple

Buying a home in a new city can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you're a first-time home buyer in Calgary or you're relocating for work, family, or a fresh start, I’m here to help you make an informed, confident decision.

As a Calgary real estate matchmaker, I take the time to understand your needs, explain the process step-by-step, and introduce you to communities that align with your lifestyle and goals. Whether you fall in love with Aspen Woods or Somerset, I’ll ensure you feel supported from start to finish.

💬 Let’s Chat About Your Next Move

If you’re ready to start your Calgary home search—or just have questions about where to begin—I’m just a message away. Every neighborhood in SW Calgary has something special to offer, and I’d love to help you find the one that feels like home.

📞 403.614.7554
📧 terri@melstar.ca
🌐 terrichampagne.ca

Terri Champagne
REALTOR® | RE/MAX House of Real Estate

Your Next Chapter Starts with Champagne