What factors should be considered when choosing an apartment or house?
Buying real estate in a new city is always a complex and multifaceted task that requires a combination of financial planning, local market research, and personal needs. Located in southern Alberta, Calgary combines relatively affordable real estate prices with developed infrastructure and proximity to the Rocky Mountains. However, the diversity of neighborhoods, building types, and social conditions requires potential buyers to conduct a thorough analysis. In this article, we will look at the key factors to consider when choosing an apartment or house in Calgary to make the best decision for a comfortable life and a successful investment.
1. Financial capabilities and expenses
Before you start looking at properties, you need to clearly define your budget. In addition to the purchase price:
• Down payment. A minimum of 5% of the purchase price for homes up to CAD 500,000, 10% for homes over CAD 500,000, and 20% for properties over CAD 1 million.
• Mortgage insurance (if the down payment is less than 20%). Premium from 2% to 4% of the loan amount.
• Commissions and closing costs. Approximately 1.5–4% of the purchase price: notary fees, transfer tax, property appraisal, first month's interest.
• Monthly expenses. Mortgage payment, property tax, homeowner's insurance, utilities. For apartments, there are often additional condo fees, ranging from CAD 200 to CAD 600 per month, depending on the complex.
A clear understanding of these costs will help you set realistic expectations and avoid financial stress after your purchase.
2. Type of property: apartment or house
Each format has its advantages and compromises:
– Apartment (condo or apartment). • Lower down payment and monthly expenses.
• Shared areas: gyms, saunas, lounges. • Condo fees cover maintenance of the facade, surrounding area, and sometimes utilities. • Living “within walls” with neighbors: possible restrictions on pets, repairs, and renovations.
– Single-family home. • More privacy, private yard, possibility of expansion or addition. • Higher maintenance costs: lawn, snow removal, exterior repairs. • No condo fees, but higher utility costs due to larger space.
The choice depends on your lifestyle: families with children usually prefer houses in the suburbs, while young professionals and couples often choose central apartments for convenience and access to city entertainment.
3. Location and transportation
Calgary stretches along the Bow River valley and is generally divided into four “quadrants” (NW, NE, SW, SE), each with its own characteristics. Key criteria:
– Proximity to work or school.
Distance from downtown, where offices, universities, and business centers are concentrated.
– Transport accessibility. CTrain (two main lines) and a bus network provide official coverage of most urban areas. When traveling from the suburbs, consider the availability of parking lots near stations (park-and-ride).
– Car routes. Deerfoot Trail, Crowchild Trail, and Stoney Trail are the main arteries connecting different parts of the city and the highway to the mountains.
Areas near CTrain stations (Brentwood, Dalhousie, Whitehorn) allow you to avoid traffic jams and save on daily travel.
4. Infrastructure and services
– Shops and shopping centers. Marlborough Mall, CrossIron Mills, Chinook Centre, Market Mall — each serves a specific region.
– Educational institutions and kindergartens. Schoolchildren and preschoolers need quality schools within walking distance. Areas with highly rated schools (such as Altadore and Brentwood) are especially popular with families.
– Medical facilities. Proximity to hospitals: Foothills Medical Centre, Peter Lougheed Centre, South Health Campus.
– Recreation and sports. Parks along the Bow River, bike paths, fitness centers, public stadiums, and tennis courts.
The availability of a wide range of services within walking distance or a 5-10 minute drive greatly enhances the convenience of daily life.
5. Social environment and safety
– Demographic profile. Young professionals, families with children, students, retirees — each group creates its own atmosphere.
– Culture and events. Festivals, fairs, local markets, and cultural centers. For example, the Inglewood neighborhood is known for its weekly fair and art galleries.
– Crime rate. Use open city data or crime incident maps to analyze safety. Crime rates are consistently low in the suburbs (Tuscany, Evanston, Riverbend) and higher in the central Beltline and Downtown areas.
Understanding who your neighbors are and what kind of atmosphere the community creates will help you assess not only physical safety but also social safety.
6. Future development of the area
The investment attractiveness of real estate is largely determined by city plans:
– CTrain expansion, new lines and stations. – Commercial and residential projects (East Village, Currie Barracks, Bridgeland). – Redevelopment of industrial areas and creation of mixed-use neighborhoods.
Areas where infrastructure projects are planned are likely to see capital appreciation, but you will have to wait several years for these projects to be completed.
7. Climate conditions and technical readiness of buildings
Calgary winters can be harsh, so:
– Check the condition of heating, insulation, and ventilation. – Assess the age of the house: new houses are built to energy efficiency standards, while older ones may require additional insulation.
– Choose exterior finishing materials: brick and stone are more resistant to frost than wooden facades.
For apartments, it is important to check whether the fee includes heating and water supply costs so that you do not have unexpected bills in winter.
8. Legal and technical checks
Before signing the final contract:
– Order an independent technical inspection (home inspection) to identify hidden defects: the condition of the roof, foundation, plumbing, and electrical system. – Review the property documents to ensure there are no liens, encumbrances, or disputes with neighbors. – Review the homeowners' association rules (for condominiums): restrictions on repairs, rentals, and pets.
These steps will protect you from future risks and the need for expensive repairs.
When making your final choice, determine your priorities: are nearby schools and parks important for your family, is quick access to the city center and entertainment important, are you willing to invest in an area with growth potential? A comprehensive approach with clear budget planning, infrastructure analysis, safety, and prospects will allow you to find the perfect home that will provide you with comfort and confidence in the future.