One market story a day, from your Calgary–Edmonton realtor.
October 12, 2026
BoC Holds at 2.25% — But Fixed Mortgage Rates Are Rising
The Bank of Canada has held its policy rate at 2.25% for seven straight decisions — unchanged since October 2025. But fixed mortgage rates don’t follow the Bank. They follow the bond market. And the bond market is moving. The 5-year Government of Canada yield hit a 52-week high of 3.729% in late September, and all of Canada’s Big Six banks have raised select fixed rates in recent weeks. Best 5-year fixed rates now sit around 4.3%–4.6%, while the best 5-year variables are near 3.3%–3.4% — almost a full percentage point cheaper. What this means for you: Buying? If you want a fixed rate, don’t wait for the October 28 BoC announcement to lock in — fixed rates move on bond yields, and by the time the news lands, the move is usually done. Renewing? About one-third of Canadian mortgage holders are expected to face higher payments by year-end, with 5-year fixed renewals averaging a ~20% payment increase — talk to your broker early, not at the deadline. Fixed vs variable? Variable is cheaper today, but markets are pricing roughly 100 basis points of BoC increases over the next 12 months. Make sure your budget can handle the what-if. Calgary is a buyer’s market right now — negotiating power on price AND a smart rate strategy is how you actually save.
Source: Bank of Canada; nesto.ca (Oct 6, 2026)
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October 11, 2026
Edmonton’s Infill Era Is Being Reversed
This week the Alberta government ordered the City of Edmonton to repeal its infill bylaws — the zoning changes that allowed higher-density housing in established neighbourhoods since 2024. The province demands: revert to pre-2024 rules on housing types, density and building heights; restore pre-2020 minimum on-site parking requirements. Edmonton has 3 months to comply, followed by an 18-month land-use review. Premier Danielle Smith says neighbourhood growth has outpaced infrastructure — congested streets, strained services, pressure on existing homeowners’ values. Edmonton Mayor Andrew Knack says the city received no consultation and will examine legal options; Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas called it a threat to local democracy. Calgary was told to maintain its current approach (it recently repealed blanket rezoning), with a full review by 2027. What this means for you: Edmonton mature-neighbourhood homeowners — less chance of a surprise multi-unit build next door. Land values are being repriced: lots once valued on redevelopment potential need a fresh look. Tighter future supply inside the city supports long-term prices while demand holds.
Source: Government of Alberta, announced Oct 8, 2026
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October 10, 2026
Calgary −5%, Edmonton +2%: REMAX Fall 2026 Outlook
The REMAX Fall 2026 Housing Market Outlook paints a two-speed story in Alberta: Calgary — estimated year-end average $543,875, down 5%, leaning toward a buyer’s market, with elevated condo inventory keeping downward pressure on prices. Edmonton — estimated year-end average $484,768, up 2%, a balanced market. Nationally, 81% of markets analyzed saw sales decline this year, and 32% are now firmly in buyers’ territory — more than double last year. REMAX Canada president Don Kottick: ‘The market has not become easy for buyers, but in many regions, it is allowing for a more deliberate purchasing process.’ What this means for you: Calgary buyers — especially condo buyers — have real negotiating power: financing conditions, inspections, price reductions are all back on the table. Edmonton is balanced: no frenzy, no fire sale — price it right, move with confidence.
Source: REMAX 2026 Fall Canadian Housing Market Outlook
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2,655 New Homes from Empty Downtown Offices
The City’s Downtown Office Conversion Program is turning 13 empty office buildings into residential space: 2.68M sq ft of offices becoming 2,655 homes. Calgary’s approach is now studied worldwide as a model for downtown revitalization. On the ground: Dominion Centre (8 St SW) — 132 units by Alston Properties, hoarding’s up. 800 Six West (6 Ave SW) — 204 units under construction, with a sign that says it all: ‘From empty offices to a vibrant downtown Calgary.’ The 1913 Hudson’s Bay building on Stephen Avenue — sold to local developer Astra Group in May; its next chapter is still unwritten. What this means for you: more condo choice downtown in the short term — and potentially more negotiating room. But converted offices are unique buildings: always ask about soundproofing, natural light, and condo fees. Location is unbeatable: walk to work, LRT at your door — strong for both living and renting out.
Source: City of Calgary Downtown Office Conversion Program
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October 8, 2026
Calgary’s September Market Split in Two
CREB’s September numbers are out: Calgary condo prices fell 8.3% year-over-year to $291,400 — the steepest drop of any home type. Row/townhouse prices fell 5.5% too. Meanwhile detached home sales actually ROSE 4.4%, with the detached benchmark holding steady at $739,400. Same city, same month, two very different markets. Overall the benchmark slipped only 0.8% to $566,700 — no crash, just a tale of two markets. What this means for you: first-time buyers and investors — condos just got cheaper AND you’ve got real negotiating power. Condo and townhouse sellers — pricing has to be razor-sharp on day one; well-priced homes still move.
Source: CREB September 2026 statistics
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