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High-Tech Pursuit: Alberta Deploying Thermal Drones to Combat Invasive Wild Boar Threat

To manage the growing threat of invasive wild boars, Alberta is now utilizing drones equipped with thermal imaging technology to track and locate these destructive animals more effectively. These "sounders" cause significant damage to agricultural crops and ecosystems, but their nocturnal habits and ability to hide in dense brush make traditional tracking difficult. By capturing heat signatures from the air, conservation teams can more accurately coordinate trapping efforts as part of the province's "Squeal on Pigs" campaign, providing a high-tech solution to protect Alberta’s biosecurity and rural property.


March housing activity signalling a changing Edmonton market

The Greater Edmonton Area (GEA) real estate market reported 2,133 sales in March 2026, increasing 33.1% in comparison to activity in February 2026 and decreasing 14.0% compared to March 2025. There were 3,809 new listings — a month-over-month increase of 30.6% and a year-over-year increase of 4.2%. Inventory levels rose 13.8% from the previous month and are 31.6% higher than March 2025.

Average selling price across all residential property types increased by 3.4% from the previous month to $470,819, a price 2.2% higher than March 2025. The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) composite benchmark price in the GEA was $426,000, increasing 1.5% from February 2026 and decreasing 2.9% year-over-year.

2026 property market off to a high inventory start

Edmonton, AB – February 3, 2026 — The Greater Edmonton Area (GEA) real estate market reported 1,151 sales in January 2026, a decrease of 12.5% compared to activity in December 2025 and 27.6% compared to January 2025. There were 2,518 new listings — a month-over-month increase of 84.2% and a year-over-year increase of 4.7%. Inventory levels rose 8.5% from December and are 32.7% higher than January 2025. 

Photo by Kelly    : https://www.pexels.com/photo/snow-covered-wooden-house-near-trees-3736487/ 

Canadian Housing Market kicks off 2026 with a surge of listings:CREA

Sellers made a strong entrance into the 2026 housing market. While home sales slowed compared to December, a surge of fresh listings signaled renewed confidence among homeowners, according to the latest report from the Canadian Real Estate Association. The influx of new supply has already begun to shift market dynamics, setting the tone for the early months of the year. 

Photo by AS Photography: https://www.pexels.com/photo/three-people-playing-945607/ 

Silencing doubters, Team Rachel Homan win bronze for Canada in Olympic curling

CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy — There were ample opportunities for doubt.

By the end of day three of the Olympic bonspiel, they had lost three in a row. Their skip, dominant in nearly every other arena in curling, had come up short in each of her past two Olympics.

Winter brings a drop in temperatures and home sales

Edmonton, AB – December 2, 2025 — For November 2025, the Greater Edmonton Area (GEA) real estate market reported 1,654 sales, a 19.7% decrease compared to activity in October 2025 and a 13.5% decrease compared to November 2024. There were 2,281 new properties listed, decreasing 27.9% month-over-month, tracking 11.0% higher year-over-year. Inventory levels fell 10.6% from the previous month but are 33.3% higher compared to the previous year.

Average selling price across all residential property types decreased by 1.7% in November to $447,005, reflecting a 2.7% increase compared to November 2024. The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) composite benchmark price in the GEA was $415,500, a 1.3% decrease from October 2025 and 3.3% higher than one year ago.

Photo by Tom Fisk: https://www.pexels.com/photo/aerial-shot-of-houses-1131868/ 

Canada's housing market poised for a reset in 2026 with modest price growth and increased activity

The 2026 Royal LePage Market Survey Forecast, published annually, includes year-over-year price forecasts and insights from experts nationally and in ten major markets across the country.

After a tumultuous 2025 marked by economic and political shifts, 2026 emerges as a crucial reset year for Canada’s housing market. According to the Royal LePage Market Survey Forecast, Canada’s residential real estate market is expected to post modest price gains next year and an increase in sales activity, as buyers continue to move off the sidelines.


Photo by Sehjad Khoja: https://www.pexels.com/photo/historic-neo-classical-building-in-montreal-33749052/ 

Bank of Canada drops overnight lending rate to 2.25% saying economy has proved "resilient

The Bank of Canada held its key interest rate at 2.25 per cent on Wednesday, a move that was widely expected after an encouraging round of third-quarter data showed the Canadian economy has withstood some trade war-induced turmoil.

The current rate is at "about the right level" to give the economy a boost through a "structural transition," while also keeping inflation close to its two per cent target rate, central bank governor Tiff Macklem said in his opening remarks.

Cooling market still seeing some heat in semi-detached units

Edmonton, AB – October 2, 2025 — Housing activity in the Greater Edmonton Area (GEA) real estate market during the month of September included 3,645 new listings added to the market and 2,192 units sold. Compared to the previous month, these figures represent a 0.1% increase in new listings and a 7.8% decrease in sales. Year-over-year the change is 16.3% more listings added and 2.9% fewer sales. This difference has created a 25.6% increase in available inventory compared to a year ago. 

Photo by cottonbro studio: https://www.pexels.com/photo/family-unpacking-after-moving-4569340/ 

Canada's housing market is ripe with possibility, but new buyer hopefuls are taking their time

Despite improving affordability, majority of first-time homebuyers say they plan to buy in 12-24 months.

 Canada’s housing market may be opening new doors for first-time buyers, thanks to lower borrowing rates, softer prices and more listings to choose from. But, uncertainty in the economy and an abundance of choice have led to a lack of urgency to buy, prompting many young Canadians to take their time before entering the market.  

Summer market definitively over as sales and listings fall

Edmonton, AB – September 2, 2025 —Activity in the Greater Edmonton Area (GEA) real estate market slowed in August, selling 2,382 units to mark a decrease of 16.7% from July 2025 and 7.8% from August 2024. Although new listings dropped by 10.5% month-over-month, they are still up 11.6% from last year, driving inventory levels 24.6% higher than in August 2024. Average days on market has also begun to increase, taking four days longer on average to sell a property in August 2025. 

Photo by Helena Lopes: https://www.pexels.com/photo/suv-traveling-on-road-near-flatiron-building-1388069/ 

Five Days in the office again? Here's how it could impact your budget

Going back to the office isn't like pre-pandemic days. Discover how shifting needs and higher costs are reshaping budgets.

 It’s happening: The trains are overcrowded again. There’s traffic gridlock every weekday morning. There are longer lines at your favourite downtown coffee shop and even longer queues at lunch hour.

 The pre-pandemic norm of working five days in the office is coming back for many Canadians, except it’s not exactly the same this time around. The cost of just about everything, from food to gas, has risen significantly from five years ago. But for many office-goers, their paycheques haven’t kept pace.


Bank of Canada drops overnight lending rate to 2.5% as economy shows signs of slowing - Royal LePage Blog | Canadian Real Estate NewsToday, the Bank of Canada announced that it has cut the overnight lending rate by 25 basis points to 2.5%. This marks the first…

Bank of Canada drops overnight lending rate to 2.5% as economy shows signs of slowing

Trade tensions with the United States weigh on economic growth, prompting rate cut. 


Today, the Bank of Canada announced that it has cut the overnight lending rate by 25 basis points to 2.5%. This marks the first rate cut since March.

With softness taking hold in the labour market and trade tensions with the US choking economic growth, the Governing Council opted to lower the cost of borrowing.

Photo by Carl David: https://www.pexels.com/photo/cityscape-with-the-illuminated-walterdale-bridge-at-night-in-edmonton-canada-13356826/ 

Inventory levels in Edmonton high as summer market sales begin to wane

Edmonton, AB – August 1, 2025 — Activity in the Greater Edmonton Area (GEA) real estate market mostlykept pace with June 2025, selling 2,860 units in July, a month-over-month decrease of 0.5%, but newlistings outpaced sales as 4,387 properties were added to the REALTORS® Association of Edmonton’s(RAE) MLS® System, an increase of 7.8%. Year-over-year comparisons painted a clearer picture of theshift in the GEA market, with residential unit sales down 2.6% and new listings up 20.0% from July 2024.With sales lagging and new listings plentiful, inventory levels also trended up, with 7,083 propertiesavailable at the end of the month, up 4.7% from June and 21.8% higher than July last year. 

Photo by Carl David: https://www.pexels.com/photo/cityscape-with-the-illuminated-walterdale-bridge-at-night-in-edmonton-canada-13356826/ 

Growing Options for buyers with strong prices bringing sellers to market

Edmonton, July, 2025: Activity in the Greater Edmonton Area (GEA) residential real estate market remained robust in June 2025, with 2,877 homes sold and 4,215 new listings added to the REALTORS® Association of Edmonton’s (RAE) MLS® System. While sales dipped 2.8% and new listings declined 10.9% compared to May 2025, year-over-year trends remain positive. Residential unit sales were up 1.2% from June 2024, and new listings saw a notable 15.8% increase from the same time last year. Inventory levels also edged upward, with 6,768 residential properties available at the end of June, up 3.8% from May and 15.0% higher than a year ago. 

2025 Beaumont Election: Who's running

Though the 2025 Beaumont Municipal Election is not until October 20, it’s not too early to take a look at who is running and what the next version of Beaumont City Council could look like. As we begin our coverage, we will take a look at who is running for office so far. New candidates will be introduced as they file for candidacy throughout the summer and fall. 

Barb Willis receives King Charles Coronation Medal

Barb Willis received the King Charles III Coronation Medal, March 19, in recognition of her many positive contributions to the community of Beaumont. 

Edmonton-Wetaskiwin MP Mike Lake presented the medal to Willis at Place Beausejour in front of more than 60 of her family, friends, peers and colleagues. The award is presented by MPs, when a monarch is crowned, to people who showcase long service and good standing in a community. 

Photo by Jakub Zerdzicki: https://www.pexels.com/photo/orange-model-house-among-black-miniatures-31370888/ 

Explaining Mortgage Porting & How It Works

So, you want to make a move but you’re not willing to give up that sub-3% interest rate? There’s something important you should know. Mortgage porting (also known as transferring your mortgage) has been growing in popularity in Canada. But what exactly is mortgage porting, and how do you know if it’s right for you? 

Beaumont leads region in growth as population and workforce surge

Beaumont is officially the fastest-growing municipality in the Edmonton region, having experienced a 22% population surge over the last five years.

This rapid expansion is driven by both lifestyle appeal—attracting young, family-oriented households—and strong economic opportunity, with a remarkable 52% surge in local jobs confirming its shift from a "bedroom community." The market is highly active, evidenced by nearly 500 new home permits issued this year.

This unprecedented growth makes Beaumont a prime area for real estate investment and homeownership.


Media by: Mike Berezowsky (Feb 11, 2025) 

Canada's Housing Market: The 2026 Reset ~ Modest Price Growth and Increased Activity

Canada’s housing market is poised for a strategic reset in 2026, marked by modest national price growth and a steady rise in sales activity. While major hubs like Toronto and Vancouver may see price corrections, other regions like Quebec City are expected to experience continued gains. This shift toward stability and increased inventory offers a unique window of opportunity for buyers to re-enter a more balanced market. 


The Age of the Potato: Alberta’s Historic Harvest Powers a Global Appetite 

In 2025, Alberta became Canada’s top potato producer, accounting for 27% of national output and setting a provincial record. This growth was fueled by record yields and major infrastructure investments, like the $600 million McCain expansion near Coaldale. Despite trade uncertainties and a dip in U.S. exports, an 8% rise in other international sales and enhanced local processing capacity provide a strong foundation for the sector heading into 2026. 

Tony Kirkland, vice-chair of Potato Growers of Alberta, harvests seed potatoes on his farm southeast of Spruce Grove. 

Beyond the DIY Sale: Why Professional Expertise Remains Vital in Today’s Real Estate Market 

While selling a home independently is possible, a Realtor provides the essential expertise and strategic marketing needed to navigate high financial stakes and reach active buyers. These professionals serve as expert negotiators and administrative managers, ensuring legal paperwork is handled correctly to secure the best possible price. Ultimately, partnering with an agent minimizes stress and prevents the costly mistakes often associated with DIY sales. 

The Cost of a Cold Snap: Quebec Apartment Becomes Frozen "Ice Castle"

A tenant in Trois-Rivières, Quebec, inadvertently transformed their rental unit into an "ice castle" after turning off the heat to save on electricity costs while away. The lack of warmth caused the pipes to burst during a deep freeze, sending water throughout the home that eventually froze solid over the walls, ceilings, and floors. The property now requires a complete rebuild to address the extensive ice damage and prevent mold growth, serving as a stark warning to homeowners about the importance of maintaining heat during Canadian winters. 

An apartment in Trois-Rivières, Que. has been nicknamed the “ice castle” after a tenant left the property and turned off the heat. 

Small Space, Big Potential: Is Your Bathroom Reaching Its Full Potential?

This Royal LePage guide offers practical strategies for transforming cluttered bathrooms into organized, functional retreats by utilizing overlooked vertical areas and internal cabinet space. Key recommendations include installing floating shelves, using over-the-door organizers, and opting for deep drawers or medicine cabinets to keep essentials tucked away. By decluttering expired products and implementing smart organizational tools like magnetic strips and drawer dividers, homeowners can create a spacious, spa-like atmosphere that adds value to their home. 

Alberta's Labour Market: A Year-End Rebalancing

Alberta’s streak of significant job gains paused in December 2025 with a loss of 14,000 positions, yet the province still closed out its strongest non-recovery quarterly performance on record. Despite a slight rise in the unemployment rate to 6.8%, Alberta continues to lead the nation with a 2.3% year-over-year employment growth rate, far outpacing the national average. Looking ahead to 2026, economists predict a healthy rebalancing as population growth slows and the labour market stabilizes, maintaining Alberta’s position as a national economic leader. 

Check Your Mail! Your 2026 Property Assessment Has Arrived

The City of Edmonton mailed out 2026 property tax assessment notices on Jan. 12. Residential values saw significant increases in areas like Glengarry (15.7%) and Wellington (14.9%). In 2026, the overall residential market value change is 5.7 per cent. City Council set a 6.9 per cent tax increase for the overall City of Edmonton budget, but the change in your property taxes this year may be different depending on the change in your property assessment.

In the non-residential sector, hotels and motels rose 10.3% in value, while downtown offices decreased 3.1%. The derelict residential subclass allows the City to charge a higher tax rate to owners of properties that are assessed as derelict. The derelict tax subclass can be applied to residential properties in mature neighbourhoods that show serious signs of neglect, are falling into significant disrepair or are unlivable.

Cineplex is bringing back $5 Tuesdays until the End of February 2026

Cineplex is helping Edmontonians beat the winter blues by bringing back its highly popular $5 Tuesday promotion for a limited time. Running from January 20 through February 24, 2026, the deal offers $5 general admission tickets at all participating theatres.

In addition to the discounted movies, Cineplex is also offering a small bag of popcorn for just $5, making it one of the most affordable night-out options in the city. Moviegoers looking for a more immersive experience can still upgrade to premium formats—such as UltraAVX, VIP, or IMAX—by paying the standard surcharge on top of the $5 base price. While tickets can be purchased online (with a small booking fee for non-CineClub members), buying at the box office remains the best way to keep the price at a flat five dollars.

Small space? You can still have a home gym

In today's fast-paced world, finding time for the gym can be a challenge. The Royal LePage guide highlights that a home gym is more about versatility than square footage. Instead of heavy, permanent machinery, the article suggests focusing on "smart" equipment—items that are compact, portable, and multi-functional. 

1 Billion Deliveries Later: What Your Uber Eats Order Says About You! 

Beyond just stats, the anniversary report highlights the character of Canadian communities, crowning Edmonton as the most polite city for its consistent use of manners in order instructions and recognizing Calgary as the country’s most generous tippers. As the platform continues to grow into categories like grocery, cannabis, and retail, this ten-year retrospective underscores how deeply integrated on-demand delivery has become in the daily lives of Canadians. 

Small Closet, Big Impact: Smart Ways to Master Your Linen Storage 

Here's comprehensive guide to transforming a cluttered hallway linen closet into a functional and aesthetically pleasing storage space. It outlines a step-by-step process that begins with purging unnecessary items and assessing the physical layout to maximize vertical and deep shelving. The author emphasizes the importance of utilizing specific storage solutions—such as fabric bins for sheet sets, labels for easy identification, and hooks for door space—to maintain a cohesive and orderly look. By creating designated zones and rotating seasonal items, the article demonstrates how even a small closet can be optimized to improve household efficiency and organization. 

Color Trends 2026: Embracing Warmth, Nature, and Personality 

The Royal LePage "Top Paint Colours of 2026" guide reveals a significant shift in home design, moving away from the cool, stark minimalism of previous years toward a palette defined by warmth and organic expression. This year’s trending colors are rooted in nature and nostalgia, featuring a mix of serene neutrals, restorative greens, and rich, grounding tones. Whether it's the light-enhancing clarity of Pantone’s "Cloud Dancer" or the dramatic, espresso-infused depth of Benjamin Moore’s "Silhouette," the 2026 forecast prioritizes creating spaces that feel both sophisticated and deeply comfortable. These hues are designed to work harmoniously with natural materials like wood, stone, and leather, offering homeowners a versatile way to add character and calm to their living environments. 

January 2026 Housing Report: Surge in New Listings Brings Balance to the Market 

The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) report for January 2026 highlights a market transition toward more balanced conditions, characterized by a significant 7.3% surge in new listings despite a 5.8% month-over-month decline in home sales. This influx of supply, particularly strong in cities like Calgary and Montreal, has pushed the national sales-to-new-listings ratio down to 45%, placing the market at the lower edge of the balanced range. While winter weather slowed activity in parts of Ontario, the overall increase in inventory to 4.9 months has led to a slight cooling of prices, with the national average home price sitting at $652,941. This early-year momentum from sellers suggests a growing confidence that may soon be met by pent-up demand from first-time buyers as the spring season approaches. 

Beaumont’s Economic Surge: What it Means for Homeowners 

The latest economic data from the City of Beaumont reveals a significant shift in the local landscape. In just 24 months, the commercial vacancy rate has seen a dramatic drop—falling from over 21% to just 6.5%. This shift is fueled by the addition of 150,000 square feet of new commercial space and the arrival of 42 new businesses.

For residents, this diversification of the local economy is a strong indicator of long-term property value stability. With a median household income of $162,250 and continued investment in essential services—including a new grocery store and expanded medical facilities—Beaumont is successfully transitioning into a self-sustaining hub where people can truly live, work, and play.

Brought to you by - Royal LePage Premier Real Estate - Karen Duggan
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