May 2026 Calgary Newsletter
 We hope you’re doing well and making the most of this beautiful May weather. As the season changes, our focus naturally shifts outdoors and toward ways to maximize our yard space. In this update, we’ve included the latest market stats, news, and community events, but the highlight is our deep dive into backyard buildings. From navigating permits and zoning to a photo feature showcasing garden offices and retreats, we explore how these “extra rooms” can add both functional space and significant property value.We hope you find some inspiration inside! If you have any questions about the market or your own home plans, we’re always just a phone call away. Enjoy the sunshine! Steve Williamson, REALTOR® Ph: (403) 397-7757 Email: NextBigMoveCalgary@gmail.com Web: www.NextBigMoveCalgary.com “Just because you talk to a REALTOR® doesn’t mean you have to move”Change drives real estate. If you, a family member or friend, are experiencing change that affects your living space, give us a call and let’s have a conversation. Our goal is to provide you with trusted real estate data for you to be able to make an informed decision “to stay or not to stay”.  Need a trusted professional? Dr Sean de Lima Thiel – Chiropractor , Kaylee Groenevelt – Insurance, Jacki Harris – Mortgage Broker, Jeff Fitzgerald – Property/Rental Manager, Stephen Williamson – Residential REALTOR, Swantje Macke-Monteiro – Interior Decorator/Design, Reg Hendryanto – Digital Marketing/Web Design, RC MOVERS     Balanced conditions in the city, except for apartment-style units In line with seasonal expectations, both sales and inventory levels trended up relative to March’s activity. Despite this typical monthly rise, April sales totalled 2,104 units, six per cent lower than levels reported in 2025. “Sales were expected to ease this year as our market transitioned away from strong demand that was driven by previously rapid migration growth. Improved supply choice across the entire housing spectrum has reduced the urgency among potential purchasers, helping our market shift away from seller’s market conditions to more balanced conditions,” said Ann-Marie Lurie, CREB®’s Chief Economist…READ MORE    Calgary condo buyers gain leverage as market splits ahead of spring – CityNews Rising price of oil could add heat to Calgary’s spring housing… – Calgary Herald Calgary housing market holds steady, condo prices fall: report – CTV Market conditions diverge for detached homes, condos in… – Calgary Herald    High Tea at the Zoo (May 3, 17, 24, 31) Enjoy a charming High Tea at the zoo with delicious sandwiches, scones, sweet treats, and loose-leaf teas. Dress in your Sunday best and make a day of spring fun while exploring the zoo. Mother’s Day At The Races (May 9) Treat Mom to a special Mother’s Day brunch with delicious food and quality family time. Enjoy a memorable afternoon together while supporting local families through a community fundraiser. Day Out With Thomas at Heritage Park (May 9 – 10) All aboard for a fun family adventure with a train ride alongside Thomas, photo ops, and a special gift shop. Enjoy games, hands-on activities, and lively entertainment for all ages. Mother’s Day Brunch at Heritage Park (May 10) Treat Mom to a memorable Mother’s Day brunch with a delicious buffet and quality time together. Celebrate the special women in your life with great food, warm company, and a day to remember. Otafest (May 15 – 17) Experience Calgary’s anime and pop culture festival featuring screenings, cosplay contests, panels, concerts, and more. Meet fellow fans and explore the exhibitor hall in this fun, all-ages celebration. Calgary Marathon (May 23 – 24) The Servus Calgary Marathon Race Weekend is Canada’s longest running marathon and Alberta’s Best Road Race. With 6 distances to choose from, it offers a race for every age and ability.     What if your most-used room wasn’t actually inside your house? In 2026, Calgary backyards are doing more than just hosting the occasional BBQ. From soundproof “creator sheds” and high-tech home offices to “summer kitchens” that rival a high-end bistro, we are officially in the era of the backyard revolution.While the City has a clear framework for these “accessory residential buildings,” navigating them is more straightforward than you might think. Here is how to turn that patch of grass into a functional oasis without the permit headache. The “No-Permit” Sweet Spot: 10 Square MetresThe magic number in Calgary is 10 m² (roughly 107 sq. ft.). Think of this as the size of a comfortable 10′ x 11′ bedroom. – The Perk: If your studio, greenhouse, or yoga shed is under this size, you generally don’t need a building permit. Go larger than that, and a building permit comes into play still very doable, but plan accordingly. – The Caveat: It still needs to follow placement rules (no putting it in your front yard!) and generally stay at least 0.6 m away from side and rear property lines, though small structures with maintenance-free exteriors may be able to go closer. Levelling Up: Power, Water, and GasDreaming of a heated sauna, a workshop full of power tools, or a summer kitchen with a gas range? This is where you need to be careful. Even if your building is a tiny 4′ x 4′ footprint, the moment you add electricity, plumbing, or gas, you need trade permits. These are separate from a building permit and ensure your “backyard oasis” doesn’t become a “backyard hazard. “The 2026 Landscape: Zoning Matters Calgary’s accessory building rules live in the Land Use Bylaw, and where your property sits in that bylaw determines what’s allowed and how your structure must be placed. Some areas are designated “Direct Control” (DC) zoning in these zones, even a small shed may require additional City review before you proceed. Before you fall in love with a prefab model, a quick check of your land-use district on calgary.ca is always the smartest first step. Why It Matters for Your Value A well-executed, permitted backyard building isn’t just a lifestyle upgrade, it’s a major selling feature. In today’s market, a “turn-key” detached office or gym can be the deciding factor for buyers looking to maximize their square footage. Ready to start? Visit the City’s Planning Services Centre at calgary.ca or give me a shout, I can help you look up your property’s specific zoning and see what’s possible for your lot!    Legacy is a vibrant southeast Calgary community known for modern homes and planned green spaces. Housing options include stylish townhomes, duplexes, and spacious single-family homes, popular with first-time buyers and families. The neighbourhood features an impressive network of parks, playgrounds, and pathways, including Legacy Pond and several landscaped corridors for walking or cycling. Families appreciate schools like All Saints High School and the new Living Spirit K-9 school. Everyday conveniences are close by at Township Shopping Centre and Legacy Village, offering grocery stores, cafés, and restaurants. With easy access to Macleod and Stoney Trails, Legacy offers a modern lifestyle and strong community spirit with ample outdoor space.   |
| Steve Williamson, REALTOR®CIR Realty Direct: (403) 397-7757 www.NextBigMoveCalgary.com  For a free home evaluation – click here To refer a family member or friend – click here |