The Home Tribe Real Estate Blog

Edmonton, Alberta is a vibrant city that offers exceptional post-secondary education options for life after high school. Whether you’re looking to start your post-secondary journey or continue it, Edmonton has a variety of options to suit your needs. Here are some of the top post-secondary schools you could consider attending in Edmonton:

University of Alberta: The University of Alberta is a leading research university located in the south-central region of Edmonton, situated along the river bank. With over 40,000 students from around the world, it offers over 400 undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, including highly-regarded programs in engineering, business, law, medicine, and more. The University of Alberta also has a French campus located in the trendy Bonnie Doon neighbourhood, offering additional programs and services in French.

MacEwan University: MacEwan University is a comprehensive undergraduate university that offers a variety of programs including business, arts, sciences, nursing, and more. With small class sizes and a focus on practical experience, MacEwan is focused on preparing students for real-world learning. Situated near downtown Edmonton and the Brewery District, it is a convenient location to call home.

NAIT: NAIT (Northern Alberta Institute of Technology) is a leading polytechnic institution that offers hands-on training in a variety of fields, including technology, trades, engineering, and health sciences. With over 140 programs, NAIT provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen careers. NAIT is located just north of downtown and near Kingsway Garden Mall.

NorQuest College: NorQuest College is a public community college that offers a range of certificate, diploma, and degree programs in fields such as business, health care, community studies, and more. With a focus on career preparation and practical skills, NorQuest prepares students for success in the workforce. Norquest has been expanding its footprint in the heart of the warehouse district of downtown Edmonton. If you have young children, you will appreciate the daycare located onsite: 1000 Women Child Care Centre.

Concordia University: Concordia University of Edmonton is a small, faith-based university that offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as business, education, science, and more. With a focus on personalized learning and community involvement, Concordia provides a unique learning experience for students.

Edmonton’s post-secondary institutions offer a wealth of opportunities for students, but that’s not all that makes Edmonton a great place to live. Here are a few more reasons why Edmonton is a great place to call home:

Beautiful scenery: Edmonton is home to the stunning River Valley, North America’s largest urban park, and a range of parks, gardens, and trails. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful escape, Edmonton’s natural beauty won’t disappoint.

Vibrant arts and culture: Edmonton is home to a thriving arts and culture scene, with festivals, performances, and exhibits happening year-round. From the world-renowned Fringe Festival to the Art Gallery of Alberta, there’s always something to see and do in Edmonton.

Strong economy: Edmonton has a diverse economy and is home to a range of industries, including oil and gas, healthcare, education, and technology. With a low unemployment rate and a strong job market, Edmonton provides great opportunities for career growth and advancement.

Whether you’re looking to pursue post-secondary education, start a new career, or just enjoy a great quality of life, Edmonton has something for everyone.

Are you considering selling your home in the Edmonton area? Pricing it correctly is crucial for attracting the right home buyers and securing the best outcome. Here are some tips we recommend considering for pricing your Edmonton home to sell:

1. Research the market: Look at comparable properties in your area and see how much they sold for. This will give you an idea of what buyers are willing to pay and how to price your home competitively. The good news is your agent can help you with this part.
2. Set a realistic price: While it may be tempting to list your home above market value, this can backfire and lead to a longer time on the market. By pricing your home more realistically, you will attract more potential buyers and receive offers that are close to or above your asking price.
3. Highlight unique features: Emphasize the unique features of your home to showcase added value. For example, if your home has a large backyard or a recently renovated kitchen, make sure to highlight these features in your listing and or what you love about your community.
4. Consult with an Edmonton real estate agent: A local real estate agent can help you price your home based on current market conditions and comparable properties in your area. They can also provide insights on how to make your home more attractive to potential home buyers.

By pricing your Edmonton home correctly, you’ll increase your chances of attracting more potential buyers and receiving offers that are close to your asking price. This can lead to a faster sale and more money in your pocket.

In Edmonton’s competitive real estate market, it’s important to stand out. Chat with our Edmonton real estate team today to learn more about how we can get your home sold in the right amount of time. Or get more insights on the Edmonton home selling process here.

Houseplants are a wonderful addition to any home. Not only do they add colour and beauty, but they also have many benefits for your health and well-being. However, not everyone has a green thumb or the time to take care of high-maintenance plants. Fortunately, there are many low-maintenance houseplants that require minimal attention and are perfect for beginners or busy individuals.

Let’s explore the best low maintenance houseplants that can thrive with minimal care.

1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

The snake plant is a popular choice for low maintenance houseplants. It has long, tall leaves that are resistant to pests and diseases. This plant can tolerate a wide range of light levels, from bright to low light, and can go weeks without water. It also helps purify the air by removing toxins such as benzene and formaldehyde.

2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

The ZZ plant is another low-maintenance option that can tolerate neglect. It has glossy, dark green leaves that can grow up to three feet long. This plant prefers low to medium light and can go weeks without water. It is also resistant to pests and diseases and can help purify the air.

3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

The pothos is a popular trailing plant with heart-shaped leaves. It can tolerate low to medium light and can go weeks without water. Pothos is also easy to propagate and can grow well in a variety of conditions. It can help purify the air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene.

4. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

The Chinese evergreen is a low-maintenance houseplant that can grow up to three feet tall. It prefers low to medium light and can go weeks without water. The plant has green leaves with silver markings and can help purify the air by removing toxins such as benzene and formaldehyde.

5. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

The spider plant is a popular choice for beginners due to its easy care and ability to propagate easily. It has long, narrow leaves that can grow up to three feet long. The plant prefers bright, indirect light and can go a week or more without water. Spider plants also help purify the air by removing toxins such as carbon monoxide and formaldehyde.

6. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

The peace lily is a low-maintenance houseplant with dark green leaves and white flowers. It prefers low to medium light and can go a week or more without water. The peace lily can also help purify the air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene.

7. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)

The rubber plant is a low-maintenance houseplant with shiny, dark green leaves. It prefers bright, indirect light and can go several weeks without water. The plant can grow up to eight feet tall and can help purify the air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene.

These are some of the best houseplants that can thrive with minimal care. Whether you are a beginner or a busy individual, these plants can add colour and beauty to your home while providing numerous health benefits. Remember to check the specific care instructions for each plant and adjust accordingly based on your home’s unique conditions.

When it comes to buying real estate in Edmonton, many homebuyers are drawn to new or recently renovated homes. However, there are several reasons why you might want to consider a “fixer-upper” instead. Firstly, a fixer-upper is typically priced lower than a move-in ready home. This means that you can often get more square footage and a larger lot for your money. Additionally, if you’re willing to put in some sweat equity, you can potentially increase the value of your home over time.

Another advantage of buying a home that requires renovations is the opportunity to customize the space to your liking. With a move-in ready home, you’re limited to the existing layout, finishes, and features. When renovating, you have the freedom to turn something with “good bones’ or the “perfect ” location, into your dream home – whether that means knocking down walls, installing new appliances, or adding a deck or patio.

Of course, buying a fixer-upper does come with some challenges. You’ll need to have a solid understanding of your budget and the costs associated with renovations, as well as a clear idea of what you’re looking for in a home. You’ll also need to be prepared to handle the logistics of the renovation process, including obtaining permits, hiring contractors, and managing timelines.

However, for those who are up for the challenge, a fixer-upper can be a great investment. By putting in the work to renovate and customize your home, you can create a space that truly feels like your own, while potentially increasing its value over time. So if you’re in the market for a home in Edmonton, don’t overlook the potential of a fixer-upper!

As we move into 2023, the trends for home decor continue to evolve. One of the most important elements of any home decor scheme is colour. The right colours can make a space feel warm and inviting, while the wrong colours can make it feel cold and uninviting. So, what are the home colour trends for 2023? Let’s take a closer look.

Earth Tones
In 2023, earth tones will continue to be a popular choice for home decor. Think shades of brown, green, and beige, as well as rust and mustard tones. These colours are warm and welcoming and can help create a cozy atmosphere in any room. You can use earth tones as the main colour scheme for a room or use them as accents to add warmth and depth to a space.

Moody Blues
Moody blues will also be a trend in 2023. These are deep, rich blues that have a slightly muted quality to them. Think navy, teal, and indigo. These colours can create a sense of calm and relaxation in a space, making them ideal for bedrooms or living rooms. Pair moody blues with lighter shades of blue or white to create a sense of balance.

Bold Reds
If you want to make a statement with your home decor, bold reds will be a trend in 2023. These are bright, vibrant shades of red that can add energy and excitement to a space. You can use bold reds as an accent colour or make them the main colour scheme for a room. Pair them with neutral colours like white, grey, or black to help them pop.

Soft Greens
Soft greens will also be trending in 2023. These are light, muted shades of green that can create a calming and soothing atmosphere in a space. Think sage, mint, and seafoam. Soft greens work well in bedrooms and bathrooms, where you want to create a sense of tranquility. Pair them with natural wood tones and white to create a serene environment.

Monochromatic Color Schemes
Finally, monochromatic colour schemes will be a trend in 2023. These are colour schemes that use different shades of the same colour. For example, you could use different shades of blue to create a calming and cohesive look in a space. Monochromatic colour schemes are easy to pull off and can create a sense of unity and balance in a room.

Whether you want to create a cozy and warm space or a calm and relaxing environment, there is a colour trend that will work for you. Happy decorating!

Whether you’re courting your special sweetie, celebrating an amazing friendship, or best of all just looking to treat yourself, there are so many fun things to do in and around Edmonton this Valentine’s day. But first you must decide, are you heading out on the town or are you craving the comforts of home? Have no fear about which you choose because we’ve got plenty of ideas for both! 

Out And About: Sweetheart Snowshoeing (FREE EVENT – but book ahead) 

Strathcona County is hosting Sweetheart Snowshoe at Broadmoor Public Golf Course. Take a spin around the golf course on illuminated snowshoes enjoying the scenic views and good company. Add a thermos of hot chocolate to the mix and you’ve got yourself a ready-made and low cost date!  Get the details: Click Here

Staying In: Heart Shaped Pizza (Costs Vary) 

There is no shortage of Edmonton pizza shops that offer heart shaped Pizzas on Valentine’s day but we’ll admit – our personal favourite is the CLASSIC from Boston Pizza because $1.00 from every heart shaped pizza sold goes to a local charity chosen by the location you order from. Did we mention that Boston Pizza has chosen to extend the sale of heart shaped pizzas to two days (Feb 13th and 14th) so there is plenty of opportunity to get yours.  Find the nearest Boston Pizza: Click Here 

Out And About: Valentines Singles Mixer (February 10th – $10 Per Person) 

Hosted by YEG Events and Date’N’Dash, this social event is not to be missed. Grab your friends and enjoy great music while dancing the night away alongside other Edmonton singles. Maybe you’ll even win some door prizes at one of Edmonton’s liveliest hot spots, On The Rocks. Get your tickets: Click Here 

Staying In: Learn Something New (Cost Varies) 

Avoid the hustle and bustle of the outside world, get comfy, and learn something new together. Whether it’s a platonic or romantic bond, nothing reinforces it quite like the feeling you get when mastering (or epically and comedically fail at) something new. In the current climate online classes and resources have become readily available – why not turn them into a cerebral date night for you and your person. Check out one of our favourites (The raspberry soufflé is AWESOME): Click Here 

Out And About: The Hazeldean Sweethearts Market (February 11th and 12th)

Grab a latte, your favourite person, and make a trip to the Hazeldean Community Artisan Market to celebrate some of Edmonton’s finest local vendors at the Sweethearts Market. Shopping local FEELS SO GOOD and this market allows participation by vendors of all ages meaning you could very well be supporting a young entrepreneur – that’s pretty cool. Reserve your spot: Click here

Staying In: Make Art (Cost Varies) 

A recent hunt for a specialty craft supply led us to a great local art shop called The Gilded Rabbit (what a whimsical store it is) and we were instantly inspired! Create a date night that is only limited by your own imagination – a quick trip to this local gem and you’ll have everything you need to make lasting (and messy) memories with that special someone. Get inspired: Click Here 

Out And About: Sip and Paint (Adults Only)

Sip on the bevy of your choice and call on your inner artist! This adults only paint party is being hosted by Viniology Art and XO Bistro + Bar. Participants will be given all the supplies and given step by step instruction on how to create their very own masterpiece. A great date for a larger group hoping to spend Valentine’s Day together.  Get your tickets: Click Here 

No matter what you choose to do on Valentine’s Day – there are so many opportunities to create that perfect-to-you date night in Edmonton. Do you know of something special happening for Valentine’s Day in YEG this year? We’d love to add it to the list – get in touch with us: Click Here

Let’s be really honest for a second – there is just nothing more exciting than buying a new home and it’s so easy to get swept away in the romantic notion of the life you’re going to build there. And, so you should! There are endless possibilities waiting for you whether you’re looking to build a new Edmonton home or buy a pre-existing option. As hard as it may be to imagine, considering you’re only JUST purchasing the house, the reality is that at some point, you may want to sell. A little thoughtfulness today will go a really long way when it comes to enjoying your house more now and in the future if you choose to sell. 

When buying your home, here are a few things to consider investing in that may impact its future sale price:

1. Location: This is about so much more than just the neighbourhood you choose, think about the physical placement of your home within the community. Is it on a main road, facing a commercial property (think large signage), perhaps there’s a condo complex obscuring your view? Just because you may be willing to overlook these things it’s not guaranteed that the next buyers will be so easy going.
2. Lot Size: This becomes especially important in newer neighbourhoods when lot sizes can be on the smaller side. Investing in either an extra long or pie-shaped lot may end up being worth the upfront cost when it comes to the future salability of your home.
3. Demographic Perks: If you find your desired neighbourhood caters predominantly to young families, for example, consider the needs of those families:- Does the home have a desirable yard space?
   – Is there an adequate amount of bathrooms and where in the home are those bathrooms located?
   – In an older community, with your more typical 1950’s bungalow, it is common to have a single shared bathroom on the main level, vs. in a newer neighbourhood where you might find a dedicated bathroom for the primary bedroom, and secondary bathroom for the additional bedrooms upstairs. Maybe even a half bathroom on the main floor.
   – Are there enough bedrooms and are they sizeable enough that kids can grow into them over time?
4. Extra Space: If your budget allows, one of the greatest investments you can make is more usable space. Whether that’s a finished basement, a bonus room, a garage – anything that provides additional living or storage areas is going to be a huge draw for future buyers.
5. Amenities & Commutability: What else does the Edmonton community you’re considering offer? Access to schools, playgrounds, convenience stores and coffee shops for example add to the walkability of a home. Homeowners also appreciate more direct routes to major roads, allowing for quicker commutability to additional shopping districts and to work.

At the end of the day everyone has to make concessions during the buying process. It’s really easy to forgo the above items for the sake of a “good deal” and save yourself a few dollars right now. If this strategy solves an otherwise unsolvable problem for you (for example: this “deal” is the only way you’ll be able to enter the homeowner arena) then it’s not a bad one. But, if you’re looking for long term gains, it might be wise to have an honest conversation with your Real Estate Agent about how you can focus the funds you have available now on the features of a home that will provide you with the best return later on.

Remembrance Day is fast approaching and you might be wondering what’s happening around YEG. Whether you’re looking to stand in memory at a traditional Remembrance Day ceremony or you’d like to participate from home – we have options for you to consider when planning how you’ll spend Remembrance Day in Edmonton. 

1. Join online to watch the National Remembrance Day service take place in Ottawa. Tune in to your local CBC network (television, radio, or social media) to get front row coverage of the largest ceremony in the nation. 
2. Head down to City Hall Plaza to attend the Remembrance Day ceremony planned by the Loyal Edmonton Regiment. This one hour ceremony is led by the Commanding Officer of The Loyal Edmonton Regiment and will be held “to honour the achievements and sacrifices of those who served our country in times of war and peace”. Visit the City Of Edmonton website for more information. 
3. Visit the Loyal Edmonton Regiment Museum. Take a step backwards in time and immerse yourself in Edmonton’s military history. Operated by The Loyal Edmonton Regiment Museum Foundation – this Museum is dedicated to “Inspiring communities to discover and connect with their military heritage”. 
4. Take a guided walk through Fort Saskatchewan Cemetery. Visit the gravestones of and pay respects to the veterans who sacrificed their lives during the World Wars. Hosted by The Fort Heritage Precinct, this event is free to attend! You can find details on the Fort Heritage Precinct Facebook page. 
5. Call your local Legion branch and see if there is something you can do to serve the Veterans in your community. There are likely countless ways that your local Legion branch could use your help.

1. Pumpkins After Dark (Family Friendly):

   Located in Borden Park this family friendly interactive Halloween display features over 6000 hand carved pumpkins, live pumpkin carving demonstrations, and plenty of Instagram worthy photo opportunities.
   
   Cost: $21.95/Adults  and $17.95/Youth (4-16 years)

   Details: Visit The Pumpkins After Dark Website

2. DARK (18+ Recommended):

   Ever wonder what lurks around Fort Edmonton Park at night? Well now’s your chance to find out. Featuring 3 separate haunts: Under The Big Top (Knife wielding clowns anyone?), Blood Harvest (The scarecrows are up to no good), and brand new this year, 3AM Dead of Night (find out what happens during the witching hour). Prepare for the scare – this event is not for the faint of heart.

   Cost: $45 per adult

   Details: Visit The Dark Website

3. Old Strathcona Ghost Tours:

   These walking tours are a personal favourite of some of us here at TruHome because it combines the rich history of our city with the spookier side of life. Learn all about the entities that inhabit the Strathcona Hotel, the Princess Theatre, as well as Strathcona High School as told by one of Edmonton’s most experienced storytellers. While there are no age restrictions – this activity may be a little…dry… for the kiddos and does require a fair bit of walking (in rain, snow, or shine) so please plan accordingly.

   Cost: $16.93 – $22.23 per person

   Details: Visit The Eventbrite Page

4. Deadmonton Haunted House (18+ Recommended):

   If jump scares and gore get your Halloween vibes flowing, Deadmonton Haunted House may be just the activity you’ve been searching for. These fine folks have mastered the art of the scare in their 9 years in operation so believe us when we tell you the two featured haunts, Icons Of Darkness and Return Of The Living Dead, will be like nothing you’ve ever experienced.

   Cost: $36.99 per adult

   Details: Visit The Deadmonton Website

   * Pro Tip: If you’re looking to amp of the level of terror… consider booking the “Lights Out” pass where you’ll navigate the entire haunt with in the Dark

    

5. Highlevel Bridge Haunted Trolley Tour:

   Another deep dive into the creepier side of YEG – this historical tour takes you across the North Saskatchewan River in the Highlevel Bridge Streetcar (a rich part of Edmonton’s history in it’s own right) as your regaled with tales of the ghosts that call our city home.

   Cost: $43.45 per adult

   Details: Visit The Event Page

6. Front Yards in Gloom – Halloween Themed Front Yard Displays in Edmonton (Family Friendly):

   Starting on October 28th, take in the beauty of the city in this self guided tour of all the best Halloween decorations around the city. You can even participate in the process and vote for your favourites. A winner will be selected on October 30th and crowned the winner of Front Yards In Gloom.

   Cost: FREE (This tour is self guided)

   Details: Visit The Event Page

7. Halloween Skelebration (Family Friendly):

   Telus World of Science is the place to be during this spooky season! Whether it’s attending FrightFest and  watching vintage horror movies on the IMAX screen or a Halloween themed laser show with the kiddos – there is literally something for everyone. We’re most excited to learn the Anatomy of Skeletons in the Health Zone and dance with ghosts at the costume party on October 29th. We all know the potential for quick weather shifts here in Edmonton, so this is a great option to keep in your back pocket in the event the weather takes a turn.

   Cost: Varies based on activities

   Details: Visit The Telus World Of Science Webpage

So, here is the deal – we are seeing a shifting market. While July normally is a slower month due to people taking advantage of the summer months for holidays and local festivals/fun, compared to June we are seeing more drastic shifts than what we would consider normal seasonal changes.

Single-family homes in the greater Edmonton area saw a shift of 12.4% fewer sales in comparison to sales from the same time last year (July 2021). What may feel more surprising is the fact that comparing June 2022 and July 2022 – we are seeing an even more drastic change of 24.4%. You can read more about the Greater Edmonton Outlook from our Real Estate Association of Edmonton’s recent market update here.

We here at TruHome decided to dive a little deeper into the market stats for Single Family homes in the city of Edmonton to gauge a deeper sense of what is going on.

We have 9 months of active inventory compared to what is pending, and 4 months of active inventory in comparison to the most recent month of sales data (846). It is important to recognize that first impressions are important and pricing your home strategically will make a difference. The ones that are going pending/selling quicker, are pricing lower than what we may have seen even a couple months ago.

When we look at the sales by price range, it shows that the most competitive price ranges are still between $300,000 – $500,000 for Single Family Homes in Edmonton with some homes still competing in multiple offers. What is important to remember about this data, is that it is a snapshot of what is happening in the Edmonton Real Estate market, we are still more up than previous years in terms of value and there are still great good opportunities for sellers to sell and for buyers to buy. Every person’s situation is unique and it comes down to how your real estate goals can impact and enhance your life as a whole.