The Calgary Real Estate Podcast

Hosted by Kimberly Courchesne, Barb Richardson, Taylor Rubert

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Jul 2026

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July 1, 2026Episode 532 min

Maximizing your Property’s Potential in Calgary

In this episode, host Taylor Rubert sits down with real estate investor and engineer technoligist Mike Duffy to pull back the curtain on what it actually takes to build additional dwellings in Calgary today. From navigating the city to budgeting with your own hard-earned capital, this episode delivers raw, practical advice from the trenches of local real estate investing. The City of Calgary is currently rolling out massive financial incentives for homeowners—including up to $10,000 for basement suites and up to $35,000 for backyard suites . Using Mike’s corner-lot property in Panorama Hills as a case study, we break down exactly how to force value into your property by turning a single standard lot into a three-dwelling goldmine. What We Cover in This Episode: Going Legal: The non-negotiable building components required to make a Calgary basement suite fully legal. The Grant Breakdown: How the Secondary Suite Incentive Program and Backyard Suite Grant work, and how much cash you can realistically expect back in your pocket. The Engineering Reality Check: Why building a garage suite isn't as simple as just "putting a room over your current garage." The Numbers: Total construction budgets for a Calgary backyard suite, projected rental income, and your expected ROI. Financing the Build: How ATB’s specialized garage suite program is helping individual investors fund their projects. Busting the Blanket Rezoning Myth: What Calgary's recent zoning changes actually mean for everyday homeowners and how it impacts your timeline. Lessons Learned: The single biggest mistake Mike has made so far—and how you can avoid it. Key Takeaway: You don't need to be a massive corporate developer to scale your real estate portfolio. With the right strategy and city grants, you can maximize your current lot to build long-term wealth. Resources & Links Mentioned: City of Calgary Secondary Suite Incentive Program City of Calgary Backyard Suite Grant Program Connect with us at Sotheby’s International Realty Canada: Taylor Rubert c 403.607.7191 taylor.rubert@sothebysrealty.ca Barb Richardson c 403.613.8737 brichardson@sothebysrealty.ca Kimberly Courchesne c 403.671.4979 kimberly.courchesne@sothebysrealty.ca Connect with ATB: Rachelle Martin Mortgage Specialist Mobile 780-289-9207 Email : rscheetz-martin@atb.com Enjoyed the episode? Don't forget to Subscribe , leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a fellow Calgary homeowner!

May 19, 2026Episode 437 min

Maximizing Resale Value: Renovations That Pay Off

The Renovation ROI Playbook: What Actually Adds Resale Value in Calgary Are you planning to renovate your home but want to make sure you actually get your money back when it’s time to sell? In this episode, Barb Richardson and Taylor Rubert break down the ultimate playbook for maximizing your home’s resale value. From affordable weekend upgrades to major renovations buyers are willing to pay a premium for, they reveal what truly drives home prices higher — and what can instantly turn buyers away. The episode also includes a quick Calgary market update and an important discussion around the repeal of blanket rezoning, including key dates property owners and investors need to know. What We Discuss in This Episode Calgary Market Snapshot A quick pulse check on what the team is seeing in the Calgary market right now, including buyer behaviour, pricing trends, and current opportunities. Low-Cost, High-Impact Upgrades Why simple updates like fresh paint, modern lighting, and updated hardware can dramatically improve buyer perception without blowing your budget. The “High-Touch” Rule Why kitchens and primary bathrooms consistently generate the strongest return on investment — while highly customized projects, like luxury garages or niche upgrades, may not deliver the payoff homeowners expect. Infrastructure Over Aesthetics The often-overlooked improvements that matter most during inspections, including: Roofs HVAC systems Windows Major mechanical updates These aren’t flashy renovations, but they can protect your value and prevent buyers from discounting your home. Renovation Pitfalls to Avoid Why patchwork renovations can hurt the overall feel of a home and create a disconnected experience for buyers. Where NOT to Spend Your Money Why finishing a basement in homes under the $1M price point may not significantly increase resale value — and the situations where it still makes sense. Calgary Zoning Update Critical timelines surrounding the repeal of blanket rezoning, including the important April 8th and August 4th deadlines for anyone considering a multi-dwelling development project. Pro Tip From the Episode Before swinging a sledgehammer, build a plan. Spending a few hundred dollars upfront on a designer, stager, or consultation with your Realtor can save you thousands in costly renovation mistakes and help ensure your upgrades align with what buyers actually want. Connect With Us Hosts: Barb Richardson, Taylor Rubert, Kimberly Courchesne Brokerage: Sotheby's Realty Calgary If you enjoyed this episode, leave a 5-star review and subscribe so you never miss an update on Calgary real estate, investing, and market trends.

April 2, 2026Episode 340 min

Calgary's Condo Showdown: New vs. Resale

In today’s episode, Barb and Kim dive into Calgary’s ever-evolving condo market, breaking down the key differences between buying brand new and purchasing a resale property. They explore the pros and cons of each option, from pricing and customization to location, fees, and long-term value. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to invest, they share practical insights on what you should consider before making a decision. Plus, they discuss the latest trends and shifts they’ve been seeing in the Calgary market—and what it could mean for you.

March 12, 2026Episode 142 min

Seller's Guide 101: Selling Your Home with Confidence in Calgary

Thinking about selling your home in Calgary but not sure where to start? In this episode of the Calgary Real Estate Podcast, we break down Seller’s Guide 101 — a practical, step-by-step overview to help homeowners prepare, price, and sell their property with confidence in today’s market. We cover everything from understanding the current Calgary market and setting the right price to preparing your home for sale, staging tips, marketing strategies, showings, negotiating offers, and avoiding common seller mistakes. Whether you’re planning to sell soon or just exploring your options, this episode gives you the foundation you need to make smart, informed decisions. Tune in to learn how to prepare your home, what to expect during the selling process, and how to position your property for a successful sale in Calgary’s real estate market. 🎧 Perfect for homeowners thinking about selling, move-up sellers, and anyone looking to sell smarter. Thinking of selling- get in touch with Kim and Taylor at Sotheby's International Realty Canada.

February 7, 2026Episode 147 min

Buyer’s Guide 101: How to Buy a Home in Calgary with Confidence

We are back baby! Thinking about buying a home in Calgary but not sure where to start? In this episode of the Calgary Real Estate Podcast, we break down Buyer’s Guide 101 — a practical, step-by-step overview to help first-time and repeat buyers navigate today’s market with confidence. We cover everything from getting pre-approved and understanding Calgary neighbourhoods to making competitive offers, inspections, closing costs, and avoiding common buyer mistakes. Whether you’re planning to purchase soon or just starting your research, this episode gives you the foundation you need to make smart, informed decisions. Tune in to learn how to prepare, what to expect, and how to set yourself up for success in Calgary’s real estate market. 🎧 Perfect for first-time buyers, newcomers to Calgary, and anyone looking to buy smarter. Looking to buy? Get in touch here !

September 19, 2024Episode 3646 min

Buying Options at Different Price Points & Discussing Product Categories

In this episode we discuss the options at different price points, primarily focused in first-time-homebuyers and move-up in the Calgary market and our thoughts on what to expect in the upcoming fall/winter market. We're also discussing what an apartment/condo is, townhomes/rowhomes, semi-detached (or as we like to call, attached!) and detached homes. A big welcome back to Kim after having her first baby girl! We're thrilled to have her back and to share this episode with all 3 hosts on deck.

July 25, 2024Episode 3541 min

Uncovering 2024's Rental Market Opportunities in Calgary

In this episode, we dive into the essential statistics you need to know about Calgary's long-term and short-term rental market in this summer of 2024. We’re thrilled to welcome our fantastic guest speaker, Sarah Kirby the founder of InfiniteBNB, to share insights on the thriving opportunities in the short-term rental market. Tune in as we explore when to choose short-term versus long-term rentals and share expert tips for achieving rental success. A valuable conversation, to say the least!

June 1, 2024Episode 3441 min

Seller's Tips & Recent Rezoning Approval

In this episode on the Calgary Real Estate Podcast, we dive into what you need to know to navigate the dynamic Calgary housing market. First, we provide a step-by-step guide on prepping your home for sale. Learn expert tips to make your property stand out and maximize its value in today’s competitive seller’s market. Next, we discuss the Calgary Blanket Rezoning proposal, recently approved by city council. Find out what these changes mean for the future of real estate in our city and how it could impact your investments. Stay informed with our up-to-date market highlights, including the latest key stats that every homeowner and investor should know. Lastly, we spotlight one of Calgary’s many desirable communities, showcasing its rarity and how to secure a sale. Whether you're a seasoned investor or a first-time seller, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you stay ahead in Calgary’s real estate game! To chat further about the Calgary Real Estate Market- please do not hesitate to reach out to Barb, Kim and Taylor at the Richardson Group .

April 12, 2024Episode 3335 min

Calgary's Communities: A Discussion on Zoning, Master Planned Communities and More

In this episode, Barb and Kim dive into a discussion on the current state of Calgary's real estate market, the housing crisis Calgary is currently experiencing, the controversial blanket rezoning proposal in Calgary and an overview of masterplanned versus organic growth communities. To learn more about the Calgary's real estate landscape or to chat about the buying and selling process, please reach out to us at The Richardson Group, at Sotheby's International Realty Canada .

March 19, 2024Episode 3241 min

Navigating Calgary's Dynamic Real Estate Market: Insights, Tips and Personal Journeys

In this episode, we delve into a comprehensive market update and explore the city's most competitive price ranges across various property categories. As prospective buyers grapple with fierce competition, we share invaluable tips for navigating Calgary's bustling real estate scene, drawing from both industry expertise and personal experiences. To learn more about Calgary's real estate landscape or to chat about the buying and selling journey, please reach out at The Richardson Group at Sotheby's International Realty Canada .