Discovery Ridge in Calgary
Posted on March 6, 2008
Filed Under Calgary, Alberta Real Estate | Leave a Comment
There are many neighborhoods that would be excellent places to look for Calgary real estate. Discovery Ridge is no exception, as almost every family convenience can be found in or near this gem of a community. Come visit this amazing area and see for yourself.
This secluded area has a country atmosphere, yet is only twenty minutes from downtown Calgary. Located in the southwest of the city, There are many green areas and views of the Rocky mountains. An environmental reserve park is next to the community. This gives those in the neighborhood access to the Elbow river as well as many paths through the forest. A perfect place for a walking excursion for the whole family.
There are sports fields and skating rinks nearby. Bicycle paths and walking paths, access to golfing, and the Westside Rec Centre give everyone a chance to get out there and find sports activities.
Let’s not forget the shopping that is close by. Discovery Ridge features a commercial area inside the community, and you can find a Liquor and wine boutique, a convenience store, Greek take-out and a day spa. Rounding out the commercial aspects of this community are doctors, dentists, a music studio and a coffee and wine bar.
Public schools and private schools are close to Discovery Ridge as well, making this a perfect choice for raising a family. With plenty of outdoor activities and trails for walking and hiking, the sports fields and the nearby rec centre, the whole family can have an active life.
All in all, Discovery Ridge has a lot to offer for prospective home owners. If you are looking for a ‘country residential’ lifestyle that is close to the city center, this wonderful neighborhood may be for you. For more information about Discovery Ridge and other real estate in Alberta, contact a real estate agent in the Calgary area.
Where is a Good Place to Live: An Overview of Calgary Neighborhoods
Posted on March 3, 2008
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If you are new to the city of Calgary, you might be overwhelmed by the task of picking a good area to settle down in. Each part of Calgary has it’s pros and cons, with different types of development and access to different services. Here is a quick breakdown of Calgary to get you started. A good real estate agent can go into detail on any of these parts of Calgary and explain the neighborhoods that make up the different areas. Some of the best Alberta real estate can found around Calgary, so happy hunting!
Basically speaking, Calgary is separated into four quadrants:NE, SE, NW, and SW.
NE - ethnic shops, schools, churches and churches call this area home. There is good access to the LRT and downtown. This area is on the lower end of the scale for home prices. Although there is good access to the the airport, this can mean living with airport noise. There is quite a bit of industrial activity in this area as well.
SE - The majority of the industrial sector in Calgary can be found here. There are some very nice homes to the South end of this quadrant, although commuting can be problematic to the downtown core. There is access to shopping and schools. Post secondary education is also a long commute from most of the SE.
NW - This area is hilly, with some excellent mountain views in many of the neighborhoods. Close to the University and technical school, there are also good schools for children. Access to downtown and the LRT is good. The homes in this area are fairly expensive, although some of the neighborhoods are among the most desirable in Calgary.
SW - This is a very nice area, with both hilly and flat terrain, and there is good access both to the west country and the downtown core. There is plenty of shopping, many schools and access to Mount Royal College. Housing can be pretty pricey in these neighborhoods.
There are also several communities near Calgary, and although commuting time has to be accounted for, many people settle in these areas. Airdrie is to the North, Cochrane to the West, Okotoks to the South and Chestermere to the East. Home prices will be near the same as in Calgary.
It would pay to do quite a bit of research before purchasing any Calgary real estate. Consult with an expert for more information.
Recreational Property in Alberta
Posted on March 2, 2008
Filed Under Calgary, Alberta Real Estate | Leave a Comment
Canadians are buying recreational property in record numbers, as baby boomers take advantage of rising home values and high incomes. It seems that everyone wants to find a retreat, whether in the wilderness, at a lake front or a ski chalet. There is a lot of recreational real estate in Alberta, and many people find their perfect getaway only an hour from Calgary.
A recreational property can double as an investment as well as a retreat. Rental income can help offset the cost, while at the same time the family can use the cottage or condo when it’s available. For others, the property will become a pivotal center for family life, a getaway for the whole family to enjoy.
As a second home, recreational property may be harder to get financing for, and lenders may require a second mortgage on the primary home or a home equity loan in order to purchase your dream cottage. A mortgage agent could help prospective buyers go over their options. In recent years lenders have modified their requirements to make it a little easier to buy that cottage on the beach, and a mortgage agent can help make your dream a reality.
If you are looking for recreational real estate near Calgary, there are plenty of places to look. From Banff to Canmore to Bragg Creek, the choices are many. Make this year one your family won’t forget, start looking for your dream cabin!
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