As the dust settles following Canada’s federal election, and with the possibility of new tariffs looming, many Calgarians are feeling uncertain about their next move in the real estate market. Whether you're considering buying your first home, upgrading, or selling, it’s understandable to feel hesitant in the current climate.

The good news? With the right information and a clear understanding of your goals, this market still presents opportunities—and not just challenges. Here’s some quick, unbiased advice.

Understanding the Landscape

Let’s break down what’s happening:

• Election Impact: This is tricky as it will take time to really understand the impact of the re-elected government, and broader housing policies—like supply-side measures and development incentives—will take time to roll out. 

• Tariff Uncertainty: Talk of increased tariffs on imported materials (like lumber and steel) is creating concern around construction costs. This could potentially slow new housing development or push prices up on new builds in the coming months.

• Interest Rates & Demand: While interest rates are expected to stabilize or drop slightly, buyer demand remains steady, particularly in affordable segments. Calgary continues to be one of the most cost-effective major cities in Canada for real estate.

If You’re a Buyer

1. Take Advantage of Current Incentives
If you’re a first-time buyer, take advantage of any home buyer incentives. Combine that with lower-than-average home prices in Calgary, and you have a rare opportunity to enter the market more affordably.Non-first time buyers currently have more options to choose from as the inventory levels have risen significantly. I suggest acting on this promptly as buyer demand will likely increase further, eating into the current inventory. 

2. Secure Your Financing Early
In uncertain times, pre-approvals are your best friend. Locking in a rate now can protect you against unexpected changes in the lending environment. This is crucial. 

3. Think Long-Term
Don’t try to time the market. If the home you’re buying fits your needs and budget, and you plan to stay in it for a while, slight market fluctuations won’t matter much in the long run.

If You’re a Seller

1. Focus on Presentation
With buyers feeling cautious, your home needs to stand out. Invest in staging, decluttering, and simple upgrades like fresh paint or lighting—these small steps can yield significant ROI.

2. Price Strategically
Now more than ever, accurate pricing is critical. Overpricing your home could cause it to sit longer than necessary, while competitive pricing can generate strong interest—even in uncertain times.

3. Know That Demand Is Still There
Inventory levels in Calgary remain relatively tight, especially for homes under $700,000. Buyers are still active, and well-priced, well-presented homes are still selling quickly.

Final Thoughts: Confidence Through Clarity

Yes, there’s uncertainty. But uncertainty shouldn’t mean inaction—it means being informed and strategic. Whether you’re buying or selling, now is the time to get clear on your goals, understand the current dynamics, and move forward with confidence.

If you’re feeling unsure about what the recent election results or tariff talk might mean for your real estate plans, I’m here to help. Let’s chat about your situation and walk through your options.

📞 Call or text me at 403-479-8990, or send an email to stuart@therecyyc.ca.
I’m always happy to help you make smart, confident decisions—whatever the market is doing.

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Historically, spring is the best time to sell a home in Calgary. Why? Because buyers are actively looking, and the market heats up after a slow winter. But what about Spring 2025?

Here’s what’s happening:

✅ Low Inventory = Less Competition – Right now, Calgary’s housing inventory is lower than usual, which means fewer homes for buyers to choose from. If demand stays strong (which it is), sellers are in a great position to command higher prices.

✅ Interest Rates & Affordability – Mortgage rates are still a key factor. If rates remain steady or drop slightly, more buyers will jump into the market, increasing demand and pushing prices up.

✅ Spring Fever is Real – Buyers love shopping in the spring. The weather is nicer, homes show better, and families want to move before the next school year starts. If you want motivated buyers, this is the time to attract them.

What Does This Mean for Calgary Sellers?

If you’re on the fence about selling, here’s what you should consider:

📈 Your Home’s Value Might Be at a Peak – With strong demand and limited listings, your home could be worth more than you think. A comparative market analysis (CMA) can give you a clear picture.

🏡 Curb Appeal is at Its Best – Spring means your home looks its absolute finest—green grass, fresh flowers, and sunshine do wonders for first impressions.

⏳ Timing is Everything – If you wait too long, more sellers may enter the market, increasing competition. The best time to list? Before the summer slowdown hits.

Maximize Your Sale Price: Pro Tips

If you want top dollar for your home this spring, here’s how to make it happen:

💡 Declutter & Stage – Buyers need to see themselves in your home. A fresh, neutral look sells faster.

📸 Professional Photos & Video – Listings with great visuals attract more buyers and get more showings.

🏡 Price it Right – Overpricing = sitting on the market. Underpricing = leaving money on the table. The key is a smart, strategic listing price.

🔑 Work with a Pro – A strong marketing strategy, negotiation skills, and experience in Calgary’s real estate market can mean the difference between a good sale and a GREAT sale.

So, Should You Sell Now?

If you want to maximize your home’s value while demand is strong and inventory is low, YES—now is a fantastic time to sell.

But the window of opportunity won’t stay open forever. The best way to know if now is the right time for your home? Let’s chat. I can provide a free home evaluation and help you determine the best strategy for your situation. Contact me for a free home selling consultation.

Stuart Bartwicki 

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In the world of real estate, it’s tempting to look for ways to cut costs, especially when it comes to commission fees. Discount brokerages often market themselves as a way to save thousands in commission, but what they don’t tell you is that you could be leaving significantly more money on the table. While their fees may be lower upfront, an experienced real estate agent can help you net more in the long run.

The Numbers Don’t Lie: Experienced Agents Deliver Higher Profits

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports that homes sold with a full-service agent sell for 13% more on average than those sold by owners or discount brokerages. When you consider that a 13% price difference on a $400,000 home equals an additional $52,000, it quickly becomes apparent that the so-called “savings” of a discount brokerage are minuscule in comparison.

The Real Value of an Experienced Real Estate Agent

1. Expert Pricing Strategy
   A discount brokerage may list your home based on generic market data, but an experienced real estate agent uses local expertise, market trends, and in-depth comparative analysis to price your home strategically. The right price attracts serious buyers and maximizes your final sale price.

2. Superior Marketing Power
   Full-service agents invest in professional photography, videography, staging, and high-visibility online listings to showcase your home in the best possible light. Discount brokerages often rely on minimal exposure, which can mean fewer buyers and lower offers.

3. Skilled Negotiation
   Selling a home isn’t just about finding a buyer; it’s about securing the best possible price and terms. An experienced agent is a skilled negotiator who knows how to handle counteroffers, navigate inspections, and ensure you get top dollar while protecting your interests.

4. Guidance Through the Entire Process
   Real estate transactions are complex, with numerous contingencies, legal documents, and timelines to manage. A full-service agent ensures every detail is handled correctly, reducing stress and avoiding costly mistakes that can arise with discount brokerages.

5. Access to a Network of Serious Buyers
   A seasoned agent has an established network of pre-qualified buyers, agents, and industry connections to create demand for your property. The more demand, the higher the potential selling price.

Why Paying a Higher Commission is a Smart Investment

It’s natural to want to save money on commissions, but when you hire an experienced agent, you’re investing in expertise that leads to higher returns. A discount brokerage may charge less in fees, but if your home sells for significantly less, you’re ultimately losing money, not saving it.

Even with a higher commission, the experienced agent nets you significantly more profit. That’s money in your pocket, not lost to the “savings” of a discount brokerage.

Don’t Settle for Less – Choose an Expert

Selling your home is one of the largest financial decisions you’ll make. Choosing a discount brokerage might seem appealing upfront, but in reality, an experienced real estate agent will help you sell for more, negotiate better, and guide you through the process with confidence.

If you’re thinking of selling and want to maximize your home’s value, let’s talk! Contact me today for a free home evaluation and strategy session. Your home deserves the best – and so do you.

Stuart Bartwicki - stuart@thereyyc.ca

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Every year, Calgary homeowners receive their property assessment notice from the city, detailing the assessed value of their home for taxation purposes. But what exactly does this assessment mean, and how does it impact you as a homeowner? More importantly, how does it compare to the true market value of your home?

In this guide, we’ll break down the property assessment process, what it means for your taxes, and what to do if you believe your assessment is incorrect.

What is the City of Calgary’s Property Assessment?

The City of Calgary conducts an annual property assessment to determine the value of homes for the purpose of calculating property taxes. The assessment is based on:

📅 Market conditions as of July 1 of the previous year
🏡 Physical characteristics of your home as of December 31 of the previous year
📍 Comparable sales in your area

The Municipal & Provincial Tax Rates – The City sets a municipal tax rate based on its budget needs, and the Province of Alberta sets an education tax rate to fund schools. These rates are expressed as "mills" (mill rate = tax per $1,000 of assessed value).

Formula for Property Tax Calculation:

📌 (Assessed Property Value) × (Total Tax Rate) = Property Taxes Owed

For example, if your home is assessed at $500,000 and the total tax rate is 0.0075 (7.5 mills):
$500,000 × 0.0075 = $3,750 in annual property taxes.

The City adjusts tax rates yearly to balance revenue needs. If your assessed value increases more than the city-wide average, your taxes may rise. If it increases less than average, your taxes could decrease.

The assessment is designed to estimate what your property may have been worth on the open market, but it is not necessarily a reflection of your home’s true real estate value today.

How Does Your Property Assessment Affect Your Taxes?

Your property taxes are calculated based on your assessed value and the city’s tax rate. If your assessed value increases, your property taxes may go up—but not always. The City adjusts tax rates to ensure overall municipal revenue remains stable.

🔹 If your property value increases more than the city-wide average, your taxes may go up.
🔹 If your property value increases less than the city-wide average, your taxes may go down.
🔹 If your property value stays the same but the tax rate increases, you may still pay more in property taxes.

Is Your Property Assessment the Same as Market Value?

No, your property assessment is NOT necessarily the true market value of your home.

The assessed value is based on city-wide data and trends from the previous year, which means it doesn’t account for the latest market changes, renovations, or unique property features that could affect your actual selling price.

For example:
✔️ If the real estate market has surged or declined since July 1, your home’s true market value may be very different from the city’s assessment.
✔️ If you’ve upgraded your kitchen or added a basement suite, the city may not fully account for these changes in its valuation.
✔️ If your neighbourhood has become more desirable or, conversely, experienced a downturn, the assessment may not accurately reflect the current market demand.

If you want to know your home’s true market value, a professional real estate evaluation is your best option.

What If You Disagree with Your Property Assessment?

If you believe your assessment is too high or inaccurate, you have the right to appeal. Here’s what to do:

1. Review Your Assessment Carefully

✅ Compare it to similar homes in your area.
✅ Check that all property details (size, number of rooms, lot size, etc.) are correct.

2. Contact the City for an Explanation

Before filing a formal complaint, call the City of Calgary’s Assessment Office. They can explain how they arrived at your home’s value and make adjustments if a mistake was made.

3. File a Formal Complaint (If Necessary) - You can do so here - https://www.calgary.ca/property-owners/taxes/complaints.html

📅 Deadline: Property assessment complaints must be filed within 60 days of the assessment notice date.
📑 How to File: Submit your complaint to the Assessment Review Board (ARB) with supporting documents, such as comparable sales data or a professional appraisal.

Final Thoughts: Stay Informed & Know Your Home’s True Value

Your property assessment affects your taxes but does not define your home’s true market value. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply understand your home’s worth, it’s always best to consult with a real estate expert who can provide a current, in-depth market evaluation.

If you have questions about your property’s value or need guidance in navigating the assessment process, reach out today—I’d be happy to help!

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Stuart Bartwicki - 403-479-8990

Selling your home in the winter? It might sound chilly, but with the right preparation, it can be a warm and welcoming experience for potential buyers. Winter in Calgary has its challenges (hello, snowdrifts!), but it also offers opportunities to make your home stand out. Here are five quick tips to ensure your home shines, even when the sun might not be.

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Here’s 5 quick tips to help get your home Sold in the WINTER.

1. Use Summer Photos

Nothing says “dream home” like lush green lawns and sunny skies! If you’ve got summer photos of your property, now’s the time to show them off. Calgary winters are beautiful, but not everyone can envision the backyard BBQ potential under a blanket of snow. Including a mix of summer photos in your listing can help buyers see the full potential of your home—year-round.

2. Keep All the Lights On

The sun goes to bed early in winter, but that doesn’t mean your home should feel dark and dreary. Brighten things up by turning on every light in the house during showings. From overhead lights to cozy lamps, a well-lit home feels warmer, more inviting, and more spacious. Bonus points for swapping out old bulbs with warm-toned LEDs—they're energy-efficient and create a cozy glow.

3. Stay on Top of Snow Removal

A driveway full of snow and an icy walkway? Not a great first impression. Keep your driveway, sidewalks, and any exterior paths free of snow and ice. Sprinkle some salt or sand for extra traction. A clear and safe path shows buyers you care about the home’s upkeep—and keeps them focused on your property, not their footing.

4. Winterize Your Pipes

Burst pipes are a wintertime nightmare. Take steps to winterize your plumbing by insulating any exposed pipes, especially in colder areas like the basement or garage. If your home has outdoor faucets, make sure they’re turned off and drained. A little preparation can go a long way in giving buyers confidence that your home is as solid as it looks.

5. Keep Entryways Clear and Use Mats

Winter boots, slushy footprints, and soggy rugs don’t exactly scream “welcome home.” Keep the entryways clean, tidy, and well-organized. Use durable mats for guests to wipe their shoes and provide a spot for them to leave their footwear. A tidy entryway creates a great first impression and sets the tone for the rest of the showing.

Ready to Make Your Winter Sale a Success?

Selling your home in the winter might require a little extra effort, but it can absolutely pay off. By following these tips, you’ll ensure your Calgary home is warm, welcoming, and ready to wow potential buyers—even when the temperatures drop.

Thinking about selling this winter? I’d love to help! Reach out today for a personalized consultation and let’s make your winter sale a success.

Stuart Bartwicki - 403-479-8990 - stuar@therecyyc

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Free 18 page Guide - Preparing your Home to sell

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Selling your home is more than just putting up a "For Sale" sign and waiting for offers to roll in. It’s about presenting your home in the best possible light to maximize its value and attract the right buyers. In today’s competitive market, preparation is everything, and rushing to list without the proper groundwork can cost you time, money, and peace of mind.

Why Preparation Matters

The first impression your home makes on a buyer can set the tone for everything that follows. When buyers walk through your door, they’re not just looking for a house; they’re imagining a future, picturing their lives unfolding in the space. A well-prepared home makes it easier for them to see the potential and fall in love.

Patience plays a vital role in this process. While it may be tempting to list your home quickly to get the ball rolling, taking the time to prepare ensures you’re not leaving money on the table. A little effort upfront can lead to a faster sale and a higher selling price.

My Tried and Tested Plan

When you work with me, you’re not just getting a real estate agent—you’re getting a partner with a proven strategy for success. Before we list, I take the time to ensure your home looks and feels as good as possible. Here’s how we do it:

• Repair Consultation: I walk through your home with a critical eye, identifying areas where minor repairs can make a significant impact. Whether it’s fixing squeaky doors, patching up walls, or replacing outdated fixtures, these small updates can have a big influence on buyer perception.

• Professional Styling Consultation: I work with a professional stylist who will go through your home and provide tailored suggestions for aesthetic improvements. From rearranging furniture to selecting neutral paint colours, these changes help your home appeal to the widest audience possible.

The Power of Staging

If needed, I also recommend staging your home. Statistics consistently show that staged homes sell faster and for more money. In fact:

• Staged homes spend 73% less time on the market compared to non-staged homes.

• On average, staged homes sell for 6% more than their non-staged counterparts.

Staging highlights your home’s best features, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, and helps buyers emotionally connect with the space. From the living room to the master bedroom, staging turns your house into a buyer’s dream home.

The Bottom Line

A prepared home doesn’t just sell—it sells well. By taking the time to follow a tried and tested plan, making repairs, and investing in the right aesthetic improvements, you’re setting yourself up for success. The effort you put into preparing your home now will pay off in the form of more interest, quicker offers, and ultimately, a better sale price. I can’t stress enough the importance of some up front investment in order to maximize the sale potential. 

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Ready to Get Started?

Selling your home is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make, and I’m here to ensure the process is smooth, strategic, and successful. If you’re ready to take the first step, let’s talk. Contact me today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can prepare your home to stand out in Calgary’s competitive market. Together, we’ll make your home shine and achieve the results you deserve.

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Winter in Calgary is more than just a change in temperature—it’s a lifestyle. From bundling up for frosty mornings to cozy evenings indoors, the right home can make all the difference when you’re facing months of snow, ice, and sub-zero temperatures, finding a house that stands up to Calgary winters isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential.

Let’s dive into the key factors to keep in mind as you shop for your perfect winter-ready home.

1. Energy Efficiency: Save on Bills, Stay Toasty

Cold winters mean high heating demands, so energy efficiency should top your checklist. Look for homes with:

• Double or Triple-Pane Windows: These keep the heat in and the drafts out.

• Proper Insulation: Check the attic and walls—good insulation can make or break your winter comfort.

• A working serviced Furnace: I don’t believe that a new high efficiency furnace is essential for heating the home. Personally, I have 2 older furnaces in my home that are absolute work horses, just make sure to keep them serviced. 

Pro Tip: Ask about recent utility bills to get a sense of the home's energy performance.

2. A Heated Garage: Goodbye Frosty Windshields

Imagine starting your day without battling icy car windows while trying to load the kids into their car seats. A heated or attached garage is a must-have for convenience and comfort during Calgary winters.

3. The Magic of Mudrooms

When you’ve got kids (and maybe a dog or two), winter gear can quickly overrun your home. A mudroom with hooks, cubbies, and space for snowy boots is a lifesaver. Bonus points for easy-to-clean flooring like tile or vinyl.

4. Fireplaces: Cozy Up After a Long Day

A fireplace isn’t just about warmth; it’s about creating those special family moments. Gas fireplaces offer the convenience of instant heat, while wood-burning ones add a rustic charm that can’t be beat.

5. South-Facing Windows for Natural Light

Winter days are short, but a home with south-facing windows can keep your space filled with natural light. It’s a simple way to combat the winter blues while keeping heating costs down.

6. Proximity to Winter Amenities

Living in Calgary means embracing winter fun. Look for neighbourhoods close to parks, skating rinks, or sledding hills. Calgary has tons of incredible communities that offer family-friendly vibes and easy access to winter recreation.

7. Reliable Roof and Drainage Systems

Heavy snow loads can wreak havoc on roofs and gutters. When touring homes, check for a well-maintained roof, good drainage, and snow-melt systems to avoid ice dam headaches later. Appropriate grading on the property is also very important here. 

Your Winter-Ready Dream Home Awaits

Moving into a winter-ready home means more time enjoying the season and less time stressing about drafts, icy driveways, or cramped spaces. Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy fireplace or a mudroom that keeps the chaos in check, I’m here to help you find the perfect space for your family.

Let’s make your winter move easy! Call me at 403-479-8990 or email me at stuart@therecyyc.ca. Together, we’ll find a home that checks all the boxes and keeps your family warm and happy this winter—and for many winters to come!

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Determining the accurate value of a home is one of the most important steps in the real estate journey, whether you’re buying or selling. But how do real estate agents and appraisers actually pinpoint what a house is worth? And what are the common myths of a Home Evaluation? Let’s walk through the key factors in this process to give you insight into the magic behind determining a home’s market value—and help you make smarter decisions with confidence.

I’ve included a Free Guide that you can access Here!

The Myths of Home Valuation

Despite the data, there are a few common misconceptions about what really impacts a home’s value. These include:

• Seller's Investment Costs: What the seller originally paid for the property or invested in renovations doesn’t guarantee an increase in market value.

• Buyer’s Personal Preferences or Budget: While everyone has unique tastes, market value hinges on what the majority of buyers will pay, not individual preferences.

• Asking Price on MLS: Just because a property is listed at a specific price doesn’t mean it reflects actual market value.

The Key to Home Valuation: Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)

One of the primary tools agents use to determine a property’s value is a Comparative Market Analysis, or CMA. Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Selecting the Best Comparable Sales

Imagine you’re choosing “comparable” properties, or “comps,” that recently sold nearby to get an accurate benchmark for your own home’s value. The best comps meet three criteria:

• Location: Ideally, comps are from the same neighborhood or similar streets.

• Recency: The most useful comps sold within the last few months.

• Similarity: Properties that match in size, style, and condition provide the best reference points.

If you’re a seller, it’s tempting to cherry-pick the highest-priced comps. For buyers, the lowest prices may seem more favourable. But the best valuation is balanced, selecting comps closest to your property’s features and location.

Step 2: Adjusting for Differences

No two homes are exactly alike, so a good agent will adjust for the unique characteristics of each comp:

• Property Type: Detached homes generally hold the highest value, followed by semi-detached and row houses.

• Bedroom and Bathroom Count: More bedrooms and bathrooms typically boost a property’s worth.

• Location Influences: For example, homes backing onto scenic views generally fetch higher prices than those with less appealing views.

• Lot Size and Square Footage: Larger lot sizes and more square footage add value.

• Layout and Parking: An open floor plan and ample parking are major perks for today’s buyers.

• Condition and Finishes: Well-maintained, updated homes with quality finishes tend to command higher prices.

• Basement Features: A finished basement or rental suite can add significant value, especially if the suite is legal and up to code.

Step 3: Validating the Home’s Value

Once adjustments are made, a good agent will double-check for consistency by running additional analyses:

• Historical Analysis: By analyzing average market values from the time of the home’s last sale, we can estimate current value trends.

• Neighborhood Analysis: Reviewing the average sale prices of similar homes in the area over the past year helps establish a clear picture of the local market.

• Competitive Analysis: How’s the current competition? Analyzing the market’s “days on market” and whether multiple offers are common reveals a lot about a neighborhood’s demand.

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Curious About Your Home’s Value?

Discovering your home’s true worth isn’t about plugging numbers into an algorithm. It’s an art and a science, best done with expert guidance. If you’re curious about your home’s value in Calgary’s current market, get in touch for a no-obligation market analysis. I’ll provide you with a personalized, data-backed valuation to help you make informed decisions.

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If you’re thinking about renovating your home before selling, you need to take a look at this renovation guide!

In Calgary’s ever-changing real estate market, it’s no surprise that many homeowners look to boost their property value through renovations before selling. It’s a smart strategy, and when done right, it can often lead to a solid return on investment. But here's the catch—not all upgrades are created equal. Just because you’re spending on improvements doesn’t mean you’ll see every dollar back when the time comes to sell.

That’s why I’ve put together a renovation guide derived from ‘Harrison Bowker’ Real Estate Appraisers. It’s a fantastic tool that helps estimate the potential return on various home improvements. But remember, these are general guidelines. The cost of the renovation and the quality of the contractor can significantly affect your return. This guide assumes professional contractors are handling the job, so DIY projects may not yield the same results.

Now, let me be real with you—many homeowners are surprised by the modest returns on certain renovations. The reason? It’s easy to get emotionally attached to our homes, which makes it harder to step back and look at the property like a buyer would. That’s where expert advice and data come in. By making decisions based on facts, not feelings, you can focus on upgrades that offer the best bang for your buck.

I share this renovation guide with nearly all my clients, as many are curious about how certain updates might impact their home’s value. The key takeaway here is to manage your expectations. While some upgrades may make your home more attractive and help it sell faster, they don’t always translate to a higher selling price or a full return on investment.

For most homes, there’s a simpler, often more transformative, and less expensive option: staging. When done well, staging can enhance your home’s appeal in a way that even renovations sometimes can’t. It’s about presenting your space in the best possible light to potential buyers, and often, that can be just as valuable as a renovation—if not more so.

Click on the Get Guide button below to access the guide - Remember, every home is different, and an in home consult should always be conducted before renovating. Text: HOME to 403-479-8990 to set up your free in home consult. 

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