Real Estate Report: Calgary Market Sees Daily Inventory Dip Amidst Broader Seasonal Cool-Down

THE DAILY PULSE

• Sales: 9 properties reported sold on December 26.
• New Listings: 3 new properties entered the market.
• Net Inventory Change: A decrease of 6 available properties as sales outpaced new listings.

Today's average price of $576,361 is notably lower than the current month's average of $606,452. This suggests that the day's activity was skewed towards entry-level or more affordably priced properties, rather than a general shift in market value, which typically fluctuates based on the mix of homes sold.

So What? For buyers making an offer today, competition for newly listed, well-priced properties is likely high given the immediate tightening of inventory. However, successful transactions are occurring at varied price points, indicating opportunities for those seeking value, particularly if open to properties below the monthly average.

MONTHLY TRENDS

• Month-to-Date Sales (as of Dec 25): 1,008 properties sold.
• Month-to-Date New Listings (as of Dec 25): 1,119 properties added.
• Current Total Active Inventory (as of Dec 26): 4,444 residential listings.

While today's activity showed inventory tightening, the broader monthly trend leading up to December 25 reveals that new listings have outpaced sales, contributing to overall inventory growth. The current active listings of 4,444 represent a seasonal decline from November's active inventory of 5,581 units, a characteristic winter pattern as properties are pulled or expire during the holidays.

So What? For sellers, despite the daily absorption, the underlying monthly trend indicates a market with growing choices for buyers. Strategic pricing is paramount to attract interest during this seasonal lull, ensuring properties stand out amidst robust inventory levels. Be prepared for potentially longer market times compared to earlier in the year.

THE BIGGER PICTURE (YoY)

The Calgary market, driven by sustained population growth, saw 22,669 sales year-to-date through December 25, a figure tracking above long-term trends. However, this growth has been met with evolving supply dynamics, leading to a 'tale of two markets' particularly impacting pricing.

Compared to last month's closing, November 2025 data showed the unadjusted residential benchmark price nearly 5% lower year-over-year. This decline was more pronounced in higher-density segments, with apartment condos seeing a 7% year-over-year dip and row/townhomes down 6% year-over-year. Detached homes experienced a more moderate 2% year-over-year dip in benchmark price.

Interest rate stability from the Bank of Canada, which held its target rate at 2.25% on December 10, provides some certainty. However, fixed mortgage rates saw a pre-announcement increase of approximately 20 basis points, with the lowest five-year fixed rate rising to 3.89%.

So What? For buyers, while financing costs for fixed-rate mortgages have increased, the moderation in benchmark prices, especially in the condo and row house sectors, coupled with improved inventory, creates selective opportunities. Long-term value remains underpinned by Calgary's robust population growth, but a cautious and informed approach to pricing and financing is essential to navigate these more balanced conditions.