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        <title>Real Estate Blog</title>
        <link>https://www.calgaryluxuryhomes.ca/blog/2015-03/</link>
        <description></description>
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    <guid>https://www.calgaryluxuryhomes.ca/blog/neighbourhood-spotlight-garrison.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.calgaryluxuryhomes.ca/blog/neighbourhood-spotlight-garrison.html</link>
        <author>justin@justinhavre.com (Justin Havre Real Estate Team)</author>
        <title>Neighbourhood Spotlight: Garrison</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
There are many great communities in Calgary, especially Garrison Woods and Garrison Green. You will experience an equal mixture of military history with lots or premium benefits. It doesn’t matter what your interests are or what type of life you lead, Garrison communities are designed to cater to all types of lifestyles.


While homes are Victorian style, they have a modern day appeal. You will also find a variety of town houses, condos and apartments. However, Garrison communities are among the most well-known communities in Calgary.


Location


Within 10 minutes of South Calgary you can access Garrison Woods and Garrison Green. Although, these communities give off an out-of-town vibe, they are both in a short distance from the heart of Calgary. Amenities in this area include Military museums and Marda Loop.


History of the communities


The Garrison communities were constructed by the Canadian Army as the 1933 Currie Barracks. By 1966, it became known as Canadian Force Base Calgary, and in 1998 the base neutralized. At this point, the area was renovated to become a residential community.


Life in a Garrison Community


South Calgary is accessed with extreme ease, and you are only minutes from the Crowchild and Glenmore Trail. There are a variety of leisurely areas, which includes Richmond Green golf course. You can also access numerous neighbourhood fields and arenas. The Mount Royal University is accessible within a short drive.


When you want to find the perfect home in Garrison, Calgary, you will want to think about the community as a whole. There are many amenities, as well as a fantastic historical background. The home choices are amazing, and you will be stunned at how friendly the neighbours are. Scan the area and attend as many open houses as possible. You will see the stunning beauty that lives in the Garrison communities.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2015 11:01:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.calgaryluxuryhomes.ca/blog/buying-a-luxury-home-finding-the-perfect-nursery-for-your-baby.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.calgaryluxuryhomes.ca/blog/buying-a-luxury-home-finding-the-perfect-nursery-for-your-baby.html</link>
        <title>Buying a Luxury Home - Finding The Perfect Nursery For Your Baby</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
If you are a parent of a new baby you'll want to find the perfect nursery when you buy a luxury home. This room should be clean, quiet and usually it is the smallest bedroom in the home.


Examine the smallest room


Babies don't take up a lot of space. Baby furniture is much smaller than the furniture used in your older children's rooms or in the adult bedrooms. You'll usually be fine using the smallest room for a nursery when you buy a home.


Find the quietest room


When you are looking at homes and thinking about the nursery, look for a home where the smallest room is in a quiet spot. If it is at the end of the hallway, for example, there will be less traffic passing by, which will give your baby more uninterrupted sleep.


Make sure it's clean


Look for signs of mold in the room – especially in older high-end homes. While you should be inspecting the whole house for mold when you want to buy a home, it is especially important to look closely in the room meant for the baby. Look along the edges of the window and on the sills. Anything black is definitely suspicious. As well, look the room over to make sure that it is clean overall. You won't want to have to do any heavy scrubbing on move-in day


These are the most important things to look for in a nursery when you buy a home. If you can find a home that has a room that meets these requirements you may want to put it on your list as a possibility, assuming that you like the rest of the house
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2015 20:57:00 -0600</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.calgaryluxuryhomes.ca/blog/a-closer-look-at-m-sur-la-montagne.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.calgaryluxuryhomes.ca/blog/a-closer-look-at-m-sur-la-montagne.html</link>
        <author>justin@justinhavre.com (Justin Havre Real Estate Team)</author>
        <title>A Closer Look at M Sur La Montagne</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Located in Montreal is the M Sur La Montage, the beautiful new condominium that everybody wants a piece of. Developed by CATO Development, the property was designed to offer amazing amenities for residents as well as outstanding individual condo features.


It’s a wine lover’s dream because you can purchase an individual wine storage and tasting facility alongside your unit at M. Prices for condos start at $1,279,000. Here is a closer look at the M Sur La Montagne of Montreal.


About M Sur La Montagne


The M Sure is surrounded by beautiful green space and has a beautiful architectural design. You’ll be mesmerized by the forty-two unit complex featuring an adjacent building with forty-five units. It was built back in 1895 and the historic gem has transformed into a modern and luxurious complex. You’ll not only live in a luxurious building but your unit will feature picturesque views and top-notch amenities.


Living at M Sur


Living at M Sur means that you’ll be right at a private park and you’ll be in a fully secluded and gated environment. The property spans 700,000 square feet of land which means walking paths and magnificent views are found everywhere. It’s your own outdoor nature preserve in the middle of downtown Montreal. In your spare time living at M, enjoy the spa, indoor pool, gym and outdoor tennis court.


Condos start at $1,279,000 and go as high as $3.7 million plus taxes. The steep price tag is no surprise as CATO Development is recognized as a leader in innovative design after 25 years of real estate development experience and 500 million dollars in projects.


When you arrive to the entrance, you will notice the beautiful cathedral opening with oversized arched windows allow natural light to enter the lobby. Coffered ceilings and elegant chandeliers graze the lobby. Careful detail was put into the design of the lobby which will make you feel confident about what your unit will have to offer.


Your unit will offer a sophisticated elegance with a minimum of two floor-to-ceiling windows range from 9-12 feet tall ceilings and high quality finishes. You’ll notice the marriage of elegance from the past to modern day revival.


Don’t miss out on a luxury lifestyle with M Sur La Montagne.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2015 09:07:00 -0600</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.calgaryluxuryhomes.ca/blog/should-you-choose-a-luxury-home-or-condo-in-calgary.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.calgaryluxuryhomes.ca/blog/should-you-choose-a-luxury-home-or-condo-in-calgary.html</link>
        <author>justin@justinhavre.com (Justin Havre Real Estate Team)</author>
        <title>Should You Choose a Luxury Home or Condo in Calgary?</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Real estate decisions are some of the hardest you’ll make in your life. While it’s wonderful to own your home in Calgary, some prefer the ease of condo lifestyle. Making this decision between a luxury home and a condo in Calgary is a matter of determining your priorities regarding the type of investment you want to make, what your plans for the future and what type of lifestyle suits you. Here is a look at the differences between condominiums and detached homes to help you decide which makes the most sense for you.


Consider the future


When you’re purchasing something so major, you need to think about your future plans and goals. If you are single and plan to get married or have kids, have you considered what size of place you’ll need down the road? While a one bedroom condo in a high rise downtown might make sense right now, will this be the place you want to be married and raise kids? Consider your future plans in this decision.


Lifestyle Differences


When you live in a condo, you typically are surrounded by easily accessible public transportation, a walkable neighbourhood and many people are biking. If you own a car, you may be wasting money parking downtown to live in a condo when everything is accessible through public transportation.


Do you need a property in which you can control the renovations and landscaping decisions? If this is important, you’ll want to go with a house over a condominium. Consider how much privacy is important to you in the decision as well.


Investment


A house is typically a more desirable investment because it comes with land and will offer you more value in urban areas. Condos are a great investment if you prefer low maintenance investments.


Condo vs. House


The main differences between the two include:




You have total control of your home’s property while condo only includes the interior


You are responsible for all landscaping, water, sewage, snow removal with a home while a condo is going to take care of this in the monthly rent


You’ll have a shared common space in the condo while a house offers privacy


You’ll pay fees at a condo that you’ll avoid in a home


Insurance costs are going to be your responsibility at a house while a condo only requires insurance for your belongings


You’ll have a yard in a house while you don’t typically see this in condos




Finally, consider the price of each when making your decision.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2015 11:20:00 -0600</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.calgaryluxuryhomes.ca/blog/which-calgary-streets-are-the-most-expensive-for-shopping.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.calgaryluxuryhomes.ca/blog/which-calgary-streets-are-the-most-expensive-for-shopping.html</link>
        <author>justin@justinhavre.com (Justin Havre Real Estate Team)</author>
        <title>Which Calgary Streets are the Most Expensive for Shopping?</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
When it comes to pricy shopping in Canada, Calgary has two streets that have been mentioned by a Colliers International report. With an increase in the retail world, the cost of leasing has skyrocketed all around the globe.


Currently, Bloor Street in Toronto holds the priciest lease rate at $315 per square foot. This is a 1.6 cent increase. However, the shopping strips in Western Canada saw the largest increase in lease rates.




Robson Street – Located in Vancouver saw a 33.3 cent increase, and lease rates are $200 per square foot.


Alberni Street – Located in Vancouver saw a 43 cent increase, and lease rates are $150 per square foot.


Johnson Street – Located in Victoria saw a 18.6 cent increase, and lease rates are $35 per square foot.


4th Street S.W. - Located in Calgary saw a 9.1 cent increase, and lease rates are $60 per square foot.


Broadway Avenue – Located in Saskatoon saw a 11.1 cent increase, and lease rates are $30 per square foot.


17th Avenue S.W. – Located in Calgary saw a 8.3 cent increase, and lease rates are $65 per square foot.




The top 10 highest price shopping strips according to square foot:




Bloor Street - In Toronto ($315)


Robson Street – In Vancouver ($200)


Catherine Street – In Montreal ($200)


Alberni Street - In Vancouver ($150)


Granville Street – In Vancouver ($125)


Spring Garden Road – In Halifax ($65)


17th Avenue S.W. – In Calgary ($65)


4th Street S.W. – In Calgary ($60)


Green Avenue – In Montreal ($60)


Rue de la Montagne – In Montreal ($60)




This increase is being seen for a number of reasons. One being, Calgarians are accustom to U.S. and international retail offerings due to travel. This has helped build awareness of brands, and that means a lot in the retail world.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2015 11:06:00 -0600</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.calgaryluxuryhomes.ca/blog/what-should-luxury-homeowners-know-about-evaluting-offers.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.calgaryluxuryhomes.ca/blog/what-should-luxury-homeowners-know-about-evaluting-offers.html</link>
        <author>justin@justinhavre.com (Justin Havre Real Estate Team)</author>
        <title>What Should Luxury Homeowners Know about Evaluting Offers?</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
When you make the decision to sell your home, it can be both scary and exciting. The process of selling a home is complex, and can bring on a lot of worry and anxiety. This is a big financial decision, and you want to ensure everything is correct before proceeding. That’s why it's important that you understand each step, and have someone you trust to ask advice.


Before entertaining offers, you will want to understand the different types of offers that could be presented to you. You will also want to know how to correctly reply to them. This will help you discuss selling price and terms when a buyer becomes interested in your home.


Conditional Offers


This type of offer has stipulations that must be honoured before the sale of the home can be completed. These could be things such as home inspections, repairs and possibly a pending agreement until the buyers home sells.


You will want to closely look at any seller stipulations that are included in the contract. Also, make yourself aware of any loopholes that allows the buyer to renege on the sell. Financing is also another thing to watch out for. If there is any mention of financing in the contract, ensure that the buyer has the means to follow through. This can be done by viewing a letter written by the lender that states if the buyer has the means to honour monthly payments on the home.


Firm Offers


This offer is known as “subject free”. It basically states that the buyer is ready and legally responsible for buying your home. There are no underlying requirements to be met. This offer only has to be signed and given back before the stated expiration date. This type of offer will prove that the buyer is committed to purchasing your home.


Once an offer has been given you can accept, counter offer or reject it.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2015 11:20:00 -0600</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.calgaryluxuryhomes.ca/blog/finding-your-luxury-dream-home.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.calgaryluxuryhomes.ca/blog/finding-your-luxury-dream-home.html</link>
        <title>Finding Your Luxury Dream Home</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Yes it is indeed out there - the luxury house of your dreams. If you’ve been driving around to open houses and you still haven't found the perfect place you may be starting to get frustrated. You know it certainly is not from lack of trying - this home of your dreams just isn't naturally falling into your lap. At this point don't give up. The home is somewhere out there waiting just for you.


What you’ll need to do is talk to your Calgary real estate agent to go over more details about the type of home you're looking for. In most cases this will rectify the situation. The agent can better narrow down the specific types of luxury houses or condos you’d be interested in and then take you to have a look. Perseverance really becomes the key in terms of house hunting. The more communication that you have with your real estate agent the more likely it is that you will find your dream house quickly.


Your agent can access all the houses in the city that are updated daily. Make sure that you give your agent your work number, your home phone number and your cell number. This way, any time a property appears on the Calgary market he can get in touch with you quickly. Some homes sell fast once they hit the listings and it is very important that the communication lines between you and your agent are open at all times. Sometimes you may have to drop what you are doing to go see a home on the same day when is a very hot listing and your agent thinks it would be suitable for you.


The more energy and time that you put into finding your luxury dream home, the sooner it will magically fall into your lap. Keep your chin up and try not to get discouraged. There is a home out there that's perfect for you and it’s sure to come your way soon.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2015 20:40:00 -0600</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.calgaryluxuryhomes.ca/blog/what-does-a-luxury-closet-need-for-style.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.calgaryluxuryhomes.ca/blog/what-does-a-luxury-closet-need-for-style.html</link>
        <author>justin@justinhavre.com (Justin Havre Real Estate Team)</author>
        <title>What does a Luxury Closet Need for Style?</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
You do it every day. Putting an outfit together that looks professional enough for the work day while also looking good and feeling comfortable is quite a task. It’s stressful to sort through your clothes on a daily basis and determine what is appropriate, what is clean, what will work for the day’s weather and what looks good together.


The biggest problem most people have is that they simply don’t have an organized enough closet. The good news is that if you follow these few tips, you can have it done in a weekend and be ready for Monday morning in no time. Here is a guide to putting together your luxury closet.


Closet Makeover


Did you know that people wear only 20 of their entire wardrobe? The first step is to figure out what you never wear so that you can donate anything that hasn’t been worn all year. Purging is the most important part of the closet makeover because it’s going to allow you to focus on the items that are important to you and make them easily accessible.


Consider the organizational and stylistic elements that are important to you. A small closet can still offer a luxurious experience by incorporating a few of the following elements.


Lighting &amp; Furniture


Start with great lighting in your closet. You need to see what the outfit you’re putting together. Add a chandelier or table lamp if you have the room. Use sconces if you don’t have much space.


If you have room for furniture, add places to sit in your closet. A stool, chair, chaise and ottoman are perfect for sitting down in your outfit and making sure you’re going to be comfortable all evening. Of course you’ll need a dresser in there but also add a desk and table to place accessories or store small items.


Organizational Accessories


Pick up baskets, boxes, trays, hangers and shoe racks. If you have built in shelves or have a way to install them, this is the perfect organizational trick. Garment bags and rolling racks would be ideal too.


Decorate your favourite room in the house with a rug, woven hamper and curtains. Add artwork, wallpaper and of course mirrors. Add vases, bowls and trays on table tops and dressers for your jewellery, lipstick and scarves.


Use these tips to make your closet a little more luxurious and more functional.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2015 15:09:00 -0600</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.calgaryluxuryhomes.ca/blog/what-should-you-know-about-calgary-luxury.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.calgaryluxuryhomes.ca/blog/what-should-you-know-about-calgary-luxury.html</link>
        <author>justin@justinhavre.com (Justin Havre Real Estate Team)</author>
        <title>What Should You Know About Calgary Luxury?</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
The city of Calgary is full of entrepreneurs, energy and plenty of luxury. It's a buzzing urban city with all types of western hospitality, landscape and more.


If you're looking for luxury, there are plenty of ways to find it in Calgary. Whether it's the right neighbourhood you desire or the perfect vacation home, Calgary has it all. Here are some of the luxuries you will find within the city.


Luxury Hotels


Whether you're looking for a place to stay for a weekend or for much longer, there are plenty of luxury hotels throughout Calgary. Some of the top choices include:




Hotel Le Germain - Elegantly designed with plenty of luxury features.


The Fairmont Palliser - The place for celebrities, royalty and the rich to stay when they visit the city.


Hotel Arts - One of the finest downtown Calgary hotels with two award-winning restaurants.


Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire - This all-suite hotel is perfect for your luxury stay.




Luxury Dining


Along with the hotels, there are plenty of great places to enjoy dinner out. Some of the finest Calgary restaurants include:




Vintage Chophouse and Tavern


Ki Japanese


Cucina


Cassis Bistro




All of these restaurants, along with many others provide some of the finest dishes you will find in Calgary.


Luxury Shopping


Calgary is known for some of the finest shopping in Canada. Some of the most luxurious shopping areas include:




Inglewood Neighbourhood


The Uncommons


Kit Interior Objects


Nordstroms


And More




Luxury Things to Do


Of course, Calgary also provides plenty of luxury attractions including:




The Stillwater Spa


Studio Revolution


Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra


Prince's Island Park


And Many More




There are all kinds of great places to go, stay, dine and enjoy throughout Calgary. If you prefer luxury, start with this list and you're sure to discover all the luxury Calgary has to offer.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Mon, 16 Mar 2015 10:12:00 -0600</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.calgaryluxuryhomes.ca/blog/what-do-you-need-for-the-luxurious-home-bar.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.calgaryluxuryhomes.ca/blog/what-do-you-need-for-the-luxurious-home-bar.html</link>
        <author>justin@justinhavre.com (Justin Havre Real Estate Team)</author>
        <title>What do you Need for the Luxurious Home Bar?</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Having a bar right at home can bring so many great memories. You have the ability to customize your bar, which can become the focal point of gatherings. Using a mixture of woods, metals and ceramics will provide a simplistic, yet unique look. It’s really idea to use items that you have gathered throughout the years. Not only will this give your bar a fun and inviting look, it will also provide conversation pieces that you can reminisce about.


You always want to begin designing your bar area by implementing the big things first, such as furniture or artwork. From there, you can add in your collected items, which will bring tons of characteristics to your bar. When wanting to accent certain items, you could use a decorative tray to display your piece. This will also allow for more space on your bar top. Bowls and vases will make your bar look more attractive, and you can add some fresh flowers or greenery. This addition will add colour to your bar.


When positioning your bar you always want to think about your visitors. You want everyone to be able to access their drinks easily, as well as napkins and straws. Plus, you want everyone to be able to talk with one another easily. Keep these things in mind. Here are some style suggestions for your bar.


Furniture


You want your furniture to be functional, yet comfortable and inviting. Some pieces that you may want to include are bar charts, buffets, tables, shelves and stools.


Glassware


You need to have the proper glassware to make your bar look impressive. Glasses that you will want for serving drinks at your bar include Martini, Highball, Tumbler, Wine and Champagne.


Accessories


To ensure that you mix up drinks correctly, you will want to have all the right tools. These include cocktail shaker and strainer, stirrers, corkscrew and bottle opener, zeter, muddler, ice bucket and tongs, small knife and cutting board, manual juicer, blender and straws.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2015 08:49:00 -0600</pubDate>
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