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comparing best neighbourhoods in edmonton alberta

Comparing the Best Areas in Edmonton

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Thinking of moving to Edmonton but not sure where to live? Don’t worry! There are plenty of awesome neighbourhoods in Edmonton that you’ll love to call home. I’ve helped a lot of people determine what areas in Edmonton are the best for them. And, it usually comes down to their lifestyle preferences. Edmonton has many different subareas and neighbourhoods that all offer something different. Whether you’re keen to be in the city centre or the quiet of the suburbs, there’s a place for you! In this post, I’ll break down three of the most popular areas in Edmonton: Downtown, Sherwood Park, and South Edmonton. Follow along below to learn more!

What You Get in Each Area

city of edmonton neighbourhoods

Edmonton’s neighbourhoods vary a lot, and what works for one person might not work for another. Downtown Edmonton is driven by a sense of energy and convenience. If you want to live close to your job, love eating out, or want access to nightlife and arts, this area delivers. Most homes here are condos and apartments. You’ll find high-rises, older character buildings, and some newer developments. It’s great for singles or couples who are looking to be in the action!

Sherwood Park, while technically outside Edmonton’s city limits, feels like a city within a city. It’s full of parks, schools, and families. You’ll find mostly detached homes, many with big yards and room to grow. The roads are quieter, and the pace is slower. It’s your typical suburban setting, which is ideal if you’re raising kids or intend to start a family.

South Edmonton is where a lot of new development is happening. It’s perfect for first-time buyers who want to invest in a new home without paying downtown prices. You’ll see newer communities like Summerside or Rutherford popping up, home to townhomes, duplexes, and some detached homes.

Who Each Area is Best For

Downtown is for those who want to ditch their car, participate in the action, and don’t need a lot of space. If you work in the core and want the ability to walk to your favourite brunch spot or take in a concert at Rogers Place, then downtown will suit you. You’ll trade yard space for location, but if you’re not worried about mowing grass or fixing fences, it’s a pretty good deal. Plus, condo life means less maintenance and added amenities like gyms and rooftop patios.

Sherwood Park is for those who want space to spread out and enjoy a slower pace of life. Families, retirees, or anyone seeking quiet comfort will feel at home here. The schools are excellent, the streets are clean, and the neighbours are friendly. Sherwood Park feels a lot like a small town within the city, which is great because you still get access to all of the services that come with being near a major metropolitan centre. Living here means needing a car, but for many folks, that’s no issue. If you’re the kind of person who enjoys a backyard barbecue, a short walk to a playground, and not worrying about parking, check out homes in Sherwood Park!

On the other hand, South Edmonton is for those just getting started. For instance, new homeowners, young couples, or anyone who wants a modern home without a steep price tag. The neighbourhoods in the south are newer, which often means energy-efficient builds, updated finishes, and less surprise maintenance. Many of the communities are built with parks, schools, and shopping nearby. It’s a great place to grow into, and because these areas are still developing, you’ve got room to move up in the future without changing postal codes.

How to Choose the Right Area for You

edmonton neighbourhoods

Once you’ve got a feel for the areas that you think will suit you best, it’s time to start making decisions. Start this process by working out your budget. It’s not the most exciting part, but it’s a critical component that will help you temper your expectations and narrow your search. This will help prevent you from falling in love with a house that is out of your price range. Each area has different price points and property types, so narrowing it down first makes life easier.

You’ll also want to think about your commute. If you’re working downtown, living in Sherwood Park or South Edmonton will mean a drive. Some folks don’t mind it, especially if they love their neighbourhood. But others can’t stand traffic. You’ll have to weigh the pros and cons and determine what the best choice is for you.

Next, you’ll want to consider your lifestyle. Do you need green space? Do you want to walk to the shops? Do you host family often? These details should guide your decision. After all, if you love to host and entertain, an apartment may not be the best fit. Similarly, if you’re travelling all of the time, you probably don’t want to look after an entire detached home. 

When planning your purchase, do keep the future in mind. If you plan to have kids soon or anticipate upsizing/downsizing, you’ll want to determine how this affects what kind of home you should buy. Try to picture your life three to five years from now. The right neighbourhood should be able to grow with you, or be easy to move out of when the time comes.

Contact me to Decide What Areas in Edmonton are Right for You!

Choosing the right areas in Edmonton is a big decision. Whether you’re drawn to the bustle of Downtown, the comfort of Sherwood Park, or the newness of South Edmonton, there’s a place that fits your life. If you’re not sure where to begin, contact me today! I look forward to helping you find the perfect home. Be sure to check out my social media for the latest updates and more!

FAQ: Best Areas to Live in Edmonton for Your Lifestyle

neighbourhoods in edmonton alberta

What are the best areas to live in Edmonton?

Some of the best areas to live in Edmonton include Downtown Edmonton, Sherwood Park, and South Edmonton. Each neighbourhood offers a unique lifestyle—whether you’re looking for urban living, family-friendly suburbs, or newer communities for first-time buyers.

Is Downtown Edmonton a good place to live?

Yes, Downtown Edmonton is great for people who want to live close to work, enjoy nightlife, dining, and cultural events. It’s ideal for singles or couples who prefer low-maintenance condo living and access to transit, restaurants, and entertainment.

What is it like to live in Sherwood Park?

Sherwood Park offers a quieter, suburban lifestyle with lots of green space, schools, and detached homes. It’s perfect for families, retirees, and anyone who values space, safety, and a slower pace, while still being close to Edmonton.

Is South Edmonton good for first-time homebuyers?

Yes, South Edmonton is popular with first-time buyers. Many neighbourhoods, like Summerside and Rutherford, feature new builds, townhomes, and duplexes at more affordable prices than the city centre. These areas offer modern homes and family-friendly amenities.

Which Edmonton neighbourhood is best for young professionals?

Downtown Edmonton is the top choice for young professionals who want to live close to work, enjoy an active social life, and skip long commutes. Condos with amenities like gyms and rooftop patios are common in this area.

Is Sherwood Park part of Edmonton?

No, Sherwood Park is not officially part of Edmonton—it’s a community in Strathcona County. However, it functions like a suburb and is only a short drive from the city, making it a popular choice for families who want more space and a suburban setting.

What is the commute like from Sherwood Park or South Edmonton to Downtown?

Commuting from Sherwood Park or South Edmonton to Downtown typically involves a drive, which can vary in length depending on traffic. Many people find the trade-off worth it for quieter neighbourhoods and larger homes.

How do I choose the right Edmonton neighbourhood to live in?

To choose the right neighbourhood in Edmonton, consider your budget, commute, lifestyle, and future plans. Ask yourself if you want an urban vibe, quiet streets, proximity to schools, or newer construction. It’s also smart to work with a local real estate expert who can guide you.

Where can I find help deciding where to live in Edmonton?

You can contact a local real estate professional, like Steve Leddy, who knows the Edmonton area well. They can help you assess your lifestyle, needs, and future goals to recommend the right neighbourhood. Reach out today to start your home search with expert advice!

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How do Canadians Feel About Buying Edmonton Real Estate for Sale?

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Since interest rates began to climb in 2022, Alberta cities have remained relatively affordable compared to national averages. As such, many Canadian homebuyers have looked to this province to find an inexpensive place to live. However, with such a great number of buyers relocating to Alberta, prices in major cities like Edmonton and Calgary have been forced in the upward direction. Consequently, this causes Alberta residents to be a bit more cautious before pulling the trigger on purchasing a home. To give you a better idea of the market for Edmonton real estate for sale, I put together this market update. Here, you’ll find the latest trends and best places to buy real estate in the city. Follow along below to learn more. 

BMO Survey Reveals Hesitance in Canadian Homebuyers

At the end of April, BMO released its BMO Real Financial Progress Index. This survey is designed to indicate how consumers feel about their personal finances and whether they are making financial progress. The inaugural release of this survey was in 2021 to help Canadians navigate the uncertainty of the pandemic. Now, it serves as a way for Canadians to check in and see how they’re coping with current economic challenges. For example, inflation and rising interest rates. The index reveals insights into spending behaviours, financial confidence, and areas causing financial anxiety. Thus, offering a comprehensive view of Canadians’ financial well-being. 

In the most recent release of this index, BMO found that 72% of aspiring homeowners are still waiting for interest rates to drop off before buying a home. This value is up 4% year-over-year, indicating rising concerns for affordability and financial stability. Within this report, 58% of people noted that they were worried about the cost of living. Another 56% said that inflation was a major concern, and 38% said they were uncertain about their overall financial situation. For buyers who are set on waiting until interest rates come down, there is a possibility that the Bank of Canada could make cuts this month or the month following (July). 

What’s interesting is that among all of the financial concerns, 85% of Canadians still believe that they are making real financial progress. Furthermore, 67% went as far as to say that they are confident in their financial situation. Despite this, housing costs remain the top source of anxiety for Canadians, with 74% of people highlighting this in the report. The main factors contributing to this anxiety include a shift in the Canadian dream, pent-up demand, refinancing troubles, climate considerations, and the cost of homeownership itself. 

What Does This Mean for Buyers and Sellers of Edmonton Real Estate for Sale?

For buyers, these statistics highlight several key trends in the real estate market. First, there is limited demand for homes until interest rates decrease. This is because many buyers are hesitant to enter the market given such high borrowing costs. Buyers who do not wait for rates to drop will benefit from reduced competition, giving them more time to conduct due diligence and explore their options. Less buyer-to-buyer competition means decreased pressure to make a quick decision—something that is common in a crowded market. If you’re ready to act now, work with a REALTOR® to leverage the current market conditions. 

Another trend that is becoming more prevalent across Canada is the redefinition of the Canadian dream. While many Canadians aspire to one day purchase a home, this goal is becoming increasingly hard to achieve. As such, Gen Z and Millennials are being forced to look at alternative paths to homeownership. Over half of people in these generations are aspiring homeowners, but most believe that this goal won’t be achieved until 2025 or later. Gen Z and Millenials are the most likely to expect to receive or plan to ask for financial help from their parents/grandparents. Other homebuying strategies include rent-to-own agreements, co-owning with someone other than immediate family, or renting out a portion of the house. 

On the other side of the market, sellers will need a strong marketing strategy to sell their property until local buyer activity resurfaces. Working with a trusted REALTOR® is a great way to ensure that your home sells in the toughest market conditions. Despite many buyers still waiting on the sidelines, there remain several out-of-town buyers who are actively seeking homes in Edmonton. Appealing to this demographic may be sellers’ ticket to success in the current climate. 

Contact me Today!

Paying attention to market trends and statistics is critical for those looking to buy or sell real estate this summer. Contact me today to learn more about Edmonton real estate for sale. I’d be happy to answer any questions you have about how to achieve your 2024 real estate goals. Feel free to reach out to me at any time! Be sure to check back next month for more real estate-related information. I look forward to working with you in the near future. 

blog recap steve leddy real estate in edmonton

Houses in Edmonton: A Year-End Blog Recap!

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2023 is quickly coming to an end! In lieu of this, I thought it would be best to keep with our annual theme of writing a year-end blog recap. After all, one of the best ways to move forward is by reflecting on the past! In this post, I’ll go over all of this year’s content so that you can catch up on any missed articles. All of the content will be categorized by the season/month in which it was published. Follow along below to see what was on my blog about houses in Edmonton during 2023!

Houses in Edmonton – Winter and Spring Recap

donwtown edmonton real estate

Jan – Want to Buy Houses in Sherwood Park? Then, here are 5 Goals to set in 2023

When the New Year hit, I kicked off 2023’s blog content with an article that listed five goals to set for those who were looking to purchase a house. Check out the post if you haven’t already to get inspiration for your 2024 New Year’s resolutions!

Feb – Owner’s Rights of Condos in Downtown Edmonton

Buying a condo and buying a house is very different. In this article, I answered your most commonly asked questions about owning a condo. 

Mar – Condos in Edmonton: All About Condo Fees

Often, condos are praised for their affordability compared to traditional homes. However, once you dig past the surface, you might find that condo fees are the catch. If you’re curious about the fees associated with condos in Edmonton, read this article.

Apr – Energy Efficiency & Sherwood Park Homes for Sale!

Energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important. With the rise in climate concerns, a number of homeowners across the country are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint. To learn more about how to make Sherwood Park homes for sale energy efficient, check out this April blog post!

May – All About Home Inspections For Properties in Sherwood Park

Having a home inspection conducted by a trusted professional will ensure that your dream home doesn’t come with any costly issues. Although home inspections aren’t mandatory in Canada, they are strongly recommended! In this article, I discussed everything you need to know about home inspections for properties in Sherwood Park. 

Rewinding to Summer and Fall

apartment in Downtown Edmonton

Jun – Apartments in Downtown Edmonton: Creating Your Own Space in a Shared Home

Sharing an apartment with another person can help to significantly reduce your cost of living. In this article, I went over some tips for living in a shared apartment in downtown Edmonton! 

Jul – How Does an Agent Help Buyers of Homes in Edmonton South?

Are you looking to buy homes in Edmonton South in the New Year? If you are, you may be wondering how an agent will help you accomplish your goal. In this post, I wrote about all of the ways that an agent can help a buyer. 

Aug – Closing Costs to Consider When Buying Edmonton South Real Estate

Unfortunately, when you purchase a home, it’s not just the house you have to pay for—there are an assortment of closing costs that must be paid before the home is officially yours. To help you out, I created a list of typical closing costs associated with buying Edmonton South real estate. 

Sept – Real Estate in Edmonton: Pros and Cons of a Cashback Mortgage

Many Canadians have been opting for cashback mortgages to aid in the purchase of real estate in Edmonton. In this article, I discussed the pros and cons of a cashback mortgage. 

Oct – 6 Reasons to Buy a Condo in Edmonton

Living in a condo comes with a variety of benefits. Many of which, most homeowners aren’t aware of. In this blog post, I wrote about six different reasons that you should consider investing in a condo in Edmonton. 

Nov – A Buyer’s Guide to Edmonton Condos for Sale!

Buying a condo is very different from buying a single-family home. To help you out, I compiled a list of tips that you can refer to as you work towards buying your first condo!

Contact me Today!

Houses in Edmonton are a great investment for the new year. I’d like to thank all of my clients for another wonderful year in the Edmonton real estate market. For more information on selling or buying homes, contact me today. I’d be happy to answer any questions you have about how to achieve your real estate goals in 2024. Feel free to reach out to me at any time! Be sure to check back next month for more real estate-related information. I look forward to working with you in the near future. Happy holidays everyone!

condos for sale in edmonton alberta

A Buyer’s Guide to Edmonton Condos for Sale!

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Buying a condo is very different from buying a single-family home. There are several advantages that condos provide that single-family homes cannot. This is a determining factor as to why so many Canadians have made the decision to own a condo. If you’re thinking about making the switch to condo living, there are a few things to understand about the buying process. From rules and fees to the age of the unit, it’s good to do your research about what you’re investing in. To help you out, I have compiled a list of tips to help you as you work towards buying your first condo! Follow along below to learn more.

Edmonton Condos for Sale: Buying New Vs. Resale 

  1. Buying a New Condo

Buying a new condo often means buying a pre-sale condo. Pre-sale condos are condos that have been listed for sale before construction has been completed/started. This usually means that you will have to choose your unit based on a set of floorplans and a visit to the showroom. Buying a presale condo has its advantages and disadvantages. One advantage is that you may be able to request changes. However, the final product may not look like the plan or what you imagined. Additionally, the date of completion could be later than what was initially proposed. 

It’s worth noting that when you buy a new (presale) condo, you typically need to pay occupancy fees—colloquially known as phantom rent. These fees are paid to the developer until the building is registered. According to the Globe and Mail, “[t]he Condominium Act allows a developer to charge tenants for three main expenses in the period between occupancy and condo registration: property taxes, a prorated share of common operating expenses and interest on the unpaid balance of the purchase price”. 

  1. Buying a Resale Condo

While resale condos do not have the same new home feel, you do get the benefit of seeing the unit before you buy it. This makes it abundantly clear how much space there is, the quality of materials, building amenities, noise levels, etc. Additionally, you can get a feel for the condo community to see if the building is in good condition and if the people living there match your lifestyle.

Moreover, when buying a resale condo unit, it’s a good idea to research the building’s operating budget and financial status. You will also want to look into the reserve fund, bylaws, and who manages/maintains the property. 

Understanding the Building

  1. All About the Fees

Before you sign off on buying a condo (new or old), it is important to understand the condo fees and what they cover. Nearly every condo has a monthly, quarterly, or annual fee that must be paid by each resident. These fees are collected so that the building can pay for expenses like insurance and maintenance. However, you should talk with the developer or property manager to get a better sense of what your fees include. Understanding the cost of these fees can make a big impact on whether or not you can afford the unit. Lenders add condo fees to the monthly debts of the buyer. So, if the building has a steep association fee, there’s a good chance that some buyers will be priced out. 

  1. Know the Rules 

In condo buildings, there are often a set of rules and guidelines put in place to keep peace within the community. Unlike living in a single-family home, you cannot always do what you want, when you want to. Finding out about what rules are in place in the building is a good idea. After all, some condos have strict rules against pets, noise, age of residents, smoking, and more. Check to see what these rules are to make sure that they align with your lifestyle. 

  1. What Does the Condo Include?

Although it may seem silly, understanding what your condo comes with is important in the buying process. After all, you don’t want to assume that your unit comes with something it does not—for example, a reserved parking spot! Before you buy make sure you understand what’s available to you. Some common amenities include:

  • Additional storage
  • Guest parking
  • Reserved parking
  • Underground/covered parking
  • Bike storage
  • Pool
  • Gym
  • Outdoor common space

Contact me Today About Edmonton Condos for Sale!

Living in a condo comes with many benefits. From more time to better amenities, you’ll love the lifestyle that a condo affords. Contact me today to learn more about buying Edmonton condos for sale. I’d be happy to answer any questions you have about how to achieve your real estate goals. Feel free to reach out to me at any time! Be sure to check back next month for more real estate-related information. I look forward to working with you in the near future. 

condos in edmonton

6 Reasons to Buy a Condo in Edmonton

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Living in a condo comes with a variety of benefits. Many of which, most homeowners aren’t aware of. While it is certainly enticing to have the space and freedom of a single-family home, a condo offers an entirely different lifestyle. From more time to focus on what you love to a better sense of community, a condo can change your life for the better. The debate over condo Vs. house living has gone on for years. However, with home prices on the rise and a collective desire to be closer to city centres, more and more people are realizing the benefits of condo ownership. In this article, I will be going over six different reasons why you should consider investing in a condo in Edmonton. Follow along below to learn more.  

Why Buy a Condo in Edmonton?

  1. Get Your Weekends Back

As a homeowner, your weekends often get chewed up by housework. Whether it’s cleaning or yard work, owning a house requires a lot of maintenance. Especially, if you want to maintain your property’s value. Because of this, there is usually little time left to enjoy yourself. When you own a condo, you don’t need to worry about dealing with maintenance 24/7. This means no more shovelling snow, mowing the lawn or weeding the garden. Instead, you can spend your spare time doing the things you love most. For instance, hanging out with friends, spending time with family, or enjoying the great outdoors!

  1. Spend Less

Another perk of condo living is that you won’t spend nearly as much. Condos by design are cheaper than most single-family homes. And, any major repairs or renovations will be covered by the building. While you will need to pay a monthly strata fee, the cost pales in comparison to the expenses of owning a house. By spending less on your housing costs, you will have more financial freedom to do the things you want. 

  1. Cut Down Your Commute 

Condo living is great for those who are eagerly looking for ways to minimize their commute time. Most often, condos are located in central places where residents don’t need to travel far to access local amenities. For example, workplaces, entertainment, grocery stores, pharmacies, and schools. Finding a condo in a walkable or transit-friendly location is relatively easy in a city like Edmonton. 

More Reasons to Downsize!

  1. Better Amenities

Are you sick of paying for a gym membership? Are you tired of maintaining your pool only to use it a few times per year? In the right condo building, you can have access to a gym, pool, and games room without having to worry about the additional cost and upkeep. One of the greatest benefits of living in a condo is that you get access to all of the awesome condo amenities! Whether it’s a rooftop patio or a community theatre, there’s so much to love about condo living. 

  1. Connect With Your Loved Ones

Living in a smaller space is a great way to connect with your loved ones. Connections tend to thrive in smaller spaces—be it with yourself, your family, or your pets. With more time to connect, you’ll be able to foster the relationships most important to you. In addition to this, living in a condo provides you with a built-in community. This is great for individuals who work from home or are new to the city. 

  1. It’s Safer

Living in a condo in Edmonton is often safer than living in a single-family home. Especially, if you live alone. Condos are typically equipped with security cameras, generous lighting, and underground parking. In some cases, buildings will even have security personnel on-site. You will also have the benefit of being in proximity to other residents who can alert the authorities if something seems out of the ordinary. Furthermore, condos are generally secured with a key fob, pin, or key card access to monitor who comes and goes from the building. 

Contact me Today!

Living in a condo comes with many benefits. From more time to better amenities, there’s a lot to love about condo living. Contact me today to learn more about buying a condo in Edmonton. For more information on selling or buying condos, contact me today. I’d be happy to answer any questions you have about how to achieve your real estate goals. Feel free to reach out to me at any time! Be sure to check back next month for more real estate-related information. I look forward to working with you in the near future.