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Moving to Edmonton: Everything You Need to Know - A Comprehensive Relocation Guide

Relocating to a new city is always an exciting adventure, but it can also be a bit overwhelming. If you're planning to move to Edmonton, Alberta, you're in for a treat. Edmonton, known as "The City of Festivals," is a vibrant, growing city that offers a high quality of life, excellent amenities, and a welcoming community. To help you make a smooth transition, the Iconic YEG Real Estate team has put together this comprehensive relocation guide covering everything you need to know about moving to Edmonton.

1. Housing and Neighborhoods

Edmonton offers a diverse range of housing options to suit various lifestyles and budgets. Whether you're looking for a modern downtown condo, a family-friendly suburban home, or a charming heritage property, you'll find it here.

  • Downtown Edmonton: Ideal for young professionals, this area offers high-rise condos, access to the best restaurants, and a vibrant arts scene. View All Condos for Sale in Downtown Edmonton

  • Southwest Edmonton: Neighborhoods like Windermere and Terwillegar are perfect for families, offering larger homes, excellent schools, and plenty of parks. View all Homes for Sale in Southwest Edmonton

  • West Edmonton: Known for its quiet, established neighborhoods and proximity to West Edmonton Mall, the largest shopping mall in North America.

  • Northeast Edmonton: Offers affordable housing options, with a mix of newer developments and established communities.

  • North Glenora and Glenora: These neighborhoods are perfect for those looking for character homes, tree-lined streets, and a tight-knit community feel. View all Homes in North Glenora

Tip: If you're looking for a rental property, check out our listings at Sona Park in North Glenora and Beacon Apartments in Holyrood for modern, convenient living options.

2. Schools and Education

Edmonton has an excellent public and private education system, making it an attractive city for families. The city is home to several school boards:

  • Edmonton Public School Board (EPSB): The largest school board in the city, offering a wide range of programs from K-12.

  • Edmonton Catholic School District (ECSD): Provides faith-based education with a strong emphasis on academic excellence.

  • Charter and Private Schools: Edmonton offers various specialized education options, including Montessori, Waldorf, and International Baccalaureate programs.

ICONIC YEG EDMONTON SCHOOL GUIDE

For higher education, Edmonton is home to:

  • University of Alberta: One of Canada’s top research universities, offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.

  • MacEwan University: Known for its focus on teaching and smaller class sizes, offering a variety of degree and diploma programs.

  • NorQuest College: Provides career-focused education with programs in health, business, and community studies.

3. Healthcare

Edmonton has a robust healthcare system, with several major hospitals and numerous clinics throughout the city.

Additionally, Edmonton residents have access to numerous family doctors, walk-in clinics, and specialized medical services.

4. Employment and Economy

Edmonton is known as a hub for the energy sector, but its economy is diverse, with opportunities in various industries:

  • Energy: Edmonton is the center of Alberta's oil and gas industry, with numerous jobs in engineering, project management, and trades.

  • Technology: The city's tech sector is growing rapidly, with opportunities in software development, AI, and innovation.

  • Healthcare: With several major hospitals and research centers, there are numerous opportunities for healthcare professionals.

  • Education: Edmonton's universities and colleges are major employers, offering careers in teaching, research, and administration.

5. Entertainment and Lifestyle

Edmonton offers an array of entertainment options and activities for all ages and interests:

6. Transportation

Getting around Edmonton is easy with a variety of transportation options:

  • Public Transit: The Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) operates buses and a light rail transit (LRT) system that connects key areas of the city.

  • Cycling: Edmonton has a growing network of bike lanes and paths, making cycling a convenient option for commuting and recreation.

  • Driving: Edmonton is a car-friendly city with well-maintained roads and highways. However, winter driving can be challenging, so it's important to be prepared for icy conditions.

7. Climate

Edmonton experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold winters:

  • Summer: Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, with long daylight hours, perfect for outdoor activities.

  • Winter: Temperatures can drop to -15°C or lower, with plenty of snow. Be prepared with warm clothing and a good understanding of winter driving.

  • Spring and Fall: These seasons bring mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, especially with the changing leaves in fall.

8. Community and Social Life

Edmonton is a welcoming city with a strong sense of community. Whether you're joining a local club, volunteering, or simply getting to know your neighbors, you'll find it easy to make connections here.

  • Community Leagues: Edmonton's community leagues offer programs, events, and activities that help bring neighbors together.

  • Volunteer Opportunities: There are countless ways to get involved, from supporting local festivals to volunteering at shelters or food banks.

9. Final Thoughts

Moving to Edmonton is an exciting opportunity to experience a city rich in culture, community, and natural beauty. Whether you're drawn by the job opportunities, the outdoor activities, or the vibrant arts scene, Edmonton has something for everyone. At Iconic YEG Real Estate, we're here to help you every step of the way, from finding the perfect home to settling into your new neighborhood.

Welcome to Edmonton – we can't wait for you to make it your home!

Feel free to reach out to Caitlin Heine, Owner of the Iconic YEG Real Estate team if you have any questions or need assistance with your move. We're here to make your relocation as smooth and enjoyable as possible!

Contact Caitlin Today at 587-336-3176 or caitlin@iconicyeg.com

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Discover the Charm and History of Edmonton’s Parkdale Neighbourhood

Parkdale is a central Edmonton neighbourhood with deep roots in the city’s history. Located just minutes north of downtown, Parkdale was developed in the early 1900s alongside the construction of a local streetcar line, providing direct access to shops and services along 118th Avenue. Today, Parkdale remains an ideal location for those seeking an ultra-affordable home in a historic community.

Did you know that Edmonton gained city status in 1904 with a population of just over 8,000 people? Only a year later, Edmonton became the capital city of Alberta when the province was formed on September 1, 1905. The community of Parkdale was established soon after, with 40% of residences built before World War II and another 30% before 1960. These historic properties offer a glimpse into Edmonton’s architectural past, with many heritage homes restored to include modern amenities.

In addition to its historic homes, Parkdale offers a mix of housing options at affordable price points. Detached infill homes and half-duplexes are ideal for first-time buyers, while low and high-rise apartments start at just $65,000 for a one-bedroom unit.

VIEW ALL HOMES FOR SALE

With downtown Edmonton only minutes away, Parkdale residents can enjoy amenities like the shops and eateries of Jasper Avenue, Rogers Place, the Edmonton City Centre mall, and the Downtown Business District. Bordering 118th Ave also provides amenities within walking distance, including grocers, medical services, and banking.

Other nearby attractions include the Royal Alberta Museum, Art Gallery of Alberta, Citadel Theatre, and Edmonton Convention Centre. The community is also home to many parks, including the large Giovanni Caboto Park.

The Parkdale Community League was established in 1922 to promote community engagement and “sane and true” patriotism through social and recreational events. The league originally organized activities like tennis matches, dances, variety shows, and hockey games. Though the league declined during World War II, it was re-established in 1956 to fundraise for a new rink complex. A community centre was built in 1981 through an $830,000 community services grant, offering space for community events and programming.

In 1986, Parkdale amalgamated with the neighbouring Cromdale community. Together, Parkdale-Cromdale Community League represents the interests of both communities and provides resources for residents.

Welcome to Parkdale, an Edmonton community with deep historical roots and a variety of amenities for residents. Explore the neighbourhood to discover its historic homes, green spaces, recreational facilities, schools, and local businesses. Parkdale's friendly and welcoming atmosphere, affordability, and proximity to downtown make it an ideal place to call home.

View More About the Iconic Parkdale Community Here

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Knowledge is Power: Edmonton Real Estate Market

The Edmonton real estate market has been a topic of discussion for many years, and as we head into 2023, it continues to be a subject of interest for both buyers and sellers. With the ongoing pandemic and economic changes, the real estate market in Edmonton has seen its ups and downs over the past few years. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the Edmonton real estate market in 2023.

Home Prices and Market Trends

As of 2023, the Edmonton real estate market is expected to remain stable, with a moderate increase in home prices. According to recent reports, the median home price in Edmonton is around $375,000, with the average price per square foot hovering around $250. These numbers are expected to rise slightly in the coming years, as demand for housing in Edmonton continues to grow.

Market trends show that detached single-family homes remain the most popular choice for homebuyers in Edmonton. However, there has been a recent uptick in demand for townhomes and condominiums, as younger buyers and first-time homebuyers look for more affordable housing options.

In terms of market conditions, Edmonton is currently experiencing a balanced market, which means that there are roughly an equal number of buyers and sellers. This makes for a healthy market, with a good balance of supply and demand.

Impact of the Pandemic

Like many other cities, Edmonton has been impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has had a significant impact on the real estate market, with many buyers and sellers hesitant to enter the market due to economic uncertainty.

However, as the pandemic continues to stabilize and the economy improves, we are seeing an increase in buyer and seller activity in the Edmonton real estate market. While the pandemic may have slowed down the market initially, it seems to have bounced back in recent months.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead to the future, the Edmonton real estate market is expected to remain stable and continue its moderate growth trajectory. Demand for housing in Edmonton is expected to remain steady, with the younger demographic driving demand for more affordable housing options.

The city's expanding job market and overall economic stability are expected to continue to attract people to the area, which will only fuel the demand for housing in Edmonton.

In conclusion, the Edmonton real estate market in 2023 is expected to remain stable, with moderate growth in home prices and demand for housing. With a balanced market and a steady increase in demand, the future looks bright for the Edmonton real estate market.

 

 

 

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Q3 Edmonton Real Estate Market Update

Edmonton Real Estate Market Report: Quarter Three, 2022


2022 has been a wild ride with extreme changes, not unlike the weather in Edmonton.  Unprecedented amount of factors including the pandemic, rising interest rates, gas prices, inflation, and the war in Ukraine all contributed to an everchanging and quick adjustments in the Real Estate market.

The first quarter offered sellers an incredible opportunity as interest rates remained low, buyers were highly active, and inventory was sparse.  With lineups out front doors, multiple offers, and quick sales - buyers were at an incredible disadvantage and some were left with nothing to buy. While sellers who acted fast and listed their homes early in the year, enjoyed the quick sales and opportunity to move.

The second quarter of the year brought many more sellers to the market as they were catching wind of how much and how fast properties were trading for at the start of the year and buyers began to get a reprive from the agressive market; however homes in the SW of Edmonton continued to prevail as the hottest and most in demand homes.

This past quarter has been much slower than the previous two, ending with lots of available inventory that does not quite match the current needs of buyers.  A shocking 70% of all Single Family Homes that sold during Q3 in Edmonton were under $500,000; while currently only 60% of available invertory is priced at that level.

Fewer homes sold in Q3 of 2022 than they did in Q3 of 2021:

What is more interesting, is the value of the homes that sold in Q3 of 2022.  Over 70% of all Single Family homes sold, in Edmonton, were under $500,000:

The current available inventory of homes for sale in Edmonton does not match the previous wants of buyers, with a higher level of inventory in the luxury market then is actually selling.

If you are a seller in this market, there are a few tips to stay competitive to get your house sold before winter takes hold:

For Sellers:

  • PRICE: Currently, buyers tend to be pickier about the price they’re willing to pay due to rising interest rates and a lower affordability threshhold. Really hone in on the listing price you’re comfortable with — if you want to sell quickly, consider listing it on the lower side.
  • CURB APPEAL: Never underestimate the power of a well-manicured lawn and pretty flower boxes to grab the attention of potential buyers. Make sure the front of your house is looking its best — you never get a second chance to make a first impression. Buyers often drive around their preferred neighbourhoods window shopping, so give them show-stopping curb appeal they can’t ignore.
  • KNOW YOUR WEAKNESSES: While hiring a house inspector is usually done by buyers making an offer, get ahead of the game and hire one as a seller. Having that report available for potential purchasers takes one task off their plate and that might swing the scales.
  • SHOW THE BEST: Nothing puts off potential buyers like a home they can’t even see thanks to stacks of papers, overflowing cupboards and messy countertops. Go through each room and pack up 50 per cent of the “stuff” — then store, donate or trash it. When people walk into their potential dream home, they want to see large, airy rooms not shelves packed with personal knickknacks.
  • APPEAL TO THE MASSES: Millennials make up the largest cohort of buyers in Canada right now so consider adding features that appeal to this generation. Consider upgrading lighting, hardware or even appliances - $2000 upfront could mean the difference of a sale.
  • STAND OUT:  it’s all about making your property stand out in a sea of comparable properties. Offering something more creative than just your regular financial incentives, such as prepaying taxes or a year’s worth of landscaping services or paying homeowners’ association dues are just two examples of outside-the-box incentives.

 

If you are a buyer in this market - you may be able to secure that high value home at a much lower price; however read below for tips on maximizing the value in this current market:

For Buyers:

  1. Get Pre-Approved: There is nothing more defeating then looking at a home you come to learn, you can not afford.  It also gives you the opportunity to shop around for the best deal and the best interest rates. 
  2. Work with an Agent: Even before you start looking, even before you attend an open house.  A professional can and will give you more options and ensure you stay on the competitive track when negotiating for your dream home.
  3. Have a Buget and a Plan:  Of course, you won’t be able to afford everything on your wish list. So, make two lists: everything you want in a home and everything you can’t live without.   
  4. Do Not Get Dstracted by the Pretty Things.  Houses are an investment, they cost money.  Shocker right?  When you have the pick of available homes you should put higher value in the mechanical and structural integrity of the home.  Roof! Furnace! Windows! Plumbing! Electrical! Foundation!  These are the BIG TICKET items that should be the highest priority - not the wallpaper in the bathroom.
  5. Consider Future Revenue: With so much uncertainty about the economic future, you might want to consider purchasing a home that could or does have a secondary suite (ie. basement suite).  While you never have to rent it, having the option in the future could offset some expences if jobs, economy, or life took an unexpected turn.
  6. Location is Everything.  A home can be renovated, the location cant.
  7. Put Together an ICONIC Home Buying Dream Team: including an experienced  real estate agent, professional home inspector and mortgage lender; if you’re buying investment property, add a tax expert and a real estate attorney. All of these professionals should willingly and kindly share their knowledge and expertise. If not, find someone else.

Everyone needs a plan, and we can help.

 If you are a buyer or a seller looking to make a move in Edmonton - contact us for more information on how to be the most competitive and ensure you are getting the highest level of value.


 
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