Edmonton Leads the Nation in Real Estate Activity

While much of Canada is cooling, Edmonton is quietly leading the nation — not through speculation or hype, but through steady growth, affordability, and resilience.

According to RE/MAX Canada’s 2025 Fall Housing Market Update, Edmonton remains one of the country’s brightest real estate markets, defying national slowdowns thanks to affordability and interprovincial migration.

Even though resales are expected to decline about 4% year-over-year by the end of 2025, the market still favours sellers, with demand continuing to outpace supply — especially for well-priced, move-in-ready homes.

RE/MAX projects the average home price will rise about 6% by year’s end, reaching roughly $488,000. That’s a far cry from markets like Vancouver or Toronto, where single-family homes can exceed $1.9 million, making Edmonton one of the few major cities in Canada where homeownership remains within reach.

“Out-of-town buyers are still continuing to play a big role in Edmonton’s sales,” says Don Kottick, President of RE/MAX Canada. “We anticipate that will continue for the balance of the year.”

Affordability Is Edmonton’s Superpower

In a national market defined by high costs and hesitation, Edmonton stands out as Canada’s affordability success story.

With the average detached home at around $570,000, up roughly 4.5% year-over-year, Edmonton offers more value per square foot than almost anywhere else in the country.

That’s attracting buyers from Toronto, Vancouver, and even Calgary, where detached homes average $781,000.

This unique mix of high median incomes, lower cost of living, and steady employment makes Edmonton a magnet for families, first-time buyers, and investors seeking long-term stability.

Trends in the Edmonton Housing Market

The Edmonton housing market continues to evolve as one of Canada’s most balanced and opportunity-rich.

Market Outlook

• Average sale price: expected to rise 6%

• Number of sales: forecast to drop 4%

• Market type: remains a seller’s market, though balance is improving

While out-of-province buyers continue to drive demand, local families and couples are also stepping in with confidence. The city’s strong employment base and ongoing infrastructure development make Edmonton ideal for those seeking something lasting — not just a short-term investment.

Inventory & Buyer Behaviour

The biggest challenge right now? Not enough quality inventory that aligns with what buyers want. There are homes on the market, but many aren’t meeting modern expectations for updates, layout, or value.

At the same time, condos are beginning to sit longer, as a surge of new construction units comes online. Sellers holding firm on unrealistic pricing are finding that buyers are no longer willing to chase the market.

Still, urgency remains among those looking to buy before construction and renovation costs climb again — a lesson many remember from the post-pandemic years.

Iconic Neighbourhoods to Watch

• Gold Bar: A charming, established community with tree-lined streets, great schools, and proximity to the river valley. Buyers are drawn to its sense of stability and mid-century homes ready for modern updates.

• Prince Rupert: Gaining attention for its affordability and central location, with growing interest from buyers seeking character homes close to downtown and NAIT.

• Rundle Heights: Offering a balance between affordability and access to green space, this neighbourhood is ideal for first-time buyers and families who value parks, schools, and a strong community feel.

These central communities continue to attract a diverse mix of residents — from young professionals to retirees — all drawn to Edmonton’s authentic charm and long-term livability.

Edmonton’s Construction Boom: Building the City of Tomorrow

According to the CBC, Edmonton is building more homes than ever before — issuing over 15,000 building permits in 2024, the highest since 2005.

More than 75% of those permits were for communities between 41st Avenue SW and Anthony Henday Drive, including The Orchards, Keswick, and Chappelle.

That surge reflects Edmonton’s population growth of more than 100,000 people in just two years, a testament to its reputation as one of Canada’s most livable and affordable cities.

While much of the new housing is happening at the city’s southern edge, Mayor Amarjeet Sohi emphasizes that half of future growth should occur within established neighbourhoods — areas like Griesbach, which is leading redevelopment efforts with new mid- and high-density projects.

“I’m very proud of what we’ve achieved,” says Sohi. “But the need continues, and we need to build more.”

What It Means for Buyers and Sellers

For Buyers

• Act now while Edmonton remains one of Canada’s most affordable major markets.

• Explore growing communities like Keswick, Orchards, and Griesbach for long-term value.

• Watch interest rates — with the Bank of Canada expected to ease, affordability could improve through early 2026.

For Sellers

• Price strategically. Overpricing can cost valuable time in a market where buyers are data-savvy and discerning.

• Presentation matters. Homes that show well — staged, decluttered, and professionally marketed — continue to command premium offers.

• Timing is opportunity. Fall remains active as buyers aim to close before winter, with fewer listings creating a competitive edge.

Edmonton’s Strength Is Its Balance

While many cities are struggling to correct after years of rapid appreciation, Edmonton’s growth is measured, sustainable, and real.

The city continues to build, attract, and retain — offering buyers and sellers alike the rare opportunity to move confidently in a market that values both stability and opportunity.

For homeowners, investors, and newcomers alike, Edmonton isn’t just a great place to live — it’s a smart place to plant roots.

Work With the ICONIC YEG Team

At Iconic YEG, we don’t just sell homes — we help you build a future.
Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, our team brings deep market insight, strategic marketing, and a people-first approach to every move.

Let’s make your next step an ICONIC one.

Connect with Caitlin Heine

Buying, selling, or just curious about where you fit in Edmonton’s changing market?
I’m here to help you make confident, informed moves — whether that’s finding your first home, listing your property, or exploring investment opportunities in central Edmonton.

Let’s talk about your next chapter.

Caitlin Heine

REALTOR® & CEO, Iconic YEG Real Estate Team
RE/MAX Real Estate

📍 200-10835 124 Street NW, Edmonton, AB T5M 0H4
📞 587-336-3176
📧 caitlin@iconicyeg.com
🌐 iconicyeg.com

Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. As REALTORS®, our role is to help clients understand market realities, risks, and opportunities, and to connect them with qualified professionals when needed. Always consult a real estate lawyer before pursuing restrictive covenants or any legal strategy.

Edmonton’s New Housing Reality

City Council’s 2023 zoning reform changed the landscape across central Edmonton. As of January 1, 2024, most mature neighbourhoods are now zoned RS (Small Scale Residential).

That means many lots once reserved for single-detached homes can now be redeveloped as:

• Semi-detached homes

• Row houses

• Garden or secondary suites

• Multiplexes (up to 4 units)

The City’s stated goal: expand supply, support affordability, and make better use of infrastructure.

What Is a Restrictive Covenant?

A restrictive covenant is a legal condition registered on a property’s title that limits what can be built.

• Runs with the land: It binds future owners.

• Private enforcement: The City does not enforce it; neighbours must.

• Subject to court oversight: Under Alberta’s Land Titles Act (s.48(4)), courts may discharge or modify covenants that conflict with zoning or public interest.

👉 In theory, a covenant could block a multiplex. In practice, enforceability is often contested and expensive to defend.

The Carruthers Caveat – Glenora’s Historic Shield

Glenora offers a rare example: the Carruthers Caveat (1911).

• Covers 400+ homes, requiring large yards and character homes.

• Has blocked development, including secondary suites, when challenged.

• Works because of collective enforcement by neighbours.

📌 Important: Just because the Carruthers Caveat endures doesn’t mean new covenants today will be equally durable.

Crestwood and the New Wave

Inspired by Glenora, Crestwood residents are beginning to register covenants aimed at blocking multiplexes. Communities like Grovenor and McKernan are exploring similar strategies.

Neighbourhood covenants are stronger than one-off restrictions, but still face the reality of municipal policy and court oversight.

Case Law: When Courts Step In

• Howse v. Calgary (2023): Alberta Court of Appeal ruled covenants can be discharged if they conflict with zoning and the public interest in densification.

• New Casa Holdings (2021): A century-old covenant was upheld — showing that clarity and history matter.

Property Values: The Heart of the Concern

For most Edmonton homeowners, the issue isn’t just density — it’s value.

• Infill often supports values: Replacing aging stock with new homes raises the quality baseline.

• Resale demand improves: Central, walkable neighbourhoods with fresh housing options attract younger families.

• Broader buyer pool: Multiplexes and row houses make areas more accessible to more buyers.

• Restricted lots lose appeal: If a covenant bans redevelopment, developers won’t bid — reducing potential sale price.

👉 Translation: Infill done well can strengthen neighbourhood vitality and value. Restrictive covenants, by contrast, can narrow your resale market.

Lessons from Other Cities

• Minneapolis: Broad reform slowed cost growth despite few triplexes.

• Portland: Form-based zoning kept neighbourhood “character” while doubling housing choice.

• Auckland: Wide-scale rezoning produced record supply and stabilized prices.

• California: Legalizing ADUs created thousands of low-impact new homes.

• Tokyo: Permissive zoning + transit keeps supply high and prices stable.

Thought Exercises for Edmonton

• If every generation froze development, would Edmonton look the same today?

• Is “character” about the form of houses, or the people inside them?

• Should some neighbourhoods wall themselves off from affordability efforts?

• What happens if every homeowner blocks density — does the housing crisis worsen?

Key Takeaways for Edmonton Homeowners

• Restrictive covenants can stall redevelopment but are not iron-clad.

• Courts lean toward pro-density outcomes.

• Infill can enhance property values and neighbourhood renewal.

• Alternatives exist: community advocacy, design-focused input, or private sale terms like right-of-first-refusal.

Conclusion

Restrictive covenants are part of Edmonton’s housing conversation, but they’re not a silver bullet. The bigger question is how we balance neighbourhood preservation with fairness, affordability, and growth.

At Iconic YEG, our role is to help homeowners understand market impact, not just paperwork, and to connect them with the right legal and planning resources.

👉 Thinking about selling, buying, or navigating Edmonton’s new zoning rules? Let’s talk.

Contact Caitlin Heine, Iconic YEG

Some addresses in Parkview don’t come up often. 14623 89A Avenue NW is one of them: a light-filled bungalow with just over 2,000 sq. ft. of finished living space set on an 842.59 m² southwest-facing pie lot. It sits on one of Parkview’s widest, quietest streets—the kind of block where kids ride bikes safely out front and neighbours actually know each other—while the River Valley trails, top-rated schools, and the 142 Street local scene are all close by.

The Location (why this pocket of Parkview matters)

Parkview is one of west Edmonton’s most desirable communities: tree-lined streets, big lots, active community league, and instant access to the North Saskatchewan River Valley. From this address, you’re moments to F.W. Barclay Park, minutes to the trail network, and have quick connections to Downtown, the University, and Whitemud. It’s calm at home but connected the best of Edmonton’s attractions.

Inside the Home

Step inside and you’re welcomed by an open, light-forward main floor with cherry hardwood and oversized windows that stretch the view down the tree-lined street. The layout makes everyday living easy: living, dining, and kitchen that flow together; three bedrooms and a full bathroom on the main keep life on one level.

Downstairs, the fully finished basement adds nearly 1,000 sq. ft. of flexible space with a fourth bedroom and a second full bathroom—ideal as a play area that evolves into a media lounge, a guest suite, or a work-from-home zone. The home has been consistently maintained over the years (windows, roof, electrical, paint, refreshed flooring), so it feels ready for today while leaving room for your vision tomorrow.

Outdoor Living (the difference-maker)

The 842.59 m² SW-facing pie lot is the showstopper. Sun tracks across the yard all afternoon and lingers over the slate stone patio. Mature trees frame green views from almost every window. And yes—the custom treehouse (with slide and secret hatches) makes the backyard as memorable as it is functional. Whether you garden, host, or just want room to breathe, this yard delivers.

Quick Facts

• Price: $649,900

• Size: 1,144 sq. ft. above grade + 996 sq. ft. finished basement (≈2,140 sq. ft. total)

• Bedrooms/Baths: 3 + 1 / 2 full

• Lot: 842.59 m², southwest-facing pie shape

• Street: wide, quiet, low traffic

• Highlights: cherry hardwood, abundant windows, open main floor, hot-tub wiring, treehouse, single garage with loft storage + additional covered parking

Schools (nearby options families ask about)

• Parkview School (K–9) — Fraser Institute 5.2

• St. Rose Catholic Junior High (7–9)

• St. Paul Catholic Elementary (K–6) — Fraser Institute 7.3

• Crestwood Junior High (7–9) — Fraser Institute 7.1

• Ross Sheppard High School (10–12) — designated senior high for Parkview
  (Scores noted for quick reference; families should confirm current programs and boundaries.)

Local Restaurants & Shops (142 Street + area)

Make a night of it, or keep it local on weekends—these are nearby and beloved:

• Happy & Olive — curated goods and gifts; perfect for staging touches or housewarming finds.

• LOCA (142 Street) — neighbourhood café/market vibe; coffee + community.

• Pyro Grill (142 Street) — easy, flavourful go-to for a weeknight bite.

• Little Wolf Restaurant — intimate dinner spot when you’re not hosting on the patio.

• Cork & Barley — bottleshop/bar for a great pour or a take-home pairing.

Why this listing stands out (and why timing matters)

Parkview bungalows with big, sunny pie lots rarely come to market—especially on quiet, bike-friendly streets. Priced at $649,900, 14623 89A Avenue NW is positioned right where family buyers are actively searching this fall. The combination of lot, light, layout, and location is exactly what drives strong interest (and strong offers) in this neighbourhood.

Launch Details & How to See It

• Live Thursday, October 2, 2025

• Showings start Friday (by appointment)

• Open House: Saturday 1:00PM - 3PM

Full gallery, floor plans, and details:
Property Details

Questions or want early access?
Caitlin Heine — Iconic YEG Real Estate Team, RE/MAX Real Estate
📱 587-336-3176 | ✉️ caitlin@iconicyeg.com

When you think of buying or selling a home, the first thing that comes to mind might be contracts, listings, or keys changing hands. But real estate is so much more than the transaction. It’s the movers who carry your memories, the mortgage broker who helps you secure your future, and the lawyer who protects your investment.

As someone who has guided hundreds of clients through Edmonton’s real estate market, I know firsthand how important these partners are. The professionals you choose shape your experience — they can make the process seamless or stressful. That’s why, at Iconic YEG, we don’t just connect you to homes. We connect you to people you can trust.

And when we make those recommendations, we choose to lift up women-owned businesses.

Why Women-Owned Matters

Supporting women-owned businesses isn’t a box to check — it’s a conscious decision to invest in entrepreneurs who bring resilience, empathy, and accountability to their work.

Women in business often face barriers their male counterparts don’t: access to financing, representation in leadership, and visibility in competitive industries. By choosing women-owned companies, you’re helping level the playing field while also gaining service providers who are often community-driven, relationship-focused, and deeply invested in client care.

For me, it’s also personal. As the Owner of Iconic YEG, I know what it takes to build a business as a woman. Every recommendation on this list comes from experience, trust, and the shared belief that we can succeed by lifting each other up.

Our Recommended Women-Owned Businesses in Edmonton Real Estate

Here’s a closer look at some of the incredible women-led businesses we trust and recommend:

Real Estate Lawyers

• Tiffen Law – Clear, approachable, and thorough with contracts.

• Local Legal – Known for simplifying the legal process and empowering clients.

• Accord Law – Specialists in family and property law with a personal touch.

• Homestead Law – A go-to for first-time homebuyers.

• Lypkie Henderson – Experts in residential and commercial property law.

Mortgage Brokers

• Dallas Sleeman – Deep knowledge of Alberta’s lending landscape.

• Olga Klimko – Patient and skilled at guiding first-time buyers.

• Lucy Arruda – Negotiates terms with persistence and care.

• Jamie Ushko – Transparent, educational, and client-focused.

Home Inspectors

• Jules Bullock, CPI, A Buyers Choice – Providing detailed, trustworthy reports that help you make informed decisions.

• Kim Roy, Parkland Home Inspections – Certified Professional Inspector® and certified by the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors®

• Judy Schueler, A Buyers Choice – Fort Saskatchewan/Sherwood Park and surrounding areas

Designers, Planners & Stagers

• Kresswell Interiors – Elevates spaces with creativity and market insight.

• Do Up Design – Makes homes shine for potential buyers.

Contractors & Trades

• Yes She Can Plumbing – Powered by strong knowledgable woman who specialize in residential and commercial plumbing and gasfitting. 

• Venus Electrical – Master Electrician with 35 years of experience.  

SEE FULL LIST

Why This List is Different

Anyone can throw together a list of service providers. This one is different. Every business listed here is women-owned, Edmonton-based, and personally trusted by me and my team. These are not just names on a page — they are professionals who have consistently proven their value, integrity, and commitment to excellence.

Growing the Network: A Call to Women-Owned Businesses

This list is only the beginning. Edmonton is filled with brilliant women leading businesses across every corner of the real estate industry, and I want to make sure we shine a light on them.

If you are a woman-owned business in Edmonton — whether you’re in moving, staging, trades, insurance, cleaning, or any service that supports the real estate journey — I want to hear from you.

Contact Me

Together, we can grow this network, support each other, and give clients the confidence of choosing services that not only excel, but also stand for something greater.

A heartfelt thank you to Jai Tanninen for allowing us to feature his incredible artwork in this Iconic Downtown Edmonton Loft. His creativity and vision bring an extra layer of depth and authenticity to the space — transforming it from a home into a gallery that tells a story.

We’re grateful to showcase not only one of Edmonton’s rare historic lofts, but also the powerful work of a local artist whose pieces inspire, challenge, and reflect the creative spirit of our city.

Dive deeper into Jai’s evolving visual language and studio journey at his online gallery

About Jai Tanninen

Jai Tanninen has always known he wanted to be an artist. Growing up on Lake Simcoe in Barrie, Ontario, he spent his childhood sketching and refining his style before pursuing his BFA at Georgian College. After time in Vancouver, he moved to Edmonton, where he committed to building his art career, and dedicating more time to his studio practice.

Every painting carries layers of identity, pop culture, and introspection. Featured throughout this loft, Jai’s work brings colour, depth, and storytelling to exposed brick walls—making the space feel like your own gallery.

Many of his paintings include subjects viewing art within the painting itself, blurring the line between viewer and artwork, and allowing him to play with multiple styles in a single piece. His style is deliberately varied: part realism, part abstract, part pop art — a refusal to be pinned down.

Dive deeper into Jai’s evolving visual language and studio journey at his online gallery

Available to You
Every piece shown in this loft is on the market. Buy the loft—and the art—and create a home layered with Edmonton’s vibrant creative culture.

✨ Own the loft. Own the art. Own the lifestyle.

When you walk through the doors of Seventh Street Lofts, you don’t just enter a condo building — you step into Edmonton’s history. Originally built in 1929 as the John Deere Warehouse, this striking brick and beam landmark has been reimagined by DUB Architects into one of the city’s most coveted addresses for artists, musicians, entrepreneurs, and urban explorers.

And in a city filled with cookie-cutter condos, it’s worth knowing: there are only about 200 true historic lofts across Edmonton. Living here isn’t just about owning real estate — it’s about joining a rare community of people who value authenticity, creativity, and character.

Inside the Loft: 945 SQFT of Creative Freedom

Unit #208 isn’t your typical one-bedroom. It’s a 945 SQFT top-floor corner loft with an energy all its own.

You’re greeted by exposed brick walls, soaring 13 ft wood-beam ceilings, and oversized south- and east-facing windows that flood the space with sunlight. Morning light spills across concrete floors and highlights textures of brick and fir beams, setting the stage for inspiration.

The open-concept design makes this loft incredibly versatile. Whether you’re a musician with a grand piano, an artist who needs studio space, or someone who just loves big, airy living rooms filled with plants — this unit adapts to your life, not the other way around.

• The kitchen is modern and practical, with stainless steel appliances and an island perfect for wine nights or slow Sunday brunches.

• The bedroom is private and cozy, anchored by a massive wardrobe system that feels more boutique than apartment.

• The bathroom has been fully renovated — sleek, modern, and spa-like.

• The brand new A/C ensures that even in the peak of summer, your loft and everything inside it stays cool.

This isn’t just a condo. It’s a canvas.

Building Vibes: Seventh Street Lofts Community

Living in Seventh Street Lofts means surrounding yourself with people who choose character over convention. The building itself exudes industrial chic, from its warehouse heritage to its modern upgrades. Residents here tend to be:

• Artists & musicians, who love the natural light and raw finishes.

• Entrepreneurs & creatives, drawn to the building’s unique identity.

• Design lovers, who crave something more authentic than drywall boxes.

It’s a building where neighbuors appreciate individuality, pets are welcome, and short-term rentals (Airbnb) are allowed — giving you flexibility in how you live and invest.

The Neighborhood: Downtown Edmonton’s Creative Core

Step outside, and you’re right in the heart of Downtown Edmonton. Life here is about energy, culture, and convenience:

• MacEwan University is just steps away, keeping the neighborhood young and vibrant.

• The Ice District with Rogers Place, concerts, and Oilers games is around the corner.

• The Downtown Farmers Market is an easy stroll — fresh food, local vendors, and weekend energy.

• Cafés, craft breweries, live music venues, and galleries are all within walking distance.

• Soon, a new LRT station will connect you directly to the University of Alberta and the river valley.

Living here means you don’t just go out — you’re already in the middle of it all.

Bonus: Live With Local Art

Right now, the loft is staged with the work of local artist Jai Tanninen — bold, thought-provoking pieces that play perfectly against the raw textures of brick and concrete. Even better? The art is for sale.

Imagine moving in and curating your loft with Edmonton’s own creative voice — owning not just a home, but a lifestyle layered in history and artistry.

Why This Loft is Different

• Rare: Only ~200 true historic lofts in Edmonton.

• Spacious: 945 SQFT top-floor corner unit.

• Character: Brick, beams, and ceilings you can’t replicate.

• Flexible: Pet-friendly, Airbnb-friendly, and designed to adapt.

• Connected: Walkable downtown location with future LRT access.

Loft Life is Lifestyle

Living in Seventh Street Lofts isn’t about ticking boxes — it’s about waking up in a space that inspires you every single day. It’s about light pouring in on your morning coffee, about nights hosting friends in a home that feels like a gallery, and about being part of one of Edmonton’s most authentic creative communities.

This isn’t just a home. It’s a way of life.

📞 Contact Caitlin Heine – Iconic YEG Real Estate Team
📲 587-336-3176
🌐 www.iconicyeg.com