The Russell Rundown

There’s something special about slowing down, enjoying a warm cup of tea, and catching up with the people you love. Whether you’re planning a girls’ afternoon out, celebrating a special occasion, meeting a friend for a long-overdue chat, or simply looking for an excuse to treat yourself, afternoon tea is always a lovely idea!

And here in Calgary, we have some wonderful spots where delicious treats, beautiful surroundings, and a little time to relax come together.

So, if you’re ready to put the kettle on and step away from the everyday hustle, here are a few Calgary tea houses and cafés worth adding to your list!

🫖 Calgary Tea Houses to Check Out

1. Deane House

Looking for somewhere with a little history and charm? Deane House offers a beautiful setting in Calgary’s historic Inglewood neighbourhood. With its heritage character and inviting atmosphere, it’s a lovely place to consider for a special meal or a leisurely outing. Check ahead for current afternoon tea offerings and availability.

2. Hawthorn at the Fairmont Palliser

If you’re in the mood for something a little elegant, Hawthorn at the Fairmont Palliser is worth a look. The historic hotel provides a beautiful backdrop for a special afternoon, whether you’re celebrating a birthday, planning a date, or simply looking for an excuse to dress up a little and enjoy a treat.

It’s the kind of setting that can turn an ordinary afternoon into something memorable.

3. Hutch Cafe

Sometimes, you just want a cozy café where you can settle in, enjoy something delicious, and lose track of time while chatting with a friend. Hutch Cafe is one to add to your Calgary café list if you’re looking for a relaxed outing and a little break from the usual routine.

4. Lougheed House

History, beautiful architecture, and a touch of old-world charm make Lougheed House a lovely place to explore. This historic Calgary landmark is worth keeping in mind when planning a special outing, particularly if you enjoy combining a little local history with a delicious treat.

Check its current event calendar for tea experiences and special offerings before you go.

5. Nove Nine Diner

Who says an afternoon out always has to be formal? If you enjoy discovering local spots with their own personality, Nove Nine Diner is another name to explore. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best outings are simply about good food, good company, and taking a little time for yourself.

Be sure to check the current menu and offerings when planning your visit.

6. Reader's Garden Cafe

Book lovers, this one might be right up your alley! Reader's Garden Cafe is a name to look into if you love the idea of pairing a relaxing café visit with a little literary charm. Imagine enjoying a warm drink, catching up with a friend, and giving yourself permission to slow down for an hour or two.

It sounds like a pretty lovely way to spend an afternoon!

Up for a Little Day Trip? Head to Nanton!

If you’re willing to venture a little outside Calgary, why not make a day of it?

TeaZehri in Nanton, Alberta, is another tea house worth checking out. A little road trip, a change of scenery, and a chance to enjoy a cozy tea experience? Sounds like a pretty wonderful combination to me!

Nanton makes for a fun small-town outing, so you could even turn your tea date into a full day of exploring local shops and enjoying a slower pace.

Just be sure to check current hours and offerings before heading out.

Make Time for the Little Things

Life gets busy. Between work, family, errands, and everything else competing for our attention, it’s easy to put off those little outings we keep saying we should plan.

But sometimes, the best memories come from the simplest things: a pot of tea, a delicious slice of cake, and a conversation that lasts longer than you planned.

You don’t need a birthday or a special occasion to make time for a friend. You don’t need a reason to treat yourself. And you certainly don’t need to wait for life to slow down before enjoying a little moment of happiness.

So, consider this your friendly reminder to pick a date, invite someone along, and plan that afternoon tea you’ve been talking about!

Now, I want to hear from you! 🫖

Have you visited any of these Calgary tea spots? Or do you have a favourite afternoon tea destination that I’ve missed?

Share your recommendations in the comments. I’m always up for discovering another lovely local spot!

Happy sipping!

The excitement of a brand-new home is wonderful, but what about the neighbourhood around it?

There is something exciting about buying a brand-new home. Fresh paint, modern finishes, choosing your colours, and knowing nobody else has lived there before. For many buyers, especially young couples and growing families, a new home represents the beginning of an exciting chapter.

But before you fall in love with the floor plan, the kitchen island, or the beautiful community map showing all the amenities coming soon, there is something worth thinking about.

What happens when your home is ready, but your community isn't?

Our Evanston Story: We Learned This Firsthand

When Carl and I bought our very first home together in Evanston, we were newly married and excited to build our future in Calgary's growing northwest. Like many buyers looking at new communities, we were shown maps illustrating the future neighbourhood, including where schools and other amenities would eventually be built.

We bought in, settled in, and raised both of our children there. We lived in that home for 12 years!

Over those years, we watched Evanston grow and develop into a wonderful community. But we also experienced firsthand how long it can take for the promised amenities to become reality.

One example really stands out: the school.

When we were shopping for our first home, we were shown on the community map where the school would be. As young parents planning our future, that mattered to us. We pictured our children attending a neighbourhood school close to home.

Fast-forward 12 years. As we were preparing to move, construction on that school had only just begun.

And here's the part that really sticks with me: by the time the school opened, it was designed for Kindergarten to Grade 4, and our daughter had already finished Grade 4. She had essentially outgrown the school before she ever had the opportunity to walk through its doors!

The school wasn't necessarily a broken promise. It was a reminder that the timeline for building a community doesn't always match the timeline of a family's life.

The Amenity Gap: Why Does It Take So Long?

I recently read an article by Cailynn Klingbeil, published July 20, 2026, about what is being called the amenity gap in some of Calgary's newer neighbourhoods.

The article highlights an important reality: homes can be occupied for years before the surrounding community has everything residents need.

Developers build homes, roads, pathways, and certain parks, but other amenities depend on different organizations, budgets, population growth, and business decisions.

Think about everything that makes a neighbourhood feel complete:

• Schools: Families may move in long before a school is built and ready to welcome students.

• Shopping and groceries: Retail businesses need enough customers to make opening a location financially viable.

• Recreation centres and libraries: These larger facilities often depend on municipal planning, funding, and construction timelines.

• Transit: Routes and services may evolve as communities grow.

• Restaurants, coffee shops, and daycares: These businesses often arrive when the population can support them.

The article also highlights communities such as Rangeview in southeast Calgary, where the developer has worked to introduce distinctive amenities early, including community greenhouses, pollinator gardens, and gathering spaces.

It demonstrates that not every new community develops in the same way. Some amenities arrive early, while others take considerably longer.

And that's exactly why it's important to look beyond the marketing materials.

A Beautiful Map Is a Vision, Not a Guarantee of Timing

When you're buying in a new community, those maps and renderings can be exciting. You can picture walking to the coffee shop, taking your children to the neighbourhood school, or enjoying a nearby recreation centre.

But it's important to ask a few questions before making your decision.

What is already there? Visit the community at different times of day. Look at the actual surroundings, not just the show home.

What's planned, approved, or funded? These are different stages of development. An amenity shown on a map doesn't necessarily mean construction is imminent.

What are the realistic timelines? Ask about anticipated completion dates, but remember that plans can change.

How will your family manage in the meantime? If you have school-aged children, consider where they may attend school now, how far you'll need to travel for groceries, and whether you'll depend on a vehicle for most daily activities.

Does the community suit your life today? Future amenities can add value and convenience, but you need to be comfortable living there while you wait.

This doesn't mean you shouldn't buy in a new community. Evanston eventually developed into a neighbourhood with schools, shopping, restaurants, parks, and many of the amenities families want.

It simply means you should understand what you're buying into.

Don't Forget Your Realtor When Buying a Brand-New Home!

Here's another important point that buyers sometimes overlook: you can have a Realtor in your corner when purchasing a brand-new home, too.

You don't have to navigate the new-build process alone.

The builder's sales representative can be friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. However, their role is to represent the builder's interests, not yours.

Having your own Realtor involved from the beginning can give you someone to help you ask questions, understand the process, review the details, and identify things you may not have considered. We can help you look beyond the finishes and explore the bigger picture, including the location, the surrounding community, and the available information about future development.

And if something doesn't go smoothly, having someone in your corner to help you understand your options and work through the next steps can make a real difference.

The important part? Bring us in on Day 1.

Before you visit the builder's show home or register with a builder, let us know you're thinking about buying new. Builder policies and representation requirements can vary, and waiting until later may limit your options for having your own Realtor involved.

Carl and I want to help you make informed decisions, whether you're buying an established home or building something brand-new.

Thinking New? Let's Think It Through Together.

Buying a new home is exciting, and there are wonderful opportunities in Calgary's growing communities. But the right home is about more than countertops, square footage, and a beautiful floor plan.

It's also about the neighbourhood, the amenities, the commute, the schools, and how everything fits into your family's plans.

Our experience in Evanston taught us that communities take time to grow. The key is understanding that timeline before you buy.

So, if you're thinking about buying a brand-new home, let's talk before you start visiting show homes.

Don't forget to bring us along from Day 1. We'd love to have your back!

Because buying a home isn't just about the house. It's about the life you'll build around it.

Gwen & Carl Russell
Russell Realty with CIR Realty
Calgary & surrounding areas

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Looking for a little more space just outside Calgary? Cochrane continues to be a community worth watching!

As we look at the Cochrane real estate market, we're seeing signs of resilience. While home sales have eased slightly, inventory remains relatively tight, helping support stable home values.

For buyers, that stability is encouraging. Cochrane offers the opportunity to enjoy a smaller-town atmosphere while remaining within commuting distance of Calgary. With its beautiful mountain views, growing amenities, parks, pathways, and welcoming community feel, it's easy to see why so many people are drawn to the area.

What Does This Mean for Buyers?

If Cochrane is on your home search list, it's worth paying attention to what's happening in the market. Relatively limited inventory can mean fewer choices in certain price ranges or property types, so understanding your options is important.

The good news? Taking the time to compare properties, review recent sales, and understand local pricing can help you make a confident decision. The right home isn't necessarily the newest listing or the one with the lowest asking price. It's the one that fits your needs, lifestyle, and budget.

What About Sellers?

Stable home values can be encouraging for homeowners considering a move. However, that doesn't mean every property will sell at the same price or within the same timeframe.

Pricing still matters! Buyers are comparing available homes, property condition, location, and value before making a decision. Understanding what similar homes have actually sold for — not just what other sellers are asking — is key to developing a successful pricing strategy.

Keeping an Eye on Cochrane

Cochrane continues to be an attractive option for buyers looking beyond Calgary, particularly for those hoping to balance lifestyle, space, and value.

As always, real estate is local. Market conditions can vary depending on the neighbourhood, property type, and price range, so the overall numbers only tell part of the story.

Thinking about buying or selling in Cochrane? Carl and I would be happy to help you understand what's happening in the market and how it relates to your plans. No pressure — just honest conversations, helpful information, and a little guidance whenever you need it.

Because real estate is about more than buying or selling a house. It's about finding the right fit for you!

Gwen & Carl Russell | Russell Realty with CIR Realty
Calgary & Surrounding Areas

If you've been thinking about buying a home in Calgary, but affordability has been holding you back, row housing may be worth a closer look!

The Calgary real estate market has been shifting, and buyers shopping for row homes have more options than they've had in recent years. With inventory levels remaining elevated, buyers are gaining something that can make a real difference in the home-buying process: choice, time, and more room to negotiate.

So, what does that mean if you're considering a row home? Let's take a closer look.

More Homes to Choose From

One of the biggest advantages of the current market is the increased selection available to buyers.

When inventory is tight, buyers often find themselves competing for the same properties, making quick decisions and sometimes feeling pressured to offer more than they originally planned. In a market with more homes available, the experience can look quite different.

You may have more opportunities to compare properties, explore different neighbourhoods, and decide which home best suits your needs.

Whether you're looking for an extra bedroom, a functional layout, outdoor space, or a location that keeps you close to work, schools, and amenities, having more options makes it easier to focus on what matters most to you.

And let's be honest — buying a home is a big decision. Having time to think things through can make the experience feel a whole lot less stressful!

What Does a Balanced Market Mean for Buyers?

With row home inventory sitting above long-term averages, market conditions have become more balanced than they were during the competitive seller's market of recent years.

For buyers, that can create opportunities.

Sellers may need to be more realistic about pricing, and buyers may have greater flexibility when negotiating price, conditions, possession dates, or other terms of an offer.

Of course, every property is different. A well-priced home in a desirable location can still attract strong interest, while another property may sit on the market longer.

That's why looking beyond the asking price is so important. Recent comparable sales, competing listings, property condition, and days on market can all help you understand whether a home represents good value.

Our approach is to look at the numbers, understand the competition, and help you make an informed decision — not simply rush into a purchase because a property looks appealing online.

An Attractive Entry Point Into Homeownership

Row homes continue to offer an appealing option for buyers who want more space than a typical apartment may provide without taking on the cost of a detached home.

Depending on the property, you may find multiple bedrooms, additional living space, a private outdoor area, and practical features that work well for everyday life.

Row housing can be a great fit for first-time buyers, young families, couples looking to move up from a condo, or anyone hoping to find a home that balances affordability with functionality.

However, affordability isn't just about the purchase price. It's also important to consider condo or homeowners association fees, property taxes, insurance, utilities, maintenance costs, and the condition of the property.

Taking the time to understand the full picture can help you choose a home that works for your budget today and your goals for the future.

Is Now a Good Time to Buy?

There isn't one perfect time to buy a home. The right time depends on your finances, lifestyle, plans, and comfort level.

However, a market with more selection and greater negotiating opportunities can be an excellent time to explore what's available, especially if you've been waiting for the market to become less competitive.

You don't need to have everything figured out before starting the conversation. Sometimes, the first step is simply understanding what your budget can buy, which neighbourhoods might suit you, and what to look for when comparing properties.

That's where having the right support can make a difference.

Let's Find the Right Fit for You

At Russell Realty with CIR Realty, we believe buying a home should be about more than finding a property. It's about finding the right fit for your lifestyle, your priorities, and your future.

Carl and I would love the opportunity to walk alongside you on your home-buying journey. Whether you're just starting to explore your options or you're ready to get serious, we're here to answer your questions, help you understand the market, and guide you through the process.

More choice means more opportunity — and your next home might be closer than you think!

Reach out anytime. We'd love to chat about what you're looking for and help you take the next step when you're ready.

If you've been keeping an eye on the Calgary real estate market, you've probably noticed that things are changing. After several years of strong demand and competitive conditions, Calgary is moving toward a more balanced market in 2026.

But here's something important to understand: Calgary doesn't have just one real estate market anymore.

The opportunities available to you can look very different depending on whether you're buying or selling a detached home, a townhouse, or a condo apartment. Your neighbourhood, price range, and property type all play an important role in determining what's happening in your corner of the market.

Let's take a closer look at what this means for Calgary buyers and sellers as we reach the halfway point of 2026.

Condo Buyers Are Seeing More Opportunities

One of the biggest changes this year has been in Calgary's apartment condominium market.

Increased inventory and softer prices have created more options for buyers who may have felt priced out or overwhelmed by competition in previous years.

According to the Calgary Real Estate Board's June 2026 housing report, apartment-style homes were experiencing buyer's-market conditions, with nearly five months of supply. The apartment benchmark price was approximately $299,000, down nearly 9% compared with June 2025.

For buyers, this can mean more time to consider your options, compare properties, review condo documents, and negotiate terms that work for you.

Perhaps you're a first-time buyer looking to get into the market. Maybe you're considering downsizing from a larger family home, or you're looking for a property that better suits your current lifestyle.

Whatever your situation, the increased selection may create opportunities worth exploring.

Of course, buying a condo involves more than just the purchase price. Condo fees, reserve fund health, upcoming building repairs, bylaws, and the overall financial stability of the condominium corporation should all be part of your decision.

More choice is a good starting point, but buying the right property is what matters most.

Detached Homes Are Telling a Different Story

While apartment buyers are seeing more choice, Calgary's detached home market has remained relatively stable by comparison.

The June 2026 benchmark price for detached homes was approximately $750,500, about 1% below the same time last year. Overall conditions remained relatively balanced, although some communities continued to experience tighter supply than others.

For sellers, this means there may still be solid opportunities to sell, particularly when your home is well presented and priced appropriately for its specific market.

However, buyers are paying attention to value. They have access to more information, are comparing their options carefully, and may be less willing to stretch their budgets without a compelling reason.

For buyers searching for a detached home, the experience will depend heavily on location, price range, condition, and competition. Some homes may attract strong interest, while others may offer room for negotiation.

This is why looking at Calgary's overall average or benchmark price only tells part of the story.

A detached home in one community can be experiencing very different market conditions from a similar property across the city.

What About Townhomes and Row Homes?

Townhomes and row homes sit somewhere between the detached and apartment markets, and they're worth watching closely.

These properties can appeal to first-time buyers, growing families, and people who want more space without the cost of a detached home.

In June, Calgary's row-home market had nearly three and a half months of supply, with inventory levels remaining above long-term trends. The benchmark price was approximately $422,900, down around 7% from June 2025.

For buyers, additional selection can mean more opportunities to compare layouts, locations, features, and monthly ownership costs.

For sellers, competition matters. Buyers may be comparing your property not only with other resale townhomes but also with newly built homes offering different incentives, finishes, or possession timelines.

Understanding what makes your particular property stand out is an important part of developing the right pricing and marketing strategy.

What Does a More Balanced Market Mean for You?

A more balanced market doesn't mean that buying or selling is suddenly easy. It means the relationship between supply and demand is changing, and both buyers and sellers need to adjust their expectations.

If you're buying, you may have more time to explore your options, ask questions, include appropriate conditions, and negotiate where the market supports it. The key is understanding when you have room to negotiate and when a desirable property may still attract competition.

If you're selling, preparation and pricing are especially important. Buyers are comparing properties carefully, so presentation, marketing, and a realistic understanding of competing listings can make a meaningful difference.

If you're thinking about downsizing, this changing market may be an opportunity to explore what your current home could sell for and what your next home might cost. Looking at both sides of the move together can help you make a more informed decision.

And if you're simply curious about your home's current value, understanding the market now can help you plan for the future, even if moving isn't on your radar.

Why Local Real Estate Knowledge Matters More Than Ever

One of the biggest takeaways from the first half of 2026 is that broad market headlines don't tell the whole story.

Your neighbourhood, property type, price range, condition, and competition all influence what buyers are willing to pay and how long a home may take to sell.

That's why we believe real estate should always begin with a conversation, not a sales pitch.

At Russell Realty with CIR Realty, We believe in helping people understand their options, look at the numbers, and make decisions that fit their lives. Whether you're planning a move soon or simply keeping an eye on the market, we're happy to help you make sense of what's happening.

Because real estate isn't just about buying and selling houses. It's about finding the right fit for the next chapter of your life.

Thinking about buying, selling, or wondering what your home might be worth in today's Calgary market?

Reach out anytime. We'd love to chat, answer your questions, and help you understand what's happening in your neighbourhood.

Carl & Gwen Russell | Russell Realty with CIR Realty

Calgary & surrounding areas

Market note: This article reflects information available around July 13, 2026, using the Calgary Real Estate Board's June 2026 market report. Market conditions and prices vary by community and property type and may have changed since publication.

It was a LOLO gift redemption day, and you know what that means… FREE TREATS! 

Who doesn’t love a little something sweet to brighten their day? Especially when it gives you an excuse to get out, support a local business, and enjoy a treat with the people you love.

This time, I got to enjoy a morning out with both Jocelyn and Curtis. ❤️ A little family time, a little treat time, and a reminder that sometimes it’s the simple things that make a day extra special.

What Is LOLO?

Through CIR Realty, our clients can enjoy LOLO — Locals Supporting Locals! It’s a fun way to give back to the communities we call home while showing some love to the amazing local businesses that make Calgary and the surrounding areas so special.

Here’s how it works: each month, registered clients get the opportunity to redeem a FREE treat from a different local business! 🥐☕🍪

It’s a win-win! You get to enjoy a little surprise, discover local businesses, and support the wonderful entrepreneurs who help make our communities unique.

The LOLO gifting zones are split into three areas: 

📍 North Calgary

📍 South Calgary

📍 Cochrane

This means there are designated gifting zones to help connect clients with participating local businesses in their area.

One of my favourite things about being a Realtor is that it’s about so much more than buying and selling houses. It’s about relationships, community, and finding ways to stay connected long after the paperwork is signed.

LOLO is one of those little extras that makes staying connected fun — and who says we can’t enjoy a free pastry along the way?

Want In on the Fun?

If you’re a Russell Realty client and would like to be part of LOLO, send me a message and I’ll help get you signed up! ❤️

Because supporting local doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes it starts with a coffee, a pastry, and a little love for the businesses right here in our own backyard.

Russell Realty with CIR Realty — Locals Supporting Locals.

And now, if you’ll excuse me, I think a free-pastry morning might need to become a regular family tradition!

Discover Calgary in a Whole New Way: Enter to Win an Amazing Calgary Staycation!

When was the last time you took the opportunity to be a tourist in your own city? 

Sometimes, we get so caught up in our everyday routines that we forget to explore the incredible places right in our own backyard. We drive the same roads, visit the same favourite spots, and go about our busy lives without stopping to appreciate everything our city has to offer.

Well, what if you had the perfect excuse to change that?

Enter for your chance to win an AMAZING Calgary experience!

Imagine taking in Calgary from a whole new perspective, discovering something new about the city you call home, and then ending the day with a little luxury at one of Calgary’s most beautiful and historic hotels!

This exciting giveaway includes:

A Calgary tour from a whole new perspective — an opportunity to see the city in a different light and perhaps discover something you haven't experienced before.

A stay at the beautiful Fairmont Palliser — enjoy a little elegance, relaxation, and a memorable overnight escape right in the heart of downtown Calgary.

The ultimate Calgary staycation — no long road trip, no airport lines, and no need to leave the city to enjoy something special!

Why not fall in love with Calgary all over again?

Calgary has so much to offer, from its beautiful skyline and vibrant downtown to its unique local attractions, amazing restaurants, and the little hidden gems we sometimes overlook.

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a special night away with someone you love, or simply an opportunity to slow down and enjoy something different, this could be just the experience you need.

You don't always have to travel far to make wonderful memories. Sometimes, the best adventures are waiting right where you are!

And let's be honest… a little luxury at the Fairmont Palliser sounds pretty wonderful, too! 🥂✨

Ready to enter? enter here

Don't miss your chance to win this incredible Calgary experience!

Enter the contest today for your opportunity to enjoy a Calgary adventure, a beautiful hotel stay, and a little time to relax and appreciate our amazing city.

Enter today, cross your fingers, and good luck to everyone! 🤞

Who would you take along for this Calgary staycation? Tag your adventure partner in the comments below! ❤️

Please refer to the official contest details for entry instructions, eligibility, and contest dates.