CREBTalk RSS Feed

Hail resilience: Helping clients make informed homebuying decisions

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 09:29:00 -0600

As Calgary continues to experience more frequent and severe weather events, hail is becoming an increasingly important consideration for homeowners.

The City of Calgary reported that hailstorms caused approximately $3.3 billion in damage to private residential properties in Calgary between 2020 and 2025 alone.

Read the City’s Understanding hail risk and home resilience in Calgary briefing.

While location is one factor, a home's resilience often comes down to the materials and features that help protect it from severe weather. As trusted advisors, REALTORS^® can help buyers understand the materials and features that may help a home stand up against severe weather conditions.

Understanding hail risk

Calgary sits within one of Canada's most hail-prone regions, with the highest risk typically occurring between June and September. The amount of damage a property experiences can vary depending on factors such as:

• the storm's path and intensity
• roofing and siding materials
• window construction
• surrounding trees and landscape
• the age and condition of exterior finishes

Helping clients understand these factors can lead to more informed purchasing decisions and fewer unexpected costs after possession.

Looking beyond curb appeal

When comparing homes, buyers often focus on layout, finishes and location. Encouraging them to also consider a home's durability can provide a new perspective based on the property's long-term value.

Features that may improve a home's resilience include:

• impact-resistant roofing materials
• durable siding
• protective window features
• well-maintained exterior finishes

These features may help reduce repair costs, extend the life of building materials and better protect a home's value over time.

Insurance is part of the conversation

Insurance coverage is also evolving as weather-related claims increase. According to The City of Calgary, home insurance premiums and deductibles have continued to rise, and some insurers have reduced or limited hail coverage in certain areas.

While REALTORS^® should avoid providing insurance advice, encouraging buyers to speak with their insurer before purchasing can help them better understand:

• what hail damage is covered
• whether roof replacement is based on replacement cost or depreciation
• coverage limits and deductibles
• whether temporary living expenses are included if the home becomes uninhabitable
• whether discounts are available for impact-resistant building materials

Having these conversations early can help clients avoid surprises after they move in.

Helping clients prepare for homeownership

Buying a home in Calgary means understanding the realities of living in a city where hail is a recurring risk. By encouraging buyers to consider roofing, siding, windows, gutters and insurance coverage alongside price and aesthetics, REALTORS^® can help their clients to make more informed decisions and better prepare for the long-term costs of homeownership.

For additional information and homeowner resources, visit The City of Calgary's Hail and High Winds webpage.

Registration now open: 2026 CREB® Annual Golf Tournament presented by Logel Homes

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 09:07:00 -0600

It's time to tee up for one of CREB^®'s favourite summer traditions! Join fellow REALTORS^®, brokers and industry partners on Tuesday, Aug. 25 at Blue Devil Golf Club for a day of golf, networking, contests and friendly competition.

Whether you're putting together a brokerage foursome or registering on your own, golfers of all skill levels are welcome. Individual registrants will be placed on a team.

Register by July 24 at 11:59 p.m. to take advantage of early bird pricing:

• Individual registration: $189 ($200 after July 24)
• Team registration (foursome): $720 ($765 after July 24)

Your registration includes breakfast, lunch, interactive sponsor-hosted holes, contests, prizes, networking opportunities and fundraising activities supporting the CREB^® REALTOR^® Community Foundation!

With this event expected to sell out, register early to secure your spot.

From showings to offers: Understanding your obligation to buyers

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 08:57:00 -0600

For many buyers, showings are where critical decisions begin to take shape—what they love, what they question and what risks they may not yet recognize.

It is also where a real estate agent's expertise can be especially valuable. When a real estate agent only becomes involved at the offer stage, can they still provide competent service and fulfill their fiduciary obligations to their client?

To answer that question, let's consider the expectations set out in the REALTOR^® Code, the Real Estate Act Rules, and the CREB^® Rules.

REALTOR^®Code Article 12, Skilled and Conscientious Service: A REALTOR^® shall render a skilled and conscientious service, in conformity with standards of competence which are reasonably expected in the specific real estate disciplines in which the REALTOR^® engages. When a REALTOR^® is unable to render such service, either alone or with the aid of other professionals, the REALTOR^® shall not accept the assignment or otherwise provide assistance in connection with the transaction.

Writing an offer without having seen the property raises critical questions:

• How can a real estate agent accurately advise on pricing strategy or assess property value without seeing it?

• How can they identify potential risks, deficiencies or red flags?
• How can they tailor conditions, such as financing or home inspection, to the specific property?

Without firsthand knowledge of the property, or a reliable and thorough understanding of it before helping buyers prepare an offer, the service may be unable to meet the standard of care set out in the REALTOR^® Code.

The Real Estate Act Rules, Part 2, Division 1, Section 41(b) and (d) states:

Licensees must:

(b) provide competent service;

(d) fulfill their fiduciary obligations to their clients

Providing competent service and acting in the client's best interests requires more than facilitating paperwork. It requires informed advice and appropriate due diligence.

When a real estate agent has limited or no knowledge of a property, it becomes difficult to demonstrate that these obligations have been met.

CREB^®Rule Part II, Section 4.03 states: Excluding show homes or open houses, Members shall not suggest to a Buyer that they view properties with other Members with the intention or instruction to the Buyer to return to the first Brokerage Representative to write an offer on a subject property.

CREB^® Rule Part II, Section 4.03 supports the expectations set out in the REALTOR^® Code and the Real Estate Act Rules by reinforcing the importance of continuity in buyer representation. Members who remain actively involved throughout the buying process are better equipped to provide informed advice and meet the standard of care expected of them.

Ultimately, competent representation begins long before an offer is written. Showings are more than an opportunity to view a property—they are an important part of delivering competent representation. Active involvement throughout the buying process helps ensure real estate agents can meet their professional, ethical and fiduciary obligations.

Latest ARLO Enhancements

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 14:48:12 -0600

The latest enhancements to the Alberta Registry Land Online (ARLO) system have been announced.

What’s new?

1. Land Titles Modernization Resources page

Access helpful ARLO support resources, including demonstration videos showcasing recent enhancements, task reference guides and fact sheets based on frequently asked questions.

2. Simplified search options

Users can now search for registered documents by document registration number or title number, making searches quicker and more efficient.

3. Expanded location search options

In addition to non-standard Alberta Township Surveys (ATS), users can now search for locations on the ARLO parcel map using standard ATS, settlement lot, or municipality. This provides increased flexibility for locating land using multiple search methods.

We encourage CREB^® members to explore ARLO and take advantage of these enhancements to improve efficiency and usability. For questions or assistance, visit ARLO’s Contact Us and Help Centre pages for support.

Governance update: Strengthening leadership development and oversight

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 14:17:00 -0600

Strong governance helps ensure CREB^® continues to make thoughtful, strategic decisions on behalf of members. CREB^®’s Governance Manual is posted on the Governance Excellence tab on CREB^®Link and it explains our governance framework; which involves people, processes and the structures that establish how that is to occur.

At its June 17 meeting, the board of directors approved updates to CREB^®’s Governance Manual to strengthen leadership development, enhance oversight and support long-term organizational readiness.

In particular, the focus is on maintaining qualified and capable directors: individuals that possess the requisite skills, experience, capacity and aptitude to fulfill the expectations of the important role they occupy.

Over the past several years, the CREB^® Board of Directors has evolved their oversight of director training and skill growth with the creation of a sub-committee of the board; the Director Development Advisory Group (DDAG). These updates to policy transition the DDAG into the new Leadership Success Advisory Group (LSAG).

It was through our investment in director development continuous improvements that these improvements were studied and can be implemented. The updated structure follows the model of other organizations by creating something similar to a human resources committee of the board that is focused strictly on the board of directors and their one employee, the President & CEO.

This change brings director development and President & CEO oversight into one integrated structure, creating a more coordinated approach to leadership planning, development and accountability.

Under this updated structure, the Board will be better positioned to:

• Align leadership development with CREB^®’s strategic priorities
• Strengthen President & CEO oversight, including performance, professional development, and succession planning
• Enhance director onboarding, training and ongoing development

According to CREB^® Chair-Elect Matt McBean, who serves as chair of LSAG:

“Together, these updates reflect governance best practices and support a more consistent approach to leadership development, planning and oversight. We already have robust performance, development and succession planning process in place with our President & CEO, but this change makes more efficient use of our resources.”

Related policy updates will continue as this work progresses to ensure CREB^®’s governance documents remain aligned with the new LSAG structure. These updates will help keep responsibilities, processes and decision-making practices clear, current and consistent, while supporting transparency and accountability on behalf of members.

As Chair-Elect McBean summarizes; “our 2025 Annual Report to members included two full pages of reporting on our investment in director development; an important recap of our commitment to this dimension of good governance”.

To review the CREB^® Governance Manual updates, click here and refer to the revision summary for the most recent changes.

From Olympic gold to real estate bold

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:15:00 -0600

In this CREB^® Cast episode, Olympian skeleton racer Mirela Rahneva shares how perseverance and mindset shaped her athletic career and now influence her work in real estate.

Mirela also discusses the sport’s speed and culture, her Olympic experiences (12th in Pyeongchang 2018, a track-record first run in Beijing 2022 followed by a drop and a climb back to 5th), and lessons about reframing thoughts under pressure.

She explains how she entered Calgary real estate through renovating and legalizing a suite, her interest in helping athletes relocate, and the value of integrity, feedback, resiliency, and asking the right questions. She also describes her full-time role in partnership development at KidSport Calgary and her continued involvement in skeleton through occasional coaching support.

Listen to the full episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and YouTube.

Relief during a life-changing illness

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:13:00 -0600

Recovery from critical illnesses like cancer, stroke and heart disease may come with a significant financial cost that impacts you and those around you. This is why we created the Critical Illness Benefit Society (CIBS).

As the only critical illness benefit for REALTORS^® in North America, CIBS offers a one-time, tax-free benefit of $12,500 to qualified CREB^® members facing hardships associated with medical costs due to a life-changing illness.

Payment is delivered to qualifying members several working days after a claim is approved.

To date, CIBS has supported over 385 CREB^® members, providing more than $4.2 million in critical need benefits.

Please note: Members have a maximum of two years from the date of diagnosis to submit a claim.

Know that in times of need, we’re here for you. Click here to learn more about CIBS and how to make a claim.

New REMapList™ feature helps identify CEIP Properties

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:10:00 -0600

The Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP) is a financing program run by Alberta Municipalities that loans residential property owners up to $50,000 of the upfront costs of energy-efficiency and renewable energy upgrades.

Participants repay the loan over time through their property tax bill, as per their Clean Energy Improvement Agreement. The financing is tied to the property—not the owner—and may be transferred to a new owner if the property is sold.

Knowing where to look for this information will help you prepare your client for a smooth transition.

Check whether a property has participated in CEIP using one of the methods below.

1. Use the new REMapList™ feature that allows users to determine whether a property is participating in the Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP), as shown here:

2. Contact the City of Calgary at ceip@calgary.ca to determine whether a CEIP loan is attached to a property before listing or writing an offer.

For more information, visit the Resources section of the City’s Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP) webpage, where you'll find the Selling or Buying a Property with a Clean Energy Improvement Tax info sheet and other helpful resources.

Read the May 4, 2026 CREB^®Talk article to learn more about CEIP and understand the financial obligations that may be associated with a participating property.

High-density supply impacts apartment condominium prices

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 10:58:18 -0600

June sales in Calgary improved over May, reaching 2,197 units. Despite the monthly gains, sales were nearly four per cent lower than last year and just below the long-term average for June, largely due to pullbacks in apartment-style units. While sales are down across most price ranges so far this year, there have been gains in both the highest price ranges and the most affordable ranges across most property types.

“The easing of demand for resale homes does not come as a surprise given the recent decline in migration, which is impacting both rental and ownership demand for higher-density homes. The bigger change in our market relates to inventory, which has been on the rise in the rental, resale and new-home markets following several consecutive years of record-high housing starts,” said Ann-Marie Lurie, Chief Economist at the Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB^®). “Inventory growth has mostly occurred in high-density homes, resulting in buyer’s market conditions and steep price adjustments for condominium apartments. While it will take time to absorb the high-density supply, detached supply growth has been limited and some districts are reporting record-high prices.”

New listings are starting to pull back compared with 2025 and the sales-to-new-listings ratio rose to 56 per cent. This has slowed the pace of inventory growth in the market and kept the months of supply at just over three months. This is considered a balanced range in the city, but conditions vary across property types, as the apartment condominium sector is experiencing buyer’s market conditions, with the months of supply at nearly five months and a sales-to-new-listings ratio of 45 per cent.

The range of conditions is also impacting prices. In June, the unadjusted benchmark price was $572,500, up over the previous month and two per cent below levels reported last June. However, apartment-style properties have reported an annual decline nearing nine per cent, leaving condominium prices in June at $299,000. Meanwhile, the benchmark price for a detached home rose over the previous month, reaching $750,500, one per cent below last year’s level, with most of the adjustments driven by specific pockets of the market.

Find sharable monthly stats from CREB® on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube.

Click here to view the full City of Calgary monthly stats package.

Click here to view the full Calgary region monthly stats package.

Amended provincially harmonized rules in effect on July 1, 2026

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 16:03:00 -0600

In March, CREB^® members were notified of the amendments made to the provincially harmonized rules approved by all 10 Alberta boards under Part II and III of the CREB^® Rules, that take effect starting tomorrow, July 1, 2026.

Click here for a detailed comparison of the amendments made to the provincially harmonized rules.

In summary

The changes may affect your business practices in the following ways:

CREB^® Rule Part II 10.04 – Time sensitive references on signage

• “Coming Soon” signage is now included in time-sensitive marketing and must be removed once the listing is added to the MLS^® System.

CREB^® Rule Part II 11.04 – Presentation of multiple offers that include offer(s) by seller’s representative

• When representing a seller in a multiple-offer situation, confirm their instructions in writing.

CREB^® Rule Part II 2.04(e) – Photographs and images

• The rule now requires members to ensure they have the legal right to use and post photos on the MLS^® System.

CREB^® Rule Part III 2.07b) – Accuracy and completeness of information

• Do not remove listing data, including photographs, before changing the status to pending, sold, expired or terminated. This information is vital to the property’s history.

For questions about the amendments and how they affect your practice, contact our Member Practice team at advice@creb.ca.

A refresher for members: CREB® dispute resolution process

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 10:02:00 -0600

Maintaining professionalism and trust is foundational to the real estate industry. When challenges arise between members, CREB^® provides a structured dispute resolution process designed to ensure concerns are addressed fairly, transparently and in accordance with established rules.

This article offers a refresher on what members need to know about the process.

Start at the brokerage level

Before initiating a formal complaint, members are expected to make every reasonable effort to resolve issues at the brokerage level. This step reflects the profession’s commitment to collaboration and accountability.

• Involve brokers early in the process.
• Document all attempts at resolution, ideally in writing.

When a formal complaint is necessary

If a satisfactory resolution cannot be reached, members may proceed with filing a formal complaint.

When submitting a formal complaint, members should:

• File within one year of the incident or of becoming aware of the issue.
• Provide a detailed, chronological account of events.
• Include references to any relevant CREB^® Rules, Bylaws, or the REALTOR^® Code, if known.
• Attach supporting documentation.
• Provide a letter of support from their broker.

Members should also be aware that complaint details and the identity of the complainant are shared with the other party to ensure transparency throughout the process.

Members are encouraged to consult the Administrative Justice Guides for a detailed overview of the dispute resolution process. Additional information is available under Dispute Resolution on CREB^®Link.

For questions or guidance, members are encouraged to contact Member Practice at creb.adminjustice@creb.ca.

Tell us how you want CREB® to communicate with you and we'll buy you coffee

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 08:52:15 -0600

Starting the week of June 15, randomly selected CREB^® members began receiving an email with a link to a survey that asks questions about CREB^®’s member communications and how you would like CREB^®to communicate with you.

If you receive a survey email, we'd appreciate it if you take the time to complete the survey. The email comes from CREB^®, but the survey is being conducted by the independent research firms Zinc Tank and RA2.

Responses will be anonymous; you will only be asked for your email address to be entered into a draw for gift cards—our way of thanking you for your time and input. If you provide your email address, it will be separated from your survey responses to maintain your anonymity.

Be one of the first 500 respondents and we'll buy you coffee and a snack with a $10 gift card!

In return for your time, the first 500 members to complete the survey will receive $10 gift cards, and everyone who completes the survey will be entered in a draw to win one of five $200 gift certificates.

Your feedback is needed and appreciated

As CREB^®’s membership has grown over the past few years, our membership has become more diverse and the world of member communication has evolved. This survey will help us determine:

• Which of our communication channels are most effective
• What new channels members would like us to use
• What type of information members would like to receive
• What type of events members would like to attend

Thank you!

Thank you in advance for your honest and thoughtful insight! We look forward to sharing results and incorporating them into our member communications.

Office closure: July 1

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 14:35:17 -0600

CREB^® will be closed for the Canada Day statutory holiday on Wednesday, July 1. This closure extends to all of CREB^®, including the Member Services Centre. Pillar 9™ Help Desk will also be closed.

Regular hours will resume on Thursday, July 2. Click here for CREB^®’s hours of operation and here for CREB^® statutory holidays.

Happy Canada Day!

Mid-year housing market update: Shifting toward balance

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 09:44:29 -0600

Housing conditions in Calgary continue to shift toward balanced territory in 2026 as slowing migration is met with rising supply driven by a construction boom over the past three years.

Resale sales were expected to slow this year due to shifts in migration patterns. However, the pullback has been slightly stronger than expected because of steeper declines in sales of higher-density homes, as increased choice in both the rental and new-home markets is weighing on resale activity. Rising supply across rental, new-home and resale segments is pushing the resale market toward the higher end of balanced conditions, limiting the typical seasonal boost in home prices.

Most of the shift is occurring in apartment-style homes, driven by changes in both demand and supply. Record-high apartment-style starts have increased rental supply, as a dramatic drop in international migration has slowed demand from rentals just as new construction has ramped up. This is increasing vacancy rates, weighing on rents and causing many landlords to offer incentives to keep existing renters.

This has slowed demand from existing renters, along with demand from investors, contributing to a steep pullback in apartment sales activity. At the same time, potential buyers have more choice in both the new-home and resale markets for apartment and row-style homes, having a larger impact on resale activity. The result is the apartment condominium sector shifting to favour buyers and driving further price declines. While price declines were expected this year, the pace of decline is currently exceeding expectations and there was not a seasonal lift during the spring market.

On the other end of the spectrum is the detached market. While sales have fallen this year, inventory levels have also declined and conditions remain at the lower end of the balanced scale, with some areas of Calgary experiencing seller’s market conditions. Construction of detached homes has not experienced a boost, limiting the impact of new homes on resale detached home prices. While resale prices have slowed in some pockets of the market, it is mostly isolated to areas where there is competing supply in similarly price ranges in the new-home market. This has mostly occurred in the north and south ends of the city and surrounding areas like Airdrie, Cochrane and Chestermere.

While shifts are occurring in our market, conditions are faring better than some of the other large cities in the country. Much of this is related to the slower but still positive migration into the city and continued job growth. Moving forward, stable economic conditions are expected to support demand that is more aligned with longer-term trends.

Challenges in the apartment condominium sector are expected to persist into 2027, while lower-density properties are expected to see stability in pricing over the remainder of 2026. While there is a sense of cautious optimism regarding the Alberta economy, much of the prospects for the economy and the housing sector will depend on how business investment evolves over the next year. This may not result in a change in the 2026 housing market.

However, should progress be made on several proposed initiatives later this year, housing growth prospects will be stronger moving into 2027.

Watch the full Housing Market Update with Ann-Marie here.

View the Housing Market Update with Ann-Marie presentation slide deck here.

Getting to the heart of: What the heck is governance?

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 09:42:00 -0600

In a series of articles, we’re discussing What the Heck is Governance. As we do in all areas of our work, we draw on the knowledge and experience of experts. This week, we invited governance expert Alli Marshall to share her thoughts.

Alli may be new to the CREB^®environment, but this is a Calgarian who has a proven track record supporting non-profits across Canada in effective and strategic governance teamwork. For more information and to join her newsletter: www.strix.ca/newsletter

By Alli Marshall

For impact-driven organizations like CREB^®, “what the heck is governance” is a question that deserves ongoing attention. It speaks volumes that your community is engaging with this question now.

Considering your 83 years of success, I find myself wondering: how many members and board members before you have sat with the same question? Exploring something so foundational to a member-based organization is a genuine act of caring – a true gift to future members.

Here’s an important aha! moment your exploration might surface: the most common answer to “what the heck is governance” is actually incomplete.

Governance is typically defined as a set of rules and activities. Compliance. Policy manuals. Robert’s Rules of Order.

That’s the what and how – but not the why.

Why do boards exist at all?

That’s the more powerful question. Because at its heart, governance is stewardship.

A board’s most solemn responsibility is to protect the organization’s ability to not just survive, but to thrive – delivering value to members and communities – long into the future.

And the who behind governance – the volunteer directors who provide this stewardship service – don’t get nearly enough recognition. “Duty of care” is a legal term for something deeply human: the noble impulse to invest in, tend to, and safeguard organizations that exist to serve others.

Hope is not a strategy. But governance, done well, is fundamentally hopeful.

Volunteer directors who raise their hands to serve, listen and learn from each other, and engage with both big-picture uncertainties and short-term realities – all to ensure the organization can keep delivering on its mission – what could be more hopeful than that?

That legacy is something CREB^® members have tended to for over 83 years.

Thank you for the invitation to be part of this conversation – and for your continued commitment to effective governance.

If you have any suggestions for governance topics we should cover, email or text CREB^® President and CEO Alan Tennant at alan.tennant@creb.ca.

Shining bright at the Diamond Gala

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 09:18:00 -0600

This year’s Diamond Gala was one for the books! Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate milestone member achievements and exceptional REALTORS® in our community.

The big winners of the evening were:

• Lori Olijnyk, recipient of the REALTOR^® of the Year – T.W.H. (Bill) Saunders Memorial Award

• Tom Davis, recipient of the CREB^® Volunteer of the Year – Marilyn Jones Memorial Award

• Kelly Kimber, Jeff Mikolajow and Brian Callaghan, who received Honourary Life Member Awards

• Jesse Sinclair, recipient of the Glenna Marshall-Roth CREB^® Rookie Volunteer of the Year Award

In addition, over 100 CREB^®members received Long Service Awards and Board Builders Awards, all of whom are listed here.

If you missed it, don’t worry! Here’s a recap of the night.

More photos of the event will be shared with attendees in the next week.

The Diamond Gala wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our incredible sponsors: Move Buddy, Kahane Law, Alberta Blue Cross, West Legal, Leclair Thibeault and our in-kind sponsors: Modern Décor, ARC Document Solutions, Encore Canada and Sharp Gifts Canada.

Congratulations to all of this year’s award recipients!

Missed the 2025 Member Satisfaction Survey presentation? Watch the recording

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 09:16:00 -0600

On June 1, Alec Milne of Framework Analytics presented the results of the 2025 Member Satisfaction Survey, highlighting key findings and member feedback that will help inform CREB^® programs, services and strategic priorities.

If you were unable to attend, or would like to revisit the presentation, the recording and presentation slides are available below:

Member feedback plays an important role in shaping CREB^®'s future direction. We will continue to communicate how these insights are informing our work and helping us better serve members.

Questions about the survey results can be directed to Kate Estby, Chief Membership Officer, at kate.estby@creb.ca.

Safe selling: Safety tips for REALTORS®

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 08:00:00 -0600

The summer market is here, and personal safety should remain a top priority.

Warmer weather often brings increased client activity and more property showings, increasing the likelihood of meeting unfamiliar clients and travelling to communities you may not visit regularly.

Having a safety strategy in place can help protect your well-being and create a safer working environment.

Here are some safety tips to consider incorporating into your business practices:

1. Pre-screen clients

Before meeting with a new client, verify their identity and collect their contact information. Reviewing publicly available online information can help you learn more about the prospective clients and verify basic details.

For initial meetings, choose a public location, such as your office or a coffee shop. Meeting in a public setting provides an added layer of security and support should issues arise.

2. Inform others of your whereabouts

Always share your whereabouts and schedule with someone you trust, whether it's a colleague, friend or family member. It’s important someone knows your plan.

Consider sharing your live location, providing appointment updates and establishing regular check-in times with your support system. When possible, bring a colleague with you. Having another person present can enhance safety and provide support in an emergency.

3. Have a safety plan and stay visible

When hosting an open house or conducting a showing, familiarize yourself with all exits and ensure they remain accessible.

Position yourself so you can maintain awareness of your surroundings and keep a clear line of sight to exits. Remaining visible can help deter potential risks while creating a welcoming environment for visitors.

4. Secure valuables

Luxury items such as watches, jewelry and designer bags can attract unwanted attention and increase personal safety risks. Consider leaving valuables at home or keeping them out of sight.

You can also encourage clients to secure valuable items before a showing or open house. Reminding clients to remove or lock away valuables can help reduce the risk of theft.

5. Trust your gut and report suspicious activity

If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts. When something feels off, take time to gather more information by asking questions or conducting additional research about the client or situation before proceeding.

If an interaction raises safety concerns or suggests someone may be in distressed, document the details and report the situation to the appropriate authority, such as police.

While reporting may feel like an extreme step, your experience could be part of a larger pattern. Sharing information may help authorities build a complete picture of the situation and ensure appropriate support and protective measures are in place.

REALTOR^® safety resources

my-eforce REALTOR^® Safety App

The my-eforce REALTOR^® safety app is available to all CREB^®members at no cost. The app allows members to quickly connect with emergency support services by phone or smartwatch when they find themselves in an uncomfortable or unsafe situation.

Learn more about safety with my-eforce and watch the Powering REALTOR^® Protection webinar.

Kinetic Global

Provided through AREA, Kinetic Global is a personal safety app that helps monitor your well-being and connect you with assistance when needed. Access is included with AREA membership.

CREA REALTOR^® Safety Resources

CREA's Learning Hub offers a variety of safety resources and educational materials on its REALTOR^® Safety page.

Practice quiz results

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 08:00:00 -0600

On May 20, CREB^® members received a direct email inviting them to complete a short, five-question practice quiz to test their knowledge and enter a draw to win one of three $50 Amazon gift cards.

The results are in, and we’re excited to report that more than 500 members participated. Congratulations to our prize draw winners: Uros Markovic, Shawn Hubbard, and Ronald Scott.

Thank you to everyone who participated. We hope you found the quiz fun and informative. Now, let’s review the results.

1. All conditional sales must be reported as Pending on the MLS^® System except for:

Answer: b) A sale with a time clause where the seller(s) provide written instructions to maintain the listing as Active on the MLS® System, and the existence of the time clause and the notice period are disclosed on the Active MLS^® listing.

72.7% of participants selected the correct answer.

Refer to CREB^® Rule Part I 4.02 for the relevant requirements. To learn more about reporting sales, read this CREB^®Talk article: Reporting sales on time – every time

2. I can upload photos on the MLS® System of renderings of what a property could look like if the buyer decides to develop the property, without plans or permits.

Answer: False

MLS^®listing photos must accurately represent the property that a purchaser will receive in the sale. Because potential renderings depict a proposed future state rather than the property as it exists, they do not meet this requirement. If members wish to include renderings, they may be uploaded as supplements and clearly labelled as potential renderings.

83% of participants selected the correct answer.

Refer to CREB^® Rule Part I 4.04(a) for the relevant requirements. For more information, read this CREB^® Talk article: Three practice violation trends to end and how.

3. Can rental income be advertised in the public remarks?

Answer: b) Only when the suite is legal

52% of participants selected to correct answer.

Refer to CREB^®Rule Part I 4.04(c) for the relevant requirements. For more information about this rule, read the following CREB^®Talk articles:
• Highlights of upcoming CREB^® Rule amendments
• Navigating public remarks: What to include, avoid, and the risks involved

4. True or False: I can send copies of listings or open house notices to any CREB^® members if I can find their contact information on the MLS^® System.

Answer: False

Sending unsolicited messages to other members, such as copies of listings or open house notices that are available through the MLS^® System, contravenes CREB^® Rule Part I 5.01(b)(i).

In addition, using the MLS^® System to obtain other members’ contact information for the purpose of sending unsolicited communications constitutes unauthorized use of the MLS^® System.

69.7% of participants selected the correct answer.

Refer to CREB^® Rule Part I 5.01(b)(i) for the relevant requirements. For more information about this rule, check out this CREB^®Talk article: Three practice violation trends to end and how.

5. You are reporting a data error on a listing because the RMS sq.ft. field includes below-grade measurements. You are frustrated because you always ensure the accuracy of your listings and believe it is unfair when other listing agents don’t do the same. What is the best way to report the data reported error?

Answer: “It looks like the RMS sq.ft. includes below-grade measurements. RMS sq.ft. should only include above-grade measurements.”

While seeing obvious errors on listings can be frustrating, it is important the issue be reported in a respectful manner.

97.7% of participants selected the correct answer.

Refer to CREB^® Rule Part I 4.05(b) for the relevant requirements. For more information on data reported errors, please visit the following CREB^®Talk article: Upcoming change to report a data error.

We hope you enjoyed the quiz and we are excited to continue exploring engaging ways to share practice-related materials and resources!

Have questions? Contact advice@creb.ca to reach the Member Practice team.

Avoid closing delays near holidays

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 08:19:28 -0600

Looking to give your clients a smooth closing experience on their real estate purchase or sale? Keep in mind the importance of selecting an appropriate possession date.

Law offices are approaching what is traditionally the busiest closing day of the year, the last business day of June. As members know, successfully closing a transaction on time involves significant coordination among all parties involved. Law offices face additional pressure on this day due to the volume of transactions scheduled to close before the July long weekend.

This year, June 30 is a Tuesday, followed by the statutory holiday on Wednesday, July 1. Clients may encounter delays with their possession date, as law offices will not reopen until Thursday, July 2. While sellers, buyers, and their REALTORS^® all work together to deliver a positive closing experience, unexpected issues can arise, from tenants failing to vacate on time to sellers leaving behind old furniture or removing fixtures included in the sale. Most members have encountered stories of delayed closings and stressed clients.

Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays are generally preferred closing days for law offices. However, when a holiday falls mid-week, those days should also be avoided, when possible.

Lou Pesta, a self-employed lawyer at Pesta Law, says, “I highly recommend that, as much as possible, the following rules be followed in scheduling Completion Days:

• Avoid the first, 15th and last day of the month
• Avoid Fridays, Mondays and any holidays.”

When possible, including a pre-possession walk-through clause in the purchase contract can help identify potential issues before closing. The earlier an issue is identified, the more time there is to address it.

Happy closing!

Member Communication Survey: Tell us how you want CREB® to communicate with you

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 08:18:00 -0600

Starting the week of June 15, randomly selected CREB^® members will receive an email with a link to a survey that asks questions about CREB^®’s member communications and how you would like CREB^® to communicate with you.

The email will come from CREB^®, but the survey is being conducted by the independent research firms Zinc Tank and RA2. Responses will be anonymous; you will only be asked for your email address to be entered into a draw for gift cards—our way of thanking you for your time and input. If you provide your email address, it will be separated from your survey responses to maintain your anonymity.

Your feedback is needed and appreciated

As CREB^®’s membership has grown over the past few years, our membership has become more diverse and the world of member communication has evolved. This survey will help us determine:

Who will be selected to take the survey?

The intent is to get input from a representative cross-section of all members, from those who have recently joined CREB^® through to our longest serving members. Members who receive the survey will be selected randomly by Zinc Tank/RA2. CREB^® will just send out the emails, but responses will be anonymous.

Thank you!

Thank you in advance for your honest and thoughtful insight! We look forward to sharing results and incorporating them into our member communications.

Don't miss CREB® Boots, Buckles & BBQ on July 7

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 15:53:53 -0600

There’s still time to join us for CREB^® Boots, Buckles & BBQ on July 7 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the front parking lot of CREB^® Campus.

Reconnect with colleagues and enjoy a high-energy afternoon featuring live music, entertainment, a hearty western menu and activations. Non-member tickets are $30.

Sip for a cause

One dollar from every drink purchased at the Saloon will support the CREB^® REALTOR^® Community Foundation!

Please note: Only card payments will be accepted. Cash payments will not be accepted.

Win prizes!

Come dressed to impress for the Best of Boots & Buckles competition and round up your compadres for a chance to win a team prize. Our prizes include:

Two infield rodeo tickets for the Calgary Stampede's final day ($900 value)
BBQ set ($300 value)
Best team: Cold Garden gift card ($100 value)

Parking and transportation

Parking is extremely limited at CREB^® Campus. If needed, please use the back (east) parking lot, surrounding street parking or the public parking lot on Mayland Place N.E. See the parking map below.

Members are encouraged to use public transit, active transportation, carpools or ride-hailing services. Uber codes will be available if you need help getting home safely.

Last chance for Diamond Gala tickets

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 15:45:00 -0600

Ticket sales for Diamond Gala end this Wednesday, June 10!

As CREB^®’s most prestigious event of the year, Diamond Gala honours excellence in real estate through:

Long Service and Honourary Life Member awards
The REALTOR^® of the Year - T.W.H. (Bill) Saunders Memorial Award
The CREB^® Volunteer of the Year – Marilyn Jones Memorial Award
The Rookie Volunteer of the Year - Glenna Marshall-Roth Award.

With a delicious dinner, world-class entertainment, and the incredible company of the CREB^® REALTOR^® community, this is an event you won’t want to miss!

Event Details

Date: Saturday, June 20
Location: Spruce Meadows' Congress Hall
Time: 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Hurry up, we only have a few seats left!

RECA seeks nominations for Commercial Real Estate Industry Council Seat

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 15:36:30 -0600

The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is accepting nominations for an Urban Commercial Real Estate seat on the Commercial Real Estate Broker and Commercial Property Manager Industry Council.

The successful candidate will serve until Nov. 30, 2028.

Eligible commercial real estate associate licensees with at least five years of industry experience are encouraged to review the nomination requirements and consider putting their name forward.

Key dates:

• Nomination period: June 2–17, 2026 (closes at 4 p.m. MST on June 17)
• Candidates announced: June 22, 2026
• Voting period: July 7–14, 2026

Interested candidates can review the Candidate Information Package for information about the nominations process and requirements.

Not sure if you’re eligible? Use RECA’s eligibility self-assessment tool.

For additional election information, click here.

Happy Pride Month

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 15:34:00 -0600

This June, we acknowledge the resilient history of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and honour its role in guiding us towards a future that is more equitable, understanding and accepting.

Don’t forget that Calgary celebrates its own Pride Week from August 31 to September 6. On the last day, a vibrant parade will take place in downtown Calgary that is free for everyone to watch.

Resources

• Pride 101
• Calgary's gay history
• History of Calgary Pride
• Calgary Public Library’s Pride Month book recommendations
• Courses on how to create a more diverse and inclusive work environment for 2SLGBTQIA+ colleagues

Spring 50/50 raffle supports housing initiatives across Calgary and area

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 09:30:00 -0600

Thank you to everyone who purchased a ticket for the CREB^® REALTOR^® Community Foundation’s Spring 50/50 raffle.

With the support of CREB^® members and our broader community, this year’s raffle raised a total jackpot of $6,620.

Through the CREB^® REALTOR^® Community Foundation, the remaining proceeds will help support housing and shelter initiatives across Calgary and area.

And now, we’d like to congratulate our winner: Cheryl Roy.

Thank you again to everyone who purchased tickets, shared the raffle and helped make an impact in our community.

As the Foundation continues investing in housing and shelter initiatives across Calgary and area, eligible non-profits are encouraged to explore current grant opportunities through the CREB^® REALTOR^® Community Foundation.

Be sure to keep an eye out for your next chance to win during our Summer 50/50 raffle!

From duty to deals

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 09:24:00 -0600

As we recognize men’s mental health month this June, our newest CREB^® Cast episode features Derek Thistle. After a 17-year career with the Calgary Police Service and experiencing depression and PTSD, he earned his real estate license during medical leave and ultimately committed to the switch from cop to real estate.

In this conversation, Derek breaks down how policing skills such as communication, de-escalation, an investigative mindset, stress tolerance, and deep neighborhood knowledge have translated into client trust, sharper negotiations and safer showings.

He also talks candidly about the “golden handcuffs” of policing, shifting definitions of success, and why real estate wins through empathy, relationships, and consistent follow-up.

Listen to the full episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and YouTube.

One month left to apply for CREB® REALTOR® Community Foundation grants

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 09:24:00 -0600

CREB^® REALTOR^® Community Foundation grant applications for Community and Transformation Grants close end of day on June 30.

A total of $360,000 in funding is available to support housing- and shelter-related initiatives across Calgary and area.

If you know of a charitable organization working to keep people housed or improve housing and shelter quality, please encourage them to apply before the deadline.

Applications can be found here.

Print and win a lockbox—this June at CREB® Campus

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 09:23:00 -0600

Make the most of CREB^® Campus printing services this June and get entered to win.

Whether you’re setting up your printing account or producing your next set of feature sheets, every member who prints—or creates a printing account—will be automatically entered into the contest.

Weekly prizes will be drawn throughout the month, along with a grand prize lockbox at the end of June.

Printing is a simple, practical way to support your day-to-day business needs—while making the most of everything Campus has to offer. From marketing materials to listing sheets, it’s all available in a convenient, professional setting designed to help you work, learn and connect.

Members receive:

• $5 monthly print credit
• Fast, high-quality printing
• Convenient and easy to use

To get started, visit Campus staff at the front desk to set up your printing account.

Put you best face forward with updated headshots at CREB® Campus

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 08:52:00 -0600

A strong first impression matters — and updated professional headshots can help associates strengthen their brand across websites, social media, business cards and marketing materials.

On June 25, CREB^® Campus will host a one-day-only Headshot Pop-up, offering members professional photography sessions designed specifically for REALTORS^®.
Each $100 (plus GST) booking includes:

• A private 20-minute photography session
• Five professionally edited digital images
• Image delivery within approximately three weeks

Event details

Date: June 25, 2026
Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: CREB^® Campus Auditorium

Participants are encouraged to review the headshot preparation guide for tips on outfit selection, styling and how to achieve the best results on camera.

Space is limited and advance booking is required.

FAQ Updates: Exploring a joint future with RAE

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 15:44:07 -0600

When we announced that CREB^® and the REALTORS^® Association of Edmonton (RAE) have begun exploring whether members would benefit from a merger of the two organizations, we created the Exploring a Joint Future with RAE hub on CREB^®Link to serve as a central location for up-to-date information on the discussions.

Since the announcement on May 21, we’ve received questions and comments from a range of members and we encourage you all to continue giving us feedback through the Ask a Question link on the hub’s main page.

Feedback has been largely positive, with interest in understanding potential opportunities to strengthen service, representation, and support for REALTORS^® moving forward.

Members have also asked why this exploration is happening, how the process will work, what opportunities they will have to participate, and how future decisions will be made.

Whether you’ve been a member for a few months, a few years, or a few decades, your feedback is important. If you have a question, chances are other members do as well.

Based on feedback we received since we updated the FAQs last week, three new questions have been added:

• Why is this happening now?
• Who from CREB^® is taking part in the discussions with RAE?
• Operationally, how would a merger with RAE affect specific services and infrastructure?

As the announcement on May 21 said, RAE invited CREB^®to discuss the possibility of a merger, and the CREB^® Board of Directors decided it would be in members’ best interest to explore a merger’s potential to deliver greater value to members.

The discussions are in the beginning stages and we don’t yet know whether a merger would benefit members and, if so, what that would look like. That’s what the discussions with RAE are meant to explore.

No decisions have been made. If the discussions lead to a comprehensive merger proposal that would benefit CREB^® members, the final decision of whether to merge or not would be made in around a year’s time by members of CREB^® and RAE through votes at each organization.

Apartment prices ease as inventory remains elevated

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 11:42:37 -0600

In line with seasonal trends, inventory has risen from the start of the year, reaching 6,752 units in May. While these levels are consistent with last May, they remain 11 per cent higher than longer-term trends for the month, thanks to higher supply levels of apartment and row-style homes. Meanwhile, inventory levels for detached homes are down three per cent compared with both last year and long-term trends.

At the same time, sales activity has been slowing. Calgary sales in May were 2,162 units, 16 per cent lower than last year’s levels and similar to sales reported in April. While new listings also slowed by 13 per cent compared with last year, it was not enough to offset the pullback in sales, causing the sales-to-new-listings ratio to ease to 51 per cent. The lower ratio also contributed to some of the inventory build, causing the months of supply to rise. However, conditions do vary across the market, with a range of two-and-a-half months of supply in the detached market to more than five months of supply in the apartment condominium market.

“The shift in supply is being felt in the market. More supply choice in the new and rental markets has created a more competitive environment for potential buyers. At the same time, concerns over rising cost of living and slower migration are also weighing on consumers,” said Ann-Marie Lurie, Chief Economist at the Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB®). “While this has caused the overall resale market to shift to a balanced state, the supply pressure is having a more prevalent impact for apartment-style units, where conditions are favouring the buyer. This is also impacting price movements, with apartment prices continuing to trend down and other property types reporting a seasonal lift over the winter months.”

The unadjusted total residential benchmark price in May was $570,500, up over April’s levels and the $554,400 reported in January, but still three per cent lower than last May. Most of the unadjusted monthly gain was driven by detached homes, which rose from $724,000 in January to $747,800 in May. Apartment prices remain lower than January levels and are nine per cent lower than levels reported last May. Overall, when adjusting for seasonality, total residential prices have remained relatively stable, as detached improvements have offset pullbacks for apartment-style homes.

To read the full stats release on May’s housing market for Calgary and surrounding areas, click here

Find sharable monthly stats from CREB® on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube.

Click here to view the full City of Calgary monthly stats package.

Click here to view the full Calgary region monthly stats package.

Volunteers needed for CRCF casino fundraiser

Tue, 26 May 2026 10:21:00 -0600

The CREB^® REALTOR^® Community Foundation is seeking volunteers for its upcoming casino fundraiser on June 4 and 5, 2026 at Elbow Casino.

As the Foundation’s largest annual fundraiser, the casino plays an important role in supporting local organizations providing housing, shelter and essential services across Calgary and area. It’s also a great opportunity to connect with fellow REALTORS^® while giving back to the community.

Thursday daytime shifts are now full, but volunteers are still needed for remaining evening, count room and Friday shifts.

To view volunteer roles, shift details and volunteer requirements, click here.

How to sign up

To volunteer, email kendra.varoney@creb.ca by May 29 with:

• preferred role(s)
• preferred shift(s)
• full name
• contact information

Spots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Volunteers may be asked to adjust their preferred role or shift, or be placed as backup based on event needs.

Thank you for supporting the CREB^® REALTOR^® Community Foundation and the important work being done across our community.

ICYMI: Exploring a joint future with RAE

Tue, 26 May 2026 08:48:27 -0600

On May 21, 2026, CREB^® Board Chair Susanita de Diego and President and CEO Alan Tennant announced in an all-member email that CREB^® and the REALTORS^® Association of Edmonton (RAE) have begun exploring whether members would benefit from a merger of the two organizations.

As the announcement on May 21 said, these discussions are in the beginning stages. No decisions have been made. The Boards of Directors of the two organizations are looking at whether a merger would benefit members. If they find that members would benefit, a comprehensive proposal of what a merger would look like would be developed. The final decision of whether to merge or not would be made by members of CREB^® and RAE through votes at each organization.

The next step is for CREB^® and RAE to select a consultant that specializes in this area to put structure around the discussions. This will ensure that both organizations do the proper due diligence and conduct meaningful member consultation throughout. We expect to be able to provide an update on the results of the selection process in a month. Should the consultation and discussions lead to a proposal worthy of a vote by members, the entire process will take around a year.

In the meantime, we’ve created the Exploring a Joint Future with RAE hub on CREB^®Link to serve as a central location for information on the discussions. This includes FAQs that we’ll add to as we have new information for members. In fact, based on a suggestion from a member (thanks!), we’ve already updated the answer to the question “Why is direct membership in CREA part of this?”

If you have any questions, comments, or feedback, we’d like to know. You can send them to CREB^® President and CEO Alan Tennant through the Ask a Question link on the hub’s main page.

Discovery House suites ready to welcome families

Tue, 26 May 2026 08:37:39 -0600

Families staying at Discovery House now have access to newly renovated shelter suites thanks in part to ongoing support from Calgary and area REALTORS^®.

As a 2025 Community Grant recipient, Discovery House received funding through the CREB^® REALTOR^® Community Foundation to help support upgrades within the shelter, creating safe, welcoming spaces for women and children rebuilding their lives after domestic violence.

In addition to the financial support, REALTOR^® volunteers Lori Nitah, Tom Davis, Arnav Bhalla and Komal Singh spent Feb. 25, 2026, at Discovery House assembling furniture for the renovated spaces, helping prepare the suites for incoming families and contributing directly to the final stages of the project.

For more than 40 years, Discovery House has supported women and children leaving domestic violence through shelter, childcare, counselling and community support services. The organization serves approximately 600 individuals each year, most of them children.

The completed suites reflect the impact of REALTORS^® giving back through both financial contributions and hands-on volunteer support, helping create spaces where families can feel safe, supported and at home during a difficult transition.

Celebrate your REALTOR® Community at Diamond Gala

Tue, 26 May 2026 08:36:00 -0600

Prepare your best outfit and dancing shoes! The Diamond Gala is coming up soon on June 20 at Spruce Meadow's Congress Hall.

As CREB^®’s most prestigious event of the year, Diamond Gala honours excellence in real estate through the Long Service and Honourary Life Member awards, as well as the REALTOR® of the Year - T.W.H. (Bill) Saunders Memorial Award, the CREB^® Volunteer of the Year – Marilyn Jones Memorial Award, and Rookie Volunteer of the Year - Glenna Marshall-Roth Award.

With a delicious dinner, entertainment, and the incredible company of the CREB^® REALTOR^® community, this is an event you won’t want to miss!

Tickets are $89 per person and are on sale until June 5 while quantities last. Every year, this event sells out, so make sure you grab your tickets on time!

Event agenda:

• 5 p.m. – Registration & Cocktail Hour
• 6 p.m. – Dinner
• 7 p.m. – Awards Ceremony
• 9 p.m. – Networking & Entertainment
• 11 p.m. – Event ends

Dress code: Dress to impress! Black tie optional.

Check out last year's highlights!

Please note: When registering yourself and others, use the dropdown to choose who you want to sit with, and we will do our best to accommodate your request. Out of respect for the seating preferences of those who register early, table reassignments may not be possible.

For questions about the event, please contact events@creb.ca.

Reminder: Take the CREB® Rules quiz for a chance to win!

Mon, 25 May 2026 14:59:34 -0600

There’s still time to take CREB^®’s short, practice-focused quiz on MLS^® System rules and compliance.

The five-question multiple-choice quiz takes less than five minutes to complete and is designed to help members test their knowledge of CREB^® Rules related to MLS^® System use. Quiz results will not affect your compliance history.

Member feedback and results will help inform future articles, resources and member support related to compliance and professional practice.

Chance to win

As a thank you for participating, members who complete the quiz by May 28 will be entered into a draw to win one of three $50 Amazon gift cards.

The draw will take place on June 3, and winners will be contacted by Member Practice staff using the phone number or email linked to their CREB^® account.

If you have questions, contact advice@creb.ca.

Take the quiz

Gain insights from the 2025 CREB® Member Satisfaction Survey

Mon, 25 May 2026 14:56:31 -0600

The 2025 CREB^® Member Satisfaction Survey reflected the highest member satisfaction levels since 2010, with strong perceptions of value, service quality and member support.

Join Alec Milne of Framework Analytics, CREB^®’s third-party research partner, on June 1 from 1 to 2 p.m. via Zoom Webinar for an in-depth review of the survey findings.

During the session, Alec will share key insights, trends and context behind member feedback, highlighting what matters most to members and where opportunities exist for continued improvement. Attendees will also have the opportunity to ask questions and engage directly in discussion about the results and their implications.

The session offers valuable insight into member priorities, evolving expectations and the experiences shaping the profession today.

About the speaker

Alec Milne has more than 20 years of experience delivering economic valuations, market assessments and member satisfaction research across a wide range of industries. His work focuses on translating complex data into practical, actionable insights that support strategic decision-making for public sector organizations, corporations and not-for-profits.

Accessing lockboxes in Central Alberta

Mon, 25 May 2026 14:48:24 -0600

Need access to a lockbox in Central Alberta? Whether you’re working with a client relocating to the region or showing a property outside Calgary, there are two ways to access Central Alberta REALTORS^® Association (CARA) Supra lockboxes.

Option one: Coordinate directly with the listing agent

The quickest and easiest option is to work directly with the listing agent, who can provide access to the property at no cost.

Additional resources:

• Accessing Supra lockboxes for the first time as a non-member – Video | PDF
• Accessing Supra lockboxes as a returning non-member – Video | PDF

Option two: Request temporary non-member access

If direct access through the listing agent is not available, temporary access to CARA Supra lockboxes can be requested by completing the CARA Non-Member Access Agreement form and submitting it to CARA by email at cvirtucio@carassociation.ca.

Please note that access will not be activated until payment has been processed.

Forms must be submitted to CARA’s office at least 24 hours in advance, no later than 3 p.m., to ensure activation the following day.

If you have additional questions about key management system access in regions outside of Calgary, please contact the CREB^® Help Desk at 403-781-1379 or support@creb.ca.

More information is also available on CREB^®Link under the Lockbox Access for Other Boards page.

We need to hear from you

Tue, 19 May 2026 12:56:00 -0600

In a series of articles, we’re discussing aspects of our governance that are of interest to you. If you have any suggestions for topics we should cover, email or text me using my contact information at the end of this article.

In the last article, I talked about how the operation of your brokerage is a form of governance. Over my 26-year career as a REALTOR^®, I worked in a variety of brokerages and learned a lot by observing and contributing to improvements in how the brokerage operated. Oh yes, I was very “helpful” and I readily acknowledge I have worked at learning to receive as well as to give advice.

It has been my experience during my time as a REALTOR^® that I learned the most from brokers who were extremely good listeners and even better at welcoming suggestions. These brokers had some of the best run brokerages and when groups of agents talked about what they liked about the office, they would say things like: “The broker really listens. He/she can’t do everything we suggest, but they’ll talk to us and explain what we can do.”

One of the narratives that I hear when I listen to members is that we don’t listen. In fact, we need to hear from you; we work hard at seeking member feedback! An example is the discussion I initiated about turning off comments on our CREB^®Talk articles.

I started the discussion not because I wanted them turned off, but because members told us they were frustrated by some of what they read and they questioned the value of allowing comments. Based on this member feedback, we determined that we needed to check in on how this tool is being used. You confirmed that it may not be perfect but it’s of value, and we heard you. We’ll keep an ear open for ways this form of listening can be improved.

I introduced the comments section to our articles many years ago as a way for members to engage and ask follow-up questions. Some of the most valuable dialogue has been member-to-member. My father, Jack Tennant, was the page 5 featured columnist in the Calgary Albertan and then the Calgary Sun. He simultaneously operated a successful chain of weekly newspapers in communities surrounding Calgary.

Journalists like my dad valued the opinions of people who signed their names to letters to the editor. He may not have agreed with them, but it mattered that someone would take the time to share their thoughts. These lessons formed some of my core beliefs.

It’s the same simple logic I applied to our articles. When I started my career as a REALTOR^® in 1985, we didn’t have CREB^® Talk. It was introduced later, as a print publication, without a letters to the editor section. About a dozen years ago we moved to the online version of CREB^®Talk, but it struggled to establish solid readership.

Based on member feedback, we introduced the comments below the articles and required members to log-in to make their posts. We quickly learned that comment guidelines were needed, and those were published and administered soon after.

Now, let’s focus some attention on our approach to listening “to” members and talking “with” you. When someone hears what you are saying, but doesn’t do the thing you are asking for, the conclusion is not that they did not listen. There is a difference between not being heard and not getting what you asked for that is confirmed with a conversation.

One of the realities at CREB^®, like any other organization, is that we have limited resources. A lot of what we do is manage scarcity. I’m not suggesting we are a “have not” organization, but we do not have unlimited resources.

This becomes evident when we offer one of our many very popular training classes. There are only so many seats available, so we manage the registration process so members who commit to attending have a place to sit. This is something we explain, but it doesn’t always turn into a conversation.

It’s the same with our events. Each has a limited capacity, so we manage those limitations by setting and maintaining policies on block ticket purchases to avoid having empty seats. We do our best to advise members in advance and we listen hard when questions arise. We note the timing and root cause of the questions, and sometimes these interactions evolve into conversations.

Like you in your business, we’ll always respond best to the constructive ideas that focus on issues and not people. Listening and talking—having a conversation with members—is a key aspect of our governance culture, so it felt like the place to start this series.

Since we just had our Annual General Meeting (AGM), where we heard a lot from our members, the next installment in this series will explore the ABCs of AGMs and other ways we engage with our members.

Governance has many levels, and the focus in this article was more on operational governance or management levels of governance.

In the next article we’ll go deeper into strategic governance; the connection between the members and the delegation of authority to the board of directors.

I look forward to continuing to explore the question: “What the heck is governance” with you, in the comments below, at CREB^®, at our events, on the phone, or you can pop by my office in the SW corner of the main floor at CREB^® Campus.

Alan.Tennant@CREB.ca
403-461-2987

Unlicensed assistants: Dos and don'ts

Tue, 19 May 2026 10:13:30 -0600

Unlicensed real estate assistants (URAs) are an important asset to many real estate businesses.

From entering listings and managing communications to coordinating schedules and handling administrative tasks, they’re the quiet force that helps keep businesses running smoothly.

It’s natural to depend on unlicensed assistants, but that can also make it easy to lose track of the tasks they’re permitted to handle. To help support compliance and professional practice, review the following Unlicensed Real Estate Assistants Dos and Don’ts guide.

For future reference, the guide has been added to the Practice Toolkits page under the Member Practice section on CREB^®Link.

CREB^® also offers a specialized two-day Unlicensed Real Estate Assistant course designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to confidently support real estate businesses.

For more information or to register, click here.

REALTORS Care® Day brings CREB® members together at the Calgary Dream Centre

Tue, 19 May 2026 10:12:00 -0600

There was no shortage of generosity at this year’s REALTORS Care^® Day at the Calgary Dream Centre. On May 12, 66 CREB^® members volunteered their time at the Dream Centre, with many other members contributing donations in the days and weeks leading up to the event.

Together, REALTORS^® helped collect an overwhelming amount of clothing, food and hygiene items while supporting projects throughout the facility.

More than anything, the day was a powerful reflection of what happens when REALTORS^® come together in support of their community.

Members rolled up their sleeves, connected with one another and spent the day giving back to an organization doing important work to support vulnerable Calgarians through housing, recovery and community programs.

REALTORS Care^® Day builds on the CREB^® REALTOR^® Community Foundation’s ongoing partnership with the Calgary Dream Centre, which received the Foundation’s $1 million three-year Legacy Grant in 2025 to support safe, accessible housing in Calgary.

The event also continued the momentum from a previous REALTORS Care^® Day held at the Dream Centre in November 2025, where CREB^® REALTORS^® volunteered sorting donations, preparing meals, organizing the food pantry and helping prepare transitional housing units for repair.

CREB^® would like to thank the Calgary Dream Centre for welcoming volunteers into their space, as well as representatives from CREA for joining volunteers throughout the day and helping make the event even more special.

Most importantly, thank you to every CREB^® member who contributed — whether through volunteering, donating or supporting the initiative behind the scenes. Seeing so many REALTORS^® represented and coming together to make a tangible impact in the community was something truly special.

Help shape the future of housing in Alberta

Tue, 19 May 2026 10:05:47 -0600

What does the future of housing look like in Alberta—and what do Albertans want from their neighbourhoods?

A new Alberta Real Estate Foundation-funded research project from the University of Calgary is exploring those questions through a study on housing and neighbourhood preferences. Led by Dr. Jason Hawkins, assistant professor at the Schulich School of Engineering, the project aims to better understand how Albertans balance competing priorities such as affordability, access to amenities, commute times, housing type and neighbourhood character.

The research comes at a time when conversations around housing diversity, affordability and blanket rezoning continue across Alberta municipalities—including in Calgary, where CREB^® has advocated for responsible growth strategies that increase housing supply, while safeguarding infrastructure capacity, affordability objectives and the vitality and character of our communities.

While existing market data can show what housing people are purchasing today, it cannot fully capture demand for housing types or neighbourhood designs that may not currently exist or be widely available. This study will use statistical modelling and AI-generated visualizations to help participants react to different housing and neighbourhood scenarios, providing deeper insight into what Albertans value most.

Insights gathered through the project are intended to support future housing policy, land-use planning and development strategies aimed at creating a broader range of housing options aligned with consumer preferences.

As part of the research, Dr. Hawkins and his team are seeking industry participation through a series of focus groups that will help inform the development of a larger provincewide survey.

Focus group details

Participants will be asked to discuss residential and neighbourhood scenarios, including reactions to sample images and urban design features.

Duration: Approximately 45 minutes

Format: In person (University of Calgary) or online

Register to participate

• In-person focus group (Main campus)

• In-person focus group at the School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape (SAPL)

• Online focus group

Questions can be directed to:

• Azin Dinarvand — azin.dinarvand@ucalgary.ca

• Dr. Jason Hawkins — jfhawkin@ucalgary.ca

Participation from members will help ensure industry perspectives are reflected in future conversations around housing choice, neighbourhood design and the evolving needs of Alberta consumers.

New updates to the my-eforce REALTOR® Safety app

Tue, 19 May 2026 10:02:00 -0600

The my-eforce REALTOR^® Safety app, available to all CREB^® members at no cost, has introduced several updates designed to help members access safety tools faster and more discreetly while working.

The app allows members to quickly connect with emergency support services directly from their phone or smartwatch if they find themselves in an uncomfortable or unsafe situation.

New updates recently added to the app include:

Silent alarm updates

The silent alarm feature has been updated to provide more discreet ways to alert designated safety contacts when assistance may be needed, without escalating the situation.

Widgets for quicker access

New home-screen widgets allow members to access key safety features more quickly and conveniently from their device.

Time is running out to win big in the Spring 50/50

Tue, 19 May 2026 08:55:00 -0600

Your chance to win half the jackpot is almost gone! Ticket sales for the 2026 Spring 50/50 raffle close May 27 at 11:59 p.m., and once they’re closed, they’re closed.

Every ticket purchased supports the CREB^® REALTOR^® Community Foundation, which awarded $1,298,695 to deserving non-profit organizations in 2025 alone, including a three-year, $1 million commitment to the Calgary Dream Centre.

Ticket sales close: May 27 at 11:59 p.m.
Draw date: May 28

Don’t miss your shot at the pot!

Buzz with excitement at BUZZ Calgary AMPLIFY 2026, The Professional Standards Summit

Tue, 12 May 2026 12:36:47 -0600

This year, the BUZZ Calgary Conference will once again feature a number of CREB^® leaders and members as speakers, including CEO and President Alan Tennant and Chief Economist Ann-Marie Lurie.

New this year are the first BUZZ Calgary awards, which recognize Top Performers, Top Brokerages, Top Proptech Innovators, and Association Executive Leaders who are having a significant impact on the real estate industry and elevating professional standards.

You’ll also hear keynote speaker Don Inouye, CEO of the Real Estate Institute of Canada (REIC), touch on professional standards and the future of the industry, and leave with tips on how to better deliver the services your clients expect in 2026.

The conference will take place June 18, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Carriage House Hotel and Conference Centre in Calgary.

Learn more about the conference here.

Office closure: Monday, May 18

Tue, 12 May 2026 12:22:03 -0600

CREB^® will be closed for the Victoria Day statutory holiday on Monday, May 18.

This closure extends to all of CREB^®, including the Member Services Centre. Pillar 9™ Help Desk will also be closed.

Please note: The CREB^®Help Desk will be open on Saturday, May 16, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Regular hours will resume on Tuesday, May 19. Click here for CREB^®’s hours of operation and here for CREB^® statutory holidays.

Happy May long weekend!

City of Calgary updates that matter to REALTORS®

Tue, 12 May 2026 12:02:00 -0600

The City of Calgary continues to support CREB^® REALTORS^® through practical, timely education that connects municipal processes to everyday real estate work.

Over the past several years, City teams have delivered sessions on topics including tax assessments, subdivisions and development processes, permits, short-term rentals and secondary suites. These updates are designed to help REALTORS^® stay informed, understand evolving requirements and navigate regulatory changes with greater confidence.

By breaking down complex municipal processes into practical guidance, these sessions help reduce uncertainty, support professionalism and contribute to smoother transactions for REALTORS^® and their clients. CREB^® appreciates the City of Calgary’s ongoing partnership and commitment to member education.

Learn directly from the City of Calgary

Members can access City updates and educational resources through:

• City of Calgary home and small business webinars recordings.
• City of Calgary YouTube channel
• The Municipal Connection webinar series available through the CREB^® webinar library.

Upcoming City of Calgary session

Commercial Multi-Family Application Process (online) – Register here
Date: Thursday, May 21 | 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Navigating the commercial multi-family building permit process can be complex. This session will provide Calgary real estate professionals with an overview of the application process, including key review stages, common causes of delays and the information required for a complete submission. Participants will also learn how to avoid common application issues, access City resources and navigate municipal requirements more effectively.

Other sessions coming soon

• Short-Term Rentals – Coming this July
• Clean Energy Program – Coming this October
• City Partners in Planning – Coming this fall

Watch Upcoming Courses for additional City of Calgary sessions and updates.

CREB® Boots, Buckles & BBQ returns July 7

Tue, 12 May 2026 09:05:48 -0600

Dust off your boots and bring your best western flair—CREB^® Boots, Buckles & BBQ is back on July 7 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Join your fellow CREB^® members at CREB^® Campus for one of the summer’s most anticipated events. This high-energy afternoon brings together connection, celebration and Stampede spirit in a relaxed, outdoor setting.

Whether you’re catching up with colleagues, making new connections or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Boots, Buckles & BBQ is your chance to step away from the day-to-day and enjoy Calgary’s favourite time of year—together.

What to expect

This year’s event features something for everyone:

• Live music and a lively outdoor atmosphere
• The Saloon, serving cold drinks
• A hearty western menu, plus dessert, candy and ice cream stations
• Interactive games and activations throughout the event
• A rodeo ticket draw for the Stampede finals, along with additional prizes

Sip for a cause

Every drink makes a difference.

One dollar from each drink purchased at the Saloon will be donated to the CREB^® REALTOR^® Community Foundation, supporting initiatives that strengthen our community.

Dress to impress

Bring your western A-game—this is your moment to shine!

The Best of Boots & Buckles competition celebrates standout style, with fun nods to both Stampede and REALTOR^® flair. Whether you’re classic cowpoke, modern western chic or full Stampede glam, come dressed to showcase your personal curb appeal.

Wrangle your compadres for a chance to win a team prize. Non-member friends can join the fun for $30.

Spots are limited, so secure your place and join us for an afternoon of connection, community and Stampede fun!

Asian Heritage Month

Mon, 11 May 2026 15:12:25 -0600

It’s Asian Heritage Month! This May, we acknowledge and celebrate the diverse culture and history of Asian communities in Canada and their many achievements and contributions.

The theme for Asian Heritage Month 2026 is: “Honouring Asian Canadians: Stories that Built Canada”.

This recognizes the essential contributions Asian Canadians have made to Canada’s social, cultural, and economic life across generations.

In addition, this theme highlights the numerous ways in which Asian individuals, families and communities have helped build Canada and how their stories are a foundational part of our national history.

We encourage all members to learn more about Asian Canadian communities and how they continue to help shape Canada. Here are some events to check out around the city.

CREBTalk RSS Feed

Hail resilience: Helping clients make informed homebuying decisions

Understanding hail risk

Looking beyond curb appeal

Insurance is part of the conversation

Helping clients prepare for homeownership

Registration now open: 2026 CREB® Annual Golf Tournament presented by Logel Homes

From showings to offers: Understanding your obligation to buyers

Latest ARLO Enhancements

What’s new?

Governance update: Strengthening leadership development and oversight

From Olympic gold to real estate bold

Relief during a life-changing illness

New REMapList™ feature helps identify CEIP Properties

Check whether a property has participated in CEIP using one of the methods below.

High-density supply impacts apartment condominium prices

Amended provincially harmonized rules in effect on July 1, 2026

In summary

A refresher for members: CREB® dispute resolution process

Start at the brokerage level

When a formal complaint is necessary

Tell us how you want CREB® to communicate with you and we'll buy you coffee

Be one of the first 500 respondents and we'll buy you coffee and a snack with a $10 gift card!

Your feedback is needed and appreciated

Thank you!

Office closure: July 1

Mid-year housing market update: Shifting toward balance

Getting to the heart of: What the heck is governance?

Shining bright at the Diamond Gala

Congratulations to all of this year’s award recipients!

Missed the 2025 Member Satisfaction Survey presentation? Watch the recording

Safe selling: Safety tips for REALTORS®

1. Pre-screen clients

2. Inform others of your whereabouts

3. Have a safety plan and stay visible

4. Secure valuables

5. Trust your gut and report suspicious activity

REALTOR® safety resources

Practice quiz results

Avoid closing delays near holidays

Member Communication Survey: Tell us how you want CREB® to communicate with you

Your feedback is needed and appreciated

Who will be selected to take the survey?

Thank you!

Don't miss CREB® Boots, Buckles & BBQ on July 7

Sip for a cause

Win prizes!

Parking and transportation

Last chance for Diamond Gala tickets

Event Details

RECA seeks nominations for Commercial Real Estate Industry Council Seat

Key dates:

Happy Pride Month

Resources

Spring 50/50 raffle supports housing initiatives across Calgary and area

From duty to deals

One month left to apply for CREB® REALTOR® Community Foundation grants

Print and win a lockbox—this June at CREB® Campus

Put you best face forward with updated headshots at CREB® Campus

Event details

FAQ Updates: Exploring a joint future with RAE

Apartment prices ease as inventory remains elevated

Volunteers needed for CRCF casino fundraiser

How to sign up

ICYMI: Exploring a joint future with RAE

Discovery House suites ready to welcome families

Celebrate your REALTOR® Community at Diamond Gala

Event agenda:

Check out last year's highlights!

Reminder: Take the CREB® Rules quiz for a chance to win!

Chance to win

Gain insights from the 2025 CREB® Member Satisfaction Survey

About the speaker

Accessing lockboxes in Central Alberta

We need to hear from you

Unlicensed assistants: Dos and don'ts

REALTORS Care® Day brings CREB® members together at the Calgary Dream Centre

Help shape the future of housing in Alberta

Focus group details

Register to participate

REALTOR^® safety resources