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SOLD in Alderheights, Foothills

Set on 15 fenced acres and surrounded by mature trees, this incredibly maintained two-storey offers the space, privacy, and infrastructure ideal for those looking to have a few horses or a hobby farm. With over 2,800 sq.ft. of above-grade living space , the home provides a functional layout with multiple living areas, formal dining, and a large kitchen. So many options for a home based business whether you need a quiet space to work or a small space to greet clients with direct access to the front porch. Small formal living room works well for visiting while the main floor family room has space to watch TV and easy access to the back deck. The kitchen has loads of cabinets and a bay window for your indoor plants. Main floor laundry is conveniently located near the back door and 2 piece bathroom. Upstairs features 4 well-sized bedrooms including a spacious primary suite with full ensuite, rooftop patio and incredible walk in closet. A 4 piece renovated bathroom completes the upper floor. The land is where this property really shines. Fully fenced and surrounded by trees for natural shelter, it’s well suited for horses or other animals. Existing outbuildings include horse shelter, a detached garage, workshop, green house and additional storage, giving you a solid starting point for a small horse setup or hobby farm. Located within easy driving distance to town (only 15 minutes to Okotoks and 10 minutes to High River), you get the best of both worlds, quiet country living with everyday convenience still within reach.

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SOLD Braeside, Calgary

Immaculate 3 bedroom townhome with attached garage! The bright, open concept, main floor has a spacious living room with a wood burning fireplace. The dining area opens up onto the large, private enclosed deck. Kitchen is bright with a fridge, stove, dishwasher and lots of counter space. . A 2-piece powder room is tucked off the hall, along with access to the larger than most attached garage. Upstairs you’ll find 3 bedrooms and the main bathroom. The primary bedroom is spacious with plenty of closet storage and its own 2-piece ensuite. Two additional bedrooms are both well-sized and share a full 4-piece bathroom. The basement offers a large recreation/games room with plenty of space for a media area, home gym, or flex use. A sink and bar fridge offers convenience for movie nights. . Laundry and mechanical are located in a separate unfinished area with additional storage space. Located close to Southland Leisure centre, shopping and schools.

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SOLD in McKenzie Towne, Calgary

Located on a quiet street in the SE corner of McKenzie Towne, this home is a short walk from shopping, parks and the McKenzie Towne bus terminal. Main floor offers a bright, open layout with new LVP flooring throughout. The living room has large windows bringing in plenty of natural light, a gas fireplace with mantle and TV ledge. The kitchen includes full-height cabinetry, ample counter space, tile backsplash, and a raised eating bar overlooking the living room. Stainless steel dishwasher, OTR microwave and stove are newer. Adjacent dining nook is positioned in a bay window setting with backyard views. Convenient main floor 2-piece bath plus a functional rear mudroom with built-in storage provides access to the deck and yard. The yard is large with raised garden bed ready for your green thumb. Plenty of space beyond the yard for a future double garage. The second floor configuration offers options for a young couple or roommates. The front primary bedroom includes a walk-in closet and 4-piece ensuite. Rear bedroom is slightly smaller and also has a full ensuite and walkin closet. Unfinished basement offers excellent potential for future development, with a wide open layout ready to be customized to your needs. Currently set up with a dedicated workshop area complete with (negotiable) workbench and storage, plus plenty of additional space for recreation, home gym, or added bedrooms. Mechanical and laundry areas are neatly organized and easily accessible, with rough-in plumbing already in place for a future bathroom.

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Buying a House in Okotoks while You Live in another Province

Are you planning on moving to Okotoks but are finding that houses are selling before you can arrange a trip to view? With a  bit of preparation and the right agent  (me!) , buying a home is  entirely feasible. Whether you're relocating for work, moving to be closer to family, or simply drawn to the Foothills of Southern Alberta, here's a comprehensive guide on how to navigate the process of buying a house in Okotoks when you live in a different province.

 1. Research and Planning

The foundation of any successful house purchase begins with thorough research. Start by familiarizing yourself with the real estate market in the area where you wish to buy. Online resources such as real estate websites and community facebook groups can give you insights into property prices, market trends, and neighborhood information. If you're unfamiliar with the area, consider exploring the neighborhood virtually or during a visit to get acquainted with essential facilities like schools, healthcare providers, and shopping centers. 

 If you’re currently working with an agent to sell your property, they may be able to refer you to an agent in the town or city that you’d like to move to. 

Identify your priorities: What type of property are you looking for? What amenities or features are non-negotiable? Understanding your needs will streamline your search and help you focus on properties that align with those needs. The 2024 market is tight and you may need to compromise on your wants. 

2. Engage a Local Real Estate Professional

Having a reliable team on the ground is crucial when buying property remotely. Having lived in the Okotoks area for over 20 years, I can help you choose a community and find a property that will fit your needs. I also work closely with other agents and often know of properties coming on the market well before they hit the MLS.  I’ve even had success “doorknocking” communities to find a house for my buyers. 

3. Utilize Technology for Virtual Viewings

Thanks to advancements in technology, virtual viewings have become a practical solution for remote homebuyers. I’ve been doing virtual showings long before it was necessary during covid! Virtual showings are more than just visual- I can tell you what I hear outside and what I smell. If there’s a farmer spreading manure on the field…you will know. There are also home inspectors that provide detailed reports in case you can’t attend the home inspection.

4. Planning your trip to Okotoks.

I get it. You’re excited. You want to jump on a plane and come and check out Okotoks. Here’s a hint- most new listings come on the market Thursdays and Friday. On Thursdays we have a realtor only tour where we check out new listings so there’s always a rush to have the property ready for Thursdays viewings. While this tour is not open to the public, as your agent I am checking out these properties on your behalf. Sometimes this headstart is just what is needed to secure you a property.

If you’re planning on staying in Okotoks, there are 4 main hotels. 

Best Western Plus Inn and Suites: This hotel is pet friendly, has a pool and has suites with kitchenettes. Perfect if you’re going to be in town for a week or more. 

Lakeview Inns and Suites: This hotel is also pet friendly, has a fitness centre and offers a free breakfast.

The EconoLodge: Also pet friendly, free breakfast  and more affordable than the others. 

The Royal Duke Hotel: Located downtown Okotoks, this boutique hotel sits above a restaurant/pub.

5. Navigate Legal and Administrative Requirements

Buying property across provincial borders introduces specific legal and administrative considerations. Each province in Canada, for example, has its own regulations regarding property purchases, land transfer taxes, and residency requirements. As of now, in Alberta, we don’t have land transfer taxes but we do have a fee that your lawyer will collect  based on the amount of your mortgage.

Additionally, you’ll also need a real estate lawyer who is well-versed in provincial laws and regulations. Your own local lawyer may not be licensed to do real estate in Alberta. If you're unable to attend the closing in person, there are several good local lawyers that can handle your purchase long distance so you don’t need to make a special trip. However the closing is handled, whether remote or in person, be prepared to provide identification documents, proof of insurance, and other paperwork as required by your lender and legal advisor.

Coordinate with your real estate agent and lawyer to schedule the closing date and arrange for the transfer of funds. I strongly recommend not having the sale of your current home and purchase of your new home close on the same day.

Conclusion

Buying a house remotely requires careful planning, thorough research, and the support of local professionals. By leveraging technology for virtual viewings, engaging a local real estate agent and other local professionals, you can navigate the process confidently and secure your dream home from afar. With the right preparation and guidance,your move to Okotoks can be relatively stress free.


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Homeowner Associations (HOAs) in Okotoks

If you’re buying in Okotoks, you may come across communities with a Homeowners Association (HOA). These are typically set up by the developer to manage shared spaces and help keep the neighbourhood looking its best.

What is an HOA?

An HOA is a group (usually made up of homeowners) that manages common areas and enforces basic community guidelines. Homeowners pay fees to cover maintenance, amenities, and administrative costs.

What HOAs Do in Okotoks

Most HOAs here focus on a few key things:

  • Maintaining shared spaces like parks, pathways, playgrounds, and sometimes lakes or clubhouses

  • Keeping standards consistent for things like landscaping and exterior appearance

  • Supporting community connection through events or shared amenities

  • Helping resolve issues between neighbours when needed

Okotoks Communities with HOAs

Not every neighbourhood has one, but some of the more common HOA communities include:

  • Air Ranch (actually bareland condo but acts more like a HOA)

  • Crystal Shores (lake access)

  • Drake Landing (HOA on title but nothing has ever been collected)

  • Cimarron Estates Green (snow removal and yard care)

Each community is a bit different, so it’s important to understand what the HOA actually covers.

The Upside

  • Helps protect property values

  • Access to amenities (especially in lake communities)

  • Keeps the neighbourhood looking clean and consistent

  • Can create a stronger sense of community

The Trade-Offs

  • Fees (monthly or annual, depending on the community)

  • Rules around things like landscaping or exterior changes

  • Occasional disagreements over expectations or enforcement

Rules & Fees (What to Watch For)

HOA rules are usually outlined in documents you’ll receive during the buying process. These can include guidelines on:

  • Landscaping

  • Exterior changes

  • Parking

  • General property upkeep

Fees vary depending on amenities and maintenance requirements, so it’s important to understand exactly what you’re paying for and whether you’ll use it.

My Advice to Buyers

Before you buy in an HOA community:

  • Review what the fees include

  • Make sure you’re comfortable with the rules

  • Consider whether the amenities fit your lifestyle

Some HOAs add real value. Others are more about maintaining standards. Neither is right or wrong, it just depends on what matters to you.


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SOLD in Cimarron Springs, Okotoks

Pride of ownership shines through in this welcoming family home in the heart of the exclusive community of Cimarron Springs. Located just across the street from the estate homes along the pond, in addition to access to walking paths, this home offers a short walk to schools, shops, and restaurants. Step up to the front porch and into a bright foyer that immediately feels like home. Just off the entry, the flex room with French doors is perfect for a home office, study space, or even a playroom. Moving further in, the layout opens up beautifully into the heart of the home. The kitchen, dining area, and living room all connect seamlessly, making it easy to stay connected whether you're cooking, entertaining, or just hanging out at the end of the day. The living room features soaring ceilings, tons of natural light, and a cozy gas fireplace—perfect for our seemingly never ending winter!!! The kitchen is both functional and inviting, with rich wood cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, a gas cooktop, and a breakfast bar that’s ideal for quick meals or morning coffee. Just off the kitchen, the dining area offers plenty of space for family dinners and opens onto the back deck. Tucked around the corner, you’ll find a convenient 2-piece bath, main floor laundry, and access to the double attached garage. Upstairs, the you’ll find four bedrooms. The primary suite is set apart with a glimpse of the ponds of Cimarron Springs, along with a full ensuite featuring a soaker tub, separate shower, and a spacious walk-in closet. Three additional bedrooms and a full bathroom complete the upper level. Downstairs, the unfinished basement is a blank slate and ready for your ideas. With two windows and rough-in plumbing already in place, there’s room to create additional bedrooms, a family room, home gym, and a bathroom—whatever your family needs now or in the future. The south facing backyard has a large deck and established trees for privacy. Flexible possession.

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SOLD 159 acres in Foothills

Welcome to this stunning piece of land located minutes from Calgary and Okotoks! Fully fenced and ready for your use. With sprawling views of the river valley to the west, and a mountain view to the west, this is a piece of land best viewed in person, photos will not do it justice. Parcels with this size and possibilities don't come up often. This land was previously used for pasture and farming. Go for a drive just a few minutes outside of Okotoks and enjoy the peace and quiet! Do not enter the property without an appointment.

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SOLD in Tucker Circle Okotoks

Welcome to the NON-AGE restricted community of Tucker Hill making it a popular choice for first time home buyers or retirees. This well-designed bungalow offers over 1,070 sq ft on the main floor with a bright, functional layout and comfortable everyday living. Step inside and you’re greeted by warm hardwood floors that flow through the main living areas. The living room is filled with natural light from large windows and features a cozy gas fireplace, creating an inviting space to relax or entertain. The kitchen offers plenty of cabinetry, granite countertops, and a practical layout that opens nicely to the dining area , perfect for everyday meals or hosting friends. The S/S fridge is less than a year old. Just off the dining room, sliding doors lead to the back patio, making summer BBQs and morning coffee outside easy and convenient. The main floor primary bedroom is spacious and includes its own 3-piece ensuite. The second bedroom, located adjacent to the main 4 piece bathroom, could easily be used as a home office. Convenience continues with main floor laundry (new washer and dryer)and direct access to the attached single garage that is almost 22’ long. . The fully finished basement adds valuable living space with two more bedrooms, an open living space, and a convenient 2-piece bathroom. The oversized bedroom offers plenty of room for a guest suite, teen retreat, or flexible multi-use space. Plenty of room in the utility room for storage. Furnace was recently inspected and cleaned for additional peace of mind.

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New Listing in Whispering Creek, Vulcan

I have listed a new property at 314 Whispering WAY in Vulcan. See details here

Welcome to Whispering Creek Condominiums in the golf community of Whispering Creek, Vulcan, an exclusive adult (55+) community. Say goodbye to cutting grass and shoveling snow as your condo fees look after those chores. No commitment to start building and $30 per month covers maintenance on the vacant lot. Vulcan is conveniently located 1 hour from Calgary or Lethbridge but with a hospital, golf course, shopping, medical services, you might never need to leave town! Backyard faces south. GST is applicable

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SOLD in Tucker Hill, Okotoks

Welcome to Tucker Hill! This is one of the best placed townhome communities in Okotoks, with shopping nearby, Westmount and Foothills Composite schools within walking distance, and quick access to the highway for a weekend adventure. This complex is perfect for families and professionals of any stage. This home has been fully renovated with modern, elegant fixtures. The living room has large windows, a 10’ ceiling, a corner gas fireplace, and access to the balcony that overlooks Tucker Pathway. The kitchen is on the next floor up, completely renovated with quartz counters, Stainless Steel appliances, and modern cabinets. The layout works beautifully for kitchen and living room gatherings. The 2 piece bathroom and laundry is located conveniently on the main floor. Upstairs, there are 2 Primary bedrooms with their own private ensuites, and an open space between them for a more private office space. The walkout basement is used as an office right now, but works great as a third bedroom too! The single attached garage and extra long driveway are perfect for parking multiple vehicles. Contact your favourite agent to book a private viewing!

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SOLD in Homestead Acres, HIGH RIVER

Welcome to Homestead Acres, a quiet and well-maintained 50+ community. This recently renovated and maintained mobile home is truly move-in ready. Extensive updates completed in 2022 include insulation, roof, exterior wrap, windows, doors, and air conditioning, with a newly installed underbelly added in 2024. The home features two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a spacious open-concept kitchen and living area, and central air conditioning. Upon entry, you are welcomed by a large foyer with built-in cabinetry and bench seating, providing a functional and inviting space for guests. The kitchen serves as the heart of the home, offering ample room for cooking, entertaining, and everyday living. The open living area provides flexible space to suit your lifestyle, whether for reading, relaxing, or hosting movie nights. Toward the rear of the home, the second bedroom offers excellent natural light and a closet organizer. Nearby is a bright and well-appointed four-piece main bathroom, along with a convenient stacked washer and dryer. The primary bedroom is generously sized to accommodate a king-size bed and includes a walk-in closet and a private ensuite featuring dual vanities and a large shower. Outside, enjoy a low-maintenance, fenced yard and a deck designed for relaxation, complete with a propane heater. The exterior of the home comes with permanent outdoor lights already installed, for all your seasonal lighting themes! An insulated and powered shed offers additional space for hobbies or storage. With minimal yard maintenance required, you’ll have more time to enjoy your home, while still having the flexibility to personalize the outdoor space to your vision.

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Declutter as if you’re moving across Canada!!

We have lived in the same house for over 20 years and it’s amazing how much stuff one family can accumulate. A few years ago we started doing an annual purge right during that magical window between Christmas and New Year’s. You know the one… the house is quieter, the leftovers are endless, your schedule is wide open, and nobody knows what day it is anyway.

Let me explain why this works so well.

The holiday rush is over, guests have gone home, and suddenly you can see your space again. You’ve lived through the chaos, you know exactly what worked and what drove you absolutely nuts. That week gives you time off + clarity, which is a powerful combo.

Here’s why that window is gold:

  • You finally have time. No appointments, fewer obligations, and no pressure to be anywhere. Perfect for short, satisfying declutter sessions.

  • You’re surrounded by proof. You can clearly see what didn’t get used, what’s in the way, and what needs to go after the holiday whirlwind.

  • You can deal with the influx immediately. New gifts, new clothes, new gadgets—this is the moment to make room before they become clutter too.

  • It sets up a calm January. Instead of starting the year exhausted and behind, you start organized, lighter, and already ahead.

What to focus on during that week

Don’t try to do the whole house—this isn’t a punishment.

  • Seasonal Decor: Those items that stay in the storage box season after season.

  • Closets: Those clothes that you don’t love, are not your style or simply don’t fit

  • Kitchen & storage: If you didn’t use it over the holidays, you probably won’t. 

  • Kids’ stuff: Match new toys with outgoing ones—fair and effective.

  • Bathrooms: Expired lotions, free samples of things you will never use and towels that have seen better days.

  • Your home office: This needs its own blog post especially if you’re self employed and work out of the home

How to keep it easy

I limit myself to one room at a time because when I purge, EVERYTHING comes out of the closet or cabinet before I start sorting and putting away. Yes, things are going to look worse before they look better.

Set a timer for 20–30 minutes. One drawer. One shelf. One category.
Ask yourself: Did I use this in the last 90 days—and will I in the next 90?

If not, it’s time to thank it for its service and move it along. When the time goes off, take a quick break and start again.

What to do with the stuff you don’t want

Do I donate this, sell it, or just let it go? Yep, this is the most difficult part.

Donate it if:

  • It’s clean, in good condition, and someone else could actually use it.

  • Clothing still fits someone, just not you.

  • Small household items, décor, books, or toys that still have life left.

In the Okotoks area, there are multiple places that accept donations: Mission Thrift Store, Foothills Thrift Store (formerly known as the salvage centre) and My City Care. There’s also a very active Let’s Buy Nothing Okotoks FB group

If you’d be happy to give it to a friend, it’s donation-worthy. If not… keep reading.

Sell it if:

  • It’s worth real money (not “garage sale hopeful” money).

  • Think: quality furniture, newer electronics, tools, collectibles, or higher-end clothing.

  • You’re willing to list it this week, not “someday.”

Facebook Marketplace seems to be the best place to sell stuff. If you don’t list it within 7 days, it automatically becomes a donation. No guilt, no second chances.

Garbage it if:

  • It’s broken, stained, missing parts, expired, or worn out.

  • You wouldn’t donate it because you’d be embarrassed for someone else to receive it.

  • It’s been sitting in a “deal with later” pile for years.

This is where permission matters: you are allowed to throw things out.  Keeping broken items doesn’t make you responsible, it just makes your house heavier.

A few bonus pro tips

  • Donations should leave the house immediately. Trunk of the car or by the door, no exceptions.

  • Don’t overthink. Decluttering is about progress, not perfect decisions.

  • Match items to effort. A $20 item isn’t worth 3 weeks of mental energy.

Final words

You’re home anyway. You’ve got the time. And there is nothing better than ringing in the new year with less stuff and more calm. Oh and if you accidentally get rid of something and then realize that you need it…there’s a good chance the salvage centre still has it. Ask me how I know ;)

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The trademarks MLS®, Multiple Listing Service® and the associated logos are owned by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify the quality of services provided by real estate professionals who are members of CREA. Used under license.