INVESTING IN CALGARY
Calgary Residential Real Estate
Buy rentals from someone who runs them.
Most agents can find you a property. I can tell you what it will actually earn, because I own rentals, manage a portfolio of short-term rentals, and see the real income and expenses every month.
Why investors work with me
Investor first. I own my own rental properties, so I analyze every deal the way I'd analyze one for myself.
Operator data, not guesses. Through Empire Estates, my short-term rental company, I see real occupancy, nightly rates and seasonality across Calgary.
Licensed property manager. I understand Alberta tenancy rules, tenant screening and what management really costs.
Builder connections. As co-founder of Rocky Mountain Prefabs, a CSA A277 certified modular builder, I can help you think through new builds, backyard suites and cabins.
Strategies I help with
Long-term rentals. Steady, lower-maintenance income on a 12-month lease. Best for buyers who want simplicity.
Mid-term rentals. Furnished stays of 30 days or more for travel nurses, relocating workers and insurance housing. Often more income than long-term with less turnover than Airbnb.
Short-term rentals (Airbnb / Vrbo). Highest income potential and the most work. In Calgary, every short-term rental needs a City business licence and must meet fire safety requirements, and condo bylaws may prohibit them.
House hacking. Live in one part and rent the other: a legal basement suite, a side-by-side or a duplex. A practical first step into investing.
Suites and infill. Adding a legal suite or backyard suite can raise income and value, but rules depend on each lot's zoning.
How I analyze a deal
For every property you're serious about, I'll put together a simple investment summary:
- Purchase costs: price, down payment (investment properties typically need 20% or more), closing costs.
- Rent estimate: long-term, mid-term and short-term scenarios side by side.
- Operating costs: mortgage, property tax, insurance, condo fees, utilities, maintenance, vacancy and management.
- Returns: monthly cash flow, cap rate and cash-on-cash return.
- Risks: zoning, condo bylaws, licensing, special assessments and big-ticket repairs coming due.
These are estimates to help you decide, not guarantees. I recommend confirming financing with a mortgage professional and tax treatment with an accountant.
YOUR LOCAL CALGARY REAL ESTATE EXPERT
Calgary Calgary zoning changed in 2026
Calgary City Council repealed citywide ("blanket") rezoning on April 8, 2026, and on August 4, 2026 most residential properties returned to the zoning they had before 2024. That means suite, duplex and infill potential now has to be checked lot by lot, and an older listing description may no longer be accurate. Before you buy, I'll help you confirm what the zoning on a specific property allows.
programs From purchase to management
- Strategy call: your goals, budget and how hands-on you want to be.
- Search and analysis: I find properties that fit and run the numbers on each.
- Purchase: negotiation, inspection and due diligence on zoning, licensing and condo documents.
- Setup: furnishing, licensing and listing for short-term rentals, or tenant placement for long-term.
- Ongoing management: optional, through Empire Estates, or I'll refer you to a manager who fits.
INVESTOR FAQs
How much do I need down on a rental property?
Most lenders require at least 20% down on a non-owner-occupied rental. If you live in one unit of a property with up to four units, lower down payments may be possible.
Is Airbnb still allowed in Calgary?
Yes, with a City of Calgary business licence and fire safety requirements. Many condo buildings restrict or ban short-term rentals, so I check the bylaws before you buy.
Long-term, mid-term or Airbnb: which is best?
It depends on the property, the location and how much work you want. I'll show you all three scenarios on the same property so you can compare.
Do I have to use your management company?
No. Management is optional, and you're free to choose any manager or self-manage.
Let's run the numbers on your next property.
