As we enter the traditionally busy spring real estate market, conditions are back to favouring sellers. The severe lack of listings has many Calgary home buyers being faced with competing offers, especially for detached properties. The lowest level since 2006, the 3233 listings available for sale in March leaves less than a two month supply.
As high demand collides with low supply, there is upward pressure on prices as the busy spring season unfolds. Based on 2432 sales, the benchmark price edged up 1% to $541,800 in March. However, stronger prices do not seem to be attracting the attention expected from potential sellers as "existing homeowners may be reluctant to list as they struggle to find an acceptable housing alternative in this market. At the same time, higher lending rates can also reduce the incentives for existing homeowners to list their home."