City of Calgary, October 1, 2018 – With no change in the economic climate, Calgary’s sales activity totaled 1,272 units in September, a 13 percent decline over the previous year and well below long-term averages. There was a pullback in sales across all product types, most notably the detached market.

“Calgary’s economy continues to struggle with unemployment, which rose again last month to over eight percent. Concerns in the employment market, higher lending rates, and shaken confidence are weighing on housing demand,” said CREB^® chief economist Ann-Marie Lurie. 

“At the same time, supply levels continue to remain high, resulting in persistent oversupply and price declines.” 

Inventories totaled 7,941 units, pushing the months of supply to 6.25. This continuation in oversupply is placing downward pressure on prices. The unadjusted citywide benchmark price totaled $428,700 in September. This is nearly one percent below last month and three percent below last year’s levels.

“This is the new normal of Calgary’s real estate,” said CREB^® president Tom Westcott.

“Some potential buyers may want to take advantage of the market conditions, but they face difficulties selling their existing home based on their expectations. This prevents them from purchasing something else.” 

September sales have dipped, but third-quarter figures generally point towards a slower decline in sales and some easing in new listings growth. This was not enough to impact inventory levels this quarter. 

The Calgary economy continues to struggle, but there are some signs of improvement in the rental market, which could contribute to a slow reduction in overall housing supply,