If you’re new to Calgary, we want to give you a warm welcome to Canada – the great White North! Calgary is a bustling city full of opportunities, breathtaking views of the mountains, and a small-city feel within a thriving metropolis. We’re known for our world-famous Stampede, Alberta beef, outdoor adventures, and yes – affordable real estate!
Compared to other large cities in Canada, Calgary is unique in that our homes are less expensive than those you’d find in Toronto and Vancouver. As home builders, this gives us an incredible opportunity to provide beautifully designed houses. As a new immigrant, finding a new home in Calgary can be exciting and overwhelming. To help you choose the right location, we detail some of the best neighbourhoods in Calgary and its surrounding areas.
Can a New Immigrant Buy a House in Canada?
There are no legal restrictions preventing new immigrants to Canada from buying a house. As long as individuals can afford the expenses associated with owning a property, such as a condo, duplex, or single-family house, they are eligible to buy a new home in Calgary and all of Canada.
It’s important to note that Canada does not impose any requirements regarding residency or citizenship for property ownership. This means that anyone, regardless of their status as a citizen, permanent resident, temporary visa holder, or even someone simply interested in investing in Canadian real estate, can purchase property in the country.
In essence, as long as individuals adhere to Canadian tax and real estate laws, the opportunity for homeownership in Canada is open to all.
Vibrant & Welcoming Neighbourhoods in Calgary & Surrounding Areas
Calgary is widely recognized as a warm and welcoming community for newcomers, making it an ideal destination for individuals and families seeking to start a new chapter in Canada. The city’s diverse population and inclusive atmosphere create an environment where people from various cultural backgrounds feel embraced and valued.
Calgary offers newcomers numerous resources and support systems, including settlement services, language programs, and employment assistance. The city’s strong sense of community fosters connections and encourages integration, making it easier for newcomers to establish social networks and feel at home.
A tour around the city and its surrounding areas will give you a sense of the incredible areas that Calgary has to offer – from the exciting hubbub of downtown to the quiet and laid-back suburbs.
The City Of Calgary
There are many neighbourhoods to choose from in the four quadrants of Calgary, and the right location depends on your needs. Calgary’s top 10 most popular and sought-after neighbourhoods include:
- Varsity
- Bridgeland
- Brentwood
- Crescent Heights
- Sunnyside
- Dalhousie
- Bowness
- Hillhurst
- Acadia
- Edgemont
If you like nightlife, restaurants, the convenience of quick public transportation, and prefer a condo or apartment, downtown Calgary is the ideal location for you. If you’re looking for more affordable new homes in Calgary that are family-friendly, Calgary’s surrounding areas offer just that and much more.
Cochrane
With gorgeous mountain views, fresh air, quaint small-town vibes, and plenty of outdoor activities, Cochrane is one of Calgary’s most charming locations. New homes for new immigrants range from townhomes, duplexes, single-family houses, and attached-garage homes.
Cochrane is home to Ghost Reservoir Park, where residents and tourists can golf, sail, hike, powerboat, and ice skate. One of the main attractions of Cochrane is that the town is within a 30-minute drive from Calgary’s city centre and less than an hour away from Banff. Families enjoy quiet living near schools, parks, and pathways while still being conveniently close to the city.
Airdrie
One word that Airdrie residents describe this small town is community. Airdrie is an attractive location for new immigrants because of its affordability, accessibility, and convenience. Here, residents enjoy quiet, small-city living with access to big-city amenities, big-box retail stores, and the major regional shopping mall CrossIron Mills.
Airdrie cultivates a sense of friendly community experiences with neighbourhood events like the Airdrie Festival of Lights during the Christmas season, a Canada Day Parade, the Airdrie Family Fall Fair, and the Pro Rodeo. Calgary’s city limits are only a ten-minute drive away through main highways like Stoney Trail and Deerfoot.
Chestermere
This lakeside town is known for its laid-back family-centric living, a peaceful oasis from the hustle and bustle of the city. One visit to Chestermere Lake and you’ll soon see why residents flock to the community of Chestermere. Here, you’ll experience a sense of outdoor lake-side fun, enjoyment, and a tight-knit community. Homes range from affordable units to luxury living with diverse residential choices perfect for a growing family.
Chestermere is a 30-minute drive from Calgary’s city centre, with a commuter bus running from the small city to downtown Calgary. Residents enjoy swimming, boating, wakeboarding, kayaking, canoeing, and ice skating on the lake, and plenty of bike trails for walking, skateboarding, and biking.
Find the Perfect New Home in Calgary
Finding the perfect new home in Calgary as an immigrant is an exciting and important endeavour. After all, it’s a significant step towards establishing roots and creating a comfortable and fulfilling life in Canada.
Let us help you find the perfect place to call home – contact Douglas Homes today to speak to one of our team members about finding an affordable new home in Calgary and surrounding areas!