The lack of honest information about your new hometown is a real hurdle for first-time home buyers.
Imagine this: You’ve just moved to a new city only to realize that your commute is longer than expected or the cold is more biting than what you were used to.
Well, you’ve come to the right place! Here, you’ll discover the information you need to know about Airdrie before making your big move.
This article is designed to equip you with insights, ensuring you clearly understand what life in Airdrie is like.
Some of what a first-time home buyer in Airdrie should know are:
- Airdrie is Conveniently Located Just North of Calgary
- Airdrie Offers Relatively Affordable Housing Compared to Calgary
- Airdrie’s Population is Rapidly Growing
- Airdrie’s Economy is Steadily Growing
- Airdrie Experiences a Continental Climate
Understanding Airdrie fully – the good, the not-so-good, and everything in between –makes your move as smooth as possible.
Being prepared allows you to enjoy the vibrant, growing community of Airdrie without the stress.
1. Airdrie Is Conveniently Located Just North of Calgary
Picture this: you’re living in Airdrie, a charming city just a stone’s throw away from Calgary. This unique positioning is like having the best of both worlds.
On one hand, you’re part of a close-knit community, away from the hustle and bustle of a big city. Conversely, Calgary’s vibrant job market and urban amenities are just a short commute away.
For first-time buyers, you’ll enjoy the perks of suburban living while still having easy access to big-city jobs and amenities.
Now, let’s talk about preparing for this balance. When you’re house hunting in Airdrie, consider your daily commute.
How long will it take you to get to work in Calgary? What are your transportation options? If you’re driving, think about the traffic during rush hours.
And if you’re using public transport, check the schedules and connectivity. This is where getting a pre-approval for your mortgage is handy.
It’ll give you a clear idea of your price range, helping you choose a home that suits your lifestyle and budget.
2. Airdrie Offers Relatively Affordable Housing Compared to Calgary
Here’s the deal with Airdrie’s housing market: it’s generally more affordable than Calgary. This is great news, especially for first-time buyers within a specific budget.
In Airdrie, your money stretches further. This allows you to explore a wider range of housing options—maybe even that dream home with a little extra space or a backyard for summer barbeques.
As you dive into the process, arm yourself with knowledge about the current market trends and average prices in Airdrie. This is where you should work with a real estate agent.
They guide you through the often confusing mortgage jargon and help you understand the types of mortgages available. These agents will ensure you find the best-suited mortgage for your needs.
Don’t forget to factor in other costs like property taxes, closing costs, and monthly housing costs. It’s not just about finding a house within your purchase price budget.
It’s also about ensuring you don’t become house-poor by overlooking these additional expenses.
3. Airdrie’s Population Is Rapidly Growing
Airdrie’s growing population is a testament to its appeal. This growth brings a lot of new things to the community, like more services and chances for you.
For you, as a first-time buyer, this growth signifies a smart investment. A growing city often means growing property values and a dynamic housing market.
Airdrie is getting its schools updated and new ones built. For example, St. Martin de Porres School is getting a big makeover.
That’s great for families with kids, as it means better schools and more choices for education. There are also new parks and recreation centers like the North East Regional Park and the South West Recreation Centre.
These spots are designed with input from people living in Airdrie, ensuring they have what the community needs and wants.
As the city grows, we’re also seeing more shopping areas and healthcare facilities. This makes life here convenient because you have everything you need close by.
So, as you get ready to move to Airdrie, all these changes are making the city an even better place to live.
It’s not just about finding a house; it’s about finding a community where you’ll love living. And with all its growth and new developments, Airdrie is just that place.
4. Airdrie’s Economy Is Steadily Growing
If you’re a first-time home buyer looking at Airdrie, you’ll be glad to know its economy is steadily increasing. This growth is not just a statistic but a tangible aspect that impacts the city’s daily life and future prospects.
From 2016 to 2022, the number of people working in Airdrie increased by 44% in just six years. That’s huge!
It’s becoming a place where businesses want to set up shop, and there are more jobs than ever. This growth means many opportunities exist for people wanting to work or start something new.
As you plan your move, take a moment to explore the local job market. Several sectors are showing significant growth and development, such as:
- Manufacturing
- Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
- Business and Investment Attraction
- Agriculture and Forestry
- Energy and Natural Resources
- Tourism
And remember, Calgary’s vast job market is just a commute away, expanding your employment options even further.
5. Airdrie Experiences a Continental Climate
Be aware of Airdrie’s continental climate for a smooth transition. This means experiencing a full range of seasons, each with unique charm and challenges:
In Airdrie, winter runs from December to February, and it’s really cold. The temperature often drops below freezing and can go as low as -30°C.
Spring starts in March, and it’s usually chilly at first, sometimes with snow. By May, it warms up to about 5°C to 15°C.
During summer, from June to August, Airdrie gets warmer. Temperatures are mostly between 20°C and 25°C, but on hot days, they can reach up to 30°C.
Fall comes in September and lasts until November. The weather starts warm like in summer but cools by November to around 0°C to 10°C.
As you look for your perfect home, consider aspects like:
- Insulation
- Heating options
- And even outdoor spaces that you’ll enjoy in different weather conditions.
Planning for these seasonal changes ensures that your home remains a comfortable haven all year round. With the right preparation, you will make well-informed decisions for a successful transition to life in Airdrie.
6. First-Time Home Buyer Programs Benefit Airdrie Residents
For first-time buyers in Canada, including those considering Airdrie, you might qualify as a first-time buyer more than once.
This is a game-changer in accessing financial support for your home purchase. Many programs offer various benefits. It includes:
- The First Home Savings Account (FHSA)
- Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP)
- And First-Time Home Buyer Incentive (FTHBI).
For instance, the FHSA allows you to save for a down payment with tax benefits. Conversely, the HBP lets you borrow from your Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP).
The key is understanding the eligibility criteria. For many of these programs, if you haven’t owned a home for four years, you might be considered a first-time buyer again.
This is a valuable opportunity, especially if your circumstances have changed since your last home purchase. Choose a real estate agent with a comprehensive team to navigate this well.
Your agent will guide you through the housing market, from identifying a perfect property to the negotiation process. What’s comforting is knowing that many real estate agents work closely with a team that includes a qualified mortgage broker.
This broker will assist you with all the financial intricacies, including:
- Mortgage pre-approval
- Understanding various mortgage options
- Decoding mortgage rates and terms.
This collaboration ensures that every step of your home-buying process is covered.
Your New Home, Your New Adventure: With The Maverick Group
As you stand on the threshold of buying your first home, remember that it’s not just a house you’re finding – a community, a lifestyle, and a future. The Maverick Group, top Airdrie Realtors®, is here to guide you through this exciting journey.
Our team, equipped with expertise and dedication, will help you find not just any house but a home that fits all your needs. Contact The Maverick Group today, and let us help you on this wonderful new adventure!
