So, you’ve made the decision to move to Edmonton—or maybe you’re already a Yegger and just looking to switch things up. Either way, that’s great! We’re here to help you find the right Edmonton neighbourhood for you. Follow along to see what we think the best neighbourhoods in Edmonton for 20-somethings (or beyond) are. And don’t worry, we’ll ensure our choices are activity and budget friendly.

Oliver

For those already living in Edmonton, Oliver is an obvious spot. Located a short walk away from MacEwan University, several grocery stores and various restaurants and pubs, Oliver is a highly desired area in our city. Though it’s only a 10-20-minute talk to the Downtown core, Oliver is filled with towering trees, beautiful parks, and even a large community garden. And if you are planning on having a family, Oliver is home to several day cares, Oliver Elementary School and even has a public swimming pool—perfect for hot summer days! Explore all Oliver Homes for sale here. 

Ottewell

An up-and-coming neighbourhood, Ottewell is a large residential neighbourhood located East-central Edmonton. It’s a short bus ride to the University of Alberta and is filled with parks, long streets (perfect for the avid runner), and even an outdoor skating rink. Not to mention—Anvil Coffee House is a neighbourhood favourite. If you’re looking to purchase your first home, Ottewell is filled with perfect starter bungalows at an affordable cost. Discover all Ottewell Homes for sale here.

Downtown

Depending on your interests, the obvious location of Downtown Edmonton might be perfect for you. In non-pandemic times, Downtown is the hustling and bustling centre of our city, filled with many local eats (like Rosewood Foods and Tiffin), cocktails around every corner (shoutout to The Bower and Woodwork) and is home to Churchill Square—where most of Edmonton’s iconic summer festivals are held. So, if you’re working in one of the Downtown towers and are child-free, you’ll likely love Downtown. Though rent and mortgages tend to be higher, you’ll save a lot of money on transportation and parking if you simply set up fort in the core. Explore all Downtown Edmonton homes for sale. 

Summerside

We understand that not all 20-somethings want to be close to the downtown core. Sometimes we just want an affordable home in a beautiful neighbourhood! In Summerside, you’ll get exactly that. Filled with all the essentials, you’ll never have to leave Summerside. In this newer Edmonton neighbourhood, you’ll find large homes, walkable paths, and both chain & local restaurants. And what’s more, you’ll even find Lake Summerside—a 13-hectare and 28-foot-deep lake where you can swim, fish and even go to unique workshops at! Discover all Summerside Homes for sale.

Ritchie

Ritchie is known for being home to a variety of demographics—the long-time homeowners, the roommates and the young families. With a strong sense of community, you can’t go wrong with choosing a home in Ritchie. If you want to support local, you won’t have any troubles doing that in Ritchie as it’s home to favourites like Farrow, ACE Coffee, La Boule and Maven and Grace. And as an added bonus, this eclectic neighbourhood also has three parks and lots of family-friendly activities within a short reach. Explore all Ritchie Homes for sale. 

Woodcroft

And for our final recommendation, we’re bringing you Woodcroft. Woodcroft is the perfect mix of homey residential, heritage and convenience. A neighbourhood built in the 1950s, you’ll find lived-in homes, a roomy park and an abundance of furry friends. And if you’re looking to stay long-term, this neighbourhood is home to Woodcroft Primary School and Ross Shepherd High School. Be sure to check out all Woodcroft homes for sale. 

So, have we convinced you to call Edmonton home yet? The list of incredible Edmonton neighbourhoods doesn’t end here, and we’re happy to talk more with you to find out what area of our city best suites you and your lifestyle. Contact us today to chat about your Edmonton real estate needs.

Downtown Edmonton Restaurants To support

While We’re Still In Lockdown (and beyond)

It’s cold, it’s dark, and we’re on what seems to be day 5,000 of lockdown. Though ordering delivery pizza for dinner may seem like the easiest option, there are many restaurants in Edmonton that need support right now (and are just as easy to order from)! Here are 8 restaurants in YEG that would be super appreciative of your support—now more than ever. And what’s even better, the food is truly incredible.

1. King Noodle House

Its winter, which means soup is a must. Located in China Town, King Noodle House is offering authentic pho to-go. It’s pick-up and cash only, but you won’t regret supporting this family-owned business!

2. Pazzo Pazzo
A hidden gem, Pazzo Pazzo is an Italian restaurant located in Downtown Edmonton, near City Hall. This quaint restaurant serves Italian classics for lunch and dinner, and they’re currently offering 20% off phone-in pick-up orders. Make sure to try the Penne Pazzo! This is a favourite of Elisse & Caitlin’s. The pasta dishes are a generous size which makes them perfect for sharing!

3. Syphay

We don’t have enough good things to say about this Thai & Lao restaurant! Huge portions, incredible flavour, options galore. This restaurant is family-owned, and is run by three sisters named Katherine, Anita and Shawna. We highly recommend the Tofu Green Curry and the Pan Lad Nha.

4. Mercer Tavern

A pub-style restaurant, Mercer Tavern is always revamping its menu, has a ton of takeout options, and has many meal kits like nacho kits, chips & queso kits, and poutine kits. Yum! And if you’re feeling thirsty, they also have a ready-to-pour take-home drink menu. What’s more—they have their own delivery service!

5. The Local Omnivore

Located closer to 124 St, The Local Omnivore is best known for their meat-heavy and unique dishes. Their current take-out menu consists of a Hot Food menu and a Cold Food menu, and their current everyday special is 4 burgers for $20. If you ask us, the poutine is the best thing on the menu!

6.  Wholly Mac

A brand-new restaurant that has the same owners as Partake and Urban Diner (two amazing Edmonton restaurants you should also support!), Wholly Mac is a macaroni and cheese ONLY restaurant. Available through SkipTheDishes only, this restaurant definitely offers a unique experience that everyone needs to try once.

7.  Padmanadi

If you know, you know. This family-owned vegetarian & vegan restaurant offers the some of the best meat-free Thai, Chinese and Indian dishes in Edmonton. Even if you’re a meat lover, we promise you will still love the soy-based dishes they offer—like the King Pao Chicken. This is a popular spot for Elisse and her family with ginger beef and curry chicken always on their go to list.

8. Cosmic Pizza

Still craving that pizza? We don’t blame you. Located right off 104 Street, Cosmic Pizza offers some of the most flavourful and filling pizza in Edmonton, as well as other favourites like donairs, poutines, and chicken. You’ll never go back to the big-box pizza places after trying Cosmic—especially after trying their garlic cheesy bread!

And there you have it! We hope that we’ve inspired you to order from a local Edmonton restaurant the next time you’re looking to order take-out. And remember: picking up your order is always the best option, as third-party delivery services take a large cut from the restaurant. Supporting local has never tasted so good!

Featured Guest Blogger:

Alli Harrison is an Edmonton-based marketing & communications professional with extensive experience working with small businesses. Learn all about her by visiting her Instagram, Twitter & LinkedIn.

Hello YEG!

All of us at TruHome love our pets and each of us has made choices in regards to our living environments that would be good for our pets and ourselves. For example, I (Caitlin) chose to live in a house over a condo so that my lovely fur-bears can enjoy a doggy door and yard, while my sister (Elisse) knew right away that a condo would be better for her family, including her little dog. 

In retrospect, when I re-consider my lifestyle, I do feel an Edmonton condo would have also worked really well for me and my two bubbly schnauzers. Unfortunately, before I became an Edmonton REALTOR®, I didn’t realize all the amazing Edmonton condo choices that do exist for people like myself and my dogs.

The reality is that there are plenty of options when it comes to living the Edmonton lifestyle while loving and living with your pets. I wanted to share a few of my favourites to get you started on exploring the real possibilities you can consider:

 The Valhalla Located In Oliver

The Valhalla is the ultimate in pet-friendly living in the core. Not only do they allow pets, but they are also one of the most flexible when it comes to the overall size of your dog. Great Dane? No Problem! Your lovable fur baby is welcome here. With sprawling views of the river valley and downtown, a large indoor pool and an incredible gym – this condo provides it all in location and lifestyle. Want to learn even more about The Valhalla, be sure to read about the 10 Things You May Not Know About The Valhalla. 

The View Overlooking Riverdale

Nestled at the top of the hill in picturesque Riverdale, this Edmonton condo lives up to its name. Enjoy some of the best views in Edmonton surrounded by river valley walking trails. Not to mention, it is located only five minutes away from Edmonton’s downtown core. The building has reasonable pet restrictions, massive floor plans, ensuite laundry, underground parking and lower condo fees, making it a great option not to be overlooked!

Cherry Brook Court Situated in Oliver

This condo is situated in a prime location in the heart of Oliver. Only one block away from Jasper Avenue and close to every desirable amenity including a great pet food store, Global Pet Foods. With tree-lined streets, multiple parks and a network of walking paths, Cherry Brook Court is perfect for the young urban professional or first time home buyer. Accepting cats or dogs – all are welcome in this amazing condo!

The River Grande in Riverdale

Named “Edmonton’s Garden”, Riverdale is a premiere community hugged by the curve of the North Saskatchewan, surrounded by walking trails and home to one of the best off-leash dog parks in the entire city, the Dawson off-leash park which is less than a five-minute walk from the building. Large balconies, friendly 18+ neighbours and amazing floor plans make The River Grande a top choice for any dog parent! 

Morris Lofts in Downtown

Situated in the best location in downtown YEG, this exclusive loft building welcomes your pets. Residents love the generous floor plans, well-managed board and underground parking. What more could you want for your furry friends? Your steps away from Work Nicer (a fantastic co-working space), TEC Edmonton, 104th Street, Start-up Edmonton and the Ice District. 

Trinity Pointe in Bonnie Doon

One of Edmonton’s best kept secrets facing Mill Creek Ravine, this steel and concrete building is well-constructed and sound-proof. Connected to the ravine and trail networks, this building is ideal for pet owners all around. You will want for no amenity living near Whyte Avenue, Bonnie Doon mall, and downtown if you choose this as your next home! Not to mention with the expansion of the LRT network and its hub will bring even more exciting news to the area.

Want to discover more pet-friendly buildings in Edmonton? Our Edmonton Real Estate team would be thrilled to find the ideal home for you and your furry friend. Let us share our expertise to help you on your way!

Your TruHome Advisor,

Caitlin Heine

When Caitlin Heine isn’t out and about helping buyers and sellers navigate the Edmonton Real Estate market, you’ll often catch her out enjoying Edmonton’s beautiful river valley with her two schnauzers, Lumi & Hilli.

We often hear people brag about the loft space in their designer home or their loft-style condo, but with only 200 true converted industrial lofts in Edmonton, those who own them belong to an exclusive club with a lineup of buyers hoping to get in. 

At the heart of the core surrounded by every possible amenity, endless entertainment and downtown nightlife, YEG’s converted industrial lofts are an excellent choice for today’s urban singles and power couples. These properties are well-built and efficient with a minimalist aesthetic. Not only are they smart real estate investments, but they come with a coveted lifestyle inside a rare piece of Edmonton history. 

True converted Edmonton industrial lofts represent just 2% of residential properties in the core and only 6% of those have been listed/sold within the past year. Which means to get into the 200-Loft Club you need an Edmonton real estate advisor with the expertise to help negotiate your membership. That’s where I and the TruHome Real Estate Team come in. 

The TruHome team started researching Edmonton’s lofts because we are passionate about our local history when it pertains to how Edmonton became the city it is today.

Did you know Philips Lofts used to be a storage warehouse with a 20-foot arcade?

Or that Cobogo Lofts is built on the foundation of the Ker Building which burned down in 1913? 

Our team and myself personally, appreciate the uniqueness of loft living and have dedicated time and energy to specialize in these types of properties, we are well connected with current Edmonton loft owners and building managers. If you don’t see what you are looking for on the Edmonton MLS® System, get in touch, as often we have our beat on the pulse and can keep you informed of “not yet on the market” opportunities.

So let me help you jump the lineup into the 200 Loft Club and close the deal on your new life in the core. 

Michael van Butselaar

Your, TruHome Advisor

Michael van Butselaar, your TruHome Real Estate Advisor of RE/MAX Real Estate has a keen eye for finding the unique properties right for his clients. His expertise in high-quality renovations also aids his clients in visualizing the possibilities.

Searching for the ideal Edmonton loft? Learn more about many of Edmonton’s amazing lofts right here, with the latest Edmonton lofts for sale and news.

Does your child plan to attend a post-secondary institution once they graduate from high school? If the answer is yes, then it’s never too early to start thinking about purchasing an Edmonton investment property they can live in while attending school.

Whether you are looking for a second property you can rent to family, or you desire a well-maintained home your children can live in (and you can visit!) while attending college or university – there are a variety of options available in many central Edmonton neighbourhoods.

Step One: Determine Your Budget

There are a host of variables at play when choosing the right property, so determining your budget from the get-go will help you zero-in on finding the perfect place.

Remember that properties closer to post-secondary institutions are often easier to rent, which also makes them more expensive to buy. So if price is a concern, consider looking for places on direct transit routes within a reasonable commute from the school. This will increase your options and provide more opportunities for getting a better deal.

Another factor to remember is to budget between $300-500 per month for condo fees.

If close proximity to school is more important than the price point, try looking for places built with solid construction and multiple bedrooms close to your preferred post-secondary institution. Properties with well-maintained character and curb appeal will help set you apart from other market properties when the time comes down the road to sell.

Step Two: Map the Commute

Again, it is always a great idea to purchase housing for post-secondary students close to major transit routes. This will increase the chances of finding other student tenants if your child will have roommates.

Surprisingly a typical commute using transit in certain neighbourhoods can be shorter than driving and parking. Google Maps is an excellent resource for verifying a true commute time. For example, Queen Mary Park is a 20 minute transit commute to the U of A compared to a 30 minute commute from Ritchie – even though they are on opposite sides of the river.

Step Three: Identify Parking Needs

If you are in need of permanent parking, remember that heated and underground parking can add some extra costs to the purchase price. However it may be a gain when it comes to resale. You can find some good deals in older and smaller buildings with outdoor parking. If it is a house with an older garage, you might want to consider rebuilding a garage suite to add more value and rental opportunities to your investment property, while also solving any covered parking needs

If you plan to buy a condo, determine if an elevator is essential, as this will help you focus your search. 

Step Four: Elbow Grease + Creativity = Good Value

If you have the skills, doing cosmetic improvements and renovations as a family can save a lot of money, and will also give your child the opportunity to personalize his/her space. Look for properties that could really be improved with some new flooring, paint, and modern light fixtures. Not only will you get some added-value down the road, it could also turn out to be a really memorable bonding exercise with your adult (or soon-to-be-adult) child.

Step Five: Make Some Room For Sharing

When it comes to bedrooms, it is always a great idea to have at least one extra bedroom for a potential roommate, and even more if you plan to visit often, or if you have multiple children who plan to share the home.

It’s helpful to look for properties with bedroom layouts that have more privacy between bedrooms. Other “must-haves” include a functional kitchen with adequate storage space, and at least one bright and spacious communal space. In-suite laundry that is organized for shared use can be a real bonus for busy post-secondary students.

Step Six: Identify House Rules Before Move-In

Once you have purchased the property, sit down with your child (or children) and discuss expectations of the living arrangements prior to them moving in. Writing out the rules, terms of agreement and  expectations will help keep everyone on the same page and will reduce conflict and misunderstandings.

Here are a list of some relevant topics for conversation:

• Is the housing only available while the child is attending school?
• What will the rent be and when and how should it be paid?
• Will a security deposit be required? How about for roommates?
• Who gets to decide the appropriate roommates?
• Are overnight visitors allowed?
• Who will take care of renovations and fixing problems?
• Who will pay for the utilities and maintain any outdoor spaces?
• What are the rules for parents stopping by and entering property?
• Are romantic partners allowed to move in? Will they need to pay rent, and how much?
• What are the building by-laws regarding pets, smoking, children and long-term visitors?

If you are considering purchasing a property for your child or children attending an Edmonton post-secondary institution, the TruHome team can help you choose the best options when it comes to condos and homes in some of these Central Edmonton communities: Downtown |  Oliver | Queen Mary Park | Garneau | Strathcona | Ritchie

Love your space but want to make it feel more like your own? Try adding texture to your walls and get an instant feeling of personalization.

 Whether you’re renting, renovating, or the proud new owner of a home, here are some simple ideas to help make your space your TruHome.

Get Your Wallpaper On

Fashion designer Bridget Smatlan of Fridget Apparel brings her design skills off the runway and into your home with her custom wallpaper installation service Tops Wallcovering. The savvy designer has an eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to using correct adhesives and surface preparation techniques. If done correctly, wallpaper can add an instant boost and focal point to any room.

Art for the Commitment-phobes

Looking for a more low-profile way to give your walls a little je ne sais quoi ? Edmonton-based Oliver Apt. designed a series of magnetic frames to hold your beloved art, music posters, and prints. The Prof. Prints series retails for $30 CAD and comes in three sizes and the choice of white ash or walnut finishes. Each kit includes countersunk holes to screw directly to the wall, as well as gold and white twine for hanging.

Plaster on the Warmth

Who says green living can’t be fashion-forward too? High Street’s Carbon Environmental Boutique proudly carries the American Clay line of natural earth plaster. These non-toxic plaster finishes come in a wide selection of earthy-tones, and can be applied on traditional wall surfaces – adding warmth and texture to your living space.

Hang Some Modern Nostalgia

Macramé is back in a big way, and nobody knows how to use it better than interior designer Julie Adams from Of Quartz Interiors. Check out her website and sign up for one of her plant or wall hanging workshops to make your own macramé work of art. You can also purchase ready-made wall hangings from her online shop.

Finnish with Fabric

Sometimes the simplest solutions can make a big (and memorable) impact. This is definitely true when it comes to using textiles as art. If you want a temporary solution to add colour and texture to any size of wall, try framing fabric and watch how it instantly transforms a space. We are especially in love with the selection available from Finnish design company Marimekko.

Spring is just around the corner, making it the perfect time to start preparing your two-wheeled beauty for a few months of glorious bicycle bliss.

Join the Network

If you are an avid cyclist, you will already know that construction is underway for a $7.5-million bike network that will provide seven kilometres of separated lanes for cyclists in downtown Edmonton. When complete, the Downtown Bike Network project will be similar to bike networks found in Calgary, Vancouver, Montreal or other major Canadian cities.

Edmonton Bike Swap

Looking to buy, sell or donate a bicycle?  Be sure to check out the Alberta Bike Swap, Saturday, May 13 from 2:30 – 4 PM at Northlands Edmonton EXPO Centre. This annual event is a perfect opportunity to sell a bike that’s been taking up space on your balcony or collecting dust in the garage, and an awesome opportunity to get a great deal on a new-to-you bicycle inspected and ready to ride off the lot.

Tune-up for Spring

If it’s a spring tune-up that you need, you’ll appreciate the friendly service at MEC’s Bike Shop, located in Oliver. Tune-up packages range from basic to premium, or you can choose individual bike services and repairs. This is also the place to check out for unique bicycle storage solutions for your house or condo.

Hands-on Help

More of the DIY-type? Then you are going to love the Edmonton Bicycle Commuters (EBC) fully-equipped, volunteer-run community bike workshops at BikeWorks North and BikeWorks South. For a small hourly fee, you will have access to specialty bicycle tools needed to repair and maintain your bicycle, as well as access to friendly  mechanics on hand to answer any questions you may have.

Choose Your Ride

When it comes to shopping for a new ride, Edmonton is home to a variety of of bike shops geared for all levels of cyclists. Garneau’s Redbike is the place to go if you are looking for function and European style. They also have a number of group rides you can sign up for on their website. Western Cycle and Revolution Cycle carry a wide selection of mountain bikes, scooters, and road bikes. MEC and United Cycle offer bikes and other sporting accessories at multiple price-points. Also be sure to check out Velocity Cycle at the new Ritchie Market.

Thinking about moving to a cycle-friendly neighbourhood? The TruHome team can help you choose the best options when it comes to condos and homes in Edmonton’s Central communities. Be sure to explore these great Edmonton neighbourhoods: Downtown |  Oliver | Queen Mary Park | Garneau | Strathcona | Ritchie

Take your inner artist for a walk on the wild side with ArtTourYEG, a cool initiative that lets users explore Edmonton’s vibrant art scene via Google Maps. The online tours are easy to use and are divided up into three separate experiences, all located within some great central neighbourhoods: Jasper Ave, The Quarters, and City Hall to Louise McKinney Riverfront Park.

Simply click on the icons on the interactive map, follow the directions on foot or using public transit, and learn more about the works of public art by reading the detailed descriptions provided on the online maps. According to the the website, users are invited to:

“Uncover the stories behind our love of quirky steel sculptures, tributes to over-the-top personalities, and sculpture we almost threw away.”

Explore Edmonton from the lens of Indigenous pre-settlement landscape to our modern day cityscape. From cubism to neon signs and art inspired by Picasso, this is a fun and unconventional way to view Edmonton’s controversial art found in the heart of the city.

Innovative art tours and urban exploration – two more reasons why Edmonton is the place to call your Truhome.

What Is Happening In Your Area – Stats Wise?

Interested to understand what has happened in the Edmonton Real Estate market last month? Check out our most recent stats pertaining to the communities of Oliver and Downtown. Don’t live in the core? Contact us to get updated on what’s happening in your hood.

Hello Edmonton Real Estate – What Is Going On? (A Recap From June)

• 1,785 properties were sold in the Edmonton Census Metropolitan Area (up 0.8% from May)
• 1,117 single family detached homes were sold in the Edmonton CMA (equal percentage from May)
• 465 condos and 173 duplex/rowhouses sold (up 11.5% and down 15% from May, respectively)
• $435,366 was the average all-residential price for June (down by over 1% from May)

“Although June’s residential unit sales are up slightly over May, we did not see the numbers set in June of 2015. Also notable is that the sustained lull in sales we have seen over the past two years has not been reflected in average price. Continued sales of higher priced properties in the region have helped keep average prices strong,” says REALTORS® Association of Edmonton Chair Steve Sedgwick.

What Is Happening In Your Area – Stats Wise?

We are excited to annouce that we are now launching monthly stats based on region. Central Edmonton Dwellers (Downtown & Oliver) – check out your stats below. Don’t live in the core? Contact us to get updated on what’s happening in your hood.