Through boom and bust, Calgary offers much to love

After living in Calgary for close to 40 years, drawing up a list of things I love about the city could fill a book.

I have my own personal preferences – such as the mountains, which are near and dear to everyone, and the natural parks everywhere in sight – but I thought I would pick the brains of a few REALTORS® who have also long called the city home.

Stan Matlashewski, who is in his 53rd year as a Realtor and is the longest serving member of CREB®, says Calgary has "always been vibrant."

"It has a good attitude," he said. "Right now, we're in a bit of a downturn, but overall it's been good."

He says he's always liked the people who have made up Calgary in the past and the nature of being part of Alberta. "There's always that pride," he said.

Nettie Hendricks, a Realtor with Century 21 Bamber and a CREB® Realtor of the Year Award recipient, has lived in Calgary her whole life.

"Calgary offers and delivers what many entrepreneurs, including Realtors, are looking for in a great city. Calgary exudes friendliness, but also stays competitive. She showcases her beautiful skyline and growing metropolitan areas, but remains small at heart," said Hendricks.

"One of the things that really endears me to Calgary is our strong sense of compassion at the community level. Calgary is a haven for volunteers, giving back to make lives better for fellow Calgarians.

"Calgary exudes friendliness, but also stays competitive. She showcases her beautiful skyline and growing metropolitan areas, but remains small at heart." - Nettie Hendricks, Calgary REALTOR^®

"I believe that making my living from the housing industry has made me more passionate about helping all Calgarians achieve a place to call home. Not necessarily one they own, but one they can afford to live in. That's what makes Calgary great."

CREB® president and CEO Alan Tennant has lived in the Calgary area for more than four decades. When asked for his favourite thing about the city, he's quick to reply.

"Walking along the river with my wife downtown because there's always something interesting going on, whether it's the river surfers or people playing soccer or casual games of cricket," he said.

"I mean, there's always something interesting happening. Artists, music – it's really cool and I love the randomness of it all. It's a very friendly, safe place. It's a really cool aspect of downtown Calgary life."

Tennant adds that one of the many benefits of living in Calgary is the variety of affordable housing options available to people from all walks of life.

"It's a very balanced environment, so regardless of what point somebody is at on the property ladder, they're going to have some pretty ample and affordable options in Calgary and area," he said.