As Calgarians continue to navigate the challenges of an intense economic downturn and a global pandemic – in addition to the standard curveballs life tends to throw one's way – many are re-evaluating their priorities in hopes of a brighter future.

As people tire of self-isolation and its negative health impacts, the idea of cohousing is becoming more attractive than ever. Imagine neighbourly, small-town friendliness meets convenient city living; the privacy and independence of single-family living, but with added space and social amenities available in the form of shared common areas; and a diverse mix of residents, from retirees to young families.

Decorated Canadian curler Ben Hebert has fond memories of his first home in Regina, though it will forever be tied to an unhappy event.

"We moved in May of 2009, right after we lost the world final in Moncton," he said. "That's how I remember it.

Couple nearing retirement secured lifestyle close to family and amenities with new-build condo

Dragica and Ron Presiloski are nearing retirement and looking to move closer to family. The couple is still working full-time – Dragica in dentistry and Ron in commercial water treatment. They've been living in Regina for several years, where they own a condo, but their son and his wife reside in Calgary, as do most of the couple's extended family. So, it was a natural progression for the Presiloskis to begin their home search here.

Jennifer and Mike Elliott created their perfect home alongside nature in Woodbine

When Jennifer and Mike Elliott moved to Calgary from Regina with their two young children 20 years ago, they had several must-haves on their home wish list. Namely, the home had to be in an area that was child-friendly, and close to schools, parks and mature trees. They purchased a four-bedroom home in Woodbine with an old-world front porch, just minutes from Fish Creek Park. Now that their kids are grown, they have renovated their home top to bottom, including a new kitchen, bathrooms, flooring, lighting and furniture. The final stage was completed last year – a brand new art studio and gallery for Mike, who has shifted his career focus from the oil and gas industry to art.

Sellers' conditions in B.C., buyers' in Saskatchewan

A new report from the Conference Board of Canada says balanced conditions in Calgary's resale housing market are expected to create price gains in the coming months.

In its June Metro Resale Snapshot, the organization anticipates the city's MLS® price will increase between zero and 2.9 per cent over the short term. In May, the house price in Calgary was $465,840, up 1.1 per cent from April and 2.3 per cent from a year ago.

Study author Robin Wiebe classified Calgary's housing market as balanced, noting sales volumes in May increased by 1.6 per cent on a month-over-month basis, while listings declined by 1.9 per cent.