Selling your home in Calgary's present real estate market can be a challenge, but some common-sense decisions can help improve the odds.

John Hripko, a REALTOR® with Royal LePage Benchmark, says he's recently noticed basic things that some sellers are not doing – things that, if done right, could make a difference when selling in a down market.

Franchise businesses in Canada contribute almost $100 billion annually to the economy and generate jobs for 1.8 million people, according to the Canadian Franchise Association.

Owning a franchise can also be a solid investment, provided a person does their due diligence before signing on the dotted line.

Buying or selling real estate is one of the biggest transactions you'll make in your life, so having the right REALTOR® by your side is essential.

Financing your first home purchase can be intimidating, especially with Canada's frequently changing guidelines. However, there are resources available for Calgarians, including a variety of rebates, tax credits and opportunities for down-payment assistance.

So, you've decided a condo is right for your lifestyle and you're pre-approved for a mortgage, but what's the next step?

Viki Fairbairn, a REALTOR® and certified condominium specialist with Royal LePage Benchmark in Calgary, says buying a condo differs from buying a house, so it's important to find the right Realtor to take you through the process.

Experts say you should buy a home with your head and not your heart, but it's easy to get caught up in the excitement when you find a home that seems perfect for you.

That's why a home inspection is a crucial step. It can uncover problems that might require walking away from a potential purchase, or at least mean reassessing your offer.

Renovations or repairs to your home can make it a nicer place to live and add resale value for the future. But when it comes to home improvement projects, the first decision to make is whether you should do it yourself or leave it to the professionals.

Mikael Anderson, Western Canada director of field services with Lowe's Canada, says customers at the company's Lowe's and Rona stores tackle all sorts of home renovations, but preparation is key.

You've found the perfect piece of land for your dream home and want it to be something special. But with so many custom homebuilders out there, how do you decide which one is best for you?

"Price it right, and it will sell," is a common refrain in the real estate business, but how do REALTORS® determine the proper list price for your home?