Can be smarter than stocks or bonds
Calgarians may be surprised to find out just how profitable revenue properties are in this city – even in consideration of claims housing prices are already overvalued.

In fact, annual returns of 17 per cent, or more, before factoring in appreciation or tax benefits are not uncommon. All you need to get started is a 20 per cent down payment, which can be as little as $30,000 – or $15,000 if you partner with someone – decent credit, and the ability to think long term.

Demographics helping to distinguish Calgary market as Canada's leader

Calgarians need not be defensive about their hometown's place amongst Canada's preeminent cities, at least not when it comes to the world of real estate.

Having seen a rise in sales and prices, Calgary's housing market has been experiencing the same prosperity seen in Vancouver and Toronto – a trio billed as the "hot three" in a recent report from BMO Capital Markets.

There are, however, conditions that separate our city from the housing hot spots to the east and west.

Once destined for freeway construction, historical community now a local jewel

* Old neighbourhoods, new Calgary: A look at some of Calgary's earliest communities and how they're evolving with the times 

Few neighbourhoods in Calgary can match Inglewood's storied history. From its beginnings in 1875 as the city's first main street to its more recent resurgence as a hot spot for boutique shopping, fine dining and live music, the inner-city community has reimagined itself to keep pace with an evolving landscape.

Most recently, Inglewood was bestowed one of its biggest honours, being named the Greatest Neighbourhood in Canada by Great Places in Canada. The competition included 32 nominations and more than 14,500 votes from Canadians across the country over a seven-month period.