With an Alberta provincial election set for this spring, there's no question what the number-one topic of discussion and debate will be among politicians and the public over the coming months: the economy.

That was the message delivered at a recent event hosted by the Calgary Chamber of Commerce that featured four panelists discussing the upcoming election and the economic landscape.

Some tasks, like open heart surgery, don't scream "do it yourself." Fortunately, there are many home renovation projects that are perfectly suited to a hands-on approach.

As the calendar turns over, people are revving up to refine and refresh their lives and lodgings, and what better way to do just that than a home makeover?

For enthusiasts of the food hall phenomenon, comparing these facilities to food courts is like equating a Mercedes to a Hyundai because they both have wheels. Inspired by a European tradition, food halls can more accurately be described as a cross between an upscale food court and a farmers market.

Now, the trend that's captivating much of Canada has come to Calgary.

As oversupply continues in Calgary's housing market, December prices eased by one per cent compared to last month and are over three per cent below last December.

Despite a struggling economy, Calgarians are still buying mountain homes, whether in Alberta's playgrounds of Canmore and Kananaskis, or in nearby B.C. hotspots in the Kootenays and Okanagan.

Making sure your dream renovation doesn't turn into a nightmare means doing some due diligence before signing on the dotted line.

Condo owners, sellers and buyers will have more information at their fingertips – and it will be less cumbersome and expensive to access – under new provincial guidelines slated to take effect this July.

Owning a winter vacation home means spending time with family and friends skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating or just sitting together around a warm fireplace.

But as with any real estate purchase, the first step is deciding if buying a winter vacation home makes sense for you.

Lighter snow than normal in December has gardeners in Calgary wondering about watering their trees and perennial beds this month.

I remember wearing shorts on the deck in December in the '90s, so this is not the first time we've had warm weather at this time of year. But dry winters are rare, so let's review the rulebook for gardeners about winter watering. The short answer is, don't do it.