From mortgage stress test relief and red tape reduction to general economic good news and jobs to boost consumer confidence, Calgary's housing industry is cautiously optimistic the recent change in provincial government could help cross a few items off its wish list.

However, that all hinges on the new United Conservative Party (UCP) government following through on its campaign promises.

City council's recent approval of 14 new suburban communities is a vote of confidence in Calgary's future.

"It is an overall good news story," said Matthew Sheldrake, City of Calgary growth strategies and geo-demographics co-ordinator, of the communities approved in July.

Where can you take in mountain views, watch wildlife and enjoy a peaceful acreage lifestyle, all while still being able to access downtown Calgary in under half an hour? According to residents, the answer is the communities of Springbank and Bearspaw on Calgary's northwestern fringe.

Whether old or new, a home is an investment worth protecting.

"The difference between a house the owner has paid attention to and one they have not can be amazing," said Mike Becker, a home inspector for Calgary and surrounding areas with Pillar to Post Home Inspectors.

Homeowners can maintain the value of their investment by monitoring these areas of the home:

Anyone in the downtown area on the evening of April 18 was treated to a light show, as coloured LEDs on the new Telus Sky building recreated the aurora borealis in a test of a new art installation.

Artist Douglas Coupland's Northern Lights is just one of the features of Telus Sky – a new skyscraper in Calgary's downtown skyline and a sign that tough times in the city won't last forever.

Many Calgarians benefit from facilities and programs in their communities that are looked after by a local homeowners' association (HOA) or residents' association (RA).

Want to sell your house fast? Then add a little sizzle to your curb appeal, so potential buyers can see from the road how pretty your house is before they book a showing.

Sizzle is as simple as adding one or more fantastic flowerpots. Even an empty pot screams, "Hello, I have potential!"

Over two decades later, the number remains as familiar as the signature 22 above the nameplate on the back of his Calgary Flames jersey through those many winters.

"Eight-fifty-seven,'' said Craig Conroy, reminiscing. "Kirkwood, Missouri. A little cul-de-sac, right at the back of town. Very private.

Surrounded by the heart of downtown Calgary to the west, parks and pathways to the east, and Stampede Park to the south is the tower of glass and striking geometric angles that is Verve.

If the idea of living on an acreage appeals to you, but you don't think you can afford the price of admission, don't despair. There are some areas around Calgary where affordable acreages can still be found.