One of the first communities to establish a foothold in Calgary's new north, Skyview Ranch has been steadily growing ever since its inception almost 10 years ago. In fact, its population has more than doubled in the past five years, growing from 4,519 residents in 2013 to more than 10,000 in 2017. It has attracted a young and diverse demographic looking for an affordable lifestyle that's close to everything.

The master-planned community is located in Calgary's northeast quadrant and surrounded by several major thoroughfares. Skyview Ranch is bounded by Metis Trail to the west and is minutes away from the Stoney Trail ring road. Where once it stood as the lone new community in the area, Skyview Ranch is now surrounded by a bevy of vibrant and unique new neighbourhoods, including Redstone, Cityscape and Cornerstone.

Calgary communities that provide convenient access to desirable amenities and major roadways are leading the way in growth.

Courtyard homes in Cornerstone offer buyers their own private oasis

For those homebuyers seeking privacy when it comes to their outdoor living spaces, Jayman BUILT's Courtyard homes in the northeast community of Cornerstone offer just that. What makes these homes unique is their rear-facing, double-attached garages, and yards at the side of the home.

"When you have a backyard, you often lose your privacy," said Nishi Saraswat, area sales manager for Jayman BUILT, describing the Courtyard's side yards as "verandas" between dwellings that allow residents to garden, entertain and play with increased privacy.

Housing officials expect new builds to post slight rebound in late 2017

"Turbulent." That's how the head of Calgary's homebuilders and developers group describes the new housing market in 2016.

And 2017?

"Recovery," said Allan Klassen, chair of the recently merged Canadian Home Builders' Association—Urban Development Institute Calgary (CHBA-UDI Calgary).

Full steam ahead for new communities in Calgary

Calgary's residential development sector continues to move dirt, lay down infrastructure and create lots as it responds to current consumer interest and prepares for the inevitable economic turnaround.

Within the city limits are several active new-home communities that continue toward buildout or are adding phases.

"Despite Alberta's current economic challenges, there is still a demand for the homes we build in Calgary and Edmonton," said Jason Palacsko, vice-president of Calgary communities for Brookfield Residential. "We are confident in Calgary's future and are moving forward with major projects."