The Silent Threat Lurking in Your Home

When it comes to home safety, we often think about visible hazards—fires, carbon monoxide, mold, or even structural issues. However, one of the most dangerous and overlooked threats is something you can’t see, smell, or taste: radon gas.

Radon is a radioactive gas that forms naturally as uranium in the soil, rock, and water breaks down over time. It seeps into homes through cracks in foundations, walls, floors, and even through well water, accumulating to dangerous levels without homeowners even realizing it.

Why Is Radon Gas Dangerous?

The biggest health risk of radon exposure is lung cancer. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and World Health Organization (WHO):

☢️ Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, responsible for about 21,000 deaths per year in the U.S.
☢️ Smokers exposed to radon have an even higher risk of developing lung cancer.
☢️ Long-term exposure to high radon levels significantly increases the likelihood of lung disease.

Because radon can’t be detected by human senses, the only way to know if your home has high levels is through testing.

How Does Radon Enter Your Home?

Radon gas moves up from the ground into homes through:

✅ Cracks in foundations, basement floors, and walls
✅ Gaps around pipes, sump pumps, and drains
✅ Crawl spaces and poorly sealed construction joints
✅ Well water (in some cases, radon can be released from water into the air)

Since radon comes from soil and rock, any home—whether new or old, with or without a basement—can have radon issues.

How to Test for Radon in Your Home

The only way to detect radon is by testing your home. There are two main types of radon tests:

🏡 Short-Term Radon Tests (Quick Results)

• Duration: 2 to 7 days

• Best for: Getting a quick snapshot of radon levels

• Availability: Found at home improvement stores, online retailers (Amazon), or local government health offices

• Placement: Should be set up in the lowest livable area (basement or ground floor)

🏡 Long-Term Radon Tests (Most Accurate)

• Duration: More than 90 days (several months)

• Best for: Providing a more reliable average reading of radon exposure over time

• Why it’s better: Since radon levels fluctuate due to weather, seasons, and ventilation, long-term testing gives the most accurate results

For peace of mind, many homeowners hire professional radon testers to conduct comprehensive inspections.

What to Do If Your Home Has High Radon Levels

If radon levels exceed 4.0 pCi/L (picocuries per liter, the EPA action level), mitigation is necessary to reduce exposure. Here’s how:

1. Install a Radon Mitigation System

Radon mitigation involves redirecting radon gas from beneath your home to the outside before it can enter living spaces. The most common system is a sub-slab depressurization system, which uses a vent pipe and a fan to suck radon from the soil and release it outside.

2. Seal Entry Points

While sealing cracks alone won’t solve the problem, it complements a mitigation system by reducing radon entry points.

3. Improve Ventilation

Increasing air circulation with ventilation fans, air exchangers, or basement dehumidifiers can help dilute radon levels inside your home.

4. Test Again After Mitigation

Even after installing a radon mitigation system, it’s important to retest your home to ensure levels remain low and safe.

Can Radon Be Prevented in New Homes?

Yes! If you're building a new home, you can take preventative measures to ensure radon doesn't become a problem:

🏡 Install a Passive Radon Mitigation System – This includes a pipe extending from beneath the foundation to the roof, allowing radon to vent naturally.

🏡 Use Radon-Resistant Construction Materials – Certain construction techniques help block radon entry.

🏡 Pre-wire for a Radon Fan – If needed in the future, an active mitigation system can easily be installed.

Taking these steps before construction is cheaper and more effective than trying to fix radon issues later.

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Home & Health

Radon gas is a silent but serious threat, but testing and mitigation can greatly reduce your risk. Every homeowner should test for radon—especially in areas known for high radon levels.

🏡 Key Takeaways:
✔ Radon is an invisible, odorless gas that causes lung cancer.
✔ It seeps into homes from the ground through cracks, gaps, and foundation openings.
✔ Testing is simple and the only way to detect radon in your home.
✔ If levels are high, mitigation systems can safely redirect radon out of your house.
✔ Homeowners can prevent radon issues in new homes with proper construction techniques.

Your home should be a safe place. Take action today—test for radon and protect your family!

👉 Have you tested your home for radon? Share your experience or questions in the comments below!

Radon gas is a significant concern for homeowners in Calgary and its surrounding areas. Recent studies have highlighted that approximately one in five homes in Calgary have radon levels exceeding Health Canada's recommended safety threshold of 200 becquerels per cubic meter (Bq/m³).

albertacleanair.com

This prevalence is notably higher than the national average, underscoring the importance of radon awareness and testing in the region.

In Alberta, the situation is equally pressing. Health Canada's Cross-Canada Survey of Radon Concentrations in Homes reported that 7% of homes in Alberta have radon levels above the 200 Bq/m³ guideline.

takeactiononradon.ca

However, more recent data indicates that nearly 18% of Canadian homes now contain radon levels at or above this threshold, suggesting a potential increase in affected households over the past decade.

ucalgary.ca

Given these statistics, it's crucial for residents in Calgary and Alberta to test their homes for radon. Testing is the only way to determine radon levels, as the gas is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. If elevated levels are detected, mitigation measures can effectively reduce radon concentrations, ensuring a safer living environment.

For more information on radon and testing resources, you can visit the City of Calgary's radon information page or consult Health Canada's guidelines.

Find out more:

www.canada.ca/radon

www.radoncare.ca

www.greatwestradon.com

https://www.radonwest.com/

https://www.arpis.com/indoor-air/radon/

https://www.calgary.ca/environment/programs/radon.html

https://www.airthings.com/resources

https://www.ucalgary.ca/risk/environment-health-safety/environment/radon

Decluttering your home isn’t just about tidying up—it’s about creating a space that feels calm, functional, and stress-free. A clutter-free home can improve mental clarity, reduce stress, and even make daily tasks easier. The best part? Decluttering doesn’t have to be overwhelming!

Why Declutter Your Home?

✅ Reduces Stress & Anxiety – A cluttered space can feel chaotic, while a clean space promotes peace of mind.

✅ Organized - A decluttered home is an organized home.

✅ Saves Time & Energy – No more searching for lost keys, important documents, or that missing shoe!

✅ Boosts Productivity – A tidy home leads to a clearer mind, making it easier to focus on work or personal projects.

✅ Makes Cleaning Easier – Less clutter = less dust, fewer things to clean, and a quicker cleaning routine.

✅ Creates More Space – Free up room for what truly matters, whether it’s new hobbies, better storage, or just open, breathable spaces.

✅ Can Help You Earn Money – Sell unwanted items and make extra cash!

How to Declutter Your Home in Quick & Easy Steps

1. Start Small (The 5-Minute Rule)

Decluttering doesn’t have to take all day. Set a timer for 5 minutes and focus on one small area—a drawer, a shelf, or your bedside table. Small victories add up!

2. Use the “One-Year Rule”

If you haven’t used an item in the past year, you likely won’t need it in the future. Donate, sell, or recycle it.

3. The “One In, One Out” Rule

For every new item you bring into your home, get rid of one old item. This prevents clutter from building up again.

4. Declutter by Category (Not Room)

Instead of tackling an entire room, declutter one category at a time (use the “Can I live without this?” question):
✔ Clothes
✔ Books
✔ Papers
✔ Kitchen items
✔ Toiletries

This keeps you focused and prevents you from bouncing between tasks.

5. Use the “Four-Box Method”

Grab four boxes and label them:
📦 Keep – Items you use and love
📦 Donate/Sell – Items in good condition but no longer needed (use the “Can I live without this?” question).
📦 Trash – Items that are broken or unusable
📦 Store – Seasonal or sentimental items you don’t need daily

This method makes decluttering efficient and organized.

6. Declutter High-Traffic Areas First

Start with spaces you use every day, such as:
✔ The entryway (shoes, keys, mail)
✔ Kitchen counters (declutter the cupboards to move counter items into cupboards)
✔ Bathroom cabinets (throw away all expired medications, make-up, hair product)
✔ Your workspace

Quick wins here motivate you to keep going!

7. Digitize Where Possible

Reduce paper clutter by scanning important documents and saving them digitally (ensure they are saved in more than one place). Unsubscribe from junk mail and emails to keep your inbox clutter-free.

8. Let Go of Sentimental Clutter

It’s okay to keep meaningful items, but if they’re just collecting dust, ask yourself:
💭 "Does this bring me joy or purpose?"
If not, take a photo of the item and let it go.

9. Organize As You Go

Once you declutter, give everything a designated place—use baskets, bins, and drawer organizers to keep things tidy.

10. Make Decluttering a Habit

Spend 10 minutes every week maintaining your newly decluttered space. The more consistent you are, the easier it gets!

Your home should be a place of comfort, style, and functionality. But sometimes, it just needs a little refresh to feel brand new again! The good news? You don’t need to break the bank or spend weeks on renovations. With a few quick and easy home improvements, you can update your space in no time.

From simple DIY upgrades to furniture updates that instantly modernize a room, here are the best ways to transform your home effortlessly.

1. Refresh Your Walls & Surfaces

A fresh coat of paint or a simple wallpaper update can breathe new life into any space.

✅ Paint a Room – Whether you go bold with an accent wall or keep it neutral, a new coat of paint instantly revitalizes a room.

✅ Try Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper – Perfect for renters or those who like to change styles frequently. Use it on walls, backsplashes, or even furniture!

✅ Touch Up Trim & Baseboards – These areas often get scuffed and dirty over time. A quick clean and repaint can make your home feel polished.

✅ Upgrade Backsplashes – Peel-and-stick backsplash tiles offer a kitchen or bathroom makeover without the mess of grout or extensive labor.

2. Upgrade Fixtures & Hardware

One of the fastest ways to make a home look modern is by swapping out old, outdated hardware.

✅ Change Cabinet Knobs & Handles – Swap brass or outdated wooden knobs for sleek, modern alternatives like matte black or brushed gold.

✅ Replace Light Fixtures – A new pendant light or modern chandelier can completely transform a room’s ambiance.

✅ Install a Stylish Faucet – A new kitchen or bathroom faucet adds both function and style, making it a quick win.

✅ Switch Out Switch Plates & Doorknobs – These tiny details often go unnoticed but make a big difference when updated.

3. Maximize Storage & Organization

A clean and organized home feels bigger, brighter, and more inviting.

✅ Install Floating Shelves – Not only do they provide extra storage, but they also showcase décor in a chic way.

✅ Declutter & Organize Closets – Declutter first! Use baskets, bins, and dividers to create a streamlined look that makes getting ready easier.

✅ Add Hooks & Racks – Entryways, kitchens, and bathrooms all benefit from extra hanging space.

✅ Utilize Under-Bed Storage – This often-overlooked space is perfect for extra linens, seasonal clothing, or even shoes.

4. Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal

First impressions matter! Simple upgrades to your home’s exterior can make a huge impact.

✅ Paint or Stain Your Front Door – A bold color (like navy, red, or mustard yellow) makes your entryway pop.

✅ Plant Flowers or Add Potted Plants – Bright, vibrant flowers near your front door create a welcoming feel.

✅ Upgrade House Numbers & Mailbox – Swap old, faded numbers for sleek, modern typography that makes your home stand out.

✅ Pressure Wash the Exterior – A good power wash removes years of dirt and instantly brightens driveways, patios, and sidewalks.

Curb appeal blog post.

5. Make Smart & Energy-Efficient Upgrades

A few simple swaps can save money on energy bills while making your home feel more high-tech.

✅ Install LED Bulbs – They last longer, use less energy, and provide better lighting.

✅ Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat – Devices like Google Nest or Ecobee adjust temperatures automatically, cutting down on energy waste.

✅ Weatherstrip Doors & Windows – A simple fix that prevents drafts and heat loss, making your home more energy-efficient.

✅ Add Motion-Sensor or Smart Lighting – Great for security and convenience, especially for outdoor areas.

6. Refresh Your Floors

Floors take a lot of wear and tear, but a few simple updates can restore their beauty.

✅ Deep Clean Carpets & Rugs – A steam clean or professional shampoo makes a huge difference.

✅ Use Peel-and-Stick Vinyl Flooring – Perfect for renters or budget-conscious homeowners who want a modern look.

✅ Refinish Hardwood Floors – A fresh polish or stain can make dull floors look brand new.

✅ Add Area Rugs – A well-placed rug adds warmth and can define spaces in open-concept layouts.

7. Update Your Furniture for a Modern Look

If your furniture feels outdated, a few small tweaks can give your space a whole new personality.

✅ Rearrange Your Furniture – Try a new layout to create a fresh perspective without spending a dime.

✅ Add Slipcovers to Sofas & Chairs – An easy, affordable way to refresh old seating without replacing it.

✅ Swap Out Coffee Tables & Side Tables – Opt for trendy, minimalist pieces to modernize the room.

✅ Invest in Multi-Functional Furniture – Ottomans with storage, extendable dining tables, or sofa beds offer both style and function.

✅ Refinish or Paint Old Furniture – A coat of paint or stain can completely change the look of a dresser, bookshelf, or table.

✅ Update Bedding & Throw Pillows – New textures, colors, and layers can completely transform a bedroom or living room.

You don’t need a full remodel to refresh your home. By making small but impactful upgrades—like painting a wall, swapping out old furniture, or updating light fixtures—you can create a space that feels brand new without the expense of major renovations.

Which of these home improvements are you tackling first? Let us know in the comments! 🏡✨

📈 Inventory is up 70% over this time last year, mostly due to new listings on the market especially in the Condo and Townhouse market. Although January saw much higher levels compared to the last few years, the levels are still below a typical January in Calgary.

📈 Sales were down slightly, but still 30% higher than a typical January. 

📈 Average prices were up slightly and lending rates have come down slightly.

Data sourced from Calgary Real Estate Board.

Any questions about real estate, give me a call,
📱403-585-5362

#calgaryrealestatemarket
#calgaryrealestate

January 2025 CREB Calgary Real Estate Full Report

January 2025 CREB Calgary REGION Real Estate Full Report

🏡 Population growth in recent years has supported sales activity that continues to exceed historical trends. While December's inventory remained below typical levels for the month, it was slightly above last December. Increased rental options and significant growth in new home construction contributed to higher new listings in the resale market, boosting inventory during the second half of the year.
Although market conditions vary by price range and property type, the expanded housing options have eased some of the pressure on home prices, which stabilized in the latter half of the year following sharp increases in the spring. Overall, residential benchmark prices increased by over 7% on an annual basis.

🏡 As we enter 2025, supply is expected to remain a key focus. However, the impact on prices will largely depend on the type of housing being added and how demand evolves in response to shifts in the economic environment.

🏡 Give me a call or DM if you would like to know what your home is worth in this changing market

#calgaryrealestatemarket #calgaryhousing #calgaryrealestate #calgaryhomes #calgaryliving #calgary

Data sourced from the CREB Calgary Real Estate Board

December 2024 CREB Calgary Real Estate Full Report

December 2024 CREB Calgary REGION Real Estate Full Report

Upgrading your home doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With some strategic updates, you can enhance its appeal and boost its market value without breaking the bank. Here are 20 budget-friendly updates to make your home shine:

1. Paint Walls with Neutral Colors

A fresh coat of paint in neutral tones like beige, gray, or white instantly brightens and modernizes any space. It’s affordable and creates a clean slate for potential buyers.

2. Upgrade Cabinet Hardware

Switch out outdated knobs and handles in the kitchen and bathroom for modern options. Sleek finishes like brushed nickel or matte black add a contemporary touch.

3. Install Smart Home Features

Affordable smart devices like thermostats, doorbells, or lighting systems can appeal to tech-savvy buyers and add convenience.

4. Refresh Landscaping

Add curb appeal with low-cost landscaping. Mulch flower beds, trim overgrown shrubs, and plant colorful flowers to create a welcoming entrance.

5. Replace Light Fixtures

Swap old light fixtures for stylish, energy-efficient options. This simple change can dramatically modernize a room.

6. Deep Clean Carpets and Floors

Rent a carpet cleaner or hire a professional to remove stains and odors. For hard floors, polish and repair any scratches.

7. Upgrade Your Front Door

Paint your front door a bold, welcoming color or replace it entirely with a modern design. Add a new doorknob and knocker for an updated look.

8. Add a Backsplash

Peel-and-stick tiles are an inexpensive way to add a stylish backsplash to your kitchen or bathroom.

9. Declutter and Organize

Clutter-free spaces look larger and more inviting. Invest in storage solutions like bins and shelving to showcase a tidy, organized home. Decluttering is likely the least expensive thing we can do and can have a huge impact on everyday life as well.

10. Replace Outlet Covers

Old, yellowed outlet covers can make a room look dated. Replace them with new covers in a clean white or trendy metallic finish.

11. Power Wash Exterior Surfaces

Power wash your siding, driveway, and patio to make your home’s exterior look clean and well-maintained.

12. Upgrade Bathroom Fixtures

Switch out old faucets, towel bars, and showerheads for modern designs. Look for affordable sets that coordinate for a polished look.

13. Seal Drafty Windows and Doors

Use weather stripping or caulk to seal air leaks. It’s inexpensive and can save money on energy bills while making your home more comfortable.

14. Add Mirrors

Mirrors create the illusion of more space and reflect light to brighten rooms. Look for affordable decorative mirrors to enhance small or dim areas. Be careful not to over-do mirrors, and to keep them clean.

15. Paint or Stain Cabinets

If your kitchen or bathroom cabinets look dated, give them a new life with paint or stain. Opt for light neutral colors to make spaces feel larger.

16. Upgrade Window Treatments

Replace heavy drapes with affordable blinds or sheer curtains to let in more light and create a modern aesthetic.

17. Install Crown Molding

Add character to your home by installing crown molding in key areas like the living room or dining room. DIY kits make this project cost-effective.

18. Create a Statement Wall

Use peel-and-stick wallpaper or bold paint to create an accent wall that adds visual interest to a room.

19. Fix Squeaky Doors and Floors

Use WD-40 on squeaky hinges and tighten loose floorboards. Small repairs like these improve the overall feel of the home.

20. Update House Numbers

Replace old house numbers with modern, easy-to-read styles to improve curb appeal and make your home stand out.

These updates are budget-friendly and simple enough for most homeowners to tackle. Not only will they enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your home, but they can also increase its value when it’s time to sell. Start small, and watch your home transform!

Start with the exterior curb appeal, as this will always affect the value of your home whether you are selling now or not. The better the neighbourhood looks the more value all of the homes will hold.

When preparing your home for the market, choosing the right paint colors is a game-changer. The right palette can make your home feel more inviting, spacious, and move-in ready—key factors that appeal to potential buyers. Interior paint trends focus on versatility, calm, and a touch of modern sophistication. Here are the best colors to consider when selling your home.  Photo above from https://havenly.com/blog/benjamin-moore-simply-white

Warm Whites: Bright and Inviting

Soft, creamy whites remain a favorite for their ability to brighten spaces and make rooms feel larger. Perfect for kitchens, living areas, and bedrooms, warm whites enhance natural light.
Why It Works: Buyers love the clean, fresh look that’s timeless and versatile.
Top Picks:

• Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee OC-45 (pic below from BenjaminMoore.com)

• Benjamin Moore Simply White OC-117 

Earthy Greens: A Nod to Nature

In 2025, soft greens with earthy undertones bring a calming vibe to interiors. These shades are ideal for bedrooms, bathrooms, and living spaces, creating a restful, natural atmosphere.
Why It Works: Green feels fresh and modern, appealing to buyers looking for serenity in their next home.
Top Picks:

• Farrow & Ball Treron

• Sherwin-Williams Evergreen Fog SW-9130 (pic below from sherwin-williams.com)

Light Taupes: Cozy and Modern

Taupe is a go-to color for creating cozy yet modern interiors. It adds warmth and sophistication to living spaces and bedrooms.
Why It Works: Taupe balances traditional and contemporary styles, appealing to a wide range of buyers.
Top Picks:

• Sherwin-Williams Perfect Greige SW 6093 (pic below from sherwin-williams.com)

• Valspar Smoked Oyster

Tips for Painting Your Home to Sell

1. Stick to Neutral Palettes: Bold colors may alienate some buyers, while neutrals allow them to imagine their own décor.

2. Focus on High-Impact Areas: Prioritize entryways, living rooms, and kitchens for the most significant impact.

3. Maximize Light: Choose light, airy colors to make small spaces feel larger and brighter.

4. Refresh Before Listing: Even if walls don’t look worn, a fresh coat of paint ensures your home feels clean and updated.

The interior paint trends emphasize soft, neutral, and nature-inspired tones that appeal to a wide audience. Colors like greige and warm whites help create inviting spaces that potential buyers can easily envision as their own. By choosing these on-trend shades, you can enhance your home’s appeal and sell it faster in today’s competitive market.

🏡Calgary's housing market in November saw a rise in sales of detached, semi-detached, and row homes, which compensated for a drop in apartment condominium sales. The total sales for the month reached 1,797, matching last year’s figures and staying 20% above long-term averages for November.

🏡Inventory levels increased but remain below historical norms for the month. New home construction has contributed to supply in the rental, new home, and resale markets, but availability varies significantly depending on location, price, and property type.

🏡Although this creates a more balanced market that benefits buyers, many segments still favour sellers. The improved supply has slowed price growth, as demand shifts toward more affordable row houses and apartment units.

Give me a call or message if you would like to know what your home is worth in this changing market.

#calgaryrealestatemarket #calgaryhousing #calgaryrealestate

Data sourced from the CREB Calgary Real Estate Board

November 2024 CREB Calgary Real Estate Full Report

November 2024 CREB Calgary REGION Real Estate Full Report