Fact Check: Calgary's condo market has historically been volatile.

Fact Check: "Calgary's condo market has historically been volatile."

What We Know

The claim that Calgary's condo market has historically been volatile can be supported by various data points and reports. According to a Calgary Housing Market Report, the condo market has shown fluctuations in pricing and sales volume over the years. For instance, the average price of condo apartments decreased by 2.1% year-over-year as of June 2025, indicating a downward trend in prices (WOWA).

Moreover, a report from Canadian Real Estate Wealth highlights that the condo market in Calgary has been influenced by factors such as affordability and rental demand, which can contribute to volatility. The report suggests that shifts in buyer preferences over the past four years have led to a significant change in the types of properties being sold, with a noticeable increase in the sale of condos and townhouses compared to detached homes.

Historical data indicates that Calgary's real estate market, including condos, has experienced cycles of boom and bust, which is typical in many urban markets. For instance, the market saw a significant increase in condo prices during the economic boom periods, followed by declines during downturns (Mortgagesandbox).

Analysis

Evaluating the evidence, it is clear that Calgary's condo market has experienced fluctuations in pricing and sales, which aligns with the claim of historical volatility. The decrease in average condo prices and the shift in buyer preferences suggest that the market is sensitive to economic conditions and consumer behavior (WOWA, Canadian Real Estate Wealth).

However, the term "volatile" can be subjective and may imply a level of unpredictability that is not fully supported by the data. While there have been fluctuations, the overall trend over the long term has shown a cumulative annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.2% since January 2005, indicating that despite short-term volatility, the market has appreciated over time (WOWA).

The sources used in this analysis are generally reliable, with reports from established real estate platforms and market analysts. However, it is essential to consider potential biases, as some sources may emphasize negative trends to attract attention or drive engagement.

Conclusion

The claim that "Calgary's condo market has historically been volatile" is Partially True. While there is evidence of fluctuations in pricing and sales, which supports the notion of volatility, the long-term appreciation of condo prices suggests that the market has not been consistently unstable. Therefore, while volatility exists, it is not the sole characteristic of Calgary's condo market history.

Fact Check: Calgary's condo market has historically been volatile.