24 | Condo Buying 101: Everything You Need to Know Before You Buy

24 | Condo Buying 101: Everything You Need to Know Before You Buy

Buying a condo is about so much more than choosing the unit with the nicest kitchen or the best view. When you buy a condo, you're also buying into a condominium corporation, and understanding how that works can make all the difference. In this episode of Espressold, Paula and Annie break down everything buyers should know before purchasing a condo in Alberta. From spotting red flags during a showing to understanding condo documents, bylaws, reserve funds, and condo fees, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you make an informed decision. Whether you're a first-time buyer, downsizing, or considering an investment property, this is the guide we wish every condo buyer had before they started shopping. * What you actually own when you buy a condo * Why condo fees aren't always a bad thing—and how they compare to owning a freehold property * Green flags and red flags to look for during a condo viewing * Titled vs. assigned parking and storage * What happens during a condo document review * The condo bylaws every buyer should read before removing conditions * A fun condo-themed speed round to wrap things up If you've ever wondered whether condos are a good investment, what condo fees really pay for, or how to avoid buying into a building with expensive surprises, this episode is for you. If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love it if you subscribed, left us a review, and shared it with someone who's thinking about buying a condo. Follow us on Instagram:  @Espressold.podcast

23 | Does Stampede Sell Calgary? Or Does Calgary Sell Itself?

Every July, Calgary transforms. The boots come out, pancake breakfasts pop up on every corner, and thousands of visitors experience our city for the very first time. But here's the question we couldn't stop thinking about… Does Stampede actually sell houses? Not exactly. But it does sell something even more important: the lifestyle. In this episode of Espressold!, Annie and Paula chat about why so many people visit Calgary during Stampede and leave wondering, "Could I actually live here?" We dive into the myths around buying and selling during Stampede, why July is often overlooked in real estate, and how the best real estate decisions aren't always about timing—they're about being willing to adapt. We also share a recent behind-the-scenes story of a listing that wasn't getting the traction we expected. Instead of waiting for the market to change, we changed our strategy. A few thoughtful updates, fresh photos, and a relaunch later... the home sold in just 15 days. Whether you're a lifelong Calgarian, new to the city, or simply wondering what makes people fall in love with Calgary, this episode is for you. * Why Stampede is Calgary's biggest "open house" * Does real estate slow down during Stampede? * The biggest myths about selling in the summer * Why lifestyle sells homes more than finishes * How knowing when to pivot can change everything * The real reason people choose to call Calgary home If this episode resonated with you, we'd love if you shared it with a friend, left us a review, or tagged us while you're listening. Happy Stampede, Calgary!

22 | Calgary Ask: Real Estate Questions Everyone Wants Answered

What happens if you buy a house before your lease is up? How much home can an $80,000 salary actually buy? Should you break your mortgage if rates have dropped? And who really "owns" the street parking in front of your house? This week on Espresso'd, we're diving into some of the most common (and most debated) questions from the Calgary Ask Facebook community. Whether you're renting, buying your first home, thinking about investing, or just trying to make smarter financial decisions, we've got practical advice to help you navigate it all. In this episode, we discuss: * What to do if you need to break a lease in Alberta after buying a home * How much home an $80,000 salary can realistically afford—and how to maximize your buying power * Our advice for young adults making their first major financial decisions * Calgary neighbourhoods worth considering if you're looking for an affordable home with basement suite potential * The five most important questions every first-time buyer should ask their Realtor * The five questions every seller should ask before hiring a Realtor * Tips for maintaining a positive relationship with your landlord * Settling the debate over street parking once and for all * Whether breaking a fixed-rate mortgage to take advantage of lower interest rates actually makes financial sense Whether you're a homeowner, renter, investor, or simply curious about Calgary real estate, this episode is packed with practical advice you can put to use right away. Have a question you'd like us to answer in a future episode? Send us a message—we'd love to hear from you! Follow along for weekly real estate insights, market updates, and behind-the-scenes stories from the Calgary market.

21 | Mid-Year Reflections: Real Estate, Personal, Lessons, All of it.

Halfway through 2026 already? Somehow January feels like yesterday and three years ago at the same time. This week on Espressold, Paula and Annie sit down for a mid-year pulse check on Calgary real estate, business, family life, and everything in between. We dive into the biggest surprises of the year so far, what buyers and sellers are getting wrong about today's market, and the lessons we've learned from some of our most memorable transactions. From difficult negotiations and emotional clients to personal growth and setting better boundaries, this episode pulls back the curtain on what life as a realtor really looks like halfway through the year. We also tackle: • The Calgary market trends that surprised us most • What consumers aren't understanding about today's market • The biggest lessons we've learned from our deals this year • What buyers are worried about that they probably shouldn't be • Balancing business, family, and life outside of real estate • Habits and routines helping us stay grounded • Our favorite local finds, underrated Calgary communities, and current obsessions • Professional and personal goals for the second half of 2026 Plus, a rapid-fire round that gets surprisingly deep. Whether you've bought, sold, invested, or are simply keeping an eye on the market, this episode offers an honest look at where Calgary real estate stands today—and where we're headed next. Grab your coffee and join us for a genuine mid-year conversation about real estate, growth, challenges, and what's next. If there's a topic you'd like us to cover in the second half of the year, send us a message. We'd love to hear from you.

20 | Love & Money: The Agreements Nobody Wants to Talk About—Until It's Too Late with Carey Leishman

What happens to your assets when a relationship ends? Does it matter whose name is on title? And are common-law couples really treated differently than married couples in Alberta? In this episode, we sit down with family lawyer and mediator Carey Leishman to discuss one of the most overlooked aspects of financial planning: protecting your assets before life-changing events occur. Carey breaks down Alberta's Family Property Act and the significant changes that came into effect in 2020, extending property division rights to many common-law couples. She explains why the law often doesn't care about your intentions, what assets and liabilities may be subject to division, and how proactive planning can save families significant stress and expense down the road. * The "Great Wealth Transfer" and why more families are receiving inheritances than ever before * How Alberta's Family Property Act changed for common-law couples in 2020 * Why 50% of assets and liabilities may be on the table during a separation * Common misconceptions about inheritances and gifted funds * The difference between exempt assets and divisible assets * Why intention alone is often not enough to protect your wealth * The importance of cohabitation agreements and prenuptial agreements * Why these agreements should ideally be completed at least six months before a wedding * Considerations before purchasing a home with a partner * How domestic agreements can evolve and be amended as life changes * Practical steps couples can take today to protect themselves and their families One of the biggest lessons from this conversation is that asset protection isn't about planning for failure—it's about creating clarity. Whether you're moving in together, getting married, receiving an inheritance, or purchasing a home, having the right agreements in place can help protect both parties and reduce conflict if circumstances change in the future. For more information about Carey and the team at BDL Family Law LLP, visit: BDL Family Law LLP [https://bdlfamilylaw.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] This episode is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. If you have questions about your specific situation, consult a qualified family law professional. In This Episode We Discuss:Key TakeawayConnect with Carey LeishmanDisclaimer