Camping in Canada brings with it unique challenges: climate and geography.  If you are camping in the mountains in August, you need to be prepared for the inevitable night-time snow.  Travelling across Canada brings with it not only prairies but also mountains.  According to Darren Paylor, President of Woody’s RV World, Cruiser RV and Komfort are two manufacturers that understand what the RV lifestyle is all about and have designed trailers that can stand up to the unique needs of Canadians. Continue Reading

When shopping for an insurance broker, bigger isn’t always better.  One stop shopping, while convenient, can seriously jeopardize your quality of coverage.  Finding a broker who knows all there is to know about their corner of the industry, knows their companies and the policy changes, and takes the time to get to know their clients is essential to properly protect your family. Continue Reading

Calgary’s Southwest has always been a desirable place to live.  Offering some of the city’s most beautiful parks, North Glenmore, the Weaselhead, and Fish Creek, this sought after address is perfect for those who seek nature and outdoor activities. Most of these neighborhoods are older, established communities available only through resale.  However, Genstar brings you one last chance to build your dream home in an area bordering Fish Creek.   Continue Reading

Kim Hayden and crew in the McKenzie Frenzie parade

When Kim and Doug Hayden started living and working in McKenzie Towne 10 years ago, there were little more than 200 houses.  Now the S.E. corner they call home has more than 10,000 homes.  As residents and realtors, the Haydens believe it is part of their responsibility to give back to the communities they call home.<–more–>

“It is part of our core philosophy to give back,” says Hayden, of Kim and Doug Hayden Royal Lepage, “we support and build communities.”

For the Haydens, this is not simply philosophy.  Over the past 10 years they have become core sponsors of several of the biggest community events in the areas of McKenzie Towne, McKenzie Lake, New Brighton, Copperfield and Cranston.

As people who live and earn their living in these areas, Hayden says, “It is our responsibility to promote the areas and keep the communities active”. 

Through events like the McKenzie Towne Stampede Breakfast and McKenzie Frenzie  the Haydens have found their niche.

They support and promote the events but they also run Toddler Town and the Baby Change Station.  This area is dedicated to activities designed for the little ones.  The Baby Change Station is fully equipped. 

“I really appreciate that someone thought of my kids,” said one mom at the McKenzie Towne Stampede Breakfast, “It is nice to see a variety of activities that my three-year old can do.  It makes the day more special for him.”

The Haydens have watched as the S.E. has grown “from almost nothing to a small city,” says Mr. Hayden.  Their efforts to add to their community are all worth it as they watch these areas, and their residents grow.  One of their clients had a small baby when they met and now there’s a 12 year old running around; emblematic of the area they call home.

Tucked against the Bow River and Pearce Estate Park in Inglewood, Riverside Quays, pronounced keys, takes condo living to a new level.  These stylish condos combine the charm of suburban living with the conveniences of living near the core.  From multi-level, apartment style condos to town homes and live/ work units, Riverside Quays will have it all for those who wish to live near, but not in, the heart of the city. Continue Reading

With all of its variety and selection, the housing market in Calgary can be summarized into two main choices:  older, established neighborhoods with services but homes that require attention, or new communities void of amenities. Until now. 

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When most people think of a motor home, one name comes to mind: Winnebago.  Building quality travel trailers that stand above the competition since 1958, Winnebago responds to the changing needs of RVers.  Whether you are looking for a summer time getaway or a mobile retirement home, Winnebago and Woody’s RV World has a model for you. Continue Reading

As urban sprawl and maintenance free living become more of a focus, condo living grows in popularity.  The complex reality of condo living is that you are “sharing a residence essentially with 100 people, 200 people,” says David Waldron of Braeside Insurance.  While you may not be responsible for insuring the building, it is your responsibility to insure yourself and your contents.  Mr. Waldron believes that condo insurance, while not currently mandatory, should be. Continue Reading

The real estate market is a little like gambling; do you throw it all in now or wait a little while?  You try to find that magic number: the maximum you can charge, but still sell, while your buyer is looking to spend as little as possible.  Play your cards right, everyone is happy.  Guess wrong and you’ll either sell your house for a song or it will just sit there with no takers.  Continue Reading

The iPhone is everywhere.  For many people it has replaced phones, day timers, and computers for internet use.  There are thousands of apps available and more are being added daily.  It’s great to know which ones people actually use and like: Ronda Bertram offers her favorites. Continue Reading