How Costs, Neighbourhoods, and New Construction Trends Are Shaping Buyer Behaviour

With North Battleford preparing for a 3.18% municipal tax increase and additional increases of 5% to water, 2.9% to sewer, and 1.7% to garbage and recycling, affordability is becoming a front-of-mind issue for many buyers.

Affordability alone doesn’t decide where families settle — but combined with neighbourhood reputation, resale stability, and new construction trends, we’re seeing a noticeable shift toward the Town of Battleford.

Let’s take a closer look at why.

1️⃣ Property Tax Comparison on $200,000 and $300,000 Homes

The gap in annual property taxes between the two communities is a long-standing trend:

Even after the proposed increases, Battleford remains the lower-cost option for homeowners.

2️⃣ Utility Rate Increases Add Pressure on NB Budgets

In addition to the tax increase, North Battleford is proposing:

• 5% increase in water rates

• 2.9% increase in sewer rates

• 1.7% increase in garbage & recycling fees

While each percentage seems small, these increases compound for families at a time when household budgets are already stretched. Water and sewer, especially, represent some of the most significant monthly municipal expenses.

Battleford’s more stable and predictable utility rates make it easier for buyers to plan and budget long-term.

3️⃣ Neighbourhood Desirability: Where Buyers Want to Live

Top Desirable Areas in North Battleford

North Battleford has several strong, family-friendly neighbourhoods that continue to perform well:

• McIntosh Park

• Centennial Park

• Fairview Heights

• Killdeer Park (one combined neighbourhood, and one of the newer developments)

Fairview Heights and Killdeer Park, in particular, are among the newest residential areas on the North Battleford side and continue to attract move-up buyers looking for modern homes, attached garages, and larger lots.

These areas maintain strong resale and remain highly competitive.

Town of Battleford Desirability

Buyers increasingly value:

• Lower taxes

• Lower utilities

• Lower rental density

• Strong school reputation

• Quiet, small-town character

• Stable resale

• Consistent new building starts

Which brings us to the next major factor…

4️⃣ Building Starts: Battleford’s Quiet Advantage

One of the less talked-about, but very important, differences is new home construction.

For several years, the Town of Battleford has had more new building starts than the City of North Battleford, despite its smaller size.

This matters because:

• New builds increase neighbourhood desirability

• Buyers interpret new construction as a sign of confidence

• Builders follow demand — and demand has been stronger in Battleford

• Newer homes decrease long-term repair costs for buyers

• Stable building activity supports local property values

More building = more families choosing Battleford.

And buyers absolutely pay attention to where builders put their money.

5️⃣ Why First-Time Buyers Are Leaning Toward Battleford

A consistent theme emerges with young families and first-time buyers:

✔ Lower monthly carrying costs

Taxes + utilities = real affordability.

✔ Battleford’s $200k–$300k market is extremely attractive

These homes often sell quickly because they are affordable and inexpensive to carry.

✔ School reputation

Both communities have schools of similar age,
but Battleford’s schools hold a stronger reputation for stability, involvement, and student support.

✔ Lower rental density

Fewer rentals mean:

• More stable neighbourhoods

• More family owners

• Better resale

• Increased feeling of safety and community

✔ Predictable budgeting

Families want to avoid surprises — and Battleford has historically delivered stability.

6️⃣ How These Factors Affect $200k Homes — The Critical Pressure Point

This is where you see the biggest divide.

$200k move-in-ready homes in Battleford:

• Sell quickly

• Are highly desirable

• Attract family buyers, not investors

• Offer lower taxes and utilities

• Are perceived as “safe value”

$200k homes in North Battleford:

• Compete with higher taxes

• Face stiffer competition from rental conversions

• Are in neighbourhoods where affordability shifts buyer behaviour

• Can have slower resale if carrying costs feel high for the price point

This doesn’t mean NB homes aren’t valuable — many are lovely — but affordability changes the direction of buyer demand.

7️⃣ Long-Term Effects on Home Values

✔ Strong NB neighbourhoods (McIntosh, Centennial, Fairview Heights, Killdeer Park)

These will continue to perform well and attract stable buyers.

✔ Mid-market homes ($250k–$350k)

More price-conscious families may prefer Battleford’s lower overall costs.

✔ Entry-level NB homes ($170k–$240k range)

This segment may see softer demand as buyers shift toward Battleford’s lower carrying costs and fewer rentals.

✔ Overall impact

This isn’t a crisis — it’s a divergence.
Two communities, moving in slightly different directions, each serving different buyer priorities.

NB remains attractive for amenities and newer neighbourhoods.
Battleford remains attractive for affordability, stability, and long-term value.

6 – 1st Avenue, Battleford

Some homes impress you.
This one stays with you.

Perched above the river valley on one of Battleford’s most peaceful and protected streets, 6 – 1st Avenue offers something extraordinarily rare: a forever view. With no-build land directly in front and a protected green corridor stretching toward the iconic old bridges, these panoramic riverbank views are guaranteed to remain untouched for generations.

Add in a quiet, safe neighbourhood, timeless brick construction, and one of the most impressive garages ever built in the Battlefords — and you have a property unlike anything else on the market.

The Home: Timeless Brick, Modern Comfort, and Room to Breathe

This beautifully updated 1376 sq. ft. 4-level split blends original charm with thoughtful, high-quality upgrades. Triple-pane windows, two wood fireplaces, easy-care vinyl plank flooring, boiler heat, and modern finishes create a space that is both warm and refined.

Inside you’ll find:

• 3 bedrooms + 3 bathrooms, offering comfort and flexibility for family or guests

• Custom white Bernier kitchen cabinetry with Corian countertops and crown moulding

• Main floor laundry with built-ins

• A bright living room with dual patio doors leading to wrap-around outdoor living

• A cozy lower-level family room with fireplace for winter evenings

• A versatile third level with outside access — ideal for office, hobby room, or private suite

• Oversized bedrooms and a luxurious den, perfect for reading, relaxing, or work-from-home needs

• Fresh paint inside and out, making the home truly move-in ready

Every level has been planned with comfort, privacy, and function in mind — ideal for families, downsizers wanting quality, or anyone who appreciates quiet living with an exceptional view.

Outdoor Living That Feels Like a Retreat

With almost 1,400 sq. ft. of wrap-around decking, this home invites you outdoors at every opportunity. Morning coffee overlooking the river valley… evening barbecues with the bridges lit up in the distance… this is a lifestyle property.

The yard offers:

• Professionally landscaped areas, stone-edged beds, and fresh sod (2020)

• UGG sprinklers for effortless care

• A serene waterfall pond for peaceful ambience

• Sheds wired with lights and plugs, handy for storage or hobby space

• Upper, lower, and side deck areas, providing multiple outdoor zones to enjoy

And thanks to the protected no-build area in front, your view will always remain open and unobstructed.

The Dream Garage / Shop — Easily $150,000+ to Rebuild Today

Built in 2019, this garage is beyond a “garage.”
It’s a dream workshop, a collector’s space, and a future-proof investment all in one.

This is the kind of structure tradespeople, mechanics, hobbyists, and entrepreneurs talk about.

Key features include:

• 16 ft ceilings with a fully drywalled, electrically finished mezzanine

• 14’ x 14’ overhead door – perfect for RVs, boats, large trucks, or shop equipment

• In-floor heat with high-quality boiler system + backup furnace

• Exhaust fan, 220 power, and a 100-amp panel

• Birch plywood interior walls — durable, clean, and workshop-ready

• ICF pony walls with 2x6 framing for efficiency and strength

• Metal roof for long-term durability

• Seasonal water rough-in for future sink or wash station

Garages of this caliber rarely become available in residential neighbourhoods — and to rebuild it today would exceed $200,000. For anyone who needs workspace, storage, or a professional-quality shop, this is an unmatched opportunity.

Location: Quiet, Safe, and One of Battleford’s Most Scenic Streets

What makes this location so special?

• No homes in front — ever

• Uninterrupted views of the river valley and historic bridges

• Town priority road for snow removal and year-round access

• Close to walking paths, parks, and lookout points

• Very low traffic — ideal for peaceful, private living

An adjacent vacant no-build lot provides even more breathing room, giving the property a sense of openness rarely found in town.

A Home That Truly Has It All

6 – 1st Avenue is the perfect blend of quality, location, privacy, and value.
It’s move-in ready, meticulously kept, and thoughtfully upgraded. With its breathtaking views, serene outdoor spaces, and that incredible workshop-style garage, this home offers a lifestyle few properties can match.

If you’ve been waiting for something special — something unique — this is the one.

Packing for a move is one of those jobs that always feels bigger than you expect. But there’s one thing you can do that makes the whole process smoother, cheaper, and a lot less stressful: decluttering before you move.

It doesn’t have to be overwhelming. And the payoff is huge.

Why Decluttering Helps

1. You’re Not Packing Things You Don’t Need

Every item you keep has to be wrapped, boxed, moved, and unpacked.
If it’s something you haven’t used in years, ask yourself: Do I really want to carry this into my new home?

2. Moving Day Becomes Cheaper & Easier

Less stuff = fewer boxes and fewer trips.
Whether you're using movers or loading the truck yourself, decluttering saves time, money, and sore muscles.

3. Your New Home Feels Lighter

There’s something refreshing about opening the door to your new home and seeing clean, organized space—not a pile of old clutter you regretted bringing. Start fresh with things you love and use.

4. You Avoid the “Why Did I Move This?” Regret

We’ve all unpacked boxes and thought, Why on earth did I bring this?
Decluttering ahead of time saves you from hauling old clutter into a new space.

How to Declutter Without Feeling Overwhelmed

1. Start Small

Don’t tackle your whole house in a day.
Do one drawer, one shelf, or one closet at a time. Even 10 minutes helps.

2. Sort Into Simple Piles

Keep it easy with four piles:
• Keep
• Donate
• Sell
• Toss

No overthinking.

3. Consider Your New Home

Will it fit the space?
Will it match the lifestyle you're moving into?
If not, it’s okay to let it go.

4. Use Up Pantry & Cleaning Supplies

Why move full bottles and boxes?
Plan meals around what you already have, and finish off cleaning products before you go.

5. Don’t Do Sentimental Items Last-Minute

These are the hardest.
Give yourself time—or limit yourself to one small box of “special things” to keep.

Final Thought

Decluttering before a move isn’t about getting rid of everything. It’s about making the transition easier and giving yourself a fresh start. Your move becomes quicker, lighter, and so much more organized.

If you’re planning a move in the Battlefords and need tips, timelines, or a checklist, I’m always happy to help.

Moving with a toddler is a whole different adventure. While you’re juggling boxes, paperwork, and timelines, your little one is trying to make sense of all the change happening around them. The good news? With a few smart strategies, you can make the transition smoother, calmer, and even a little fun.

Here are five helpful tips to make moving day (and the first night) easier for everyone:

1. Pack a “First Night” Toddler Box

This is your secret weapon for a smooth transition. Think of it as a comfort kit for your child — the things that help them feel safe, familiar, and ready for sleep despite the new surroundings.

What to pack:

• Pajamas

• Toothbrush and bedtime essentials

• A favourite stuffed animal or blanket

• A bedtime book

• Nightlight (if they use one)

• Sippy cup or bedtime snack

• A change of clothes for the next morning

Why it works:
Moving day is long, noisy, and full of newness. By the time bedtime arrives, your toddler doesn’t care where the boxes are — they want reassurance. This dedicated box gives you immediate access to their comfort items without digging through everything else. It creates consistency, which is exactly what toddlers rely on.

Bonus Tip: Label it clearly and keep it with you (not on the moving truck).

2. Keep Routines as Familiar as Possible

Toddlers thrive on predictable rhythms. Even if everything around them has changed, small familiar rituals can anchor them.

Try to keep:

• Nap times consistent

• Bedtime routines the same

• Mealtime patterns similar

Even doing the bedtime routine in an unfamiliar room can feel “normal” if the steps stay the same.

3. Toddler-Proof the Primary Areas First

As soon as you get the keys, pick one room to make safe — usually the living room or toddler’s bedroom.
Install gates, cover outlets, secure cords, and clear the floor of hazards. When the moving chaos begins, you’ll have at least one safe zone where your toddler can play without constant redirection.

4. Keep Toddlers Involved

Toddlers love to “help,” even if the help slows things down. Give them small jobs:

• Placing stuffed animals in a box

• Holding tape (the safe kind!)

• Decorating their moving box with crayons

Small tasks build excitement and help them feel less overwhelmed by the change.

5. Have a Plan for the First Night in the New Home

Beyond the toddler’s special box, think about what you need to make the first night smooth. Moving day is exhausting — don’t leave bedtime to chance.

Consider:

• Setting up their bed or crib early in the day

• Ensuring the room is warm, comfortable, and dimly lit

• Keeping hallways lit for middle-of-the-night wakeups

• Having water, diapers, wipes, bottles, and extra blankets handy

• Preparing one familiar area where the whole family can unwind

Many parents underestimate how overstimulating moving can be. Toddlers may show extra clinginess or a harder time settling, so plan for a slower bedtime and extra snuggles.

The goal?
Make that first night feel safe, cozy, and predictable — even if the rest of the house is still in boxes.

Final Thoughts

Moving with a toddler doesn’t have to be chaotic. With a bit of preparation and a focus on comfort and routine, you can turn the transition into something positive and reassuring for your little one. And remember — every box will get unpacked eventually. The first night is all about settling in together.

Moving into a new home is exciting — but for your dog, it can feel a bit like landing on a different planet. New smells, new sounds, new routines, and a whole new layout to figure out. Whether you’re moving across North Battleford, into the Battlefords from out of town, or simply switching neighbourhoods, a little planning can make the transition much smoother for your four-legged family member.

Here are five simple (but important!) things you can do to help your dog settle quickly and feel right at home.

1. Set Up Their Space Before Anything Else

Why: Dogs feel secure when they recognize their environment — especially their bed, toys, and favourite blanket.
When you first arrive at your new home, unpack their essentials right away. Choose a quiet corner where they can retreat and relax while the hustle and bustle of moving continues. Familiar scents help reduce anxiety and make the new home feel like “theirs.”

2. Keep Their Routine As Normal As Possible

Why: Routines create predictability, and predictability reduces stress.
Feeding time, walk time, bedtime — try to stick to your usual schedule, even if everything else is chaotic. Dogs rely on consistency, and maintaining their routine reassures them that, despite the new surroundings, life is still “normal.”

3. Take a Slow Tour of the New Neighbourhood

Why: New neighbourhood smells help your dog understand their new territory.
Let your dog explore the yard first, then take a relaxed walk around the block. This helps them map out the area, learn where other dogs live, and get comfortable with new sounds (cars, kids, garbage trucks, etc.). In communities like Fairview, Killdeer, or Battleford West, this also helps you learn where nearby parks and walking paths are.

4. Dog-Proof the Yard and House

Why: A new space may have new hazards.
Before letting your dog roam freely, check the yard for gaps in the fence, loose boards, toxic plants, or debris the previous owner might have left behind. Inside, make sure cleaning products, cords, and garbage bins are secure. A quick safety sweep prevents accidents and gives you peace of mind.

5. Spend Extra Time With Them During the First Week

Why: Reassurance builds confidence in the new environment.
Your dog may follow you from room to room or seem clingier than usual — this is normal! Spend time playing, cuddling, and walking together. The more positive interactions they experience, the faster they’ll relax and settle in.

Final Thoughts

Moving is stressful for humans, so it’s no surprise it can be a big adjustment for your dog too. With a bit of preparation and patience, your new home will feel familiar and comfortable for everyone — paws included.

If you’re planning a move in the Battlefords or are looking for a pet-friendly home, I’m always happy to help point you toward neighbourhoods and properties that work well for both people and pets.

👀 Open Houses: The Smartest Way to Learn the Market

In a smaller community like the Battlefords, every home tells a story — and open houses are the easiest way to read between the lines.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious, open houses give you a first-hand look at real prices, real homes, and real market trends. You’ll gain a better feel for what’s available, what’s selling, and what features truly add value.

Most buyers only see a few selected listings. Most sellers only compare their home to what they remember from years ago. Open houses change that. They help you understand the real value of Battlefords homes for sale right now.

🏠 For Buyers: Learn What Your Money Really Buys

Online photos don’t tell you how a home feels — the light, the layout, the flow. Stepping inside a few open houses gives you an instant education in what your budget can buy.

By attending open houses, you’ll:

• See what different price ranges actually look like.

• Learn which updates and features add real value.

• Recognize when a home is priced fairly — and when it’s not.

• Build confidence before making an offer.

Seeing a range of homes helps you make informed decisions instead of emotional ones. You’ll know what’s worth stretching for — and what isn’t.

🏡 For Sellers: Understand Your Competition

Before listing your home, visit a few North Battleford open houses or Battleford listings. You’ll see how other homes are presented — and what buyers respond to.

You’ll quickly notice:

• What makes a home feel welcoming the moment you walk in.

• Which updates and layouts buyers seem to love.

• How staging, lighting, and cleanliness influence perception.

• Why some homes sell fast while others linger.

Armed with that insight, you can showcase your home to compete — or stand out — in the current market.

💬 Why This Matters

In the Battlefords, our real estate market moves with small shifts in supply and demand. Open houses let you see those changes happen in real time.

They’re also an easy, pressure-free way to meet local REALTORS®, ask questions, and get a feel for where your property or price range fits.

It’s not about being nosy — it’s about being prepared.

The more homes you walk through, the clearer your sense of value becomes.

🧭 The Bottom Line

Open houses are one of the simplest — and smartest — ways to learn the local real estate market.

They help buyers recognize a good deal when it appears, and help sellers understand how to position their home for success.

So the next time you see an “Open House” sign in the Battlefords — stop in.
Ask questions. Take notes. Learn what homes are really worth.

The knowledge you gain might just be the best real estate advantage you’ll