🌞 Cashing Out or Doubling Down — What Should You Do With Your Home Equity?

If you’re a homeowner in St. Albert or Spruce Grove, you’ve probably heard the whispers — or maybe seen it firsthand. Home prices are holding strong, buyer interest is active, and inventory is still tight in certain pockets of the market.

So, the big question for many homeowners right now is:
Is this the time to cash in? Or should you double down on your current home equity and make a move within the market?

Let’s break down what’s happening in the local real estate scene this summer, and what your options look like depending on your goals.

📈 What’s Fueling the Summer 2025 Market?

Across Alberta — and especially in desirable communities like St. Albert and Spruce Grove — we’re seeing a continuation of lifestyle-driven moves. Families want more space, downsizers want less maintenance, and many Albertans are looking to capitalize on their equity while rates are relatively stable.

Here are a few factors making this an ideal time for sellers:

1. Strong Demand for Move-In Ready Homes

Buyers are out in full force, especially for detached homes, updated townhomes, and upscale duplexes. With limited new inventory in some areas, well-presented resale homes are attracting multiple showings — and in some cases, multiple offers.

2. Sellers Have an Equity Advantage

If you’ve owned your home for more than 3–5 years, you’re likely sitting on substantial equity. In many St. Albert and Spruce Grove neighbourhoods, property values have climbed steadily since 2020 — especially for homes in mature areas and newer developments near parks, trails, and schools.

3. Mortgage Rate Stability Is Creating Movement

While rates remain higher than the ultra-low pandemic years, they’ve stabilized enough to give buyers some confidence — and many sellers are also sitting on low fixed rates they can carry into a new mortgage through portability or blended options.

💰 Cashing Out: When Selling Makes the Most Sense

For some, the numbers just make sense to sell right now — and here’s why:

✅ Downsizing or Retiring?

If your kids have moved out or your lifestyle has changed, now could be the perfect time to trade in your family home for something smaller, newer, or easier to maintain. Upscale duplexes and bungalow-style townhouses in both Spruce Grove and St. Albert offer comfort, convenience, and lower utility/maintenance costs — with plenty of lifestyle appeal.

✅ Planning a Move Out of Town?

Whether you’re headed to a rural property, downsizing into Edmonton, or leaving Alberta entirely, selling now allows you to lock in top-dollar value while buyer competition is still healthy.

✅ You’ve Hit Your Peak Value

Not every home will continue climbing in value indefinitely. If your property has seen significant appreciation and your goals are changing, this could be the right window to maximize your return.

🔁 Doubling Down: Reinvesting Your Equity in the Same Market

Of course, selling doesn’t have to mean exiting the market entirely. In fact, many of my clients are using the equity in their current home to move up into a better fit — whether that’s a larger space, a better location, or a home with modern features.

Here’s why that strategy can work well right now:

• You’re selling and buying in the same market — so while you’ll pay more for your next home, you’re also benefiting on the sale of your current one.

• You can use your equity to increase your down payment, potentially improving your mortgage terms.

• Lifestyle upgrades like home offices, outdoor living areas, or walkable neighbourhoods might now be within reach — and worth the move.

If your current home no longer fits your life — even if it’s appreciated nicely — this summer might be your chance to make a smart, lifestyle-focused move.

🧠 So… Should You Sell?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — but there is a smart way to figure it out. Ask yourself:

• Am I staying in this home because it works for me — or just because it’s familiar?

• Would a different home, location, or layout better support my current needs?

• Am I prepared to take advantage of my equity and put it to work?

If the answer to any of those questions has you leaning toward change, that’s your sign to start the conversation.

📍 Local Insight: What’s Selling in St. Albert & Spruce Grove?

In St. Albert, demand remains high for detached homes in Erin Ridge, North Ridge, and Oakmont, especially those with finished basements, triple garages, and updated kitchens. Townhomes and duplexes near schools and trails are also moving quickly.

In Spruce Grove, newer communities like Jesperdale, Fenwyck, and Prescott are attracting both families and downsizers. Bungalow-style duplexes, in particular, are seeing strong activity — and selling at a premium when well-staged.

🎯 Final Thoughts: Know Your Market, Know Your Options

Summer 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal season for homeowners — especially in high-demand Alberta communities like St. Albert and Spruce Grove. Whether you’re thinking of selling outright or just curious about your options, now is the time to get clarity.

Want to know what your home could sell for this summer? Or explore options for buying and selling at the same time? I’d be happy to walk you through it.

📞 Call or text me anytime at 780-934-1566
📩 Or reach out through nathanwallace.realtor

Let’s figure out your next best move — together.