Every year, property owners in Fort McMurray receive their Municipal Property Assessment Notices, which can sometimes cause confusion about their home’s actual market value. If you’re wondering how your assessed value compares to what your home could sell for today, let’s break it down.

When Are Property Assessments Determined?

The RMWB Property Assessment Notices for the 2025 tax year will be mailed on February 18, 2025, to all property owners in the region. These assessments are based on:
✅ An evaluation date of July 1, 2024
✅ The physical condition of your property as of December 31, 2024

This means the assessed value reflects market conditions from last year, not the present-day real estate market.

Property Assessment vs. Market Value

A Municipal Property Assessment is used primarily for tax purposes, and its valuation is based on historical data from the previous year. Because of this, it may not align with:
🏡 A real estate market evaluation (which reflects current market trends)
🏦 A bank mortgage appraisal (which assesses value as of the appraisal date)

How Is Market Value Determined?

As a local REALTOR®, I help sellers determine their home’s true market value by preparing a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). This evaluation includes:
📊 Recent sales data of comparable homes in your area
🏡 Active & pending listings that showcase market demand
📈 Adjustments for unique features of your home (renovations, upgrades, location, etc.)

In other words, a CMA tells you what your home is worth in today’s market—not last year’s.

Why Does This Matter?

If you’ve been comparing your Municipal Assessment to your home’s actual value, remember:

• Assessments are historical and based on previous-year data.

• Market value is fluid and reflects real-time buyer demand.

• Upgrades and renovations aren’t always factored into municipal assessments.

This time of year always sparks conversations about property values in Fort McMurray. If you’re curious about what your home is worth right now, I’m here to help!

Get a Free Market Evaluation

Throughout March, I’ve set aside time to complete Complimentary Comparative Market Evaluations for homeowners. If you’d like to take advantage of this offer and get a true picture of your home’s market value, reach out today!

📩 Message me anytime to book your free CMA.

Let’s make sure you have the most up-to-date information on your home’s worth!

Written by Kate Arnold | REALTOR® ®

As we move further into 2025, Fort McMurray’s real estate market is showing clear signs of a shift. One of the most significant factors shaping the market right now is limited inventory. With fewer homes available, buyers are facing increased competition, creating favourable conditions for sellers who are ready to list.

If you’re considering selling your home this year, you may be wondering: Should I list now or wait until spring? While spring is often considered the “hot” season for real estate, here are a few reasons why listing ahead of the rush might be the best move for you.

1. Low Inventory Means Less Competition

Currently, Fort McMurray is experiencing one of the lowest inventory levels in the past decade. As of February 3, there are currently 359 active listings with 51 of those listings under contract to sell. Since January 1, 2025 there have been 74 firm sales (source: Pillar 9). Fewer homes on the market means potentially favourable conditions for sellers. With limited options available, buyers are more motivated to act quickly and make competitive offers.

2. Buyer Confidence is Rising

Over the past year, we’ve seen a steady increase in sales volume and average sale prices. In 2024, sales volume was up 15%, while the average sale price increased by 4%. These trends + Bank Of Canada’s 6th rate cut in a row indicate that buyers are feeling confident in the market and are willing to move forward with purchases. If this momentum continues, sellers who list now could benefit from motivated buyers who are ready to make a move before the market becomes saturated in the spring.

3. Get Ahead of the Spring Rush

Spring is typically when more homes hit the market, meaning increased competition for sellers. Listing your home now allows you to attract serious buyers without competing against a flood of new listings. By the time spring arrives, you could already be well on your way to a successful sale.

4. Serious Buyers Are Already Looking

Many buyers are actively searching for homes today. Some have been pre-approved and are just waiting for the right property to hit the market. With low inventory and increasing buyer demand, you could secure a strong offer faster than you think.

Let’s Plan Your Next Steps

If I’ve reached out to you recently, it’s because I believe your home could be a great fit for the current market conditions. If selling is on your list for 2025, now is the time to book your free market evaluation or follow up on a previous one.

Even if you’re still on the fence about listing your home, a market evaluation is a valuable tool to keep in your back pocket. It doesn’t mean you have to sell, but it does give you the insights you need to make an informed decision.

I have set aside time this month for homeowners who want to explore their options. If you’re curious about what your home is worth in today’s market or want to discuss your real estate goals, let’s chat!

📩 Book your free, no obligation market evaluation today. I’m here to help guide you to a successful sale!