This means that areas previously zoned R-C1 unsuitable for traditional infill development are now open for this type of development. Both basement suites and backyard suites are permitted, which also provides an opportunity to develop revenue properties in a less traditional format than row housing.
Former R-C1 areas that are likely to start seeing infill development under the new zoning are primarily neighborhoods that have large lots and older, smaller homes. These include:
MOST LIKELY TO SEE INFILL DEVELOPMENT RIGHT AWAY:
Montgomery
Perfectly situated close to the river, downtown, major hospitals and the university, Montgomery was previously a mix of R-C1 and R-C2 zoning. Infills have been built on R-C2 parcels here for years and are now very likely to occur on the parcels previously zoned R-C1. New shops and amenities have been popping up for years, improving infill buyers' desirability. Plus, Montgomery remains one of the most affordable communities in the inner city for acquiring land.
Bowness
Previously considered run-down and less desirable for infill buyers, Bowness has seen considerable gentrification and substantial changes over the last 5-10 years, with an explosion of development and gentrification. Proximity to downtown, plentiful parks and recreation, and a fully-equipped main street with shops and services make Bowness a very attractive option for development. Like Montgomery, Bowness was previously a mix of R-C1 and R-C2, but infill development can now occur anywhere under R-CG zoning. Plus, Bowness remains one of the most affordable communities in the inner city for acquiring land.
Glenbrook
Like Bowness and Montgomery, Glenbrook was previously a mix of R-C1 and R-C2 zoned properties, with substantial development already occurring in the R-C2 section. New zoning changes mean this type of development will likely expand almost immediately into surrounding sections previously zoned R-C1.
Rutland Park
Rutland Park is another hidden gem community situated between Killarney and Currie. Its large number of older homes with renovations and estate homes makes it ideal for both typical and oversized infills. Proximity to Marda Loop and Currie amenities also bode well for a luxury market here.
Richmond Park (the Wedge)
Tucked in between Currie and Killarney, this triangular-shaped section of Richmond, known informally as "the Wedge," was formerly a small section of R-C1-zoned lots. Primarily older homes, new RCG zoning makes this area ripe for infill development.
AREAS WHICH MAY START TO SEE A MIX OF DEVELOPMENT:
Glendale
Large lots and nicely renovated older properties abound in Glendale, which has long been one of SW Calgary's hidden gem communities. Although renovated, older homes aren't likely to be turned into infills anytime soon; older properties in more original condition could be a great option for infill development as this area will be very attractive to infill buyers seeking a lower-density community. This area would be especially ideal for a land assembly and construction of multiple "oversized" infills, which would fit in better with the existing development of estate homes in the community.
Glamorgan
Glamorgan is a community full of older homes on large lots; however, there is a huge diversity from street to street. Some streets contain highly renovated or newly constructed estate homes, while others are mostly older, unrenovated properties. Land values for development are likely to vary accordingly. Typical infill development would be ideal in the less developed sections, where land would be cheaper. More developed areas would be better suited to a higher-end project.
Lakeview
A large community full of older homes on large lots, with great schools, parks, and access to major roadways, has made Lakeview a family-friendly neighbourhood for years. Lakeview Village, the estate section of Lakeview on the South end of this community, is already one of the hottest luxury markets in the city, which bodes well for a luxury infill market to emerge through the rest of the area over the coming years.
Wildwood
Another former R-C1 community featuring large lots and established access to good schools and parks, Wildwood is another family-friendly neighbourhood that has seen many new estate homes and large-scale renovations in recent years. With an upscale feel already, this community would be instantly popular with infill buyers if development were to occur. This means some of the older condition homes will likely start making way for new homes in the coming years.
AREAS WE MAY START TO SEE SMALLER "STARTER" INFILLS:
Haysboro
Long a hidden gem with very attractive pricing, Haysboro is well situated for access into downtown via 14 St, Elbow Dr, or Macleod Tr. Plus, it offers very easy access to the LRT and Glenmore Reservoir paths. Mainly containing small bungalows on large lots, this community is currently a mix of highly renovated and original properties. Given the amenities, infill buyers with smaller budgets would likely see great value here, and the large lots would allow for easy subdivision.
Kingsland
Kingsland is a smaller community, offering similar access to amenities as Haysboro, although the homes here tend to be a bit larger than Haysboro, which affects pricing. The most desirable parts of this community are on the Southern end, away from the multi-family nearest Glenmore Trail.
Do you have any questions or comments or want to brainstorm where to plan your next project? Reach out anytime to chat with one of our infill experts!