Home Trends from Lou Benis

I’ll get you moving! loubenis.remax.ca

Lou Benis Sales Representative, REALTOR ® 403.393.4992

Real Estate Lethbridge

Lou Benis •

Real Estate Lethbridge

FALL HOME PREP MADE SIMPLE

As cooler weather arrives it’s a great time to prepare your home before winter sets in. A few small steps now can save time, money and stress later. Inside, test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if needed— this should be done twice a year. Check for drafts around windows and doors since even small gaps can raise heating bills. Weather-stripping and caulking are inexpensive fixes that help keep warm air in and cold air out. Book a furnace or heat pump inspection before the first cold snap. Professional cleaning keeps systems efficient while regular filter changes improve air quality. If you use a fireplace or wood stove, schedule a chimney inspection to ensure safety. Outdoors, clear gutters and downspouts. Leaves and debris can clog drainage leading to water damage or ice buildup. If ladders aren’t for you, local services can help. Store hoses, shut off exterior faucets and secure patio furniture before snow arrives. If you live in a condominium or apartment, follow your Board’s maintenance plan to help keep the building running smoothly. By tackling these simple tasks you’ll be ready for a warmer, worry-free winter indoors.

I’ll get you moving! 403.393.4992

Lou Benis •

Real Estate Lethbridge

TIDY UP THE FRONT DOOR CHAOS The change in seasons often brings a change in clutter. Boots, jackets, backpacks and umbrellas tend to pile up quickly near the front door. A few small tweaks can transform your entryway from chaotic to calm. Start by using vertical space. Hooks, wall-mounted racks and slim shelving units keep coats and bags off the floor while maximizing square footage. Baskets and bins are another simple solution. Group items by family member or activity—sports gear, pet supplies or winter accessories—so they’re always easy to find. Clear bins or labels help avoid the “where are my mittens?” scramble. Protect your floors, too. Place heavy-duty mats both inside and outside the door to catch mud, salt and snow. A boot tray with raised edges is especially handy for trapping water from melting snow. Finally, create a drop zone. A small table or wall organizer for keys, mail and other essentials helps prevent clutter from spreading into the rest of the home. With a few smart adjustments, your entryway can work as hard as the season demands—without feeling crowded.

I’ll get you moving! 403.393.4992

Lou Benis •

Real Estate Lethbridge

WINTER TIRES: WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE THE SNOW Starting October 1, 2025, British Columbia will join Quebec in requiring all drivers to use winter tires on most highways until spring. Even outside of BC and QC, Canadian safety experts recommend winter tires for better traction and braking once temperatures consistently drop below 7°C. Winter tires are made from rubber compounds that stay flexible in the cold, unlike all-seasons that stiffen and lose grip. They also feature deeper tread patterns designed to push away snow and slush. The result? Safer handling and shorter stopping distances during icy or snowy conditions. Storage is often the biggest challenge for drivers. A full set of tires can take up valuable space in a garage or shed. If space is limited, consider having your tires stored at the shop where you purchase them—many offer seasonal storage for a reasonable fee. If you do store them at home, keep them in a cool, dry place, ideally off the ground and away from direct sunlight. When it comes time to buy, look for tires with the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol, which indicates they meet recognized winter performance standards. Making the switch may require a little planning, but the safety and peace of mind during Canada’s unpredictable winters are well worth it.

I’ll get you moving! 403.393.4992

Lou Benis •

Real Estate Lethbridge

ALL ABOUT APPLES: CANADA’S FALL FAVOURITE Apples are one of the most versatile fruits grown in Canada, with harvest season stretching well into the fall. Whether you enjoy them sweet, tart or somewhere in between, apples fit seamlessly into both snacks and meals. For a quick, balanced bite, try pairing apple slices with almond butter or a cheese string. They also shine in baking—from classic crisps and muffins to savoury dishes like roasted pork. A simple stovetop applesauce, made by gently cooking apples with cinnamon and lemon juice, is another delicious way to enjoy them and keeps well in the fridge. Apples are also a budget-friendly staple for meal prep. Add diced pieces to salads for extra crunch, blend them into smoothies for natural sweetness, or layer thin slices into sandwiches and wraps. On a cool fall day, letting apple cider bubble away with cloves and cinnamon sticks not only makes a comforting, spiced drink, but also fills the house with a wonderful aroma. With more than 100 varieties grown across Canada, there’s truly a flavour for everyone. From the crisp snap of Honeycrisp to the tang of Granny Smith, apples remind us that sometimes the simplest seasonal foods are also the most satisfying.

I’ll get you moving! 403.393.4992

Lou Benis •

Real Estate Lethbridge

LETHBRIDGE STATS REPORT FOR SEPTEMBER 2025

AVERAGE SALE PRICE •

Detached: $457,387 UP 10.7% YOY Apartment: $266,499 UP 45.1% YOY Total: $437,313 UP 14.7% YOY

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NEW LISTINGS • SFD: 160 •

Apartment: 11

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Total Residential: 204

SOLD LISTINGS • SFD: 117 •

Apartment: 10

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Total Residential: 158

ACTIVE LISTINGS • SFD: 266 • Apartment: 23 •

Total Residential: 336

SALES TO NEW LISTINGS RATIO: 77% MONTHS OF INVENTORY TOTAL: 2.13

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Source: AREA | Market values stated are of the average of Lethbridge and surrounding region. Individual home market values will vary and are affected by factors such as location, size, interior and exterior condition. Please call to get an up-to-date evaluation of your home. Or call with your real estate market questions.

I’ll get you moving! 403.393.4992