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Over the past three months, I’ve personally toured over 50 infill homes across Calgary’s most sought-after inner-city neighbourhoods like Altadore, South Calgary, Killarney, and all over the Marda Loop area. And let me tell you, I’ve seen it all.

From beautifully designed spaces that instantly feel like home to costly design mistakes that made buyers walk away. Whether you’re planning to buy an infill or build one, these are some of the key things I’ve learned along the way that I wish every buyer and builder considered.

1. Don’t Put the Living Room at the Front Door

The first impression matters. One of the most awkward layouts I’ve seen is when you walk into a home and immediately step into the living room. The problem is that the living room is at the front of the home; the dining room is in the back. So imagine this spacious room in the back with the dining room table and chairs and then the deck exit. Most buyers I’ve interviewed shared that they did not like this layout. It feels very out of place and there is a huge waste of space.

Instead, place the living room at the back of the house. This allows for more privacy, better flow, and a more intentional space for relaxing and entertaining. At the front of the home, consider an office, sitting area, or even a formal dining room, anything that creates a softer and more welcoming entry.

2. Prioritize Closet Space as the buyers really do care

Closets may seem like a small thing, but trust me, they are not. I’ve walked through beautiful infills where the closet space was almost non-existent or very basic and cheap-looking, and it instantly became a red flag. Buyers today want smart, functional storage. Whether it’s a front entry, primary bedroom, kids’ rooms, or mudroom, make sure the closets are spacious and well-planned. This is especially true in family homes where everyday organization matters. Good closet design will always add value. You are selling a million-dollar home with the most basic closet? Please realize that this seemingly small detail has a huge effect on the buyer’s experience.

Also, if you have a plain looking infill that’s not particularly outstanding, then invest in closet space and watch it attract the buyers. People love shopping, and they love to have a great space for all of their premium purchases. Let them have that pleasure and strategically think about the closet space. This is one detail that you do not cheap out on.

3. Don’t Add Basement Suites in Altadore, South Calgary or Killarney

In higher-end neighbourhoods, most buyers are not looking for rental income  (they already have enough money) – they’re looking for a home for their family. Many of my clients are doctors and lawyers, and trust me, they are not interested in extra income. They want extra space for their kids and their own leisure. They are looking for these specific communities because of the lifestyle, specific private schools for their kids, and amenities that the neighbourhood offers.

Adding a legal suite in the basement might seem like a good idea for extra value, but in areas like Altadore, South Calgary, and Killarney, it actually works against you. People shopping in these areas want that space for themselves, whether it’s a playroom, gym, media room, or guest suite. Keep the basement flexible and tailored to family living instead.

4. Don’t Cheap Out on the Small Things

It’s the details that elevate a home. One of the biggest turn-offs I noticed was when builders would cheap out on little things like dated, poorly installed light switches, low-quality door handles, cheap doors, peeling paint, or generic hardware. These may seem insignificant, but in a million-dollar home, they stand out for all the wrong reasons. Spend a bit more on things like light switches, solid interior doors, and quality lighting. It makes a world of difference in how the home feels.

Look, if you are selling a luxury home, it has to feel luxury, even when it comes to small details. The luxury home buyers will notice the difference as they are looking through many luxury homes, so make yours stand out for the right reasons.

5. Always Install Air Conditioning

This is no longer optional. Calgary’s summers can be surprisingly hot, and buyers expect air conditioning in newer homes, especially if they’re paying a premium for an infill. It adds both comfort and resale value. It doesn’t matter if the house looks perfect – if it doesn’t have AC, it’s an easy reason for buyers to move on. Don’t lose a buyer over this. This 6K-10K investment is worth it as these homes always stand out.

This is one of the first things we notice on a listing and one of the first things we share with our buyers. This feature is the one that you should never overlook.

6. Choose Real Grass Over Artificial Turf

While artificial turf might seem like an easy low-maintenance solution, it doesn’t always leave a great impression. Real grass just looks and feels better and it’s also much cheaper than turf – especially in family homes where kids and pets may be using the yard. Buyers also tend to associate artificial turf with cheaper builds or developer shortcuts. Unless there’s a strong reason for going artificial, stick with real, lush grass.

There is a very small segment of people who prefer artificial turf. Your goal is to attract more buyers, so please don’t limit yourself. We have walked away from homes with fake grass because my clients wanted real grass for their pets/kids.

7. Be Careful With Detached Lane Homes

I’ve seen a few detached infills squeezed onto lots that are too narrow, and the result is a home that feels cramped, too narrow and awkward. Ironically, many of these detached homes feel smaller than semi-detached ones done right, but their price is much higher too! If you don’t have the width, don’t force it. In some cases, a well-designed semi-detached infill actually has more curb appeal and better interior layout than a narrow detached home. You will attract more buyers with a more spacious layout.

8. No Lonely Toilets!

This might sound funny, but I can’t tell you how many ensuite bathrooms I’ve seen where the toilet is just sitting in the open, right next to the vanity or shower, with zero privacy. It’s uncomfortable and unnecessary. Always add a water closet with a door for toilets, especially in primary suites. Privacy matters, and it’s one of those things that people immediately notice and remember. It is a major turn off for people, so please stick to bathrooms that respect the privacy of the toilet. It is quite sad to walk away from a nice home only because the bathroom layout is just so awkward.

9. Include Window Coverings for Problem Windows

Most infills are sold without window coverings, but if you have large, oddly-shaped, or very exposed windows, consider including tasteful blinds or shades for that window. Buyers notice when they’re left with the task of finding very custom window treatments for challenging windows. Even better if the coverings were chosen by an interior designer and complement the home’s aesthetic. But whatever you do, don’t go over-the-top with flashy blinds that only suit one style. If you can’t install blinds everywhere, focus on the unique window only.

10. Tile the Mudroom – No Exceptions

The mudroom is where snow, water, and dirt all end up, so it needs to be practical and durable. Skip the hardwood or vinyl and go straight for tile. It holds up better and looks more intentional, and people just LOVE IT.

I’ve also heard the comments from the buyers who were uncomfortable with hardwood flooring covering the mudroom area. They want a clear separation between both areas, and they also want to clean it easily. This is a small part that can deter a buyer easily.

11. Avoid Balconies in Children’s Rooms

This is a safety concern that comes up often. Do not put balconies in secondary bedrooms where kids might sleep. Parents worry about safety, and frankly, it just doesn’t make sense.

Balconies should be reserved for the primary bedroom or common living areas where adults will actually use them. We walked away from home with awkward balconies because they were concerned that their child might fall from it. It is a hazard, so please forget about this waste of space and invest in closets instead.

Rethink the Balcony – Especially in the Master Bedroom

Let’s be real: most balconies are a waste of space, especially the tiny ones tacked onto a master bedroom just for the sake of saying the home has a balcony. Unless you’re designing a large, private, and usable outdoor space – something that can actually fit a real patio set and provide some comfort and privacy – it’s not worth it.

I’ve seen too many infills with awkward, narrow balconies that barely fit a single chair and a café table. And for what? That square footage could’ve been added to the bedroom or ensuite. If the balcony doesn’t add functional outdoor living, skip it altogether. It’s better to have a larger, more luxurious interior than a cramped, awkward “outdoor” space no one will use.

That said, a covered, private balcony with a view, good exposure, and room for lounging? That can be a fantastic feature, but only if it’s truly usable. Otherwise, do yourself and your buyers a favour: don’t do a balcony just to say you have one. Either do it right or leave it out.

12. Add Custom Wall Built-Ins

If there’s one design feature that really impresses buyers, it’s custom built-ins. Whether it’s shelving around a fireplace, a built-in desk, or a media unit, it adds function and style. It’s also a sign that the home was thoughtfully designed.

When done right, built-ins create that “wow” factor and set your infill apart from cookie-cutter new builds. I know that it’s not cheap, so focus on the living room and the basement. Even small built-ins can make a difference.

13. Don’t Overdo It, but Don’t Be Basic Either

Balance is key. I’ve toured infills that felt more like showrooms than homes, with oversized chandeliers, massive marble islands, gold everything, and just too much of everything. On the flip side, I’ve also seen homes that felt flat and uninspired. The best infills are the ones that feel balanced  – stylish, livable, and timeless.

Work with a good designer who can help you find that middle ground. I would stay away from very dark kitchens (aka black or red kitchens or dark grey), and go for more neutral colours mixed with natural elements like wood.

14. When buying a lot, AVOID NORTH-FACING BACKYARDS

When purchasing a lot, backyard orientation is a detail that makes a big difference in how you’ll enjoy the home. A north-facing backyard receives very little direct sunlight throughout the year. This means the yard tends to stay cooler, darker, and often damp. In winter and early spring, snow and ice can linger far longer in the shade, delaying the time you can actually use the space. Even in summer, the area can feel chilly compared to sun-filled yards.

Most buyers prefer south, southeast, southwest, or west-facing backyards. These orientations maximize natural light, warmth, and comfort. If you fall in love with a north-facing lot, make sure the home’s layout still allows plenty of natural light inside.

Buyers really do care about this detail. A poorly oriented backyard can make a home less attractive when it comes time to sell, while a well-oriented one can increase both enjoyment and resale value.

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Final Thoughts

After seeing so many infills back-to-back, it’s clear that smart design choices make all the difference. These aren’t just homes, they’re long-term investments, family spaces, and lifestyle decisions. Whether you’re buying or building, I hope this article helps you avoid common mistakes and focus on what really matters.

If you’re looking to buy an infill in Calgary or want expert guidance on designing one that actually sells, I’d love to help. Get in touch with me below.

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Need help with buying, building, or selling your infill in Calgary?

I am a licensed real estate agent/Realtor and Property Manager with CIR REALTY in Calgary, Alberta. I’ve been in Calgary real estate since 2011. Learn about me here.

If you want to get more information quickly and save yourself some time and effort, just send me a message, book an appointment with me (Zoom or a phone call or office meeting) or send me a text message – 403.835.6913 (I do not always pick up my phone as I am busy with clients, so for the fastest response, it’s better to text me or schedule an appointment online), and I’d be happy to help you figure out the best type of property in Calgary for you and your family.

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