Unlocking Alberta Real Estate: The Power of Appraisals, Market Trends, and Migration Insights with Gerhardt Klann of Northern Lights Appraisals

In this episode of Brokers for Life, host Len Lane and his guest, Gerhardt Klann, president of Northern Lights Real Estate Consulting, dive into the critical role appraisals play in real estate transactions, especially for buyers putting down over 20%. Gerhardt shares his journey from real estate investing in the late 1990s to becoming a seasoned appraiser and founder of Northern Lights Appraisals. The duo explores how appraisers determine market value, the impact of buyer preferences, and the nuances of renovations that add—or detract—from property value. They also reflect on lessons from the 2008 financial meltdown and discuss the significance of professional designations like DAR, DAC, and DRP in ensuring appraisal accuracy and credibility.

Turning their focus to the Alberta real estate market, Len and Gerhardt discuss the province’s growing appeal due to affordability and migration trends. They highlight the ongoing surge in Edmonton and Calgary, noting strong rental and resale markets fueled by interprovincial migration. With a nod to future opportunities, Gerhard predicts continued growth in the Edmonton market, while Len shares plans to expand his team to meet rising demand. This episode is a must-listen for those who want deeper insights into the evolving dynamics of Alberta real estate and strategies for navigating the current market conditions.

About Gerhardt Klann:

Northern Lights Real Estate Consulting is a residential and commercial real estate appraisal firm owned and operated by Gerhardt Klann and his wife Shila Klann. Gerhardt has his DAR, DAC, DRP and Certified Appraisal Reviewer Designations from the Canadian National Association of Real Estate Appraisers (CNAREA) and is licensed by the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA).

He was recognized as CNAREA’s Appraiser of the Year (for all of Canada) in 2016 and has completed over 7,500 appraisals. In addition, Gerhardt is an engaging public speaker and has delivered the keynote address at several conferences for investors, lenders and mortgage brokers throughout western Canada. He developed his business skills at the University of Alberta, where he earned a B.Sc. Forestry Business Management, with distinction in 1999. A former world-class biathlete, Gerhardt brings a high level of focus and precision to his work.

In addition, he is an active member of the community, serving as a volunteer for the Start 2 Finish Reading and Running Program and sits on the Appraisal Advisory Committee for the Real Estate Council of Alberta. Gerhardt and his hand-selected team of high-quality appraisers are passionate students of the Edmonton real estate market — with combined decades of appraisal, real estate and real estate investment experience. Their reports are well-regarded for their accuracy and precision and can help you make sound real estate-related decisions based on reliable facts.

Resources:

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Contact Len Lane | Brokers for Life:

Contact Gerhardt Klann | Northern Lights Appraisals: