New homeowners flock to Okotoks

If you’re new in town and looking for the best advice, go ask a local. And when you’re new to the booming town of Okotoks, there’s no one better to ask about the lifestyle that awaits one here than Partners Development Group.

Partners – a rapidly growing land developer and homebuilder - is based in this lifestyle-rich, idyllic Southern Alberta town located just 20 minutes south of Calgary.

“While the town continues to grow, they stay true to those small-town roots and continue to come together for community events, festivals, parades and more all year long,” says Cale Marklund, Marketing Manager for Partners Development Group.

Okotoks’ population stands at over 31,000, which is estimated to have grown 30 per cent since 2008. Their new home market remains hot, as fresh opportunities to find the dream life in the Big Rock town continues to grow.

There is a ton of compelling reasons why people choose to live here, not the least of which is the breath-taking views of the Rockies. It also has a close-to-nature lifestyle enhanced by natural reserves and winding trails by the Sheep River, and a prevailing small-town culture that persists in spite of the town’s continued growth. It’s the dream community for a dream home.

“Okotoks provides a charming, small-town feel that residents can’t find anywhere else,” Marklund adds.

A partner in growth

Partners has been instrumental in the growth of the town’s residential sector. They’ve built homes in Ranchers’ Rise, Drake Landing and now in the new communities of Wedderburn and D’Arcy.

Partners, in fact, has enjoyed tremendous success in their Lawrie Park, their first condo development and the first that the town itself has seen in years.

“Lawrie Park is nearly sold out of phase 1 and officially 50 per cent sold through phase 2!” Marklund exclaims.

“Our third building is set to be released for sales this fall which is an exciting opportunity to claim some of the most desirable floorplans we offer! We’re happy to still have units starting from the mid $200’s as well, with one- and two-bedroom options for buyers.”

Lawrie Park will have four condo buildings on build out, each four storeys, with 52 units in each building (208 units in all). It is in the growing community of Wedderburn in Okotoks’ north end.

“The feedback has been fantastic as it is in a perfect location, north Okotoks, with the newest shopping area, D’Arcy Crossing, right across the street, nearby parks, playgrounds, schools and green space make for ideal accessibility and it’s an affordable option for downsizers and first-time buyers alike, Marklund says.

First residents are expected to be welcomed in January 2025 and show suites will be opening up early next year as well, he adds.

The appeal of Okotoks

Growth is indeed in the horizon, but what makes this small town just 20 minutes south of Calgary a special place to call home?

The town of about 31,000 residents is indeed blessed with majestic mountain sceneries and a rare connection to nature. This is underlined by the rolling grasslands of southern Alberta stretching out in all its splendour, the white-capped peaks of the Rockies that look close enough to touch, and the cool waters of the gently flowing Sheep River runs right through the heart of it all. All these make it prime land for recreational opportunities.

Okotoks is home to more than 179 hectares of public parks and open spaces, in addition to 326 hectares of natural areas including the river valley. Gainer says accessibility has been improved along the banks of the Sheep River giving everyone a much more enjoyable experience.

“There’s a lot of great hiking trails nearby, the Sheep River is a great spot to fish and just to enjoy a walk,” says long-time Okotoks resident, Lukas Wolfe.

Residents get to enjoy 94 kilometres of interconnected pathway systems that can get you through various parts of town. There are 110 parks, 72 playgrounds; 36 sports fields; 3 tennis cous and 6 pickleball courts; 14 outdoor skating rinks; six toboggan hills; three locations of outdoor fitness equipment; one multi-use sport court; a BMX track; as well as a water spray park, skateboard park and two community gardens.

More to offer

Okotoks is a modern prairie town and now there’s more to love with the variety of dining, shopping and entertainment options.
“There is a lot to love about Okotoks. It’s a tight-knit, vibrant small town that still provides premium access to amenities,” Marklund says.

“There are tons of small, locally-owned businesses to support, great schools, recreation opportunities and so much more.”

The Okotoks Recreation Center offers fitness, swimming, court sports and more. D’Arcy Ranch golf club and Crystal Ridge golf club and River’s Edge golf club are approachable golf courses for all skill levels.

For Shopping, Marklund notes that Okotoks offers ample charming locally owned shops downtown for clothing, games, toys and locally farmed food.

“While Okotoks offers quite a few popular commercial options, it’s the locally owned spots that still stand tall as the favourite. For a lot of the team here at Partners, the Heartland Café is definitely a top pick! The British Chippy is still around too, and it is another hot spot for the team here!”

He adds that new communities, like D’Arcy, also offer larger commercial retailers for groceries, pet care, restaurants and more. “We’re excited to have D’Arcy Crossing, Okotoks’ newest retail hub, opening right across the street from Lawrie Park, so our condo owners don’t have to go far for groceries, food, medical, or any other important necessity,” he adds. For more information of Lawrie Park and other Partners developments, go to partnershomes.ca.

Hang out for foodies and more

As Okotoks continues to grow, there’s no shortage of foodie destinations and unique shopping opportunities.

Big Sky BBQ just outside D’Arcy’s gates offer an authentic taste of a Texas barbecue. They smoke only the freshest meat every single day, as they claim to sell out every single day.

The British Chippy is an institution in town serving the best fish and chips this side of the UK. But Mr. Spud next door might give it a run for its money with its own brand of fish and chips.

New is the Yooneek Bookstore, the town’s first bookstore in a long while on McRae Street. It is a family-run business that hopes to bring a local and independent bookstore back in the Foothills.

The Hidden Gems market is the place to find local artisan crafts and unique gift items along Fisher Crescent. It has around 3,500 square-feet of space with over 100 vendors and is still growing. Tipper Records is the newest vintage vinyl records store in town and has been busy catering to collectors of all musical tastes.