What is a walkout basement home?

A walkout basement is a lower-level living space with direct access to the backyard or exterior ground level. These basements have full-sized windows and doors that bring in more natural light and typically open to patios, decks, or landscaped yards—making them ideal for recreation rooms, guest suites, home offices, or independent rental units.

What are the benefits of buying a home with a walkout basement?

Walkout basement homes offer several advantages: brighter living spaces and better daylight compared to traditional basements; direct access to outdoor space for entertaining, relaxing, or letting kids play; potential for legal suites, in-law or guest accommodation, and rental income; higher resale value, especially for homes on view, ravine, or lake lots; and greater flexibility for multi-generational families or work-from-home setups.

Which Calgary communities have the most walkout homes?

Popular Calgary communities with many walkout homes include Arbour Lake, Cranston, Signal Hill, Springbank Hill, Tuscany, Evergreen, Mahogany, McKenzie Lake, Aspen Woods, and newer developments such as Glacier Ridge and Alpine Park.

How much more does a walkout basement cost?

Walkout basement homes usually sell at a premium over comparable homes without walkout features. The extra cost often reflects larger windows, upgraded rear landscaping, and the value of lower-level access and daylight. Premiums tend to be highest on ravine, lake, and view lots. In many cases, buyers can expect to pay tens of thousands of dollars more for a walkout, depending on the neighborhood and current market conditions.

Is a permit needed to finish or build a walkout basement in Calgary?

Yes. Finishing or creating a walkout basement in Calgary requires a City of Calgary building permit and may also need planning approval, especially if structural changes, new doors or windows, or secondary suites are involved. Homeowners should always review the latest City of Calgary regulations and consult a licensed professional before starting construction or renovations.

Are walkout basements suitable for legal suites or rentals?

Many walkout basements are well suited for secondary suites or rentals because they already have a private entrance, good natural light, and direct access to the yard. However, to be considered a legal suite in Calgary, the space must meet city code for safety, egress, ceiling height, heating, cooking facilities, and other requirements. Buyers should verify zoning and obtain all necessary permits and inspections.

Can I get alerts for new walkout homes on the market?

Yes. Buyers can sign up for custom MLS alerts to receive instant notifications when new Calgary homes with walkout basements hit the market in their preferred neighborhoods, price ranges, or property types. You can also contact Diane Richardson directly to set up tailored searches and early access to suitable walkout listings.

Bonavista DownsSouthCalgary

Calgary Real Estate by Area & Quadrant

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159 Lake Sylvan Close SE in Calgary: Bonavista Downs Semi Detached (Half Duplex) for sale : MLS®# A2279739
159 Lake Sylvan Close SE Bonavista Downs Calgary T2J 3E5

159 Lake Sylvan Close SE Calgary T2J 3E5 Bonavista Downs

$1,095,000

Residential

Status:

Active

MLS® Num:

A2279739

Bedrooms:

6

Bathrooms:

5

Floor Area:

2,064 sq. ft.192 m2

Stunning Semi-Detached Infill with Legal Suite in Bonavista. BRAND NEW, custom-built semi-detached infill in the desirable community of Bonavista offers the perfect blend of luxury living and practicality. With over 3180 sqft. of elegant living space including an extended 3-bedroom legal basement suite, this home provides the flexibility of multi-generational living or a fantastic mortgage helper. The main level is designed for both style and function, featuring 10-ft ceilings, a bright open-concept layout, and oversized windows that fill the space with natural light. The kitchen is well appointed, with ceiling-height cabinetry, a massive island with waterfall quartz counters, and premium stainless steel appliances. The living room is bright and welcoming, with modern finishes and built-in cabinetry that offers plenty of functional storage. Dining room with double sliding doors overlooking the spacious backyard. Upstairs, you’ll find a spacious primary retreat with soaring 16ft vaulted ceilings, walk-in closet with built-ins, and a spa-inspired ensuite featuring heated floors, freestanding soaker tub, and a fully tiled glass shower with steam. Two additional bedrooms with 10ft tray ceiling, a 4-piece main bath, and an upper laundry room add everyday convenience. The professionally developed legal suite has its own private side entrance and offers over 1121 sqft. of developed living space. Highlights include 3 large bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, in-suite laundry, a generous living/dining area, and a full kitchen with quartz counters, ceiling-height cabinets, and stainless-steel appliances. Comfort is maximized with in-floor heating (roughed in) and 4” rigid insulation beneath the slab for year-round warmth. Set on a generous 128-ft deep lot, this home offers plenty of outdoor space with a finished concrete patio, and a paved back alley. Bonavista is one of Calgary’s most established and desirable neighbourhoods—renowned for its safety, quiet streets, excellent schools, and close proximity to shopping, restaurants, parks, and transit. This is a rare opportunity to own a thoughtfully designed infill in one of Calgary’s most coveted areas—complete with a full legal suite that adds value and flexibility. Book your private showing today and experience everything this incredible home has to offer. More details

Listed by RE/MAX Complete Realty

LISTING DETAILS
- DIANE RICHARDSON
- CIR Realty
- 1 (403) 397 3706
- Diane@mypadCalgary.com
1349 Lake Sylvan Drive SE in Calgary: Bonavista Downs Detached for sale : MLS®# A2279137
1349 Lake Sylvan Drive SE Bonavista Downs Calgary T2J 3Z5

1349 Lake Sylvan Drive SE Calgary T2J 3Z5 Bonavista Downs

$849,990

Residential

Status:

Active

MLS® Num:

A2279137

Bedrooms:

4

Bathrooms:

3

Floor Area:

1,054 sq. ft.98 m2

Step into this impressively renovated home, gutted and transformed inside and out approximately two years ago, where a wide open floor plan immediately captivates. The heart of this home is the stunning kitchen, part of the extensive renovation completed around mid-2023, boasting a massive island with a striking waterfall quartz countertop. It's fully equipped with stainless steel appliances, ample storage in a large pantry, and sleek quartz counters throughout. Don't be deceived by the exterior; this home offers surprisingly spacious rooms. The master suite is a true retreat, measuring 14'5"x11'8". It features a luxurious full ensuite, also part of the home's comprehensive renovation, complete with dual sinks, a beautifully tiled glass shower, a separate soaker tub, and a walk-in closet outfitted with custom shelving. The main floor also includes a large second bedroom, another full bathroom, and an inviting open-concept dining and living area. A cozy fireplace and gleaming hardwood floors, all updated during the renovation, enhance the warmth and elegance of this space. Descend to the fully finished basement to discover an expansive family room, perfect for entertaining or relaxing. This level, also fully renovated, houses a stylish laundry room, a full bathroom with a tiled glass shower, and two additional generously sized bedrooms. The layout here offers excellent potential to create an in-law suite or a separate second unit by adding a kitchen, A secondary suite would be subject to approval and permitting by the city/ municipality. The exterior, completely redone roughly two years ago, features durable Hardie siding, concrete walkways, and landscaping. A double detached garage provides ample parking and storage. Investment Opportunity & Versatility: This property has a proven track record as a successful Airbnb rental, boasting excellent ratings, making it a turnkey option for those interested in a short-term rental business. Alternatively, its thoughtful layout easily lends itself to multi-generational living or conversion into two separate units. This exceptional, fully renovated home is a rare find, offering both a beautiful living space and significant income potential. An absolute must-see. More details

Listed by eXp Realty

LISTING DETAILS
- DIANE RICHARDSON
- CIR Realty
- 1 (403) 397 3706
- Diane@mypadCalgary.com
1324 Lake Sylvan Drive SE in Calgary: Bonavista Downs Detached for sale : MLS®# A2271545
1324 Lake Sylvan Drive SE Bonavista Downs Calgary T2J 3C8

1324 Lake Sylvan Drive SE Calgary T2J 3C8 Bonavista Downs

$679,900

Residential

Status:

Active

MLS® Num:

A2271545

Bedrooms:

5

Bathrooms:

2

Floor Area:

1,180 sq. ft.110 m2

Welcome to this beautifully updated 1180 sq ft bungalow, offering stylish comfort and a bright, open-concept layout. The spacious living room features large windows that flood the space with natural light, creating the perfect spot for everyday living and entertaining. You’ll love the modern kitchen complete with a large island, ample cabinetry, and an adjoining dining area that’s ideal for family meals. With 5 bedrooms—3 on the main level and 2 downstairs—there’s plenty of room for growing families, guests, or a home office. The home also offers 2 full bathrooms and thoughtfully designed feature walls that bring character and warmth to the main floor. The fully finished basement provides even more versatile living space. Outside, enjoy a large backyard with room to relax or play, plus a double detached garage for parking and storage. This is the perfect blend of updates, space, and natural light—ready to move in and enjoy! More details

Listed by RE/MAX Landan Real Estate

LISTING DETAILS
- DIANE RICHARDSON
- CIR Realty
- 1 (403) 397 3706
- Diane@mypadCalgary.com

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Data was last updated January 17, 2026 at 10:05 PM (UTC)

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