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338A MUSKRAT ST, BANFF, ALTA.

ASKING PRICE $1,295,000

SELLING PRICE $1,250,000

TAXES $4,783 (2015)

DAYS ON THE MARKET 893

LISTING AGENTS Christopher Vincent, Christian Dubois and Laura Wright, Sotheby's International Realty Canada

The Action: A clause requiring buyers in Banff to reside or work in Canada's first national park was a major hurdle in selling this semi-detached home on a 50-by-139-foot lot near town shops, restaurants and entrainment.

Initially listed at $1.495-million in 2012, several written and verbal offers passed through the seller's hands. The most recent price drop to $1,295,000 eventually brought about a $1.25-million deal.

What They Got: In 2012, a builder created an executive duplex with units on top of one another, both with timber columns and beams, private elevator and double garage accessible from a basement with bonus rooms.

This lower-level unit encompasses 2,500 square feet on the main floor with 10-foot ceilings and stone fireplaces in the great room and master. Front balconies or rear patios are situated off each room, but the smallest of three bedrooms.

Wet stations include four bathrooms, a laundry room and European-inspired kitchen with a custom island.

The Agent's Take: "It's definitely on a more desirable street and it's also only two blocks from Banff Avenue, so it's central and it's still quite quiet," says agent Christopher Vincent.

"It's really an amazing home … and it's on the highest point on the road so you get really phenomenal views."

This home's size and design also filled a void between custom, detached homes averaging around $1-million and rare townhouse developments.

"It had a fire suppression system, a 50-year-old roof, private elevator and Miele appliances, so it was really pushing what Banff had ever seen before, especially in a spec home," Mr. Vincent explains.

"It's designed for someone getting older and looking for single-level living and the ability to stay in Banff. There's no real option in terms of senior housing in Banff."

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