Updated for 2026: This guide has been refreshed to reflect current planning considerations, local amenities, and practical factors when building a custom home in Olds, Alberta.
Olds is a welcoming town in central Alberta that blends small-town charm with convenient access to larger centres. Located about 90 kilometres north of Calgary, it offers a quieter pace of life without feeling isolated.
Surrounded by rolling farmland and open skies, Olds appeals to homeowners who value community, space, and long-term livability. If you are considering building a custom home here, there are a few location-specific things worth understanding before you start planning.
Things to Know Before Building a Custom Home in Olds, Alberta
Anyone researching the process knows there are many things to consider before building a custom home. Below are five factors that are especially relevant when building in and around Olds.
1) You can choose town living or acreage property
Olds offers flexibility that many homeowners appreciate. You can build within town limits and enjoy close proximity to local businesses, schools, and services, or you can choose a property outside town for more space and privacy.
The town is large enough to provide essential amenities while maintaining a friendly, close-knit atmosphere. For those drawn to acreage living, nearby rural properties offer opportunities for larger lots, open views, and a quieter lifestyle.
If you plan to build outside town limits, it is important to confirm utility availability and connection costs early, as services such as water and internet can vary by location.
2) Olds has its own fibre-optic network
Olds is known across Canada for being the first community to build and operate its own municipal fibre-optic network, O-Net. This provides residents and businesses with high-speed internet that rivals what is available in major cities.
The town also operates its own power corporation, Mountain View Power, supplying electricity and natural gas while supporting local infrastructure. Municipal services such as water, waste collection, snow removal, and recycling are handled locally as well.
3) There is a wide range of recreation and activities
Despite its modest size, Olds offers an impressive range of recreational facilities and outdoor spaces. Residents have access to swimming pools, splash parks, skating rinks, sports fields, parks, pathways, and campgrounds.
The community also supports a vibrant arts and culture scene, with galleries, public art installations, performances, and seasonal events throughout the year. These amenities contribute to a well-rounded lifestyle for residents of all ages.
4) Family and community support is built in
Olds places a strong emphasis on community well-being. Family and Community Support Services provide programs focused on mental health, family support, seniors, youth, and community connection.
These services include education programs, counseling support, group activities, and outreach initiatives designed to help residents thrive. While not everyone needs them, having these resources available adds to the town’s overall sense of security and care.
5) Climate should influence your home design
Designing a custom home in Olds requires thoughtful planning around Alberta’s climate. Hot summers, cold winters, chinook winds, and occasional severe storms all influence material choices and construction methods.
Energy-efficient designs, quality insulation, durable roofing, and well-planned layouts help ensure comfort year-round while managing energy costs. Planning for snow loads, wind exposure, and temperature swings early can prevent issues down the road.
Still deciding where to build? You can explore other Central Alberta communities to see how Olds compares.
Custom Home Building in Olds, Alberta
Building a custom home is an exciting milestone, but it also requires experience and careful coordination. Working with a builder who understands both small-town development and rural considerations helps ensure a smoother process from design to completion.
We have experience building throughout central Alberta, including Olds and nearby communities within Mountain View County. Whether you are planning a home in town or on a rural property, we focus on designs that reflect how you live and are built to last. Every home we build is backed by our New Home Warranties.
If you are considering building a custom home in Olds or comparing nearby options such as Sundre or Carstairs, reach out today to start planning your next home.
