I have a database of a couple thousand secondary market townhomes in Edmonton going back to October 2014. Yes, we are seeing flat/downward pressure. Mostly what I am seeing is that the shabbier looking units are sitting for 8+ weeks and landlords are dropping rents and offering big incentives. The historical average I have seen for south Edmonton 2 bedroom townhouses is $1,572 + utilities with the weekly average dropping down to a low of $1,375 (this is really narrowing down my database to about 4 - 6 observations per week).
You will be below this average in Rutherford as you only have 1.5 bath (big negative...now not very good for a family) and only a single garage (newer area, lots of double garages available). It is a little older product, and most of the new product now comes almost standard with SS and granite countertops...worth a premium of a minimum $100 - $125 / month.
At the first glance, I think you are right on market.
I agree with above that it's the long weekend / extended holiday week so don't read anything the current lack of calls.
If you are confident with the quality of the place and your ability to select good renters, you may consider dropping the DD. Professional companies do this all the time so that they can increase the monthly rent. Ultimately, renters are looking at the total price tag it costs for them to get into the property...If you are looking at $1450 x 2 = $2,900 that is going to price you out of some people's budget. This is an advanced strategy and I would not recommend it for everyone! You have to have ability to collect from renters in case they do damage your property and understand the legal process to do so.
The 3 bedroom in MW for $1,550 is good. 4 week moving average is $1,501 and 12 week moving average is $1,473. So above market rents by my estimation. Probably a well managed (and advertised) property.
Yes, much higher rents are achievable in this market. I rented a basement suite for $1,500 two weeks ago (including utilities) and a main floor + double detached garage (including utilities) for $1,940. But it is super relative to the neighborhood and the condition of the property.