Downsizing This Summer? Here’s What to Look for in a Community-Oriented Neighbourhood
If you’ve been thinking about downsizing, summer is the perfect season to make a move. The warm weather makes exploring new neighbourhoods easier, real estate activity is high, and it’s the ideal time to settle into a new home and community before the fall.
But downsizing isn’t just about square footage, it’s about lifestyle. Choosing the right neighbourhood can make all the difference in how you enjoy this next chapter. Whether you’re retiring, becoming an empty nester, or just looking to simplify, here’s what to look for in a community-oriented neighbourhood and some of Guelph’s best spots to find it.
1. Walkability & Access to Nature
Having parks, trails, and green space nearby isn’t just nice it’s essential to your quality of life. Look for neighbourhoods where you can step outside and enjoy morning walks, bike rides, or evening strolls with ease.
Top Picks:
- Westminster Woods: Known for its protected forest trails and peaceful, tree-lined streets, this South Guelph gem is perfect for quiet walks and spotting local wildlife.
- The Ward: Guelph’s most eclectic neighbourhood offers access to the Eramosa River trails and a growing number of bike paths and green pockets.
2. Community Gardens & Social Spaces
Downsizing doesn’t mean disconnecting. Community-oriented neighbourhoods often have shared gardens, clubhouses, or nearby gathering spaces where you can meet neighbours, attend events, or simply chat over coffee.
Top Picks:
- The Village by the Arboretum: Guelph’s premier adult lifestyle community offers unmatched social infrastructure. From a community centre and organized clubs to community gardens and tennis courts.
- South End Condos: These buildings often include party rooms, shared terraces, and fitness facilities , perfect for casual connections without leaving home.
3. Low-Maintenance Living
The best neighbourhoods for downsizers offer homes that work for you — not the other way around. Look for townhomes, condos, or bungalow-style units with condo-managed exterior maintenance, snow removal, and more.
Top Picks:
- Westminster Woods Bungalows: Tucked away on quiet crescents with condo-style management. These homes offer one-floor living and minimal upkeep.
- South End Condos: Buildings along Goodwin Dr., Gosling Gardens, and Clair Rd. offer modern layouts and worry-free living with proximity to shopping and healthcare.
- The Village by the Arboretum: Lawn care, snow removal, and home maintenance are looked after, so you can focus on enjoying life.
- 19 Simmonds Drive (Privada Complex): A boutique-style condo community in Guelph’s north end where bungalows back onto lush greenspace and the condo corporation takes care of snow, garbage, and landscaping for true lock-and-leave convenience.
4. Convenience & Amenities Nearby
One of the biggest perks of downsizing is simplifying your lifestyle. That means having what you need from groceries, medical care, cafés, and transit all within a short walk or drive.
Top Picks:
- South Guelph: From Stone Road Mall to local pharmacies and medical clinics, everything is right at your fingertips.
- The Ward: Home to Lost Aviator Coffee, Spring Mill Distillery, and the Guelph Little Theatre, this neighbourhood blends local charm with urban access.
Ready to Right-Size?
If this is the summer you’re thinking about making a move, our team can help you find the perfect home, and community to match your next chapter.
📞 Call us at 519-821-3600
📧 Email: hudson@hudsonsmith.ca
Let’s find the lifestyle that fits you!

There’s something special about Guelph in December. The lights feel a little brighter, the downtown feels a little cozier, and the whole city comes alive with traditions that bring our community together. To help you make the most of the season, we’ve put together a simple guide to some of our favourite local holiday events — the ones that make living in Guelph feel like home. Spirit of the Season December 5–7 & December 12–14 — Downtown Guelph Downtown transforms into a festive hub filled with twinkling lights, artisan vendors, live entertainment, and warm holiday energy. It’s the perfect place to support local businesses, enjoy a hot drink, and soak in the magic with friends or family. If you’re looking for that “start of the holidays” feeling, this is it. Sparkles in the Park December 13–31 — Riverside Park Every evening, Riverside Park lights up with spectacular displays — glowing tunnels, festive scenes, and whimsical designs that bring out everyone’s inner child. And this year, keep an eye out for The Hudson Smith Group lighting display among the magic — we’re proud to support this beautiful community tradition with the Guelph Rotary Club. Even better? The carousel rides are free, and there’s a fireworks show on New Year’s Eve. Santa Run & Santa Claus Parade Saturday, December 6 - Santa Run 4:55 PM & Parade 5:30 PM One of Guelph’s most beloved traditions. The evening starts with the Santa Run — a quick, fun, festive dash — followed by the parade winding through downtown with music, lights, and holiday cheer. It’s a great way to kick off December with the whole family. Old Quebec Street Christmas Market Dates vary through December A cozy, European-style indoor market right in the heart of the city. Expect local makers, handmade gifts, warm drinks, and the perfect place to finish (or start!) your holiday shopping while supporting local vendors. Market Square Skating All winter long — weather permitting Nothing feels more festive than skating under the lights in front of City Hall. Bring a friend, grab a hot chocolate afterward, and enjoy one of Guelph’s simplest — and most nostalgic — winter traditions. Giving Back This Season If you’re looking to make a difference this year, consider supporting one of Guelph’s incredible community organizations, including: The Guelph Food Bank Royal City Mission Hope House Toys for Tots / local toy drives Rotary initiatives A little kindness goes a long way during the holidays. From Our Team to Yours The holidays are a time to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the people who make our community special. Whether we’ve worked together this year or you’ve simply followed along with our journey — thank you. Your trust and support mean the world. Wishing you a warm, joyful, magical holiday season from all of us at the Hudson Smith Group.

Have you ever wished you could have more space — without sacrificing connection? Across Guelph, more families are embracing two-family or multi-generational living as the perfect blend of connection, independence, and financial practicality. Whether supporting aging parents, welcoming adult children home, or creating separate living quarters for long-term stability, buyers want homes that can comfortably and naturally support two households. But as demand grows, suitable properties have become almost impossible to find—especially in walkable, highly established neighbourhoods like Old University. That’s what makes 36 Harcourt Drive such an extraordinary opportunity: a true two-family home that offers space, flexibility, privacy, and location without compromise.

When the snow starts to fall, it has a way of transforming everything — streets, parks, and even front yards take on a quiet, magical charm. But for sellers, winter can also mean extra effort to make sure that charm extends to your home. Curb appeal doesn’t hibernate when the temperature drops — in fact, it matters even more. Here’s how to make your home shine this season and capture that “warm welcome” feeling buyers love, even on the coldest day. Light the Way Winter days are short, which means lighting plays a starring role. Swap out dim porch bulbs for bright, warm-toned LEDs and consider adding soft string lights or lanterns along your walkway. A well-lit entryway not only looks beautiful in twilight photos — it instantly feels inviting. Add a Pop of Colour When the landscape is all whites and greys, a bold front door makes a statement. Deep navy, forest green, or classic red can instantly lift a neutral exterior. If you’re not ready to repaint, a colourful winter wreath or fresh greenery can achieve the same welcoming effect. Dress Up with Winter Greenery Who says planters are only for summer? Evergreen boughs, birch branches, and pinecones arranged in large planters add life and texture to your front entry. They photograph beautifully and bring natural warmth to even the snowiest setting. Keep It Clean and Clear Shovel paths, sprinkle salt, and make sure steps are safe and tidy. It’s one of the simplest ways to show care — and it makes a lasting first impression for both buyers and photographers. Bonus: a clean driveway and entryway make your listing photos feel crisp and polished. Set the Scene for “Cozy” Winter buyers are looking for warmth — literally and emotionally. A soft glow from the windows, a hint of smoke from a chimney, or a front door framed by lanterns all help tell that story. These small touches help buyers imagine themselves stepping into comfort after a snowy day. Thinking of Selling This Winter? A fresh layer of snow doesn’t mean you have to wait until spring. With the right presentation, your home can look more inviting than ever. Selling in winter? We’ll make sure your home stands out — even when everything’s covered in snow. hudson@hudsonsmith.ca | 519-821-3600 | hudson@hudsonsmith.ca



