Guelph real Estate: Why Working With the Right Realtor is More Important Than Ever
Please find Hudson's article below as featured on Guelph Today!
Local realtor, Hudson Smith explains why representation matters, especially in a hot seller’s market
You’re about to list your house for sale in Guelph’s hot real estate market. The question you’re pondering is, “Why do I need to use a realtor in Guelph when I know my house is going to sell?’
You wouldn’t be the first person who felt they didn’t have to use the services of a professional realtor to list their home in a seller’s market. However, if your goal is to maximize the sale price of your property, working with the right realtor is still your best strategy.
“Working with the right realtor could be more important than ever because the needle can be moved that much more,” said Hudson Smith of the Hudson Smith Real Estate Group. “Think about a tough market. You need the right realtor because the goal is just to sell. That’s going to happen anyway. In a strong market, the question is who can create the best selling atmosphere so the price gets pushed to its highest point. That way, a seller has no doubt they’ve reached their highest point of value in a way that brings the least amount of stress to their life.”
Despite the uncertainty that COVID-19 has brought to almost every industry, the real estate market in Guelph has remained hot. There are multiple reasons for that according to Smith.
“I think we’ve always had a great location, but for years it seemed like we flew under the radar,” he said. “Then in 2016 and 2017, it seemed like the secret was out. Not only were we an affordable option for buyers looking west of Milton, but people started to realize it’s also a wonderful place to live. It’s a university town, it’s a great distance to cottage country, to the U.S., and to the GTA. Guelph has the right feel and the right location. Once the secret was out it had a compounding effect.”
Visit the Hudson Smith blog for current insights on Guelph real estate
One of the primary effects has been an influx of buyers from the GTA, which has helped to drive the market and escalate sale prices. Smith says those conditions make it critical for sellers to work with the right realtor.
So how do you determine who the right realtor is given the highly competitive nature of the real estate sales industry?
“It’s a delicate balance,” said Smith. “You want someone that’s busy but not spread thin. You want someone that has name recognition, you see them around, but it’s not just based on perception. Referrals are an excellent place to start. Who can you talk to that can give you honest feedback about their working experience with that realtor? Not just, ‘hey it went well, we think we got good results.’ If you’re hearing glowing reviews of a realtor and the value they brought to the process, you’ll be able to identify that when you’re talking to people who have used them.”
Given the new realities of life in a pandemic, using a professional realtor is also a way to ensure the necessary precautions are being taken to ensure the safety of buyers and sellers according to Smith.
“An extra requirement to expect from your realtor is to make sure they’re making a conscious effort to stay safe. That means making sure sellers have a safe atmosphere when they come home, and that buyers have a safe atmosphere when they come in. Whether the market’s good or bad, the person that you choose to represent you in the sale of what might be the most expensive thing you own, has to bring value.”
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
