How COVID-19 Has Changed the Real Estate Industry
How COVID-19 Has Changed The Real Estate Industry
“COVID has changed the marketing of homes, the showing of homes, dealing with offers, and negotiating offers,” said Hudson Smith, head of a team of local realtors at the Hudson Smith Real Estate Group. “It has changed the landscape dramatically. I think some things were already starting to change and COVID amplified them. Some things are here to stay.”
One of the first areas Hudson’s noticed that’s been transformed by the realities of COVID-19 safety measures, has been the need for agents to up their game when it comes to marketing properties.
“I think sellers post COVID are going to demand, and rightfully so, better marketing for their home. For example, I can remember looking at multi-million dollar cottages in Muskoka and the material was so poor you couldn’t tell what was happening at the cottage. You’d drive there and be so disappointed. Now there’s video, interactive floor plans, drones flying over the property, and better mapping that shows location in relation to schools or amenities. It’s all about getting better information to the buyer. The seller deserves it, and it’s also a better way to qualify buyers prior to them visiting.”
Hudson said that the digital integration of marketing elements like drone footage was necessary given the social distancing measures implemented during the pandemic. This allowed the agents who quickly adopted such methods to stay competitive and connect with potential buyers who were already online searching using their laptops and mobile devices.
“People were not going out as freely, so there was an increased demand on better marketing materials,” said Smith.
“I think a lot of the elements created to deal with the situation were very useful. They help qualify the buyer prior to a site visit which will continue to be important after things like COVID are perhaps behind us.”
Another change embraced by the real estate industry has been the use of various digital and software platforms like BrokerBay, HouseSigma, Cloud CMA, and DocuSign, all of which help realtors and clients alike. These types of programs empower agents and the public by providing more historical sold information available almost immediately, offer more detailed evaluations which can be emailed to clients to view at their leisure – compatible with iPad’s for an extremely user-friendly experience, and help to future proof real estate brokerages.
More importantly, these technologies improve the customer experience for buyers and sellers.
“I like how interactive we’ve become,” said Smith. “The flow of information to all buyers and sellers has been greatly improved and was sorely needed. It’s improving how agents can serve their clients. Now we get information on agents registering with an offer on a home, faster. Through interactive systems, as soon as an offer is registered, all the information goes out to agents.”
Hudson says the entire process of showing a home has been improved, which prior to the recent changes could be a very invasive process with less knowledge of who was going through homes and when.
“Now we know when agents have opened lock boxes, and they are prompted to give information the moment they leave the house. This provides more information to the sellers to see how the process is going. Having more educated buyers and more educated sellers is a good thing. Agents are a very important part of this process and continue to add a lot of value.”
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.
Guelph is full of cozy cafés and vibrant coffee spots—but when the weather warms up, there's nothing better than taking your latte outdoors. Whether you’re setting up shop for a remote workday or meeting us to chat real estate, these local cafés offer the perfect mix of great coffee, welcoming atmosphere, and (yes!) patio seating. 1. Red Brick Café 📍 8 Douglas St Red Brick’s downtown patio is tucked just off the main street, making it a peaceful spot despite its central location. Grab a spot under the shade and enjoy a treat, the Red Brick Cafe offers specialty coffee, delicious food, craft beer and a warm atmosphere. 2. Planet Bean Coffee 📍 2 Wyndham St N, 740 York Rd, 333 Grange Rd Planet Bean is a Guelph classic—and each location has its own vibe. The downtown shop offers sidewalk seating right in the heart of the city, perfect for people-watching between emails. Meanwhile, the York and Grange locations both offer quieter patios surrounded by greenery. 3. Capistrano Bistro & Espresso Bar 📍 146 Wyndham St N Not only is the inside of Capistrano beautifully styled, but their patio is also one of the more elegant options in town. With umbrellas, bistro tables, and a quiet street feel, it's a great spot to enjoy your afternoon. 4. Balzac’s Coffee Roasters 📍 5 Gordon St, Guelph, ON A beautifully designed café right in the downtown. Balzac’s brings Toronto café vibes to Guelph. With high ceilings, big windows, and well-brewed classics, it has a charming outdoor seating area, perfect for enjoying your coffee al fresco during warmer months. The patio provides a pleasant setting for informal meetings or a peaceful work session amidst the downtown buzz. 5. Double Rainbow Café 📍 60 Ontario St, Guelph, ON Nestled in the heart of The Ward, Double Rainbow Café offers more than just exceptional coffee and tea. It's a space where art, community, and inclusivity converge. The café boasts a selection of specialty drinks, including lavender and cardamom lattes, alongside a variety of teas and baked goods. Coffee + Conversation = Our Kind of Combo Whether you're planning your next move or just looking for a cozy corner to get work done, these local cafés offer more than just caffeine—they’re community hubs, meeting places, and inspiring spaces to connect. Need a recommendation—or want to meet for a coffee and real estate chat? Reach out to the Hudson Smith Real Estate Group and let’s make it happen.
Rockwood, Ontario, is a hidden gem nestled in Wellington County, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty, community spirit, and convenient amenities. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or a vibrant community to call home, here are the top five reasons why Rockwood should be on your radar: 1. Natural Beauty at Rockwood Conservation Area At the heart of Rockwood lies the breathtaking Rockwood Conservation Area, renowned for its limestone cliffs, caves, and glacial potholes. This natural haven offers a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking, canoeing, and camping, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. 2. Active Lifestyle Opportunities For those seeking an active lifestyle, Rockwood doesn't disappoint. The town offers various recreational activities, including hiking trails, canoeing on the Eramosa River, and exploring the unique geological features of the area. The Rockmosa Older Adults Centre provides access to drop-in activities, social events, and fitness programs, ensuring residents have ample opportunities to stay active and engaged. 3. Vibrant Local Amenities and Events Despite its small-town charm, Rockwood offers a variety of amenities. The Rockmosa Community Centre is a hub for recreational activities, featuring sports fields, a splash pad, and a library. The town also hosts events like the Rockwood Farmers' Market, fostering community engagement and supporting local businesses. 4. Convenient Location Despite its small-town charm, Rockwood offers easy access to larger urban centers. It's situated less than 40 minutes from Milton and Mississauga, making it a convenient location for commuters. Additionally, the town features nice restaurants, quaint stores, and delicious bakeries, providing residents with local amenities and dining options. 5. Rich History and Culture Rockwood's history dates back to the early 19th century, with the Eramosa River playing a central role in its development. The town's historical sites, such as the ruins of the Harris & Co. Rockwood Woolen Mill, offer a glimpse into its industrial past. This rich heritage adds depth and character to the community. Rockwood combines natural beauty, a strong sense of community, convenient location, rich history, and active lifestyle opportunities, making it an attractive destination for individuals and families alike. If you're looking for a place that offers both tranquility and engagement, Rockwood might just be the perfect fit for you. If you're thinking about making a move, our team would love to help you discover all that Rockwood has to offer. From market insights to private showings, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s find your next home — in a place that truly feels like one.
