How Do You Choose a Realtor?
How do you choose a realtor?
Well, maybe that’s not the case if you’re lucky and already have a Realtor that you’ve established a great relationship with and trust. Yes, trust. Remember that. We will come back to that very important word.
Walking into vote a short while ago I got thinking about perception.
Both front runners in this election (in fact, most of the faces of the other parties) sound like they have good ideas on ways to continue to build Canada and improve the lives of its citizens. So if they all have mostly good ideas, and their advertising and commercials all paint powerful messages, it would be fair to say that the public’s perception of them is the tool they use to get a fair portion of their votes.
Most decisions in life are made this way –
from what you decide to eat to where you decide to shop, and from what you watch on TV to who will help you to sell your house.
Advertising sends a specific message to us and creates a specific perception of how we view a product or person. Though essentially just coffee houses, there’s a big difference in what comes to mind when you see a Tim Horton’s ad versus a Starbucks ad.
If advertising is just pushing perception without offering anything concrete to back up reputation, how can you be sure of any of your choices?
How do you get the person that will really help you reach your goals? In my case, how do you choose your Realtor?
Good question. Now we are getting somewhere!
Do you look for experience? Can too much make them hard headed and do they still work as hard as when they first started? Do you want someone who is hungry and enthusiastic, great out of the gate? Maybe they’d lack experience and miss something? How about marketing? Many Realtors have become very tech-savvy and are great at creating an online audience, but does the screen time not match up to the people skills when face to face is needed? Or what about your “people” people; some people are just great with face to face meetings, but do they lack the know-how needed to engage an important online audience?
Posing all of these questions might not be making it any easier on you. You may quickly run back to making those perception based decisions again.
Like any profession, there are just people that are naturally good at what they do, but most of all, they are good at what they do because people trust them. People trust them because they have earned it. Of all the good experiences I have had in this business, none have filled me with more satisfaction than that one line – We trust you, Hudson.
I didn’t start with experience, I had no marketing budget to even create any sort of perception, and to be real here, my kids are teaching me how to use Instagram. But when I walk into a room my first goal will always be to build trust. Without that as a fundamental starting block, all you have to go on is perception anyways.
Guelph has long been known as one of Ontario’s most welcoming and community-driven cities, and it’s no surprise that families continue to choose it as home. With excellent schools, plenty of green space, safe streets, and a strong sense of community, Guelph offers a wide variety of neighbourhoods suited to families at every stage of life. If you’re thinking of making a move in 2025, here are some of the best family-friendly neighbourhoods in Guelph to explore. 1. Westminster Woods & Clairfields South Guelph’s Westminster Woods and Clairfields areas are consistently top picks for families. With extensive trails, nearby parks, and highly regarded schools like Westminster Woods Public School, it’s a safe, vibrant community where kids can walk or bike to friends’ houses. Plus, you’re close to shopping at Clairfields Commons and have quick access to Highway 401 for commuters. 2. Kortright Hills Nestled in Guelph’s south end, Kortright Hills is loved for its quiet, winding streets, mature trees, and larger lot sizes that give families room to spread out. The neighbourhood backs onto plenty of green space and trails, making it easy to enjoy nature right outside your door. With Kortright Hills Public School at its heart, it’s a true family-oriented community where kids can walk to school and neighbours know each other by name. 3. Exhibition Park For those who love character homes and community charm, Exhibition Park is a gem. Centered around its namesake park — complete with tennis courts, splash pad, playgrounds, and green space — this neighbourhood combines history with walkable access to downtown. Families love the sense of community and the chance to be steps away from Guelph’s best festivals, markets, and schools. 4. Kortright East & Kortright West South of the city’s core, Kortright East and West are two of Guelph’s most popular family neighbourhoods. Kortright East is known for its larger executive homes on mature lots, while Kortright West offers a wider mix of housing styles, from established properties to newer builds. Both neighbourhoods give families easy access to schools, shopping at Stone Road Mall, the University of Guelph, and plenty of trails and green space. 5. East End One of Guelph’s fastest-growing areas, the East End is an excellent option for families seeking more affordable housing without sacrificing amenities. With schools, parks, and community centers built into the neighbourhood design, it’s a hub for young families. Ongoing development also means new amenities are constantly being added, making it a great place to plant roots for the future. Why Families Love Guelph No matter where you choose, Guelph offers families: Top-rated Public and Catholic schools An active sports and recreation culture Abundant parks, trails, and green spaces Safe neighbourhoods with strong community pride Quick connections to the 401, Kitchener-Waterloo, and the GTA Thinking About a Move in 2025? At the Hudson Smith Group, we know that the right neighbourhood is just as important as the right home. Whether you’re looking for quiet streets, walkability, or the best schools, our team can help you find a community that fits your family’s lifestyle. 📩 Reach out today to start your search in Guelph’s most family-friendly neighbourhoods.
Fall in Guelph is something special. The air turns crisp, the leaves explode in colour, and there’s a little extra magic in everyday routines. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun or quiet moments to soak in the season, here are eight cozy fall activities to enjoy around Guelph and beyond. 1. Pick the Perfect Pumpkin Head out to Strom’s Farm & Bakery or nearby patches to find that perfect pumpkin. From corn mazes to wagon rides, pumpkin patches are the ultimate fall day out. 2. Wander Through the Farmers’ Market The Guelph Farmers’ Market is brimming with autumn’s best: apples, squash, pies, and preserves. It’s a foodie’s dream and a great way to support local growers. 3. Sip & Stay a While at a Café Fall and lattes go hand in hand. Curl up at Found Coffee, Balzac’s, or Red Brick Café and try a seasonal drink — from pumpkin spice to chai — while enjoying the cozy atmosphere. 4. Hike Among the Fall Colours Guelph’s trails shine this time of year. Explore Preservation Park, the Arboretum, or Royal Recreation Trail to enjoy a canopy of brilliant fall leaves. 5. Take a Scenic Drive If you’re up for a mini road trip, cruise through Wellington County backroads or head toward Elora and Fergus for breathtaking fall scenery. Pack a thermos of cider and make it a day. 6. Visit a Local Winery or Brewery Savour the season with a glass of something local. Wineries and craft breweries around Guelph often release small-batch fall flavours that pair perfectly with cozy evenings. 7. Get Lost in a Corn Maze Challenge yourself to one of the region’s corn mazes (like Strom’s). It’s a fun, interactive way to spend a crisp afternoon — and kids love it too. 8. Have a Cozy Night In Don’t underestimate the simple joy of fall at home. Light a candle, bake something sweet, and curl up under a blanket. Sometimes the coziest activity is staying put. Fall in Full Swing With so many ways to embrace the season, fall in Guelph is all about making memories. From outdoor adventures to simple comforts at home, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Thinking of a new home to cozy up in this fall? Our team at the Hudson Smith Group is here to help you find the perfect place. Get in touch with us today to start your next move.
As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, fall is more than pumpkin spice and cozy sweaters—it’s also the ideal time to prep your home for the colder months ahead. A little effort now can save you money, stress, and even unexpected repair bills once winter rolls in. Here’s your go-to fall checklist to make sure your home is ready for whatever the season brings. 1. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts Falling leaves and debris can quickly clog gutters, leading to ice dams and water damage once temperatures drop. Clear them out, run some water through the downspouts, and make sure everything drains away from your foundation. 2. Check Your Roof Before the snow piles up, take a look (from the ground or with binoculars) for missing shingles, loose flashing, or signs of wear. Catching small issues now can prevent costly leaks later. 3. Seal Windows and Doors Drafts are sneaky energy thieves. Walk through your home with your hand near the frames of windows and doors—if you feel cold air, it’s time for caulking, weatherstripping, or even replacing old seals. 4. Service Your Furnace (and Change the Filter!) Book a fall furnace tune-up to keep it running efficiently all winter long. While you’re at it, swap out the air filter to keep your system (and indoor air) clean. 5. Winterize Outdoor Water Lines Drain and shut off outdoor taps, hoses, and sprinkler systems to avoid frozen pipes. If you’ve got a pool, now’s the time for proper closing too. 6. Inspect Your Fireplace & Chimney If you’re lucky enough to enjoy a cozy fire, have your chimney inspected and cleaned. It prevents fire hazards and keeps your home smelling like cedarwood instead of smoke. 7. Protect Outdoor Furniture & BBQs Cover or store patio sets and BBQs to extend their lifespan. Bonus: less snow shoveling around clutter in the yard. 8. Stock Up on Winter Essentials Don’t wait until the first storm to find out your snow shovel is broken or your ice melt is sold out. A little prep now goes a long way. 📝 Final Tip Think of fall maintenance as your home’s annual check-up. It’s not glamorous, but it’s the best way to ensure your home stays warm, safe, and efficient all winter long—leaving you more time to enjoy the cozy parts of the season.
