My Journey in Real Estate and What I've Learned
My journey
'When I started in real estate it was hard to know what to expect. When I walked into the office on day one, agents were buzzing all over, phones were ringing, faxes were coming in and of course houses were being sold. No phone calls were for Hudson Smith, no faxes had my name on them, and no houses that first day were sold by me.'

The real estate atmosphere can overwhelm agents very easily. It’s easy to feel like this business belongs to others and that it will be very hard to be a part of it.
Although there are no expectations for agents in the early stages, most agents start to feel like, “everyone already knows an agent”, “what was I thinking”, my “friends have already bought homes”, “my family isn’t moving”, Boy, the way our minds race when we are trying to get started! But what most agents don’t realize, or what gets lost when trying to step foot into this fast moving business is that it’s not a sprint, rather, it is a marathon.

What I've learned

You need a plan, and you need to know how you are going to stand out.

How do you become relevant in an industry that doesn’t know who you are?


You need to have a plan, but at the root of it, you need to break the job into simple tasks, and execute them better than anyone else. One foot in front of the other. If someone calls, call them back right away. Meeting someone? Make sure you are on time. Showing a house? Learn as much about the house and the neighbourhood sales as you can. Selling a house? Make sure the pictures are great, and the sign is up when you say it will be. Make sure feature sheets are there before the first showing, make sure……. hey, there’s a lot to do for this one, but that’s not my point. At the end of the day you need to add value, or why would you stand out? Why would clients come back?


I pride myself on always doing more.

I pride myself on knowing as much as I possibly can, and I pride myself on adding more than the client expects.


From the day the call comes in to years after the transaction is complete, I want my clients to know my commitment to their needs. Whether clients buy or sell, that’s not important to me. The relationship and trust between us is what I value most. I came into this business with a plan. I wanted people to know I was in real estate. I wanted people to know I was going to work hard for them. And I wanted them to know I would not let them down. Over the years I have added experience and a skill set that continues to help me help my clients more.


I continue to learn more and work hard so I can add the value I know they need, and what makes me relevant.

Technology has helped, but it’s also made it easy to get spread too thin. It’s made it easy to forget the small things. The things that will make you stand out the most. A handshake will be remembered more than a text anyway.


No, I didn’t sell a house my first day in the office.

I sold one my second day.


Hudson

hudson@hudsonsmith.ca

519-821-3600

Your Guide to the Holiday Season in Guelph

By Hudson Smith • December 3, 2025
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.

A Rare Dual-Residence Bungalow in Guelph’s Old University Neighbourhood

November 14, 2025
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.

Winter Curb Appeal: How to Make Your Home Stand Out in the Snow

By Hudson Smith • November 12, 2025
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
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