Real Estate in Guelph -It's the same place we came from

Despite market uncertainties, real estate remains a resilient investment due to the ever-present demand for housing. Rising interest rates and shifting prices may dominate headlines, but the fundamentals of supply and demand continue to drive opportunities. This blog explores why the current market still holds promise for buyers and sellers alike.



Real Estate in Guelph

I am not going to pretend I know what is going to happen, but with so many people asking me, it’s only fair I try. I mean, I have my opinions, and I will continue to make my personal decisions when it comes to real estate and investing based on them – and when my clients ask, I will share how I feel.

So, how do I feel about the real estate market? 

Well, actually pretty good.

And how did I feel last month? 

Well, pretty good.

What about a month from now? 

Yes, pretty darn good.

How can you feel good about something that so many are feeling bad about?

Well, I am not quite sure that the owning of real estate, or the homes people want, or the investments they hope to make have people feeling bad; I imagine it is more about the new interest rates.

Let’s look at the investment of real estate first. Whether you are renting it out or living in it, it is a choice of what to do with your money. For the people that are living in it, it’s great to know that it is an investment, because you have to spend money on housing regardless.

When we look at any investment we always ask ourselves, “Does this make sense?” The simplest way I can look at real estate and answer that question is to say, I have a product and the people that want and need this product are growing, and the availability of this product does not seem to be doing the same.

Describing it this way helps make the most sense to me. I guess I could say the same thing about Coca Cola, but there is Pepsi, Sprite, water, beer, and this Prime drink that my kids won’t stop talking about (don’t get me started). So real estate as an investment makes sense, as there is no alternative to housing.

What about everything I am reading about prices going down?


Well, real estate prices are going down now, since the rates people use to afford them have gone up. When the rates go down, you know the prices will start to climb again.


The market is very healthy – I have been saying this for months.


The reason we’ve noticed some homes not selling is due to the sellers adjusting their price expectations downwards slower than the buyers are. The sellers are still willing to accept the price of a spring ago, but the buyers are the ones calculating the interest rate. When rates go up that quickly, it’s hard for sellers to accept things fast enough, so buyers wait, and one by one new sales prices give data to sellers that say “You see, these are the new prices,” and a reluctant decision takes place by way of a price adjustment and then another sale happens.


In the spring market of 2022 prices rose but when interest rates started to climb prices fell. Although real estate goals still existed, and people still wanted to invest, the falling prices is what grabbed the headlines, so that healthy underbelly lies just below the surface.


Now here we are, in the early part of the year and what can sometimes be the barometer of how our real estate market will perform.


How is it going?


Well, the supply and demand levels have once again tipped in a slight favour of the seller, but buyers armed with a different interest rate are taking a more calculated approach instead of having a fear of missing out.


To conclude, a properly priced home will sell, an underpriced one will sell for over asking, and an overpriced home won’t sell at all. You see, nothing to see here, just a regular old spring market in Guelph.


Thanks for reading, and I thought this quote would be fitting.


“When the market is greedy, I get scared. When the market is scared, I get greedy.” 


-Warren Buffet

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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