The Handshake

It’s funny, the things you miss…

A handshake. It means different things to different people, and it has always been important to me. This new working climate has taken away many things, but that part I miss the most.
I still almost extend my hand each time I meet a new client, work with a past one, run into a friend or even pop by my dads’ yard to catch up. It’s a symbol for me of trust and one I learned very early.

I remember working many summers with my father in Toronto. It was a unique business; managing parking lots and property management downtown. Although real estate related, the business was different than what I do today, but the strengths of what made my father successful transferred well to my career many years later…establishing relationships, building a reputation for working hard and most importantly, not letting down the people who trust you.

I didn’t appreciate the real success my dad had until years later, but it wasn’t anything related to money, it was how he treated everyone he worked with and how they treated him back.
I remember so vividly he and I driving from location to location, me probably complaining about working on Saturday, and him jumping out of the truck with such enthusiasm each time we pulled up to meet someone. He might have had a joke, or a “Hey, how are ya”, or maybe it was just getting straight down to the work at hand, but a handshake always came first. It didn’t matter whether he worked for you, worked with you, or you worked for him. When he met you, the first thing he always did was extend his hand.

The handshake. Person after person.

As years followed, I was the one driving and meeting people just like he did, and I always made sure the shake came first.


I knew it was important, but early on I probably didn’t know why. It may have become just a habit. But I did notice the word trust was said a lot. When people were referring to my dad, it came up time and time again. People seemed to put a lot into the handshake and it was my dad’s way of saying they could count on him. Sure, there might have been bigger companies than his, but I soon realized that the people he worked with didn’t care about that.


I started to realize what made him different, and what people wanted most. It was someone they could depend on.

When I began my real estate career nothing changed. The work with my dad all those years left me with many things that made working in this industry almost seamless. Helping many different people, a competitive landscape, and of course building relationships. (The commutes a lot better too, lol.)


It’s funny, as my kids started to get bigger (prior to the pandemic of course), I even started to pick up on them shaking hands. I would introduce them to someone and a “Nice to meet you” would come out at the same time. It was hard not to smile. Look, you may shake hands with someone for different reasons, but one will not argue that there is a feeling that usually goes with it. My dad taught most things in life by his actions, and shaking someone’s hand was his way. Everyone trusted him, and he did everything he could to not let them down.


I know its that first step for me in building any relationship.

The pandemic has changed how business is done in many ways. Zoom meetings, Docusign, and remote working where possible. The personal touch has been removed from a business that really relies on it. Some things may be changed forever, but of all the things I look forward to when this pandemic is over, you can be sure if you are meeting me, we are shaking hands first. 

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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