Purchasing a Home in the Current Market

 The recent market slowdown has created unique opportunities for buyers. With improved conditions for negotiation, decreasing fixed mortgage rates, and the potential to leverage mortgage portability, now is an ideal time to consider
purchasing a home. Let’s explore the advantages of today’s market and how you can make the most of them.

 Purchasing a home in the current market

In September there was a lot of talk on the return of the real estate summer slowdown. I addressed the concern and panic among some sellers in my  newsletter, and how this shift is an integral part of the ever-evolving real estate landscape. This volume will focus on the advantages of being a purchaser in the current market.


Healthy Market Stability: While the market's pace may have slowed down, it’s important to recognize that this is a sign of a healthy and balanced market. Buyers now have the opportunity to conduct thorough due diligence before finalizing a property purchase. Conditions like financing, inspections, and sale of property are back in play, allowing buyers to make informed decisions.


Fixed Interest Rates: The topic of interest rates has recently experienced day-to-day fluctuations. With the Bank of Canada bond yields decreasing this week, we anticipate a continued reduction in fixed mortgage rates. It's important to note that bond yields and fixed mortgage rates have a direct connection. Meaning when bond yields lower, fixed interest rates decrease. Although lenders have begun to reduce their fixed rates, the decrease is not as significant as the fall in bond yields. Current rates for an insurable 5-year fixed are 5.75%. Lenders rates tend to take the elevator on the way up and the stairs on the way down. Overall this is excellent news for anyone with a mortgage renewal approaching in the near future.

 

Your Current Mortgage: This is a crucial topic that may determine whether now is the right time to make a move. Some mortgages are portable (check with your mortgage agent to confirm if yours is). If this is the case, you will be able to transfer the remaining balance of your mortgage to another property, while the amount above and beyond is calculated at today's rate. This might be a great time for you to make a move. Why? The majority of purchasers are qualifying their entire mortgage at today's rate. This means that your transferable mortgage enhances the overall affordability. You might be wondering, "What happens when I have to renew my mortgage?" Well, we can't predict the future, but based on reports from the Bank of Canada and major Canadian banks, both fixed and variable mortgage rates are expected to continue to decrease in the foreseeable future.


Strategies for Sellers: After considering the information above, you may be thinking this is a good opportunity. It's important to remember that homes are not selling as quickly as they once were. Now, more than ever, it's crucial to price your property correctly and market it effectively.


Correct Pricing: Analyzing recent sales and market trends to determine a competitive and realistic asking price for your property is crucial in this market. Pricing your home in line with market conditions can help attract more buyers, reduce the time to sell, and make the selling process less stressful.


Staging and Presentation: Having an agent who invests in home staging and presentation is important. A well-staged home can make a significant difference in attracting potential buyers, even in a slower market.


Effective Marketing: Ensure your property is well-marketed, both online and offline. High-quality photos, detailed listings, and targeted marketing strategies can make your home stand out and attract more showings.


Flexibility: Be open to negotiations and flexible with terms. Consider offers that may involve a slightly longer closing period or other concessions to make your property more appealing.

In conclusion, the shifts in the market have opened up many excellent opportunities for individuals and families looking to make a move. With the right strategies and guidance, both buyers and sellers can confidently navigate these changes and successfully transact in the Guelph real estate market.

Here at the Hudson Smith Real Estate Group, we are committed to providing you with the best advice and support for all your real estate needs. We understand the local market intricacies and tailor our services to your unique needs.


If you have any questions about Guelph and the surrounding market, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to assist you at every step of the journey.

Written by: Mathew Scott, Sales Representative

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

A Hauntingly Good Halloween in Guelph

By Hudson Smith • October 28, 2025
Halloween in Guelph is more than just costumes and candy — it’s that magical mix of community, creativity, and crisp autumn air that makes this city feel like home. Whether you’re searching for the perfect pumpkin, planning a cozy movie night, or looking for a fun local event, Guelph has something for every kind of ghoul and goblin. Pick the Perfect Pumpkin at Strom’s Farm A Guelph fall tradition! Strom’s Farm & Bakery offers everything from corn mazes and wagon rides to caramel apples and cider doughnuts (trust us — you’ll want seconds). Wander through rows of pumpkins to find your favourite and snap a few festive photos along the way. 📍 5089 Wellington Rd 32, Guelph, ON N1H 6J4 Fall Markets & Family Fun October weekends are filled with local markets and events, from the Aberfoyle Antique Market to smaller pop-ups throughout the city. Browse for vintage décor, locally made candles, and cozy knits — or enjoy a warm drink while supporting local makers. Nothing says “autumn” like spending a Saturday outdoors with something pumpkin-spiced in hand. Get Spooked (in a Fun Way!) at Bingemans Screampark Looking for thrills beyond the city limits? Just a short drive away, Bingemans Screampark in Kitchener delivers haunted houses, eerie mazes, and live actors ready to give you a fright you won’t forget. It’s a must-visit for anyone who loves a good scare — best enjoyed with friends and plenty of bravery. 📍425 Bingemans Centre Drive, Kitchener, ON N2B 3X7 Trick-or-Treat Hotspots Around Town From the charming porches of Exhibition Park to the family-friendly streets of Westminster Woods, Guelph’s neighbourhoods truly shine on Halloween night. Expect glowing jack-o’-lanterns, creative costumes, and friendly neighbours handing out treats. Cozy Up at Home If your perfect Halloween involves staying in, make your home the main attraction. Light a candle, pour a cup of cider, and stream a classic like Hocus Pocus or The Addams Family. Add a touch of “moody modern” décor — think black taper candles, amber glassware, and autumn florals — for a look that’s more sophisticated than spooky. Happy Halloween from the Hudson Smith Real Estate Group! Whether you’re out exploring pumpkin patches, trick-or-treating with the kids, or cozying up at home, we hope your Halloween is filled with laughter, community, and a little bit of magic. If you’re thinking about making a move before the year wraps up, our team is here to help you find a home that’s scary good. hudsonsmith.ca | 519-821-3600 | hudson@hudsonsmith.ca

The Hidden Value of Home Staging

By Hudson Smith • October 16, 2025
When it comes to selling your home, first impressions aren’t just important — they’re everything. In today’s market, buyers form opinions within seconds of walking through the door (or scrolling through photos online). That’s where home staging comes in — the subtle art of helping buyers see themselves living in your home. What Is Home Staging, Really? Home staging goes far beyond decorating. It’s about creating an emotional connection. A professional stager uses layout, lighting, colour, and accessories to highlight your home’s best features while minimizing distractions. Every detail — from the placement of a chair to the tone of a wall — is chosen with intention. At Hudson Smith Real Estate Group, we’ve seen time and time again how the right staging transforms a space. A well-staged home doesn’t just look beautiful; it photographs beautifully, feels inviting, and draws in buyers who are ready to act. The Impact on Buyer Perception Staging helps buyers picture themselves in the home — not your home, but their potential one. Neutral palettes, uncluttered surfaces, and strategic furniture placement make rooms feel larger, brighter, and more functional. According to industry studies, over 80% of buyers say that professionally staged homes make it easier to visualize the property as their future home. That emotional pull is what often leads to quicker offers and stronger sale prices. The Financial Payoff It’s natural to wonder if staging is worth the investment. The numbers say yes: Staged homes typically sell up to 73% faster than unstaged ones. They can sell for 6–10% more on average, easily covering the cost of staging. Even partial staging — such as main living areas and primary bedrooms — can dramatically improve online engagement and showings .Think of it like preparing your home for its debut performance: the better the presentation, the bigger the audience response. Online Appeal in a Digital World Most buyers start their search online, meaning your listing photos are the first showing. A staged home captures attention instantly — bright, balanced, and visually appealing. Combined with professional photography and video, staging ensures your home makes a lasting first impression — one that stops buyers mid-scroll and makes them want to see more. Our Approach at HSG We work closely with trusted stagers and stylists who understand how to enhance a home’s personality while keeping it universally appealing. Whether it’s a minimalist downtown condo or a sprawling family home, our goal is to highlight what makes each property shine. Of course, we’ll have our stager come to your home and make sure it’s picture-perfect — a complimentary service included when you list with our team. Every listing tells a story — staging helps make sure it’s the story buyers want to hear.
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