Why Is the Real Estate Market So Busy?

Why is the real estate marketing so busy?

Think about it, if I locked you in a room with the same food for a month, what is the first thing you would do when you got out?
Eat the same thing? Of course not; you would want something totally different – or at least hot sauce? As I struggle through a bad metaphor, I think you get it. Through COVID-19, people were forced to isolate themselves as much as they could where they lived, and aside from anyone affected economically, people decided to make some changes!

I made a Facebook post awhile ago when I was isolating my own family, mentioning that if you hadn’t booked a pool company yet, you’d better, because people who had this goal and procrastinated would be doing it.

Guess what, I was bang on.
I have no crystal ball, but as any family would through COVID, we identified everything we would like to change about our home. We even crunched numbers on buying something else even though we love where we are. Maybe a farm to spread out more, or renovate a farmhouse with a cool addition, build new on a piece of land… give ourselves more room outside.

I have always loved the investment side of real estate and wrote more than enough articles about the value of your principal investment and the great tax advantage that comes by making money through it.

But this time of self-isolation was compounded. We were home everyday, all day. Don’t get me wrong, we also appreciated the things we had during our “lockdown”. We have great neighbours who we talked to from a distance (and spent a good deal of time getting the kids to buy into the distancing thing). We appreciated that we had a pool, and have used it more than ever before.


There is a shift going on, and as life gets to this new normal, real estate is a big part of it

Renters are becoming owners, condo owners may be looking for something with a backyard, and some people with backyards are putting pools in them or moving to houses with pools or with enough space to put a pool in. People without elbow room want more. I see it the other way, too.


As much as I thought I had it all right with people wanting to change aspects of their homes through this, I thought cottages and vacation properties would be tougher sells. I couldn’t have been more wrong!

Traveling abroad may not even be on a person’s radar right now, but driving to one of Ontario’s amazing beaches, campgrounds or even to Northern Ontario might now top the list. I am a sucker for the rock, tree, and water combo myself. Some people are starting to save for, or beginning to buy places they can drive to, and enjoying all the toys that go with it! 


My family and I were fortunate enough to purchas our own little cozy cottage paradise last year, and it sure has been a nice option and change of scenery for us, especially with the lack of kid’s activities going on right now. Driving up there recently, my wife Amy, caught me in a RARE moment of an impulse buy… sure, we’ve talked and dreamed of it before, but this stretch of gorgeous weather had us talking Jetski’s, and we pulled into the first marina we saw to tease ourselves a little. SOLD OUT! Everything was sold. They still had a few tubes left to pull behind the machines, but the machines to pull them were gone. And all the kijiji ads for used Jetski’s I had looked at in weeks prior had turned into wanted ads.

This type of denial and unavailability of items wasn’t new to us either, since during the early parts of COVID we saw all the things we wanted to entertain ourselves at home sell out first.

Workout equipment, dollar blades for kids, even kids golf memberships sold out as local courses opened up. And let’s not all forget the toilet paper shortage in March!


What am I rambling about?! Well, I guess I’m getting to this. I think Canada, Ontario, and Guelph (as I know it best), are doing great. I’m sensitive to anyone experiencing difficulty through this chapter, and wish everyone well, but I’m also proud how we Canadians have adapted, lived for the moments we’ve had, and as the gorgeous weather has arrived people are going for it. Whether it’s finally getting into home ownership or buying that cottage they’ve always dreamed of. Families are spending more time together and that is a great thing. Boy, I miss my kids sports, but being able to fish with them more has been a blessing.


Although things are different right now, it could also be great for our fine province too.

Sure, people will travel again, but I can guarantee more people are camping, cottaging, golfing, fishing and hosting bbq’s by their new pool in their bubble of 10 a lot more. 


I hope everyone is doing something they love this summer, and if you are going after your real estate goals, feel good about it. It’s never been more important. And if you do come across a used Jetski, how about a heads up?


Stay safe everyone, and never hesitate to reach out for a chat.

 


-Hudson Smith

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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