January often feels like a reset after the holidays, and in Ontario’s real estate market, it can be a quietly strategic moment to make a move. While activity may appear slower, the buyers and sellers who remain active tend to be focused, prepared, and intentional. Winter brings serious decision-makers Buyers active at this time of year are rarely browsing casually. Many are relocating for work,...
In real estate, few decisions have as much long-term impact as the brokerage you choose. While commission splits and short-term incentives often dominate the conversation, experienced Realtors know that the right brokerage decision goes far beyond numbers on paper. It’s a business decision — one that affects how you work, how you’re perceived, and how your business grows over time. Short-Term...
Buyer behaviour has shifted over the past year, and while headlines tend to focus on interest rates and inventory, what actually influences decisions often comes down to the details. Here’s what today’s buyers are paying the closest attention to when they walk through a home. Condition over potential Buyers are more cautious than they were a few years ago. Move-in ready homes, well-maintained...
On the surface, low-fee or discount brokerages can look appealing. Higher splits, fewer deductions, and the promise of keeping more of what you earn are compelling — especially in a competitive market. But experienced Realtors know that the true cost of a brokerage isn’t always found on a commission statement. More and more Realtors are taking a step back to look beyond fees and asking a more...
The real estate landscape has changed, and so have the expectations of today’s Realtors. Experience, professionalism, and long-term growth matter more than ever — and many Realtors are taking a closer look at what their brokerage actually provides. As the industry evolves, one thing is clear: top-performing Realtors are no longer choosing brokerages based on commission splits alone. They’re...
The holiday season is a busy time, but it can also be a surprisingly good moment to make a real estate move. Whether you’re thinking about buying or selling, the slower pace and warm atmosphere of the season can work in your favour. Motivated buyers and sellers Those who stay active at this time of year tend to be serious about their next step. Fewer casual shoppers means more focused...
Cold weather doesn’t slow the market—buyers stay active year-round, and winter can be an ideal time to make a strong impression. Homes naturally feel cozier during the colder months, and with a few thoughtful touches, you can help buyers picture themselves settling in comfortably. Create a welcoming first impressionStart at the curb. Keep walkways cleared and salted, add a fresh doormat, and use...
If you’re living in or considering a move to Waterloo Region or Guelph, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to rent or buy your next home. While both options have their place depending on your stage of life, today’s market conditions are beginning to tip the scale in favour of homeownership—especially for those ready to build equity and put down roots. With interest rates...
As we step into 2025, key indicators suggest promising opportunities in the Guelph and Waterloo Region real estate markets. The coming year is poised to bring healthier economic growth, improved borrowing conditions, a moderate rise in home sales, and a steady increase in average sale prices. However, challenges persist, particularly concerning affordability and the broader impacts of political and...
2024 was not without its challenges for the Waterloo Region real estate market, but signs of improvement emerged as the year progressed. While the resale market faced headwinds, year-end numbers reflect a modest recovery compared to 2023. By December, approximately 6,800 homes will have been sold across the region—a 5 percent increase from the previous year, according to local market data. When...