Christina, Author at Lets Talk Real Estate Team

Walking through our towns in early November, you can already feel it. The holidays are about to make a statement. For 2025, the festive season is all about bold choices, nostalgia, and a touch of heritage. From oversized bows to jewel-toned ornaments, this year’s trends invite us to go big and have fun with holiday décor. Here’s what is making a splash this season.

Oversized Bows: The Star of the Tree

Bows are back and bigger than ever. Forget the tiny ribbons of the past. This year, we are talking oversized, statement bows that often replace the traditional star or angel on top of the tree. Velvet, satin, or gauzy organza adds texture, drama, and instant elegance.Tip: Try one bold bow at the top of your tree or drape a few along stair railings or mantels to carry the theme throughout your home.

Bells, Nutcrackers, and Ground Décor

The magic is not just hanging from the tree. Oversized bells and nutcrackers placed on the ground around your tree or entryway create a playful, festive foundation. Think of them as the holiday bookends that welcome guests with charm and cheer.Tip: Mix traditional nutcracker designs with modern finishes for a look that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

Moody Jewel-Toned Ornaments

Pastels and classic red and green are taking a back seat this year. Instead, 2025 embraces jewel tones such as deep emeralds, sapphires, amethysts, and ruby reds to create a moodier and more dramatic tree aesthetic.Tip: Pair jewel tones with metallic accents like gold or bronze to keep the look sophisticated and festive.

Vintage Nostalgia: Retro Ornaments

Nostalgia is in. Shiny, retro-inspired ornaments such as mid-century baubles or glass icicles bring a warm and sentimental feel to the season. Combining new décor with vintage finds creates a home that feels layered, personal, and timeless.Tip: Check out local vintage shops or thrift shops for unique pieces that tell a story.

More Is More: Layered and Lush

The 2025 mantra is simple: more is more. Layer garlands, ornaments, and lights for a full and vibrant display. Minimalist trees are giving way to lush, maximalist style that is joyful and abundant.Tip: Mix textures such as velvet bows, glass ornaments, pinecones, and metallic accents to create depth and interest.

Heritage Design: Classic Meets Contemporary

Heritage-inspired décor is making a statement this year. Think traditional patterns, family heirlooms, and classic colour palettes updated with modern finishes and styling. It is about honoring the past while embracing a fresh look for today’s homes.Tip: Combine vintage ornaments with contemporary ribbon or bauble styles to balance old and new seamlessly.

Bringing It All Together

2025 is a year to play with scale, colour, and sentiment. Oversized bows, moody jewel tones, retro ornaments, and heritage touches allow you to craft a holiday look that feels personal and bold. Whether you are decorating a mantel, a full tree, or your entryway, these trends encourage creativity, nostalgia, and a little bit of holiday drama.This season, do not just decorate. Make a statement. Wrap your home in boldness, memories, and joy, and let every ribbon, bell, and bauble tell a story.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Awareness Week is a reminder to give your home’s life-safety systems a quick checkup. Whether you’re a homeowner, tenant, or landlord, taking ten minutes to test your smoke and CO alarms is one of the simplest, highest-impact ways to protect the people you love.

Why CO deserves your attention

Carbon monoxide is invisible and odourless. It comes from fuel-burning appliances (furnaces, fireplaces, gas stoves, water heaters, vehicles in attached garages, portable generators, etc.).
Early detection saves lives. CO alarms alert you long before symptoms become severe (headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion).
It’s a whole-home issue. Even newer or well-maintained homes can have CO exposure from venting problems, back-drafting, or running engines in garages.

10-minute Safety Checklist

Test every alarm.
- Press and hold the test button until you hear the full alarm sequence.
- If it doesn’t sound, replace the batteries immediately—or the entire unit if it’s hardwired with a dead backup.
Check expiry dates.
- Smoke alarms: typically replace every 10 years (check the manufacture date on the back).
- CO alarms: replace every 5–10 years depending on the model. If the label is faded or missing, replace now.
Confirm correct placement.
- Smoke alarms: on every level, inside each bedroom (or at least outside sleeping areas), and near stairwells.
- CO alarms: outside sleeping areas and on every level with a fuel-burning appliance or an attached garage. Avoid bathrooms or very humid areas.
Swap batteries.
- Change batteries annually (or when you hear a single “chirp” every 30–60 seconds). Consider sealed 10-year alarms to reduce maintenance.
Clean and clear.
- Gently vacuum alarm vents to remove dust.
- Keep alarms at least 10 feet from kitchen appliances and away from ceiling corners where dead air collects.
Review your escape plan.
- Two ways out of every room, a meeting spot outside, and practice—especially with kids.
- Make sure windows and doors open easily in all seasons.

If an alarm sounds—what to do

Smoke alarm: Get everyone out, stay out, and call 9-1-1 from outside.
CO alarm: Move outdoors or to fresh air immediately. Call 9-1-1. Do not re-enter until emergency services say it’s safe. Have a licensed technician inspect all fuel-burning appliances and vents.

Smart upgrades worth considering

Interconnected alarms: When one sounds, they all sound—critical in larger or multi-level homes.
Combination Smoke/CO units: Fewer devices to maintain.
Hardwired with battery backup: Best reliability during power outages.
Monitored systems: Great for travellers or seniors; alerts can be sent to your phone or a monitoring centre.

Seasonal homeowner tips

Book an annual service for your furnace, fireplace, and water heater.
Keep outside vents clear of leaves, lint, and snow.
Never run vehicles or fuel-burning tools in an attached garage—even with the door open.
Place portable generators outside, far from windows and doors.

For landlords & tenants

Landlords are generally responsible for installing and maintaining compliant smoke and CO alarms; tenants must not disable them and should report issues promptly. Requirements vary by municipality and building type, so check your local bylaws and fire code.

Quick myth-busting

“I have electric heat, so I don’t need a CO alarm.”
You might still have sources like an attached garage, gas stove, or fireplace.
“My alarm chirps sometimes—must be a glitch.”
Chirps usually mean low battery or end-of-life. Don’t ignore it.
“New homes don’t need checks.”
New construction still requires testing and maintenance—safety gear ages.

The Current Context: Rental Pressure + Changing Student Trends

Rental costs in Guelph remain high, and finding quality housing is more competitive than ever. At the same time, there’s been a slight dip in first-year student enrolment at the University of Guelph this fall. While that may sound like a cooling signal, it actually creates a short-term window of opportunity for buyers.

With fewer bidding wars and slightly more inventory, parent investors have a chance to make a strategic purchase before the market tightens again. Despite the small shift in student numbers, overall rental demand in Guelph remains strong, driven by upper-year students, young professionals, and families choosing to stay in the city long term.

The Market Has Shifted in Your Favour

After years of rapid price growth, Guelph’s housing market has cooled. The average sale price in September was $826,150, a 9.9 percent drop from August and 9.05 percent lower than last year. Detached homes saw the biggest decline, down 10.7 percent month-over-month and 7.7 percent year-over-year.

This means more negotiating power, less competition, and the opportunity to secure a great property before prices rise again.

Why Parents Are Stepping Into the Market

Here’s why more parents are becoming parent investors in Guelph:

Rental costs aren’t easing: Buying now offers your child housing stability and helps your family avoid the high costs and uncertainty of the rental market.

Better entry points for buyers: With prices down nearly 10 percent from last year, it’s a rare chance to buy below past highs.

Security and stability for your child: Owning a home ensures they’re not vulnerable to rising rents or unpredictable landlords, especially during key years of study or early career growth.

Long-term potential: Guelph continues to attract new residents thanks to its strong economy, sense of community, and proximity to major employment hubs. Over time, that supports steady property value growth.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to buy in Guelph, this is it. Prices are down nearly 10 percent, rental demand remains strong, and conditions are ideal for parents who want to support their children while building equity and long-term wealth.

To learn more about current opportunities or discuss your goals as a parent investor, contact Nick FitzGibbon and the Let’s Talk Real Estate Team today for expert guidance and local market insight.

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Full Story on GuelphToday

Tricar’s new condominium homes at Gordon Square III are now available and buyers couldn’t be more excited about the opportunity to live in this newly completed community.

The 8-storey midrise residence features 181 spacious suites with an extensive selection of 1- and 2-bedroom layouts. These are premier condominium homes—significantly larger than what you usually find offered on the market and constructed with the highest quality.

“Tricar builds homes to live in,” says Adam Carapella, Tricar’s president. “Many new mid- and high-rise condos continue to get smaller and smaller, and we are doing the opposite. We design and build our condominium homes to be comfortable and tailored to your needs, whether you are a young professional moving up in size or empty nesters moving down in size.”

In addition to suites being spacious, the amenities are plentiful. Residents are sure to enjoy the fitness room, golf simulator, guest suite, library, and sprawling luxe lounge.

These are just a few of the features that make this development stand out. Here are five more reasons why Gordon Square III is a smart buy:

1. Location

The lifestyle in South Guelph appeals to all ages. From restaurants and cafés to bakeries and bars, getting out and exploring the area is easy, as you can walk to do errands and meet up with friends and neighbours.

There’s also lots of green space to enjoy, on your own, with pets, kids, or grandchildren. South End Community Park is home to a playground, splash pad, and tennis courts, while nearby trails, parks, and conservation areas abound. Golf is just around the corner at Springfield Golf Course.

Connecting to local transit and commuting is a breeze, with the Aberfoyle GO and Greyhound bus station just six minutes away.

Guelph offers residents a healthy, happy lifestyle with the comfort and convenience of excellent urban amenities as well as easy access to transit and the 401, all while being surrounded by nature.

2. Price

The opening price for a condominium at Gordon Square III is approximately $518 per square foot. The sales price for a 1-bedroom suite begins in the $400’s (based on a 760 sq ft model) with a 2-bedroom beginning in the $500’s (based on a 1,145 sq ft model).

These prices offer excellent value and are about 50% less than the cost of the average price for a similar condominium in some of the surrounding regions. “At Tricar, we design and build our own buildings and control every step of the construction process,” notes Craig Taylor, Tricar’s Vice President of Design and Marketing. “This allows us to focus on quality and be able to offer our purchasers a better product at a more affordable price compared to the competition.”

3. Deposit

The deposit structure at Gordon Square III is very attractive and unlike anything on the market. Tricar offers a $20K deposit upon signing for first-time buyers and a $40K deposit for all other buyers. This is in stark contrast to much of the industry where charging 20% is routine. On a $700K condominium, for example, a deposit of $140K would be required.

In addition to the attractive deposit structure, Tricar wants to help purchasers be able to make the move to Gordon Square III. Case in point, Tricar allows a buyer to purchase a new home with them subject to the sale of their own existing property first. This can be very helpful for downsizing or right-sizing buyers who need to sell their existing home before moving into one of the developer’s condominium homes. It’s just one of many ways Tricar is trying to come up with solutions to make buying easier for purchasers.

4. Reputation

The Tricar Group is a leading condominium developer in southwestern Ontario. They are known for building “condominium homes”, built for living in, with larger sized units, high quality construction, and stylish finishes.

The company prides itself on providing excellent customer service. Tricar is a 9-time Tarion Top Performer and a multiple award winner of Tarion’s High Rise Builder of the Year. The company is now entering their 40th year as a home builder and is based in both London and Guelph. “At Tricar, we work in Guelph, we build in Guelph, we live in Guelph, and we believe in Guelph,” says Carapella. “It is a privilege to be a home builder in this city, and we are thrilled with the reception that Gordon Square has had from the local community.”

5. Move in now!

Gordon Square III offers you the rare opportunity to walk through six fully furnished model suites and move in quickly, avoiding the uncertainty that can come with having to wait years for a home. It’s a smarter way to buy, and one that puts the needs of homeowners first. Local Guelph REALTORⓇ and Gordon Square sales representative Nick FitzGibbon points out that this is unheard of in the real estate market.

“Usually when purchasing a new condominium home, you wait years for the construction to finish and only then move in. Here at Gordon Square III, Tricar has removed that process completely and undertook building and finishing it before even opening for sales. Gordon Square III isn’t just a smart buy; it is an easy buy.”

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This community is one of southwestern Ontario’s most popular and best-selling. This is the final phase, so don’t miss out!

Visit Gordon Square III at 1882 Gordon Street in Guelph or go to tricar.com.

The sales team will be happy to give you a tour of the building and model suites and is there Wednesday-Thursday from 3pm-6pm and Saturday from 12pm-4pm. You can also schedule a private appointment at your convenience.

Contact Nick FitzGibbon at 519-830-4823 or at gordon3sales@tricar.com.

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As the days grow shorter and the air feels crisper, it’s a great time to remember what this season is truly about—community, gratitude, and giving. In Guelph and surrounding areas, several wonderful programs and events are gearing up for the fall and winter, offering ways every one of us can contribute meaningfully. Below are a few to watch for and ways you can get involved.

Adopt-A-Family

One of the most touching ways to give back is through the Adopt-A-Family Program, which pairs donors with families in need during the holidays. You can shop for gifts, essential items, or grocery gift cards that help families enjoy the season with dignity and comfort. The Children’s Foundation leads this program in Guelph / Wellington.childrensfoundation.org
Keep an eye on registration dates and deadlines—these programs often fill quickly.

Joy Home Tour for Hope House

The Joy Home Tour is a long-standing annual favorite in Guelph where beautifully decorated homes open their doors to visitors, all to raise funds for Hope House. The 2025 tour is scheduled for November 21 & 22.guelphtoday.com+1
This is a wonderful opportunity to experience the warmth of the season, admire festive decor, and support Hope House’s ongoing services in the community. There’s usually also a silent auction and raffle that contribute further to the cause.Joy Home Tour

Food Bank Drives & Local Pantry Support

Food insecurity only grows in the colder months, so local food banks and pantries need extra support now more than ever. Contribute non-perishable items, hygiene kits, or volunteer at distribution events.
In Guelph, organizations like Hope House offer food support programs and a community food market as part of their core work.hopehouseguelph.ca

Other Seasonal Events to Keep On Your Radar

Spirit of the Season in downtown Guelph brings lights, holiday markets, tree lighting, and a storefront decorating contest—decor and festivities that also raise funds for Keep Kids Fed at Home.Spirit of the Season
Tree of Remembrance (Hospice Wellington): Each December, ornaments are sold and placed on a communal tree to honor loved ones and raise awareness/funds.Hospice Wellington

How You Can Get Involved

Sponsor or volunteer: These events rely on community support—whether handing out programs, hosting a home tour stop, or helping with setup & logistics.
Make a donation: Monetary gifts, gift cards, or specific wish-list items (gifts, food) go a long way.
Spread the word: Share social media posts, invite friends, talk to neighbors. The more awareness, the stronger these programs impact lives.

This holiday season, let’s remember that small actions can make big differences. Whether it’s supporting a family in need, touring festive homes, or filling a food basket, your time and generosity can bring light to someone else’s winter.

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When people think of small-town charm combined with modern convenience, Fergus is often one of the first communities that comes to mind. Just a short drive from Guelph, Fergus offers a slower pace of life, stunning natural surroundings, and a welcoming sense of community—all without sacrificing the amenities and connectivity today’s homebuyers are looking for.

Why Fergus?

For many, Fergus represents the perfect balance. It has all the essential services—shopping, dining, healthcare, and schools—while still preserving its historic character and scenic riverfront downtown. The Grand River winds through the community, offering year-round opportunities for outdoor recreation, from kayaking and fishing in the summer to scenic walks along the river trails in the fall.

Cultural events, such as the world-renowned Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games, bring residents together and attract visitors from across the region. Pair that with a strong local food scene, independent shops, and proximity to Elora’s arts and culture, and you have a community that feels both vibrant and close-knit.

For buyers who may be feeling priced out of Guelph or seeking a little more space and value for their money, Fergus is an attractive alternative. Housing here often comes with larger lots, quieter streets, and the kind of small-town atmosphere that’s hard to find in a growing city.

Introducing Sunrise Grove

Against this backdrop, we’re excited to introduce Sunrise Grove—a thoughtfully designed new community that reflects everything people love about Fergus living.

Located in a prime area of Fergus, Sunrise Grove is designed with today’s homeowner in mind, offering a mix of modern layouts, high-quality finishes, and an emphasis on community. Whether you’re a young family looking for space to grow, a professional seeking easy access to Guelph, Kitchener-Waterloo, or the 401, or someone ready to downsize without compromise, Sunrise Grove has options to fit your lifestyle.

Why Sunrise Grove Stands Out

Modern, functional floor plans that maximize light and space.
Energy-efficient design and thoughtful finishes that balance style with sustainability.
Community feel with nearby schools, parks, and trails that connect you to Fergus’ natural beauty.
Great value compared to larger urban centres, while still providing quick access to Guelph and beyond.

A Place to Call Home

Sunrise Grove isn’t just about new homes—it’s about being part of something larger. A growing community, in a town that balances history and progress, where neighbours still wave hello and local businesses thrive.

If you’ve been searching for a place that offers more space, more value, and more connection, Fergus—and Sunrise Grove in particular—might just be exactly what you’ve been looking for.

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Farm Visits · Tours · Kids Activities · Pumpkins · Corn Mazes · Harvest Foods · Fall Decorations · and more!

The Fall Rural Romp is a self-guided tour to farms, markets, nurseries, and local food and beverage businesses in Centre Wellington, Erin, Guelph/Eramosa, Puslinch and the City of Guelph. Meet our taste makers, learn about local food and agriculture and discover food destinations in our communities.

Be sure to participate in the Treasure Hunt Contest along the way. The more locations you visit, the more chances you have to WIN!

More details here:

https://www.wellington.ca/experience-wellington/farm-food-experiences/rural-romp/fall-rural-romp

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Author: Christina

Christmas Trends 2025: Big, Bold, and Beautiful

Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week: A Quick Home Safety Tune-Up