Christina, Author at Lets Talk Real Estate Team - Page 3 of 22

Recap: The Joy Home Tour – Supporting Hope House Guelph

Dec 4,2025 | Guelph Living

This past weekend, The Tricar Group, in partnership with Nick FitzGibbon and the Let’s Talk Real Estate Team, was proud to participate in the 2024 Joy Home Tour, in support of Hope House Guelph.

Gordon Square III served as one of the featured tour stops, where guests experienced the beautifully designed model suites, enjoyed festive décor, and learned more about Tricar’s commitment to thoughtful, community-driven development.

The event welcomed more than 500 visitors through the doors, creating incredible exposure for the project while helping raise funds for Hope House—a local organization dedicated to improving the well-being of vulnerable adults, youth, and families through food support, education, and advocacy programs.

Tricar’s involvement reflects our shared belief in giving back to the communities where we live and build. We were honoured to open our doors, share in the holiday spirit, and contribute to an event that truly celebrates hope and home in Guelph.

How to Give Back This Holiday Season

Nov 27,2025 | Uncategorized

The holiday season is a time to come together, lend a helping hand, and support those in our community who need it most. If you’re looking for meaningful ways to give back this year, here are several local organizations doing important work throughout Guelph and Wellington County.

Hope House

Hope House provides essential supports including food, clothing, and community programming to individuals and families experiencing financial challenges. Donations help stock their community market and ensure that everyone has access to basic necessities during the colder months.

Learn more or donate: hopehouseguelph.ca/donations

Toy Mountain

Toy Mountain collects new, unwrapped toys for children and teens to ensure every young person has something special to open during the holidays. Gifts for older kids and teens are especially appreciated and often in shortest supply.

More information: guelphsa.ca/toymountain

Adopt-A-Family

The Adopt-A-Family program pairs donors with local families, youth, and seniors who could use extra support during the holiday season. Donors can provide gifts, winter essentials, and household items that help bring comfort and joy during a stressful time of year.

Details for donors: childrensfoundation.org/what-we-do/adopt-a-family/info-for-donors-2025

Keep Kids Fed at Home

This program offers grocery support for children who rely on school nutrition programs and may face food insecurity during holiday breaks. Donations help provide grocery gift cards so families can keep nutritious food on the table while schools are closed.

Learn more: childrensfoundation.org/what-we-do/food-security/keep-kids-fed-at-home

The Shoebox Project

The Shoebox Project collects thoughtfully filled shoeboxes for women impacted by homelessness or unstable housing. Each box contains small personal-care items, cozy touches, treats, and a message of support to remind women that they are seen and valued.

How to participate: shoeboxproject.ca/chapters/guelph-wellington

Small Acts, Big Impact

No matter the size of your contribution, your generosity can make a meaningful difference. A toy, a grocery gift card, or a simple shoebox filled with care can brighten someone’s holiday and lighten the load for a family or individual going through a difficult time.

Proud to Welcome Jessica Furmah to the Let’s Talk Real Estate Team

Nov 25,2025 | Community

Proud to Welcome Jessica Furmah to the Let’s Talk Real Estate Team

I’m excited to share some wonderful news today. We’re thrilled to welcome Jessica Furmah as the newest member of the Let’s Talk Real Estate Team.

Jessica brings with her not only an impressive professional background, but a strong, genuine connection to the Guelph community. Her story is one rooted in family, service, and meaningful relationships, and we’re so proud to have her on our team.

About Jessica

Jessica and her family immigrated to Canada in 1989, and after a short time in Toronto, they moved to Guelph. That move shaped everything. Over the past thirty-plus years, Jessica has made Guelph home in every sense of the word.

She graduated from the University of Guelph with both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Human Health and Nutritional Science, and today she is proud to be raising her family here in the Royal City.

Why Real Estate

Jessica’s inspiration to enter real estate grew from someone close to her: her father-in-law, who worked as a Guelph REALTOR® for many years. Jessica admired the way he approached his work with care, integrity, and deep community connection. He didn’t just help clients buy and sell homes. He listened, supported, and built trust. He gave back to the city he loved, and the community truly respected him for it.

That impact stayed with Jessica. It shaped the way she sees real estate today: as an opportunity to serve, to guide, and to strengthen the place we call home.

Why We’re Excited

Jessica shares our values of honesty, community, collaboration, and doing what’s right for the people we serve. She brings warmth, thoughtfulness, and a steady, client-centered approach to everything she does. We know our clients will feel supported and confident with her by their side.

I’m proud to welcome Jessica to the team, and I can’t wait for you to meet her.

If you’re thinking about making a move or simply want to chat about the market, we’re here. Let’s talk real estate.

Cheers,
Nick FitzGibbon

 

Ontario Opens New Opportunities for Homebuyers This Fall

Nov 17,2025 | Uncategorized

This fall brings encouraging news for anyone thinking about entering the housing market or making a move. With lower borrowing costs and new incentives for first-time buyers, Ontario is creating a more accessible path to homeownership. Here is a look at the latest updates and how they may shape the months ahead.

Bank of Canada Lowers Interest Rate

In October 2025, the Bank of Canada reduced its overnight rate by 25 basis points to 2.25 percent. The Bank Rate is now 2.5 percent and the deposit rate is 2.20 percent. This shift makes borrowing more affordable and helps ease overall mortgage costs.

Buyers with variable-rate mortgages may see savings right away, and new buyers entering the market could qualify under more favourable conditions. The next rate announcement is scheduled for December 10, 2025.

New Incentives for First-Time Buyers

The Ontario government has introduced a new rebate for first-time buyers of newly built homes valued up to one million dollars. Eligible buyers can save up to 80,000 dollars through the provincial portion of the HST rebate. When combined with the federal rebate, total savings can reach as high as 130,000 dollars.

At a time when affordability is top of mind, this program gives first-time buyers a meaningful advantage as they work toward purchasing their first home.

October Market Update

October brought a steady and balanced picture across Wellington County. While sales activity varied by community, pricing remained stable in most segments, showing a market that is adjusting but not losing momentum.

By the Numbers

Guelph:
Guelph saw strong movement this month with 154 homes sold. The average sale price reached 792,563 dollars. Detached homes held steady with a benchmark price of 793,400 dollars, while townhomes saw a modest increase of 0.63 percent. Apartment prices dipped slightly, down 0.79 percent from last month.

Centre Wellington:
Centre Wellington recorded 39 sales in October, with an average sale price of 890,638 dollars. Detached homes remained stable at a benchmark of 851,500 dollars. Townhomes led growth with an increase of 0.87 percent, while apartment benchmarks softened slightly, down 1.02 percent.

Rockwood:
Rockwood saw 7 sales this month with an average sale price of 904,000 dollars. Detached homes averaged 1,013,700 dollars. Townhomes posted a 0.66 percent increase, bringing the benchmark to 684,200 dollars.

Puslinch:
Puslinch reported 8 sales and an average price of 1,129,375 dollars. Detached homes continue to command higher price points, with a benchmark of 1,595,300 dollars.

Days on Market

Homes in Guelph sold in a median of 23 days, showing consistent confidence among active buyers.
Centre Wellington properties averaged 25 days on the market.
Rockwood saw slower movement, with a median of 49 days.
Puslinch homes took a median of 29.5 days, reflecting a more deliberate pace in higher price rural properties.

What This Means for You

Buyers:
Stability in pricing combined with the recent rate drop gives buyers more opportunity this fall. Townhomes across all communities continue to offer strong value, and slight softening in apartment benchmarks may create new openings for first-time buyers.

Sellers:
Detached homes remain steady performers throughout the region. With motivated buyers still active, presenting your home well and pricing strategically are key to attracting the right interest quickly.

The Bottom Line
The market is settling into a balanced fall season. Sales remain consistent, prices are holding, and buyers are taking a thoughtful approach. Detached homes continue to show resilience, while townhomes and condos offer accessible entry points for those looking to make a move.

 

Christmas Trends 2025: Big, Bold, and Beautiful

Nov 10,2025 | Homeowners

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

Nov 4,2025 | Guelph Living

Now Is the Time: Why Parent Investors Should Act Fast in Guelph

Oct 21,2025 | Buying

If you’re a parent considering buying real estate for your child, whether to support them during school, early career years, or to build generational wealth, there’s a compelling case for acting now in Guelph.

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.

Why Gordon Square III Is the Smartest Buy in Guelph

Oct 14,2025 | Buying

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.

Giving Back: Holiday Charity Events & Drives Around Guelph

Oct 7,2025 | Guelph Living

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.

Discover Fergus: A Charming Alternative to Guelph Living

Sep 27,2025 | Buying

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.