If you're buying a home in Guelph and have children, one of the biggest questions you’ll face is:
"What’s the best school zone for our family?"


But the right school is only half the equation—you also want to love the neighbourhood you live in. Fortunately, Guelph offers several areas where top-rated schools and great real estate opportunities go hand in hand. Here’s a breakdown of Guelph’s most sought-after school zones—and the family-friendly communities that surround them.




🎒 1. Exhibition Park + Victory Public School

📍 Neighbourhood vibe: Historic charm, walkable streets, mature trees
🏫 School: Victory Public School (Upper Grand DSB)
🏠 Home types: Century homes, bungalows, character-filled semis

Real estate bonus:
This area has one of the highest resale values in Guelph. Homes are rarely on the market for long, especially ones near the park or school. Buyers value the proximity to downtown, classic architecture, and community-oriented feel. It's a fantastic long-term investment thanks to continued demand and limited inventory.


🎒 2. Westminster Woods + Westminster Woods PS & St. Ignatius Catholic

📍 Neighbourhood vibe: South-end suburbia, family-focused, trails everywhere
🏫 Schools: Westminster Woods PS & St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic
🏠 Home types: Detached two-storeys, townhomes, newer semis

Real estate bonus:
This area is a magnet for young families, which keeps property values high. The newer homes require less maintenance, and buyers are drawn to the walkability to schools, parks, and shopping. It also appeals to investors because of its proximity to the University of Guelph, making townhomes and semis ideal for long-term rental income.


🎒 3. Old University + John McCrae Public School

📍 Neighbourhood vibe: Leafy, quiet, academically connected
🏫 School: John McCrae PS (Upper Grand DSB)
🏠 Home types: Spacious mid-century homes, large lots

Real estate bonus:
Homes here offer space, privacy, and prestige. The proximity to the university and downtown makes this a prime area for both families and academics. While prices are higher, so is the long-term return—especially with the trend toward renovating and modernizing these larger properties. Limited turnover keeps demand steady.


🎒 4. Kortright Hills + Rickson Ridge Public School

📍 Neighbourhood vibe: Quiet, family-centric, nature-focused
🏫 School: Rickson Ridge PS (UGDSB)
🏠 Home types: Family-sized detached homes, bungalows

Real estate bonus:
Buyers looking for privacy and access to trails love this area. Home values here benefit from the neighbourhood’s “tucked away” feel, yet it's only minutes from the Hanlon and amenities. Many homes are on larger lots, which is increasingly rare in newer developments—adding value for growing families and future upgrades.


🎒 5. Riverside Park + Edward Johnson Public School

📍 Neighbourhood vibe: Peaceful and green, close to the Speed River
🏫 School: Edward Johnson PS (French Immersion)
🏠 Home types: Side-splits, raised bungalows, 60s/70s homes

Real estate bonus:
This is a great area for first-time buyers and move-up buyers alike. With French Immersion in high demand, this school zone attracts both locals and newcomers. Homes tend to have solid bones and plenty of renovation potential—making it an affordable entry point into a high-performing school area with strong upside.


🎒 6. East Guelph + École Arbour Vista & St. Patrick Catholic

📍 Neighbourhood vibe: Growing suburbs, community parks, newer development
🏫 Schools: Arbour Vista (French Immersion) & St. Patrick Catholic
🏠 Home types: Two-storey homes, newer semis, infill housing

Real estate bonus:
With ongoing development, East Guelph continues to appreciate. Families love the newer homes, open-concept layouts, and nearby parks. School zones with immersion options and modern infrastructure (like Arbour Vista’s LEED-certified building) enhance both buyer appeal and long-term marketability.


🏠 Final Thoughts: Where Schools and Homes Align

In Guelph, great schools and great real estate opportunities go hand-in-hand. Buying in the right neighbourhood doesn't just benefit your child’s education—it can also increase your home’s value, protect your investment, and improve your overall quality of life.

As a local REALTOR® and longtime Guelph resident, I can help you:

  • Pinpoint homes in the best school zones

  • Understand local price trends and appreciation potential

  • Strategically invest in a home that suits both your family and your future


📩 Thinking of making a move? Let’s find the right home, in the right neighbourhood, near the right school—for your family’s next chapter.

Selling or Buying a Home During a Divorce

By Wilson Li • December 10, 2025
Selling or Buying a Home During a Divorce A Supportive Real Estate Guide for Guelph Families

How to Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage in Guelph

By Wilson Li • November 26, 2025
How to Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage in Guelph If you're thinking about buying a home in Guelph, one of the smartest first steps you can take is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. It’s more than just a number — it’s a key to unlocking your home search with confidence, especially in a competitive market like Guelph’s. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get pre-approved and ready to shop for your new home. 1. Understand What Pre-Approval Really Means Getting pre-approved means a lender has reviewed your financial situation and is willing to lend you a certain amount of money for a home purchase. It’s not a guarantee of financing, but it’s a strong signal to sellers that you’re a serious, qualified buyer. A pre-approval will give you: A clear price range for your home search An estimate of your monthly payments Confidence when making an offer A competitive edge in a multiple-offer situation 2. Gather Your Financial Documents To get started, you’ll need to gather the following: Recent pay stubs (or proof of income if self-employed) Two years of T4s and/or tax returns Bank account statements A list of current debts and monthly payments Government-issued ID Having these documents ready can speed up the process significantly. 3. Check Your Credit Score In Canada, lenders typically want to see a credit score of at least 600–680 to qualify for a mortgage with a good interest rate. You can check your credit score for free through services like Equifax, TransUnion, or Borrowell. If your score is lower than expected, consider taking a few months to improve it before applying. 4. Connect With a Mortgage Professional In Guelph, you can choose between working with: A bank or credit union , which often offer bundled services and products if you’re already a customer. A mortgage broker , who can shop around with multiple lenders to find you the best rate and terms. A good local mortgage broker or advisor can guide you through the pre-approval process and help explain any terms you don’t understand. 5. Complete the Pre-Approval Application Once you've chosen your lender or broker, you’ll fill out a mortgage application. This includes details about your employment, income, assets, debts, and the kind of home you’re hoping to buy. Most applications can be done online and processed in just a couple of days. 6. Get Your Pre-Approval Letter If your application is approved, you’ll receive a pre-approval letter outlining: The amount you can borrow The interest rate (typically locked in for 90–120 days) Any conditions or next steps This letter is gold when you're ready to put in an offer — it shows sellers you’re prepared and qualified. 7. Stick to Your Budget Just because you’re approved for a certain amount doesn’t mean you should max it out. Work with your realtor to find a home that fits your budget and lifestyle comfortably — including extra costs like property taxes, home insurance, and utilities. Final Thoughts Getting pre-approved is one of the most important — and empowering — steps in your home buying journey. In a market like Guelph, where homes can sell fast and competition is strong, being prepared can make all the difference. Need help connecting with a trusted local mortgage broker or want to talk about your home search goals? I'm happy to help!

🕰️ Should You Wait to Buy a Home? What to Consider in Today’s Market

By Wilson Li • November 19, 2025
🕰️ Should You Wait to Buy a Home? What to Consider in Today’s Market It’s the question nearly every potential buyer is asking: "Should I wait to buy a home, or should I make a move now?" With interest rates still high, talk of a potential market shift, and affordability concerns top of mind, it’s no surprise that buyers are feeling cautious. But the right decision isn’t one-size-fits-all. Let’s break down what’s happening in the Guelph (and Ontario) housing market in mid-2025—and whether waiting is the smart move for you . 📉 Interest Rates: Still High… But for How Long? As of now, interest rates remain elevated compared to pre-2022 levels. But the Bank of Canada has signalled potential rate cuts by late 2025 or early 2026 , depending on inflation trends and economic growth. Waiting could mean: ✅ Lower monthly payments if rates drop ❌ More buyers re-entering the market = more competition and higher prices 🧠 Tip: Some buyers are using short-term fixed rates now, then planning to refinance once rates improve. 🏠 Prices Have Stabilized In many markets, including Guelph, home prices have cooled off from their early-2022 highs. While they’re not cheap, prices have levelled , and there’s more balance between buyers and sellers. Buying now could mean: ✅ Less competition ✅ More time to negotiate and include conditions ❌ A slightly higher monthly payment (but possibly a better price) If prices begin to climb again in 2026—as many experts expect— waiting could cost more in the long run , especially if rates don’t drop significantly. 📦 Inventory Is Higher, Giving You Options More listings are sitting longer, and buyers have more time to think. It’s a welcome change from the frantic pace of recent years. Today’s market lets you: Take time for inspections Include financing and sale-of-home conditions Avoid bidding wars in many segments 🏷️ In short: You’re buying in a calmer, more thoughtful environment right now. 💡 So… Should You Wait? Here’s how to decide: ✅ Buy Now If... You’ve secured a rate you can afford You’re tired of renting or want to build equity You’ve found a home that fits your lifestyle and budget You want to lock in a price before demand rises again ⏳ Wait If... Your job or income situation is uncertain You’re not emotionally or financially ready for the commitment You’re hoping to make a very competitive or cash-heavy offer in the near future You want to build your down payment a little more 🏁 Final Thoughts There’s no perfect time to buy—but there is a right time for you . The key is to weigh the pros and cons based on your personal goals, finances, and lifestyle. 📩 Still unsure? Let’s have a no-pressure conversation. I can walk you through what’s happening in the Guelph market right now, help you understand your buying power, and explore options that make sense—whether you’re ready today or next year.
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